Wherein Firm Peace of Heart and True Profit Cons

Name: Wherein Firm Peace of Heart and True Profit Consist
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The work emphasizes the pursuit of true peace and profit through humility, patience, and alignment with divine will. It begins by asserting that while all desire peace, few understand its true nature. The text distinguishes between worldly peace and the peace that comes from a humble heart, suggesting that true peace is found in patience and a focus on pleasing the divine. The author advises self-reflection in actions and words, urging the reader to avoid rash judgments about others and to refrain from meddling in matters outside their control. This approach minimizes disturbances and cultivates a tranquil spirit. The text acknowledges that complete absence of grief or adversity is unrealistic in the present life; true peace is not defined by external circumstances but by internal disposition. The work further elaborates that true profit and perfection lie in self-offering to divine will, detaching from personal desires, and maintaining equanimity in both prosperity and adversity. It encourages a steadfast heart that endures trials without self-justification, instead justifying the divine plan and blessing it. This attitude fosters a path to genuine peace and hope for future joy. Ultimately, the text concludes that a deep contempt for self leads to an abundance of peace, reflecting the transient nature of human existence and the importance of spiritual focus. The essence of the message is that true peace and profit are rooted in a humble acceptance of divine will, a balanced perspective on life's ups and downs, and a commitment to virtue over personal gain.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1654 · Genre: Spirituality, Philosophy, Religious · 499 words

First lines

"My Son, I have said, ‘Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth give I unto you. '77 All men desire peace, but all do not care for the things which belong unto true peace. My peace is with the humble and lowly in heart. Thy peace shall be in much patience. If thou heardest Me, and didst follow My voice, thou shouldest enjoy much peace."

What then shall I do, Lord?

What this Textopian page supports

Wherein Firm Peace of Heart and True Profit Consist is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1654 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Thomas à Kempis
Date: 1654 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spirituality, Philosophy, Religious, Self-help, Meditation
Length: 499 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Spirituality — The text focuses on inner peace, humility, and the relationship with the Divine, central themes in spiritual literature.
Philosophy — It explores concepts of true peace, virtue, and the nature of suffering, aligning with philosophical inquiry.
Religious — The work is deeply rooted in Christian teachings and reflects on faith and divine will.
Self-help — It provides guidance on achieving peace and managing adversity, akin to self-improvement literature.