the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapter ii (of thinking humbly of oneself)

β€œThere 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)

β€œHe 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 [...]