Of the Imitation of Christ/Book I/Chapter XII
CHAPTER XII.
OF THE PROFIT OF ADVERSITY.
T is good that we have sometimes troubles and crosses; for they often make a man enter into himself, and consider that he is here in banishment, and ought not to place his trust in any worldly thing.
It is good that we be sometimes contradicted, and this, although we do and intend well.
These things help often to the attaining of humility, and defend us from vain glory: for then we are more inclined to seek God for our inward witness.
2. And therefore a man should settle himself so fully in God, that he need not seek many comforts of men.
When a good man is afflicted, tempted, or troubled with evil thoughts; then he understandeth better the great need he hath of God, without Whom he perceiveth he can do no good thing.
Then also he sorroweth, lamenteth, and prayeth, by reason of the miseries he suffereth.
Then he is weary of living longer, and wisheth that death would come, that he might depart and be with Christ.
Then also he well perceiveth, that perfect security and full peace cannot be had in this world.