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About this quote

What does it mean?
Obeying what we must do is the test of our character.
In plain terms
Do what is required before what is allowed to earn trust.
What can you take from it?
Follow duty before preference to be trustworthy.

Where it applies

  • facing duty
  • making choices
  • seeking trust

Putting it to work

  • follow duty
  • prioritize needs
  • earn trust

Questions to consider

  • What must you do now?
  • What do you want to do?

Another view

Sometimes needs can clash.

More from George MacDonald

  1. That which is in a man, not that which lies beyond his vision is the main factor in what is about to befall him: the operation upon him is the event.

    Permalink to quote #9
  2. You would not think any duty small, If you yourself were great.

    Permalink to quote #11
  3. We are often unable to tell people what they need to know because they want to know something else.

    Permalink to quote #8

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