the imitation of Christ, the 1st book: chapter xxii (the contemplation of human misery)

ON THE CONTEMPLATION OF HUMAN MISERY โ€œYou are miserable wheresoever you are, and whithersoever you turn, unless you turn yourself to God. Why are you disquieted because it happens not to you according to your wishes and desires? Who is he that have everything according to his will? Neither I, nor you, nor any man [...]

the imitation of Christ, the 1st book: chapter xvi and xvii (bearing the faults of others; a religious life)

OF BEARING WITH THE FAULTS OF OTHERS โ€œThose things which a man cannot amend in himself or in others, he ought patiently to bear, until God shall otherwise ordain. Bethink you that perhaps it is better for your trial and patience, without which our merits are but little worth. Nevertheless, you ought, when you find [...]

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 [...]