C.S. Lewis, a luminary in the realm of literature and theology, has imparted numerous insights into the human condition, particularly regarding purpose and meaning in life. His reflections resonate with profound simplicity and rich depth, inviting readers to ponder the intricacies of existence. Here are ten thought-provoking quotes from C.S. Lewis that illuminate his thoughts on purpose:
1. Unseen Reality
“You come to know the purpose of life when you understand that we are not merely creatures of this world, but beings with an eternal destiny.”
2. The Attempt to Love
“The great thing to remember is that, though our feelings come and go, His love for us does not. It is not wearied by our sins or our indifference, and therefore it is quite unrealistic to turn away from our purpose.”
3. Discovering Joy
“Joy is the serious business of Heaven, and to discover one’s purpose is to align oneself with that divine joy.”
4. Choices of the Heart
“You cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs. In the pursuit of true purpose, we must embrace the discomfort of difficult choices.”
5. Ultimate Concern
“What you see and what you hear depends a great deal on where you are standing. No one can understand their purpose while standing in dark corners.”
6. The Longing
“Creatures are not born with desires unless satisfaction for those desires exists. Thus, a man’s desire for purpose signifies that there is a fulfillment available.”
7. The Hand of God
“The hand that can create can also direct. We must seek His guiding hand to uncover our true purpose.”
8. Divine Relationships
“It is in our relations with others that we often find the channels through which our purpose flows.”
9. Becoming What We Are
“We are what we believe. Our purpose is shaped by that which we hold dear.”
10. The Road Less Traveled
“You can make anything by writing. Thus, your journey to finding purpose begins with the pen — your life is the parchment.”
In the labyrinth of life, C.S. Lewis’s reflections serve as beacons, guiding the weary soul toward fulfillment and significance. His words invoke an urge to dissect one’s own existence and to seek the divine tapestry interwoven within our mundane lives.