“If anyone on the verge of action should judge himself according to the outcome, he would never begin.”
Kierkegaard explores the idea of trusting the universe in the same way as Abraham trusted it even though the calling seemed absurd. He asserts, in fulfilling our fate there requires a sacrifice of our own will otherwise we deny what we are meant to be. In the statement, he expresses that the outcome has the tendency of preventing us from taking action. Our destiny requires a sacrifice of a big part of our consciousness which is fear, as trusting the universe takes a great leap.
“For he who loves God without faith reflects on himself, while the person who loves God in faith reflects on God.”
Kierkegaard stresses the significance of faith in discovering our purpose and fate and consequently accepting them. The idea of acknowledging God but not surrendering to His will through total faith makes us not achieve our external validity. In the assertion, he affirms that through infinite resignation of faith can we reflect on God and our spirit transfigures.
“I am convinced that God is love, this thought has for me a primitive lyrical validity. When it is present to me, I am unspeakably blissful, when it is absent, I long for it more vehemently than does the lover for his object.”
Kierkegaard offers his sentiments on God and the idea of faith comparing Abraham’s story with his own thoughts and inclinations. He acknowledges the power of faith that gives one the strength to delve into the unknown with courage. In the same way, Abraham goes on to sacrifice his son by trusting the universe and having faith in God. The author grapples with his own shortcomings of attaining this infinite resignation and therefore relies on the faculty of love.
