OF FLEEING FROM VAIN HOPE AND PRIDE: “Vain is the life of that man who puts his trust in men or in any created thing. Be not ashamed to be the servant of others for the love of Jesus Christ, and to be reckoned poor in this life. Rest not upon thyself but build thy [...]
Category: The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas a Kempis, tr. by William Benham, 1886
the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapters v and vi (the reading of holy scriptures; inordinate affections)
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 [...]
the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapter iv (prudence in action)
“We must not trust every word of others or feeling within ourselves, but cautiously and patiently try the matter, whether it be of God. Unhappily we are so weak that we find it easier to believe and speak evil of others, rather than good. But they that are perfect, do not give ready heed to [...]
the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapter iii (of the knowledge of truth)
“Happy is the man whom Truth by itself does teach, not by figures and transient words, but as it is in itself. Our own judgment and feelings often deceive us, and we discern but little of the truth. What does it profit to argue about hidden and dark things, concerning which we shall not be [...]
the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapter ii (of thinking humbly of oneself)
“There is naturally in every man, a desire to know. But what profiteth knowledge, without the fear of God? Better of a surety is a lowly peasant who serveth God, than a proud philosopher who watcheth the stars and neglecteth the knowledge of himself. He who knoweth himself well, is vile in his own sight; [...]
the imitation of Christ, the 1st book: chapter i (of the imitation of Christ; and contempt of the world and all its vanities)
“He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness (John 8:12), saith the Lord. These are the words of Christ; and they teach us how far we must imitate His life and character, if we seek true illumination and deliverance from all blindness of heart. Let it be our most earnest study, therefore, to dwell [...]
The Mark Of God: Understanding Your "I AM Presence" 