The Imitation of Christ

Men might live quiet and easy enough, if they would be wise not to give themselves trouble, and forbear meddling with what other people do and say, in which they are no way concerned. But how should we be easy, who make other men's care our own? Who industriously seek disquiet; and when we might rest in peace within doors, go abroad to invite and fetch disturbance home to our house.

Whence is it, think you, that some holy persons can so perfectly abstract themselves from the concern of this world, and find such satisfaction in their divine retirements and solitary contemplations? From hence, no doubt: that they have made it their business to mortify all earthly and sensual affections; have devoted themselves entirely to God; and are at liberty to attend upon him without distraction.

Were we but, as we ought to be, dead to the world and our own lusts; disentangled from those chains and snares within, that hamper and keep our souls down to matter and sense; then should we also relish acts of devotion, and be ravished with marvellous pleasure, when our thoughts are fixed on God and Heaven.

Would we but quit ourselves like men, and resolutely stand our ground, we should not fail of succours from above. God is always ready to strengthen those who strive lawfully, and place their hope in the assistance of his heavenly grace.

If we content ourselves with the observance of the outward duties only, and suppose this is the utmost perfection necessary for us; we contract religion into a very narrow compass, and may quickly get to the end of it. But alas! the main of our business lies within: the axe must be laid to the root of the tree, and our sensual appetites quite cut down, before we can attain to true pleasure in holiness, and a peaceful serenity of mind.