Of the Imitation of Christ/Book III/Chapter XXIV
CHAPTER XXIV.
OF AVOIDING CURIOUS ENQUIRY INTO THE LIVES OF OTHER MEN.
E not curious, my son, nor trouble thyself with idle cares.
What is this or that to thee? follow thou Me.
For what is it to thee, whether that man be such or such, or whether this man do or speak this or that?
Thou shalt not need to answer for others, but shalt give account for thyself; why therefore dost thou entangle thyself?
Behold, I know every one, and do see all things that are done under the sun; also I understand how it is with every one, what he thinks, what he wishes, and what his intentions are.
Unto Me therefore all things are to be committed: but do thou keep thyself in peace, and leave the unquiet to be as unquiet as they will.
Whatsoever they shall have done or said, shall come upon themselves, for Me they cannot deceive.
2. Be not careful for the shadow of a great name, or for the familiar friendship of many, or for the particular affection of men.
For these things both distract the heart and greatly darken it.
Willingly would I speak My word, and reveal My secrets unto thee, if thou wouldst diligently observe My coming, and open unto Me the door of thine heart.
Be thou circumspect, and watchful in prayer, and in all things humble thyself.