I have been reading Thomas' book The Imitation of Christ. Here are a few quotes that I hope will spur us to persevere.
Why do you look for rest when you were born to work? Resign yourself to patience rather than to comfort, to carrying your cross rather than to enjoyment.
What, indeed, gives more trouble and affliction than uncontrolled desires of the heart?
Many often err and accomplish little or nothing because they try to become learned, rather than to live well.
Everyone, it is true, wishes to do as he pleases and is attracted to those who agree with him. But if God be among us, we must at times give up our opinions for the blessings of peace.
Dreams of happiness expected from change and different places have deceived many.
The beginning of all temptation lies in a wavering mind and little trust in God, for as a rudderless ship is driven hither and yon by waves, so a careless and irresolute man is tempted in many ways.
There is adversity that does not weaken a man but rather shows what he is.
He who does not overcome small faults, shall fall little by little into greater ones.
To glory in adversity is not hard for the man who loves, for this is to glory in the cross of the Lord. But the glory given or received by man is short lived.
He indeed, is not worthy of the sublime contemplation of God who has not been tried by some tribulation for the sake of God.
1 comment:
I've often said that if I were stranded on a deserted island, the two books I would want with me are my Bible and The Imitation of Christ. Reading Kempis is like getting a vaccination. It doesn't always feel good but you know it's good for you. :-)
Post a Comment