Of the Zealous Amendment of our Whole Life
The work emphasizes the importance of vigilance and diligence in one's spiritual life, urging individuals to reflect on their commitment to God and the renunciation of worldly distractions. It encourages a zealous pursuit of spiritual growth, promising that such efforts will lead to eternal joy and rest. The text illustrates the internal struggle between hope and fear, highlighting a transformative moment when an individual learns to trust in God's will rather than seeking certainty about the future. The narrative stresses that true progress in holiness comes from overcoming personal challenges and striving against one's natural inclinations. It distinguishes between different levels of passion and diligence, asserting that those who earnestly seek virtue, regardless of their inherent struggles, will achieve greater spiritual profit than those who are less fervent. Readers are advised to draw inspiration from good examples and to avoid negative behaviors, recognizing that one's actions are observed by others. The text calls for a mindful approach to one's duties and a constant remembrance of Christ's life and sacrifice, suggesting that deep contemplation of His example can lead to spiritual fulfillment. The work contrasts the experiences of the earnest believer, who finds peace in accepting burdens, with the lukewarm individual, who suffers from a lack of inner consolation. It posits that true happiness comes from seeking God above all else, transcending earthly needs and desires. A significant theme is the urgency of time and the necessity of diligence in cultivating virtue. The text warns against complacency and encourages a proactive stance in spiritual matters, asserting that neglecting small faults can lead to greater moral failures. Ultimately, it advocates for self-examination and discipline, suggesting that the more one confronts personal weaknesses, the more one will grow spiritually. The work concludes with a call to action, urging individuals to remain vigilant and committed to their spiritual journey.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1516 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Religious Non-Fiction, Philosophical Literature · 1,240 words
First lines
Be thou watchful and diligent in God's service, and bethink thee often why thou hast renounced the world. Was it not that thou mightest live to God and become a spiritual man? Be zealous, therefore, for thy spiritual profit, for thou shalt receive shortly the reward of thy labours, and neither fear nor sorrow shall come any more into thy borders. Now shalt thou labour a little, and thou shalt find great rest, yea everlasting joy. If thou shalt remain faithful and zealous in labour, doubt not that God shall be faithful and bountiful in rewarding thee. It is thy duty to have a good hope that thou wilt attain the victory, but thou must not fall into security lest thou become slothful or lifted up.
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Of the Zealous Amendment of our Whole Life is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1516 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: 1516 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spiritual Literature, Religious Non-Fiction, Philosophical Literature, Devotional Writing, Self-Help
- Length: 1,240 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- On The Contemplation Of Human Misery by Thomas A. Kempis
- How We Must Stand And Speak In Everything That We Desire by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of Bearing With The Faults Of Others by Thomas A. Kempis
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Genres
- Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on spiritual growth, devotion, and the pursuit of holiness.
- Religious Non-Fiction — It provides guidance on living a life aligned with Christian values and teachings.
- Philosophical Literature — The work explores themes of self-discipline, virtue, and the nature of good and evil.
- Devotional Writing — It encourages personal reflection and prayer as means to deepen one's faith.
Tags
Christianity · Meditations · Spirituality · Self-Improvement · Devotional · Philosophy · Theology · Faith · Discipline · Perfectionism · Humility · Love
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