“I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.”
- November 10, 1483 – February 18, 1546
- Born in the Holy Roman Empire (Germany)
- Reformer, theologian
- Promoted the Protestant Reformation and published the Ninety-five Theses
Quote
“I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.”
Explanation
In this quote, Martin Luther reflects on the impermanence of material possessions and the lasting value of surrendering everything to God. He acknowledges that throughout life, he has experienced the loss of many things, whether they be possessions, relationships, or worldly achievements. However, Luther highlights that the things he has entrusted to God’s care are the only things that remain secure and unshaken. This statement reflects his deep faith in God’s sovereignty and the belief that when we place our trust in God, He preserves what is truly valuable, such as faith, hope, and grace.
Luther’s insight aligns with his theological teachings on sola fide (faith alone), which emphasize that salvation and eternal spiritual wealth cannot be earned through material or worldly means but are gifts from God that cannot be taken away. For Luther, the act of placing one’s life, possessions, and future in God’s hands was an act of surrender to divine will, recognizing that earthly things are fleeting, but what is entrusted to God is eternally protected. This perspective calls believers to focus not on accumulating wealth or status but on securing the riches of grace and spiritual fulfillment through faith in God.
In modern times, this quote serves as a reminder to place trust in God, especially in a world where possessions, achievements, and even relationships can feel transient and fragile. Whether through times of financial loss, personal hardship, or shifting circumstances, Luther’s words encourage believers to prioritize the eternal over the temporary, knowing that when they entrust their lives to God, they hold on to what truly matters. It is an invitation to live with a sense of peace and contentment, recognizing that the things we place in God’s hands are the ones that truly endure.
