OF THE READING OF HOLY SCRIPTURES:
“It is Truth which we must look for in Holy Writ, not cunning of words. All Scripture ought to be read in the spirit in which it was written. We must rather seek for what is profitable in Scripture, than for what ministers to subtlety in discourse. Therefore, we ought to read books which are devotional and simple, as well as those which are deep and difficult. And let not the weight of the writer be a stumbling-block to thee, whether he be of little or much learning, but let the love of the pure Truth draw thee to read. Ask not, who has said this or that, but look to what he says.
Men pass away, but the truth of the Lord endures forever. Without respect of persons, God speaks to us in divers manners. Our own curiosity often hinders us in the reading of holy writings, when we seek to understand and discuss, where we should pass simply on. If thou would profit by thy reading, read humbly, simply, honestly, and not desire to win a character for learning; ask freely, and hear in silence the words of holy men; nor be displeased at the hard sayings of older men than thou, for they are not uttered without cause.
OF INORDINATE AFFECTIONS:
Whensoever a man desires aught above measure, immediately he becomes restless. The proud and the avaricious man are never at rest; while the poor and lowly of heart abide in the multitude of peace. The man who is not yet wholly dead to self, is soon tempted, and is overcome in small and trifling matters. It is hard for him who is weak in spirit, and still in part carnal and inclined to the pleasures of sense, to withdraw himself altogether from earthly desires. And therefore, when he withdraws himself from these, he is often sad, and easily angered too, if any oppose his will.
But, if on the other hand, he yields to his inclination, immediately he is weighed down by the condemnation of his conscience; for that he has followed his own desire, and yet in no way attained the peace which he hoped for. For true peace of heart is to be found in resisting passion, not in yielding to it. And therefore, there is no peace in the heart of a man who is carnal, nor in him who is given up to the things that are without him, but only in him who is fervent towards God and living the life of the Spirit.”
Thomas a Kempis
The Mark Of God: Understanding Your "I AM Presence" 