Look, as a painted man is no man, and as painted fire is no fire, so a cold prayer is no prayer

Look, as a painted man is no man, and as painted fire is no fire, so a cold prayer is no prayer

Thomas Brooks was a Puritan preacher and writer known for his powerful sermons and theological works. In his writings, Brooks often emphasized the importance of sincerity and authenticity in one's faith and relationship with God. One of his famous quotes is, "Look, as a painted man is no man, and as painted fire is no fire, so a cold prayer is no prayer."

This quote speaks to the idea that true prayer must come from the heart and be genuine in nature. Just as a painted man is merely an illusion of a real person, a cold prayer is merely a hollow gesture that lacks true meaning and intention. In the same way, painted fire may look like the real thing, but it lacks the warmth and heat that true fire possesses. Similarly, a cold prayer may go through the motions of prayer, but it lacks the fervor and sincerity that true prayer requires.

Brooks believed that prayer was a vital aspect of the Christian life and that it should be approached with reverence, humility, and sincerity. He understood that prayer was not just a ritual or a formality, but a means of communicating with God and seeking His guidance, strength, and presence in one's life.

For Brooks, a cold prayer was not only ineffective but also dishonoring to God. He believed that God desires our wholehearted devotion and genuine communication in prayer. A cold prayer, offered without true faith and sincerity, is like offering God a mere shell of our true selves, devoid of passion, conviction, and love.