Of having Confidence in God when Evil Words are

Name: Of having Confidence in God when Evil Words are Cast at Us
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The text emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidence in God amidst the harsh words and judgments of others. It begins by urging the reader to recognize the insignificance of words, which, while they may sting, do not have the power to harm one's essence. The author encourages self-reflection, suggesting that if one feels hurt by criticism, it may indicate an attachment to worldly opinions and a lack of true humility. The work asserts that true strength lies in trusting God rather than being swayed by human judgment. It highlights the distinction between divine judgment and human opinion, asserting that God's understanding is infallible and transcends the superficial assessments made by people. The text reassures that even if one faces unjust accusations, they should remain steadfast, as God is the ultimate judge who discerns the truth of every situation. The author calls for humility in the face of rebuke, recognizing human frailty and the need for divine mercy. The text concludes with a plea for strength and endurance, emphasizing that reliance on God's grace is more valuable than self-righteousness. Ultimately, it advocates for a deep-seated faith that remains unshaken by external criticism, focusing instead on the inner relationship with God and the assurance of His justice.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1941 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Devotional · 757 words

First lines

"My Son, stand fast and believe in Me. For what are words but words? They fly through the air, but they bruise no stone. If thou are guilty, think how thou wouldst gladly amend thyself; if thou knowest nothing against thyself, consider that thou wilt gladly bear this for God's sake. It is little enough that thou sometimes hast to bear hard words, for thou art not yet able to bear hard blows. And wherefore do such trivial matters go to thine heart, except that thou art yet carnal, and regardest men more than thou oughtest? For because thou fearest to be despised, thou art unwilling to be reproved for thy faults, and seekest paltry shelters of excuses.

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Of having Confidence in God when Evil Words are Cast at Us is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1941 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Thomas à Kempis
Date: 1941 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Devotional, Philosophy, Christian Non-Fiction
Length: 757 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on faith, trust in God, and the spiritual journey of overcoming worldly concerns.
Theology — It discusses concepts of divine judgment, humility, and the nature of sin and forgiveness.
Devotional — The work serves as a guide for personal reflection and devotion to God amidst adversity.
Philosophy — It explores the nature of human judgment versus divine judgment, and the implications of self-awareness.