15 Inspiring C.S. Lewis Quotes to Change Your Life

C.S. Lewis, the British writer behind “The Chronicles of Narnia,” captivated readers with his imaginative storytelling and deep reflections on life, faith and love.

His work spans over 30 books, blending fantasy with profound insights on friendship, pain, courage and the human condition.

Lewis’s quotes resonate with wisdom and offer timeless guidance, making his words as relevant today as they were in his time.

Whether through his beloved fantasy tales or his theological writings, Lewis’s legacy continues to inspire readers of all ages, encouraging them to explore the depths of imagination and the power of faith.

These 15 quotes capture the essence of his enduring influence on literature and spirituality.


1. “Nothing you have not given away will ever really be yours.” ~ C. S. Lewis

Nothing you have not given away will ever really be yours

This quote emphasizes the idea that true ownership comes from generosity. Possessions, when hoarded, lose their significance.

Meaningful connections and experiences arise from sharing with others. When we give, we cultivate relationships and foster a sense of community.

The act of giving enriches our lives and creates a legacy that endures beyond material wealth.

Ultimately, the essence of what we truly possess lies in our capacity to give freely, transforming our lives and those around us.

See Also: 15 Inspirational Alan Watts Quotes That Will Change How You See Life

2. “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” ~ C. S. Lewis

True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less

Humility is often misunderstood as self-deprecation, but this quote clarifies its essence.

It suggests that genuine humility involves shifting focus away from oneself and towards others.

This mindset fosters empathy, compassion and understanding, allowing individuals to appreciate the value in others without diminishing their own worth.

By prioritizing the needs and feelings of those around us, we cultivate deeper connections and contribute to a more harmonious world, enriching both our lives and the lives of others.

3. “Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.” ~ C. S. Lewis

Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again

This quote invites a nostalgic reflection on the timeless nature of stories.

As we age, the wisdom and wonder found in fairy tales can offer comfort and inspiration.

They remind us of the imagination and hope that often fade in adulthood.

Embracing these tales again allows us to reconnect with our inner child, fostering creativity and a sense of possibility.

Ultimately, the magic of fairy tales can guide us through life’s complexities, reigniting our dreams and aspirations.

4. “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” ~ C. S. Lewis

You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending

Acknowledging the past is essential, yet this quote emphasizes the power of the present moment. While we cannot rewrite history, we possess the ability to shape our future.

Each day presents fresh opportunities for growth and transformation.

By focusing on our current circumstances and making conscious decisions, we can redefine our paths and outcomes.

This perspective encourages resilience and proactive living, reminding us that every moment is a chance to create a better narrative for ourselves.

5. “Don’t let your happiness depend on something you may lose.” ~ C. S. Lewis

Don’t let your happiness depend on something you may lose

Happiness rooted in external factors is precarious. This quote serves as a caution against becoming overly attached to transient things, as they can lead to disappointment.

True contentment arises from within and should be cultivated independently of circumstances.

By fostering inner peace and gratitude, we can maintain a sense of joy that is resilient to life’s inevitable changes.

This approach empowers us to navigate challenges without losing sight of our happiness, allowing us to thrive regardless of external conditions.

6. “Life with God is not immunity from difficulties, but peace in difficulties.” ~ C. S. Lewis

This quote highlights a profound truth about faith and resilience.

A relationship with God does not shield us from life’s challenges; rather, it provides a source of strength and tranquility amidst turmoil.

This peace allows individuals to navigate hardships with grace and confidence, fostering hope even in the darkest times.

Embracing this perspective encourages a deeper understanding of life’s trials as opportunities for growth, reinforcing the belief that divine presence can illuminate our paths, even in adversity.

7. “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” ~ C. S. Lewis

You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream

Age should never be a barrier to ambition or aspiration. This quote inspires individuals to pursue their passions and set new objectives, regardless of their stage in life.

Dreams evolve and so do we; thus, it’s essential to remain open to new possibilities.

Embracing a mindset of continual growth fosters resilience and creativity, proving that it’s never too late to embark on a new journey.

This perspective encourages lifelong learning and exploration, enriching our lives with purpose and fulfillment.

8. “Hardship often prepares an ordinary person for an extraordinary destiny.” ~ C. S. Lewis

This quote encapsulates the transformative power of adversity.

Challenges can serve as crucibles, refining character and revealing inner strength.

Through hardship, individuals often discover resilience, determination and purpose that they may not have recognized otherwise.

Such experiences can propel ordinary lives into extraordinary trajectories, shaping destinies in unexpected ways.

Embracing difficulties as opportunities for growth enables us to appreciate the journey, fostering a deeper understanding of our potential and the remarkable paths we can forge.

9. “There are better things ahead than any we leave behind.” ~ C. S. Lewis

This quote instills hope and optimism for the future. It encourages individuals to look forward rather than dwell on the past.

While nostalgia can be comforting, it’s vital to recognize that life continues to unfold with new opportunities and experiences.

Embracing change allows us to grow and evolve, opening doors to possibilities that may surpass previous joys.

This mindset fosters resilience, urging us to remain curious and courageous as we navigate the journey ahead.

Read Also: 15 Profound Henry Thoreau Quotes on Simplicity and Reflection

10. “God doesn’t want something from us. He simply wants us.” ~ C. S. Lewis

God doesn’t want something from us. He simply wants us

This quote reflects the essence of divine love and acceptance. It emphasizes that God desires a relationship with us, rather than our achievements or possessions.

This perspective invites individuals to embrace their inherent worth, free from the pressure to perform or conform.

Understanding that we are valued for who we are fosters a sense of belonging and connection.

This unconditional love encourages us to cultivate authenticity in our lives, deepening our relationship with the divine and with ourselves.

11. “I can’t imagine a man really enjoying a book and reading it only once.” ~ C. S. Lewis

This quote speaks to the depth of literature and the joy of revisiting beloved stories.

Great books offer layers of meaning, insights and emotions that can resonate differently at various life stages.

Each reading can unveil new perspectives and reflections, enriching our understanding and appreciation.

This idea encourages a lifelong love of reading, inviting exploration and discovery through familiar pages.

Engaging with literature repeatedly deepens our connection to the narrative, making each experience uniquely rewarding.

12. “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” ~ C. S. Lewis

Integrity embodies the essence of character and moral fortitude. This quote underscores the importance of adhering to one’s values, regardless of external scrutiny.

True integrity is rooted in self-awareness and accountability, guiding individuals to act ethically in all circumstances.

This commitment to righteousness cultivates trust and respect, both from oneself and others.

Upholding integrity strengthens personal relationships and fosters a sense of community, reinforcing the belief that ethical behavior is foundational to a meaningful and fulfilling life.

13. “All mortals tend to turn into the thing they are pretending to be.” ~ C. S. Lewis

All mortals tend to turn into the thing they are pretending to be

This quote highlights the profound impact of self-perception and authenticity.

It suggests that when individuals adopt false personas, they risk losing their true selves.

The act of pretending can shape behavior and attitudes, leading to a disconnection from one’s core identity.

Embracing authenticity fosters genuine relationships and personal fulfillment.

This perspective encourages individuals to live truthfully, recognizing that embracing who we truly are can lead to a richer, more meaningful existence, free from the constraints of pretense.

14. “Isn’t it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back, everything is different…” ~ C. S. Lewis

This quote captures the subtlety of change in our lives. Daily experiences may seem mundane, yet they accumulate over time, leading to significant transformations.

Reflecting on our journeys reveals growth, lessons learned and the evolution of our perspectives.

This realization encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment, as every small step contributes to our overall narrative.

Embracing this perspective fosters gratitude and awareness, allowing us to celebrate progress and the beauty of life’s continuous unfolding.

15. “The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us.” ~ C. S. Lewis

This quote emphasizes the transformative nature of divine love.

It suggests that goodness is not a prerequisite for receiving love; rather, love itself inspires growth and moral development.

This understanding fosters a sense of acceptance and belonging, freeing individuals from the burden of perfectionism.

Recognizing that God’s love is unconditional encourages a journey of self-improvement rooted in grace.

This perspective nurtures a deeper relationship with the divine, affirming that love is a catalyst for positive change in our lives.

15 Inspiring C.S. Lewis Quotes to Change Your Life - Motivational Quotes - Inspirational Quotes
Chandan Negi
Chandan Negi

I love sharing inspirational and motivational quotes, captions, wishes, messages, jokes, puns and riddles to inspire, motivate and make people happy - #quotes #captions #wishes #messages #jokes #puns and #riddles #inboxquotes