Of the Lack of all Comfort
The work explores the theme of spiritual comfort versus human comfort, emphasizing the importance of divine presence in overcoming worldly attachments. It discusses the struggle of the soul to detach from earthly pleasures and relationships for the sake of a deeper connection with God. The text highlights the necessity of enduring both the absence of divine comfort and the trials that accompany it, advocating for humility and patience in times of spiritual desolation. The narrative illustrates the journey of a true follower of Christ, who, rather than seeking earthly delights, embraces hardships and challenges as a means to grow closer to God. It recounts the example of a martyr who prioritized divine approval over human affection, demonstrating the strength required to relinquish personal attachments for spiritual gain. The work acknowledges the transient nature of divine favor, urging readers to remain steadfast in faith during periods of spiritual dryness. It reassures that such experiences are common among saints and prophets, who often faced fluctuations in their spiritual states. The text encourages reliance on God's mercy and grace, asserting that true comfort comes from divine sources rather than human relationships or material possessions. The author emphasizes the role of temptation as a precursor to spiritual growth, suggesting that overcoming trials leads to greater divine rewards. The narrative concludes with a call to vigilance and readiness for spiritual battles, recognizing that the struggle against temptation is a continuous aspect of the spiritual journey. Ultimately, the work serves as a guide for those seeking to deepen their faith and reliance on God amidst the challenges of life.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1654 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Devotional · 1,048 words
First lines
It is no hard thing to despise human comfort when divine is present. It is a great thing, yea very great, to be able to bear the loss both of human and divine comfort; and for the love of God willingly to bear exile of heart, and in nought to seek oneself, nor to look to one's own merit. What great matter is it, if thou be cheerful of heart and devout when favour cometh to thee? That is an hour wherein all rejoice. Pleasantly enough doth he ride whom the grace of God carrieth. And what marvel, if he feeleth no burden who is carried by the Almighty, and is led onwards by the Guide from on high?
What this Textopian page supports
Of the Lack of all Comfort is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1654 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: 1654 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Devotional, Philosophy, Christian Non-Fiction
- Length: 1,048 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Of the Lack of all Comfort by Thomas à Kempis
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Similar titles
- Against The Tongues Of Detractors by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of Seeking Divine Help And The Confidence Of Obtaining Grace by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Fewness Of Those Who Love The Cross Of Jesus 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
- That We Ought To Offer Ourselves And All That Is Ours To God And To Pray For All by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Oblation Of Christ Upon The Cross And Of Resignation Of Self by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on the relationship between human suffering, divine comfort, and spiritual growth, central themes in spiritual literature.
- Theology — The work discusses concepts of divine grace, temptation, and the nature of God, making it relevant to theological studies.
- Devotional — The text serves as a guide for personal reflection and devotion, encouraging readers to seek spiritual rather than worldly comfort.
- Philosophy — It explores existential themes of self-denial, the nature of happiness, and the human condition in relation to divine will.
Tags
Christianity · Meditations · Spirituality · Devotional · Philosophy · Theology · Faith · Comfort · Suffering · Perseverance · Patience · Humility
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