If outrage were a sign of godliness, then the devil would be the godliest soul in Creation.
This quote provocatively challenges the notion that moral righteousness can be measured solely by outward displays of anger or outrage. It suggests that sometimes, expressions of indignation or passionate fury are not necessarily indicators of moral virtue, but can instead be signs of the very thing that opposes true goodness. When people react with outrage, they often believe they are upholding justice or morality. However, this intense emotion can sometimes fuel destructive behavior or reveal deeper flaws such as self-righteousness, intolerance, or a failure to approach issues with humility and grace. The comparison to the devil underscores this idea—if anger and outrage become criteria for moral superiority, then the very opposite of genuine virtue might be mistaken for innocence. The quote invites us to reflect on the nature of righteousness, urging a deeper examination of the motives behind our emotional responses. It reminds us that true godliness, rooted in love, humility, and patience, often requires restraint and a willingness to seek understanding rather than quick judgment. In the context of engaging with culture and societal issues, this call for measured compassion over knee-jerk outrage can help foster more constructive dialogues and solutions. It challenges believers and others alike to consider whether their passions serve the causes of justice and truth or if they merely satisfy a desire for emotional catharsis. Ultimately, it points to the importance of discernment in evaluating moral reactions—warning us against conflating fervor with virtue and encouraging a pursuit of goodness that is rooted in genuine character, not just emotional intensity.
