The advantage of the ideal theory over the popular faith, is this, that it presents the world in precisely that view which is most desirable to the mind. It is, in fact, the view which Reason, both speculative and practical, that is, philosophy and virtue, take. For, seen in the light of thought, the world always is phenomenal; and virtue subordinates it to the mind.

was a melancholy introvert who declined to join in philosophical discussions.)   The Concord circle of sympathetically-minded thinkers, writers, and social activists became known as Transcendentalists. What exactly is Transcendentalism? That's the question Emerson set out to answer at Boston's Masonic Temple in 1842. In addition to defining his own philosophy, this lecture planted the seeds of the modern self-help and personal development movements.

A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines. With consistency a great soul has simply nothing to do. He may as well concern himself with his shadow on the wall.

We tend to start with Earth and reason up toward Heaven, when instead we should start with Heaven and reason down toward Earth.

We are all theologians, either good ones or bad ones. I'd rather be a good one. Wouldn't you?

There are two kinds of people: those who say to God, 'Thy will be done,' and those to whom God says, 'All right, then, have it your way.'" —C. S. Lewis

Our minds are so much set on Earth that we are unaccustomed to heavenly thinking. So we must work at it.

The vigor of our spiritual life will be in exact proportion to the place held by the Bible in our life and thoughts." —George Müller

Countless people in worse situations are happier than those in better situations. This demonstrates that happiness is dependent not on circumstances but on perspective, which is determined by our focus.

As a biblical Christian, I must not only affirm the inspiration of God's Word; I must also consciously critique everything else in light of Scripture (otherwise all else will unconsciously conform my mind to the world, the flesh and the devil). I must make an effort to evaluate my beliefs and lifestyle preferences by God's Word.

What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." —A. W. Tozer

Tomorrow's character is made out of today's thoughts. Temptation may come suddenly, but sin doesn't.