Famous quote by Abraham Lincoln

"Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right"

About this Quote

Abraham Lincoln’s reflection on the alignment of human endeavors with divine will reveals a profound humility and moral caution that transcends political or religious boundaries. Rather than assuming automatic righteousness in his or his nation's cause, Lincoln acknowledges the risk of conflating personal or collective interests with divine approval. He resists the common temptation to invoke God’s authority as validation for one's own side in any conflict, suggesting that the focus should not be on persuading oneself or others that God favors their particular agenda.

At the heart of Lincoln’s words lies an implicit critique of self-righteousness and moral certainty. Humans are prone to believing their actions and interests are inherently justified, especially when cloaked in the language of faith or destiny. Lincoln warns against this, recognizing the limits of human understanding and the fallibility of personal judgment. He expresses a desire not to wield God’s endorsement as a tool for political legitimation but to search sincerely for the right course of action by aligning with a higher standard which, by definition, is not subject to human manipulation or preference.

The phrase "for God is always right" encapsulates Lincoln’s conviction that moral truth exists independently of partisan or national ambitions. It is not our positions or plans that render something just or moral, but rather our willingness to seek and submit to that which is inherently right, even if it challenges our assumed interests. Lincoln’s humility stands in stark contrast to the hubris that can accompany power, reminding leaders and individuals alike that true justice and righteousness are pursued by constant self-examination and openness to correction. The quote becomes a meditation on ethical leadership: the imperative to continually ask not whether we can claim virtue for our side, but whether we are willing to conform ourselves to the demands of justice, humility, and truth.

More details

SourceAttributed to Abraham Lincoln; commonly cited in McClure's Magazine, 1895, but original source unverified.

About the Author

Abraham Lincoln This quote is written / told by Abraham Lincoln between February 12, 1809 and April 15, 1865. He was a famous President from USA. The author also have 114 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes

Jean Anouilh, Playwright