One should not pray if that prayer is vanity.

Meaning: Generosity is imagined as receiving an unexpected return through divine care. The door-and-window image expresses trust that giving need not mean simple loss, without guaranteeing repayment or material reward.

Meaning: A place dedicated to good can still face an opposing influence. The paired church and chapel give that tension a religious image.

Meaning: Being physically close to a place of worship does not ensure spiritual sincerity. The saying challenges reliance on outward religious association when conduct does not reflect the values being professed.

Meaning: A person may seek divine help during danger and neglect that relationship once the danger passes. The saying questions gratitude or commitment that disappears as soon as the immediate need is over.