Sublime

What about the non-industrious poor? They can go to hell, presumably (quite literally, according to many branches of Christianity). Or maybe their boats will be lifted somewhat by the rising tide. Still, that’s clearly incidental. They’re undeserving, since they’re not industrious, and therefore what happens to them is really beside the point.

sweet affections and austere diktats, hugs and kisses mixed with stony pronouncements: “It’s

Self-mastery became an art and occupation, as people sought to consolidate the era’s advances with improvements to their own lives.

Common grace is when God’s goodness is displayed to all of humanity, not just His children.

Corny or not, I found that old journalistic injunction to “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable” inspiring.

Abe calls God “the LORD who provides.”

we’re all sinners who deserve death and separation from God. For those of us who don’t get that, we’re the ones for whom things aren’t fair—we do not get what we deserve.

O’Connor’s “Good Country People,”