Thomas a Kempis

Thomas a Kempis
Thomas à Kempis, C.R.S.A.; c. 1380 – 25 July 1471) was a Dutch canon regular of the late medieval period and the author of The Imitation of Christ, one of the most popular and best known Christian books on devotion. His name means Thomas "of Kempen", his hometown, and in German he is known as Thomas von Kempen. He also is known by various spellings of his family name: Thomas Haemerken; Thomas Hammerlein; Thomas Hemerken and Thomas Hämerken...
NationalityGerman
ProfessionClergyman
CountryGermany
giving preparation desire
O Lord, Thou knowest that which is best for us; let this or that be done, as Thou shalt please. Give what Thou wilt, how much Thou wilt, and when Thou wilt. Deal with me as thou thinkest best. Place me where Thou wilt, and deal with me in all things just as Thou wilt. Behold, I am Thy servant, prepared for all things: I desire not to live unto myself, but unto Thee; and oh, that I could do it worthily and perfectly!
spiritual light people
Some people are tempted most strongly at the beginning of their spiritual life, others near the end. Some are troubled all their lives. Still others receive only light temptation. Such things are decided by God, and we can trust his wisdom.
giving grace world
For it is the grace of Christ, and not our own virtue, that gives us the power to overcome the flesh and the world.
How quickly passes away the glory of this world.
Of two evils, the less is always to be chosen.
Bear the Cross cheerfully and it will bear you.
easily peace whose
He will easily be content and at peace, whose conscience is pure.
life truth
Without the way, there is no going; without the truth, there is no knowing; without the life, there is no living.
At the Day of Judgment, we shall not be asked what we have read, but what we have done.
deep god humble knowledge search surer thyself
An humble knowledge of thyself is a surer way to God than a deep search after learning.
taken exercise men
Bodily exercises are to be done discreetly; not to be taken evenly and alike by all men.
patient be-patient
Thy peace shall be in much patience.
bears be-patient patient
At the least bear patiently, if thou canst not joyfully.
art pain adversity
If thou art willing to suffer no adversity, how wilt thou be the friend of Christ?