the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapter xiii (resisting temptation)

OF RESISTING TEMPTATION โ€œSo long as we live in the world, we cannot be without trouble and trial. Wherefore it is written in Job, The life of man upon the earth is a trial. And therefore, ought each of us to give heed concerning trials and temptations, and watch unto prayer, lest the devil find [...]

the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapter xii (the uses of adversity)

OF THE USES OF ADVERSITY โ€œIt is good for us that we sometimes have sorrows and adversities, for they often make a man lay to heart that he is only a stranger and sojourner, and may not put his trust in any worldly thing. It is good that we sometimes endure contradictions, and are hardly [...]

the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapters vii and viii (fleeing from vain hope and pride; the danger of too much familiarity)

OF FLEEING FROM VAIN HOPE AND PRIDE: โ€œVain 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 [...]

the imitation of christ, the 1st book: chapters v and vi (the reading of holy scriptures; inordinate affections)

OF THE READING OF HOLY SCRIPTURES: โ€œIt 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)

โ€œWe 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 ii (of thinking humbly of oneself)

โ€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)

โ€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 [...]