From The Imitation of Christ (trans. William Benham), by Thomas à Kempis
It is Truth which we must look for in Holy Writ, not cunning of words.
Whensoever a man desireth aught above measure, immediately he becometh restless.
We must not trust every word of others or feeling within ourselves, but cautiously and patiently try the matter, whether it be of God.
Many a time I wish that I had held my peace, and had not gone amongst men.
Vain is the life of that man who putteth his trust in men or in any created Thing.
Avoid as far as thou canst the tumult of men; for talk concerning worldly things, though it be innocently undertaken, is a hindrance.
All perfection hath some imperfection joined to it in this life, and all our power of sight is not without some darkness.
It is verily a great thing to live in obedience, to be under authority, and not to be at our own disposal.
There is naturally in every man a desire to know, but what profiteth knowledge without the fear of God?
This is great wisdom, not to be hasty in action, or stubborn in our own opinions.
Open not thine heart to every man, but deal with one who is wise and feareth God.
It is vanity then to seek after, and to trust in, the riches that shall perish.
Nevertheless, devout conversation on spiritual things helpeth not a little to spiritual progress.
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