That it is Sweet to Despise the World and to Ser
The work emphasizes the profound relationship between the divine and the individual, highlighting the sweetness of serving God and the joy found in renouncing worldly pursuits. It begins with a heartfelt expression of gratitude for God's goodness and mercy, acknowledging the unworthiness of the speaker while celebrating the grace bestowed upon them. The text reflects on the nature of true service, suggesting that serving God is not merely a duty but a privilege that brings immense joy and fulfillment. The author contrasts the transient pleasures of the world with the eternal satisfaction derived from a life dedicated to God. The act of serving God is portrayed as a noble calling, elevating the individual to a state of holiness and freedom. The text encourages readers to embrace a religious life, suggesting that those who forsake worldly desires for the sake of divine service will experience profound spiritual rewards. The work also explores the theme of divine love, emphasizing that God's willingness to accept and nurture even the most unworthy individuals is a testament to His boundless compassion. The speaker expresses a deep longing to serve God faithfully, recognizing that true honor lies in dedicating oneself to the divine will. Throughout the text, the author underscores the transformative power of serving God, which not only liberates the spirit but also aligns the individual with the divine order. The service to God is depicted as a source of strength against evil and a means of achieving spiritual elevation. The text concludes with a call to embrace this sacred service, promising eternal joy and fulfillment to those who commit themselves wholeheartedly to God.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1654 · Genre: Religious Literature, Spirituality, Devotional · 706 words
First lines
Now will I speak again, O my Lord, and hold not my peace; I will say in the ears of my God, my Lord, and my King, who is exalted above all, "Oh how plentiful is Thy goodness which Thou hast laid up for them that fear Thee! "57 But what art Thou to those who love Thee? What to those who serve Thee with their whole heart? Truly unspeakable is the sweetness of the contemplation of Thee, which Thou bestowest upon those who love Thee. In this most of all Thou hast showed me the sweetness of Thy charity, that when I was not, Thou madest me, and when I wandered far from Thee, Thou broughtest me back that I might serve Thee, and commandedst me to love Thee.
What this Textopian page supports
That it is Sweet to Despise the World and to Serve God 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: Religious Literature, Spirituality, Devotional, Philosophy, Meditative Writing
- Length: 706 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- That A Man Ought Not To Reckon Himself Worthy Of Consolation But More Worthy Of Chastisement by Thomas A. Kempis
- That The Grace Of God Doth Not Join Itself To Those Who Mind Earthly Things by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Lack Of All Comfort by Thomas A. Kempis
- Against The Tongues Of Detractors by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of Hiding Our Grace Under The Guard Of Humility by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Diverse Motions Of Nature And Of Grace by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Religious Literature — The text focuses on serving God and the spiritual rewards of devotion, central themes in religious literature.
- Spirituality — The work emphasizes personal spiritual growth and the inner sweetness of serving God, characteristic of spiritual writings.
- Devotional — It serves as a guide for devotion and contemplation, aimed at fostering a deeper relationship with God.
- Philosophy — The text explores philosophical ideas about the nature of service, worthiness, and the relationship between humanity and the divine.
Tags
Christianity · Meditations · Spirituality · Devotional · Philosophy · Theology · Faith · Piety · Humility · Self-reflection · Moral guidance · Inner peace
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