Inspirational Quotations

Inspirational Quotes by James Montgomery (Scottish Poet, Journalist)

James Montgomery (1771–1854) was a Scottish poet, editor, and social reformer, renowned for his emotive and eloquent poetry that consistently delved into themes of humanitarianism, freedom, and religious devotion. His life and works left a lasting impact on the literary and social landscape of his time.

Born in Irvine, Ayrshire, Montgomery was raised in a devout household as the son of John Montgomery, a Moravian pastor. His passion for literature and poetry bloomed during his education at the Moravian School in Fulneck, Yorkshire. Even at a young age, his poetic prowess caught the eye of many, garnering him recognition for his exceptional talent. In 1792, Montgomery moved to to Sheffield, England, to contribute to the newspaper known as The Sheffield Register. There, he ascended to the position of editor, using the platform to vocalize his strong social and political beliefs.

An ardent social reformer, Montgomery dedicated himself to bettering society, advocating for causes such as prison reform, the rights of the less fortunate, and the promotion of education. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Sheffield General Infirmary and the Sheffield Sunday School Union, institutions aimed at enhancing the well-being and education of the local populace.

Montgomery’s poetic works were deeply influenced by the abolitionist movement, and he became an ardent advocate for the abolition of the slave trade. Particularly impactful was his poem The West Indies (1809,) a powerful condemnation of slavery and the inhumane treatment endured by slaves. This emotionally stirring piece became one of his most celebrated works, sparking discussions and evoking passions in support of the abolitionist movement. Among his other notable compositions are The Wanderer of Switzerland (1806,) The World Before the Flood (1813,) and Greenland (1819,) each showcasing his poetic finesse, lyrical language, and an innate ability to kindle profound emotions within readers. Montgomery’s voluminous Memoirs (7 vols., 1856–58) hold invaluable insights into English provincial politics.

More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by James Montgomery

Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire,
Uttered, or unexpressed;
The motion of a hidden fire
That trembles in the breast.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Prayer

The saint that wears heaven’s brightest crown in deepest adoration bends; the weight of glory bows him down the most when most his soul ascends; nearest the throne itself must be the footstool of humility.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Humility

The soul, of origin divine, God’s glorious image, freed from clay, in heaven’s eternal sphere shall shine, a star of day!—The sun is but a spark of fire, a transient meteor in the sky; the soul immortal as its sire, shall never die.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Soul

If God hath made this world so fair, where sin and death abound, how beautiful, beyond compare, will paradise be found.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Heaven, Paradise

The flower of weakness grows on a stern of grace.
—James Montgomery

There are no fragments so precious as those of time, and none are so heedlessly lost by people who cannot make a moment, and yet can waste years.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Time

Prayer is the simplest form of speech
That infant lips can try;
Prayer the sublimest strains that reach
The Majesty on high.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Prayer

To-morrow – oh, ’twill never be,
If we should live a thousand years!
Our time is all to-day, to-day,
The same, though changed; and while it flies
With still small voice the moments say:
“To-day, to-day, be wise, be wise”.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Carpe-diem

Remembered joys are never past; at once the fountain, stream, and sea, they were, they are, they yet shall be.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Remembrance

Time is eternity begun.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Time Management

The Rose has but a Summer reign, The daisy never dies.
—James Montgomery

Not all the pomp and pageantry of worlds reflect such glory on the eye supreme, as the meek virtues of the holy man.
—James Montgomery

Through every pulse the music stole, and held sublime communion with the soul; wrung from the coyest breast the imprisoned sigh, and kindled rapture in the coldest eye.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Music

If God hath made this world so fair, where sin and death abound, how beautiful, beyond compare, will paradise be found.
—James Montgomery

Hope against hope, and ask till ye receive.
—James Montgomery

Night is the time for rest; how sweet when labors close, to gather round an aching heart the curtain of repose; stretch the tired limbs, and lay the weary head down on our own delightful bed.
—James Montgomery

O thou, by whom we come to God, The Life, the Truth, the Way, The path of prayer Thyself hast trod—Lord teach us how to pray.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Prayer

Yet nightly pitch my moving tent, a day’s march nearer home.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Dying, Death

Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire.
—James Montgomery
Topics: Desire

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