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The Imitation of Christ
Thomas à Kempis
The Twelfth Chapter
THE VALUE OF ADVERSITY
IT IS good for us to have trials and troubles at times, for they often remind us
that we are on probation and ought not to hope in any worldly thing. It is good
for us sometimes to suffer contradiction, to be misjudged by men even though we
do well and mean well. These things help us to be humble and shield us from
vainglory. When to all outward appearances men give us no credit, when they do
not think well of us, then we are more inclined to seek God Who sees our hearts.
Therefore, a man ought to root himself so firmly in God that he will not need
the consolations of men.
When a man of good will is afflicted, tempted, and tormented by evil thoughts,
he realizes clearly that his greatest need is God, without Whom he can do no
good. Saddened by his miseries and sufferings, he laments and prays. He wearies
of living longer and wishes for death that he might be dissolved and be with
Christ. Then he understands fully that perfect security and complete peace
cannot be found on earth.
