That we Must Give ourselves to Humble Works when

Name: That we Must Give ourselves to Humble Works when we are Unequal to those that are Lofty
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The text emphasizes the necessity of engaging in humble, practical tasks when one is unable to maintain a high level of spiritual fervor or contemplation. It acknowledges human limitations and the burdens of physical existence, suggesting that weariness and distraction are natural aspects of life. The author encourages the reader to accept these limitations and to turn to simpler, external works as a means of renewal and spiritual growth. The work advocates for patience during periods of spiritual dryness, urging the individual to remain hopeful and to await divine intervention. It reassures that through humble actions, one can prepare for a return to deeper spiritual engagement. The promise of eventual peace and enlightenment is highlighted, with the assurance that the struggles of the present will be overshadowed by future glory. The text serves as a guide for those feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from their spiritual pursuits, reminding them that even in moments of weakness, they can find value and purpose in modest endeavors. It reinforces the idea that spiritual life is not solely about lofty aspirations but also about the consistent practice of humility and good works. Ultimately, it calls for a balance between aspiration and acceptance of one's current state, encouraging perseverance in faith and action.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1940 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Philosophical Writing, Devotional Literature · 251 words

First lines

"My Son, thou art not always able to continue in very fervent desire after virtues, nor to stand fast in the loftier region of contemplation; but thou must of necessity sometimes descend to lower things because of thine original corruption, and bear about the burden of corruptible life, though unwillingly and with weariness. So long as thou wearest a mortal body, thou shalt feel weariness and heaviness of heart. Therefore thou oughtest to groan often in the flesh because of the burden of the flesh, inasmuch as thou canst not give thyself to spiritual studies and divine contemplation unceasingly.

What this Textopian page supports

That we Must Give ourselves to Humble Works when we are Unequal to those that are Lofty is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1940 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: 1940 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spiritual Literature, Philosophical Writing, Devotional Literature, Religious Instruction, Meditative Writing
Length: 251 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for That we Must Give ourselves to Humble Works when we are Unequal to those that are Lofty by Thomas à Kempis
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering That we Must Give ourselves to Humble Works when we are Unequal to those that are Lofty?
How does this essay by Thomas à Kempis fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Spiritual Literature first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on spiritual growth, humility, and the necessity of engaging in humble works, which are central themes in spiritual literature.
Philosophical Writing — The work explores deep philosophical questions about human nature, virtue, and the struggle between the spiritual and the corporeal.
Devotional Literature — It serves as a guide for personal devotion and reflection, encouraging readers to engage in humble actions as a form of worship.
Religious Instruction — The text provides teachings and instructions on how to live a life aligned with religious principles.