The Spirit is Willing, but the Flesh is Weak
Definition: “I would like to do this but I don’t have the willpower or strength.” This term comes from the Bible and is often used to express a famous struggle: our heart says yes, but our body says no.
Related and Similar Terms
-
The mind is willing, but the body is weak.
- A modern twist on the original phrase.
-
My get-up-and-go has got up and gone.
- A humorous take on losing energy or motivation.
-
Heart’s in the right place.
- Wanting to help or get involved, though unable to.
-
I would if I could but I can’t.
- Another way of saying you lack the ability or means.
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Running on empty.
- Pushing oneself despite being exhausted.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Out of steam
- Run out of gas
- Power down
Antonyms:
- In high spirits
- Full of energy
- Raring to go
Humor-Filled Quotes
“Of course I would help you move house… if it wasn’t for this Netflix responsibility I must attend to!”
“I signed up for the gym, really I did. But then I got out of bed!”
Proverbs & Expressions
“Where the spirit urges, stamina fails.” - Old Proverb
“Cannot give what we do not possess.” - Anon
Literary and Cultural References
Books:
- “Euphues” by John Lyly
- “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle (for balancing spiritual desires with physical presence)
Movies:
- The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (the struggle between aspiration and action)
- Click starring Adam Sandler (the wear and tear of life’s demands versus desires)
Songs:
- “Exhausted” by Foo Fighters
- “Running on Empty” by Jackson Browne
Farewell Thought:
“Ideas may sparkle like stars in the night sky, but without the body’s vigor to fuel them, they remain distant constellations. Balance your spirit and flesh, and you’ll illuminate the world.”
— A. P. Proverbial
