The Imitation of Christ: The Beatitudes Edition

by Thomas à Kempis

you want to understand my words, you must commit to imitating me, learn to think the way I think, conforming your life to mine—not to the world’s culture.

To see the world through God’s eyes.

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

Action still speaks louder than words. Knowledge is good but without practice is nothing.

Give little attention to what is visible. Try to focus on the invisible.

“What is essential is invisible to the eye.”

Without me no one understands truth, so center your life on me. View circumstances from my perspective.

Your goals should be to conquer egocentricity, become holy, and live triumphantly.

A realistic evaluation of who you are is a better way to God than a meticulous search for knowledge.

Those who invest more time and effort in educational and career excellence than in character development accomplish little of eternal value.

When Judgment Day comes, I won’t ask about the books you have read, the debates you have won, or the good you have done. I will

be concerned only with how well you have represented me.

No one fully knows your heart but God. Not even you. His grace will never leave you stranded. So, take hold of his hand. He will lift you up and make you stronger than ever.

Grace: is able to love its enemies, prays for its persecutors,

When you trust in God alone, joy will come. No one is truly good except God.

How awesome it is that you graciously embrace me even though I repeatedly allow sin to knock me down.

Lead me to the valley of humility and reveal myself to me.

Live today as if you were going to die this evening.

Always be ready to leave this world.

Fix your thoughts on what is true, good, and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely. Focus on the good in others. Choose for friends those who are mature in faith. Honor their example and learn from them. If

Let love strengthen you.

Fight for the faith.

Life is as it is. You will never escape conflict.

know who you are before God, measuring your assessment by biblical standards.

You’re on the right track when you focus on the goodness of others instead.

If you must boast, boast only about the Lord.”

them. I want to love you as much during times of adversity as when life is good.

Your love for me is the result of my grace, a foretaste of your permanent home in heaven. You are maturing in faith when you no longer respond to the enticements of the devil the way he would like you to do.

Love your friends the way I love you—unconditionally, with no expectations.

You are the fortress to which I must flee when troubled.

Never assume you deserve special treatment or that you are more spiritual than someone else.

Live life humbly, wisely, cautiously, knowing that happy days may not last.

No believer is exempt from difficulties and times of dryness. It’s part of the training process. Take heart. Testing often precedes times of enlightenment. The wilderness leads to new and greater vistas. God’s mercy is endless. He gives supernatural strength when you need it. The circumstances he allows have a purpose.

It is good for you to endure weary times for they are reminders of who you are and that you need to depend on me. Those trials and temptations are faith-testers. Interesting,

people criticize you and do not think well of you, connect with me. Talk to me about your feelings; forget about seeking human consolation.

Any of these scenarios can drain you, reminding you that you are not yet what you should be.

You are the healer of my broken heart. Beloved Father, I am in your hands.

Give me courage to resist, patience to endure, and steadfastness to persevere.

Do whatever you do with love.

Do whatever you do well.

Whatever you do, do it all for the Kingdom.

Patiently accept life’s irritations. Allow them to sharpen endurance, character, and hope.

I don’t intend tense relationships to weaken you; their purpose is to reveal yourself to you.

Correct your own weaknesses before expecting others to change.

Don’t expect anyone to change unless you’re willing to make adjustments as well.

If someone falls into sin, gently try to guide your friend in the right direction. But, after trying once or twice, if there is no change, don’t criticize.

Learn how to relate to another’s struggles. No one is without faults.

Make allowances for one another by comforting, helping, and encouraging each other.

Accept criticism silently; if it has already knocked you down, why stay there? Get back up.

If you can’t do that, take a deep breath. Speak no angry words. Calm down and let the storm subside until grace returns to you. How did I respond to those who rejected me? Read the Gospels. Study my reactions.

Criticism presents an opportunity to show mercy and prepares you to cope with greater wrongs. Li...

are fragile, not divine. You are made of flesh and bl...

Teach me patience. Make me a good example of your merciful ways.