Page:Imitation-of-christ-1901.djvu/175

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Of Neglecting the Creature.
161

rush again into outward things, and weigh not our works with diligent examination.

We heed not where our affections lie, nor bewail the impurity that is in our actions.

For "all flesh had corrupted his way," and therefore did the great deluge ensue.

Since, then, the inward affection is much corrupted, the action thence proceeding must needs be corrupted also, a proof of the absence of all inward vigour.

From a pure heart proceedeth the fruit of a good life.

5. We ask how much man has done: but from what principle he acts is not so diligently considered.

We enquire whether he be courageous, rich, handsome, skilful, a good writer, a good singer, or a good labourer; but how poor he is in spirit, how patient and meek, how devout and spiritual, is seldom spoken of.

Nature respecteth the outward things of a man, grace turneth itself to the inward.

The one is often disappointed; the other hath her trust in God, and so is not deceived.