Page:Imitation-of-christ-1901.djvu/68

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54
Of Amendment of Life.

CHAPTER XXV.

OF THE ZEALOUS AMENDMENT OF OUR WHOLE LIFE.

BE watchful and diligent in the service of God; and often bethink thyself wherefore thou camest hither. Was it not that thou mightest live to God, and become a spiritual man?

Be fervent then in going forward, for shortly thou shalt receive the reward of thy labours; there shall not be then any more fear or sorrow in thy coasts.

Labour but a little now, and thou shalt find great rest, yea, perpetual joy.

If thou continuest faithful and fervent in thy work, no doubt but that God will be faithful and liberal in rewarding thee.

Thou oughtest to have good hope of getting the victory; but thou must not be secure, lest thou wax either negligent or proud.

2. When one that was in anxiety of mind, often wavering between fear and hope, did once, being oppressed with grief, humbly prostrate himself in a church before the altar, in prayer, and said within himself, if I knew that I should yet persevere! he presently heard within him an answer from God, which said. If thou didst know it, what wouldst thou do? Do now what thou wouldst do then, and thou shalt be secure.

And being herewith comforted and strengthened,