That True Solace is to be Sought in God Alone
The work emphasizes the futility of seeking solace in worldly pleasures and material possessions. It asserts that true comfort and fulfillment can only be found in a relationship with God. The author reflects on the transient nature of earthly delights, suggesting that even the most abundant experiences cannot provide lasting happiness. Instead, the soul is encouraged to focus on eternal truths and divine promises. The text advocates for a mindset that prioritizes spiritual over temporal desires, warning against the dangers of excessive longing for worldly goods. It posits that human beings are inherently created for a higher purpose, which transcends mere enjoyment of the physical world. The author highlights that genuine blessedness is rooted in God, contrasting it with the superficial happiness sought by those attached to worldly affairs. The narrative encourages readers to cultivate an inner sense of peace and comfort that comes from faith and reliance on God. It suggests that the true Comforter resides within, providing solace regardless of external circumstances. The work calls for a surrender of human comforts in exchange for divine approval and presence, emphasizing that God's companionship is the ultimate source of strength and consolation. In summary, the text serves as a spiritual guide, urging individuals to seek their solace in God alone, recognizing that all earthly comforts are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying. It promotes a life of faith, patience, and a focus on eternal values, encouraging a deep, personal connection with the divine as the path to true contentment.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1654 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Philosophy · 365 words
First lines
Whatsoever I am able to desire or to think of for my solace, I look for it not here, but hereafter. For if I alone had all the solaces of this world, and were able to enjoy all its delights, it is certain that they could not endure long. Wherefore, O my soul, thou canst be fully comforted and perfectly refreshed, only in God, the Comforter of the poor, and the lifter up of the humble. Wait but a little while, my soul, wait for the Divine promise, and thou shalt have abundance of all good things in heaven. If thou longest too inordinately for the things which are now, thou shalt lose those which are eternal and heavenly. Let temporal things be in the use, eternal things in the desire. Thou canst not be satisfied with any temporal good, for thou wast not created for the enjoyment of these.
What this Textopian page supports
That True Solace is to be Sought in God Alone 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, Philosophy, Devotional, Christian Mysticism
- Length: 365 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- That We Must Rest In God Above All Goods And Gifts by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Imitation Of Christ And Of Contempt Of The World And All Its Vanities by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Royal Way Of The Holy Cross by Thomas A. Kempis
- Against Vain And Worldly Knowledge by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Neglect Of Every Creature That The Creator May Be Found by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Exercises Of A Religious Man by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on seeking solace in God, emphasizing spiritual fulfillment over worldly comforts.
- Theology — It explores theological themes regarding the nature of God, human desire, and eternal life.
- Philosophy — The work presents philosophical reflections on happiness, fulfillment, and the transient nature of worldly pleasures.
- Devotional — It serves as a devotional text aimed at guiding readers towards a deeper relationship with God.
Tags
Christianity · Spirituality · Meditation · Devotional · Philosophy · Theology · Faith · Religion · Self-Improvement · Personal Growth · Inner Peace · Mindfulness
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