That we Must Rest in God above all Goods and Gif

Name: That we Must Rest in God above all Goods and Gifts
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The work emphasizes the necessity of resting in God above all earthly goods and gifts. It begins with a profound declaration of the soul's need for divine rest, asserting that true contentment can only be found in God, who is the ultimate source of peace and fulfillment. The text contrasts the transient nature of worldly pleasures, health, beauty, and knowledge with the eternal and unchanging nature of God. The author expresses a deep longing for a closer relationship with God, portraying Him as the beloved spouse and the ultimate source of joy. This yearning is accompanied by a sense of sorrow and struggle, as the author grapples with the distractions and miseries of life that hinder access to divine communion. The text articulates a desire for liberation from these burdens, seeking the light of God's presence to bring solace and joy. Throughout the work, there is a recurring theme of humility and recognition of one's own inadequacies in the face of divine greatness. The author acknowledges the need for God's grace and intervention, expressing a commitment to seek God above all else. The dialogue between the soul and God reveals a dynamic relationship characterized by longing, supplication, and eventual reassurance from God, who responds to the soul's cries. The work culminates in a call to praise and glorify God, recognizing His wisdom and providence in governing all things. It emphasizes that all creation should join in this act of worship, reflecting the central message that true fulfillment and joy are found solely in God, transcending all earthly desires and achievements.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1940 · Genre: Spirituality, Theology, Devotional Literature · 930 words

First lines

Above all things and in all things thou shalt rest alway in the Lord, O my soul, for he himself is the eternal rest of the saints. Grant me, most sweet and loving Jesus, to rest in Thee above every creature, above all health and beauty, above all glory and honour, above all power and dignity, above all knowledge and skilfulness, above all riches and arts, above all joy and exultation, above all fame and praise, above all sweetness and consolation, above all hope and promise, above all merit and desire, above all gifts and rewards which Thou canst give and pour forth, above all joy and jubilation which the mind is able to receive and feel; in a word, above Angels and Archangels and all the army of heaven, above all things visible and invisible, and above everything which Thou, O my God, art not.

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That we Must Rest in God above all Goods and Gifts is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1940 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Thomas à Kempis
Date: 1940 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spirituality, Theology, Devotional Literature, Mysticism, Philosophy
Length: 930 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Spirituality — The text focuses on the relationship between the soul and God, emphasizing the importance of resting in divine presence above all earthly goods.
Theology — The work explores theological concepts such as God's nature, grace, and the soul's longing for divine communion.
Devotional Literature — The text serves as a devotional piece, encouraging readers to seek a deeper connection with God through prayer and reflection.
Mysticism — The writing reflects mystical themes, including the pursuit of union with God and the transcendence of worldly desires.