the imitation of Christ, the 2nd book: chapter v (self-esteem)

OF SELF-ESTEEM “We cannot place too little confidence in ourselves because grace and understanding are often lacking to us. Little light is there within us, and what we have we quickly lose by negligence. Oftentimes we perceive not how great is our inward blindness; we often do ill and excuse it worse. Sometimes we are [...]

the imitation of Christ, the 2nd book: chapter iv (a pure mind and simple intention)

OF A PURE MIND AND SIMPLE INTENTION “By two wings is man lifted above earthly things, even by simplicity and purity. Simplicity ought to be in the intention, purity in the affection. Simplicity reaches towards God, purity apprehends Him and tastes Him. No good action will be distasteful to you, if you be free within, [...]

the imitation of Christ, the 2nd book: chapter iii (of the good peaceable man)

OF THE GOOD PEACEABLE MAN “First keep yourself in peace, and then shall you be able to be a peacemaker towards others. A peaceable man does more good than a well-learned. A passionate man turns even good into evil and easily believes evil. A good peaceable man converts all things into good. He who dwells [...]

the imitation of Christ, the 2nd book: chapter ii (lowly submission)

OF LOWLY SUBMISSION “Make no great account who is for you or against you, but mind only the present duty and take care that God be with you in whatsoever you do. Have a good conscience and God will defend you, for he whom God will help, no man's perverseness shall be able to hurt. [...]