The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis
Book 1 -Admonitions Profitable for the Spiritual Life
Chapter 11 Of Seeking Peace of Mind and of Spiritual Progress
Summary
How do you get peace? That’s an age old question that is still being asked today. Everyone wants peace. Ironically, peace isn’t something that falls into your lap. It’s not something you deserve or something that is a shadow – always being chased but never actually obtained.
Peace, like much else in the world, requires effort. You have to want it bad enough to work for it.
- Don’t worry about everyone else’s business. It’s not your concern. Worry about yourself.
- Pray
- Don’t love the stuff in this world. Honestly, the time here on earth is so short – eternity is so long!
- Cling to God – think about Him often
- Don’t be content to be lukewarm. Conquer those sin habits. Start today with one.
- When trouble comes, don’t run to the world (i.e. food, entertainment, drugs) for comfort. Run to God.
- It’s not about doing the right things the right ways. Right outward actions don’t bring peace.
- God is going to help you. Believe that. Stand firm
- Look back six months or a year ago – you should see growth in your life. Don’t be stagnate or worse.
- Begin today to break a bad habit or no to your will. Start small. It will make a difference.
If we really understood how great it would be to be peaceful and how much joy we would bring to those around us, we would embrace the effort necessary.