Quotes from Thomas a Kempis

Who hath a harder battle to fight than he who striveth for self-mastery?

Because our hearts are frivolous and because we ignore our faults we never discover the sickness in our souls, but idly we laugh when we have full reason to weep.

Do not trouble about those who are with you or against you, but take care that God be with you in everything you do.

We must not trust every word of others or feeling within ourselves, but cautiously and patiently try the matter, whether it be of God.

Two things especially lead to great improvement: the will to drag yourself from the things that will naturally harm you and the desire to pursue the good things that you need the most. You should also watch out for those things that irritate you in other people; when you see them in yourself, get rid of them. Turn everything to your advantage.

Unhappily we are so weak that we find it easier to believe and speak evil of others, rather than good.

let not the weight of the writer be a stumbling-block to thee, whether he be of little or much learning, but let the love of the pure Truth draw thee to read.

by patience and true humility we become stronger than all our enemies.

Satan leaves unbelievers and sinners alone because he already has them in his grip; he goes after believers who are faithful and devout.

In the morning consider that you may not live till evening, and when evening comes do not dare to promise yourself the dawn.

Profound theology doesn't make anyone righteous; what pleases me is an exemplary life. Regret for wrongdoing is better than knowing its definition.

Mightily and long must a man strive within himself before he learn altogether to overcome himself, and to draw his whole affection towards God.