The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis
Book 1 -Admonitions Profitable for the Spiritual Life
Chapter 8 Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity
Summary
I struggled with this chapter, and I’ll tell you why. I couldn’t think of any Scriptures to back up what he was saying. I know this book was written in the 1300’s and stoicism was a common belief in that time. At any rate, I’d love for you to read the chapter yourself and let me know if I’m missing something.
I do think that we should always bring glory to God in all we do, including our conversations and relationships. And, of course, you need to be careful who you share what with. If someone doesn’t have your best interest in mind, your words can cause you pain down the road. Seek God’s approval – not man’s.
Read that chapter and a bit of the rest… what an awesome book! The verse that came to mind was Proverbs 25:17. “Let your foot rarely be in your neighbor’s house, or he will become weary of you and hate you.” That said, other things he says seem antiquated, like admonishing them not to hang with women or young people. Was he talking to monks? I’ll have to check this out. Thanks for the challenge!
Ohhh – great verse! Monks – ha! Maybe?! I think we would all be in shock if we were transported back into that culture.