12 July
2020
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.
Thomas à Kempis, The Imitation of Christ, p17
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