Of a Good Government in External Things, and of
The work emphasizes the importance of inner freedom and self-mastery in the face of external circumstances. It advocates for a life where one is not subservient to worldly distractions but instead governs one's actions with a sense of divine purpose. The text encourages individuals to maintain a dual perspective: recognizing the transient nature of earthly matters while aspiring towards eternal truths. It draws on biblical figures, particularly Moses, to illustrate the necessity of seeking divine guidance in decision-making. The author highlights the significance of prayer and reflection, suggesting that true wisdom comes from consulting God rather than relying solely on human judgment. The narrative warns against the pitfalls of superficial appearances and the dangers of being misled by deceitful influences, as exemplified by the Israelites' encounter with the Gibeonites. The work ultimately calls for a deep, personal relationship with God, urging readers to retreat into their inner sanctum for strength and clarity in times of trouble. It posits that through this spiritual connection, one can navigate life's challenges with confidence and discernment, ensuring that one's actions align with a higher moral and spiritual calling.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1620 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Philosophical Treatise, Religious Instruction · 330 words
First lines
"My Son, for this thou must diligently make thy endeavour, that in every place and outward action or occupation thou mayest be free within, and have power over thyself; and that all things be under thee, not thou under them; that thou be master and ruler of thy actions, not a slave or hireling, but rather a free and true Hebrew, entering into the lot and the liberty of the children of God, who stand above the present and look upon the eternal, who with the left eye behold things transitory, and with the right things heavenly; whom temporal things draw not to cleave unto, but who rather draw temporal things to do them good service, even as they were ordained of God to do, and appointed by the Master Workman, who hath left nought in His creation without aim and end.
What this Textopian page supports
Of a Good Government in External Things, and of having Recourse to God in Dangers is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1620 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Thomas à Kempis
- Date: 1620 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spiritual Literature, Philosophical Treatise, Religious Instruction, Devotional Writing, Historical Contextualization
- Length: 330 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Of a Good Government in External Things, and of having Recourse to God in Dangers by Thomas à Kempis
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Of a Good Government in External Things, and of having Recourse to God in Dangers?
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- Where does Spiritual Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- That Temporal Miseries Are To Be Borne Patiently After The Example Of Christ by Thomas A. Kempis
- How We Must Stand And Speak In Everything That We Desire by Thomas A. Kempis
- That We Must Give Ourselves To Humble Works When We Are Unequal To Those That Are Lofty by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Inward Growth Of Patience And Of The Struggle Against Evil Desires by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Lack Of All Comfort by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on the relationship between human actions and divine guidance, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's counsel in times of danger.
- Philosophical Treatise — It explores themes of self-mastery, the nature of freedom, and the distinction between temporal and eternal values.
- Religious Instruction — The work serves as a guide for moral and spiritual conduct, instructing readers on how to navigate life's challenges through faith.
- Devotional Writing — It encourages personal reflection and prayer, aiming to deepen the reader's spiritual life and reliance on God.
Tags
Philosophy · Theology · Christianity · Government · Politics · Morality · Ethics · Spirituality · Faith · Doubt · Fear · Courage
More by Thomas à Kempis
- Of the Imitation of Christ, and of Contempt of the World and all its Vanities (1441)
- Of Thinking Humbly of Oneself (1441)
- Of the Knowledge of Truth (1441)
- Of Prudence in Action (1518)
- Of the Reading of Holy Scripture (1441)
- Of Inordinate Affections (1441)
- Of Fleeing from Vain Hope and Pride (1940)
- Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity (1904)
- All works by Thomas à Kempis