George MacDonald, born on December 10, 1824, in Huntly, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, was a renowned Scottish author, poet, and Christian minister. His career flourished in the 19th century, with notable achievements including pioneering the fantasy genre through works like “Phantastes” (1858) and “The Princess and the Goblin” (1872), which influenced writers such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. MacDonald also wrote sermons, essays, and children’s literature, exploring themes of faith, morality, and human nature. His writings often addressed life’s deeper meanings, drawing from personal experiences and spiritual insights. The quotes here are sourced from his books, sermons, and letters, focusing on life. Below is a curated list of 15 insightful quotes by George MacDonald on the subject of life.
15 George MacDonald Quotes on Life
1. “The world is not a playground; it is a schoolroom, and we are here to learn.” (Book, “Unspoken Sermons”, 1867)
2. “To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life.” (Book, “Robert Falconer”, 1868)
3. “Life without labor is guilt; labor with joy is blessedness.” (Book, “David Elginbrod”, 1863)
4. “The one thing needful is to know how to ask for what you want.” (Book, “The Princess and the Goblin”, 1872)
5. “Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.” (Book, “Malcolm”, 1875)
6. “It is not the cares of today, but the cares of tomorrow, that weigh a man down.” (Book, “Diary of an Old Soul”, 1880)
7. “The door of the individual heart must be opened from within.” (Book, “Unspoken Sermons”, 1867)
8. “Love is the opener of eyes.” (Book, “Phantastes”, 1858)
9. “We are all of us, in this world, but children at play.” (Book, “At the Back of the North Wind”, 1871)
10. “The best thing you can do for your fellow, next to rousing his conscience, is—not to give him things to think about, but to wake things up that are in him.” (Book, “Unspoken Sermons”, 1867)
11. “Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.” (Book, “Letters of George MacDonald”, n.d.)
12. “The first thing a kindness deserves is silence.” (Book, “David Elginbrod”, 1863)
13. “To have what we want is riches, but to be able to do without is power.” (Book, “The Marquis of Lossie”, 1877)
14. “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” (Book, “Unspoken Sermons”, 1867)
15. “Life is a mirror, and will reflect back to the thinker what he thinks into it.” (Book, “Phantastes”, 1858)
These quotes from George MacDonald reveal a profound understanding of life’s challenges and beauties, highlighting his emphasis on personal growth, moral integrity, and spiritual depth. They showcase a man whose Christian faith infused his view of existence with hope and wisdom, encouraging reflection on how we live and love. What insights do these words spark for you? Share your thoughts and favorite quotes in the comments below.