Humble Conceit of Ourselves

Every man naturally desires to know (Eccles. 1:13) , but what does knowledge avail without the fear of God? Better, surely, is a humble laborer who serves God than a proud philosopher who, neglecting himself, studies the course of the heavens. Whoso knows himself well gr0ws mean in his own conceit, and delights not in the praises of men. If I understood all things in the world and had not love (I Cor. 13:2) , what would that help me in the sight of God, who will judge me according to my deeds?

Cease from an inordinate desire of knowing, for therein is found much distraction and deceit. The learned are well pleased to seem so to others, and to be accounted wise. There be many things, which to know does little or nothing to profit the soul. And he is very unwise, who is intent upon any things except those which avail for his salvation. Many words do not satisfy the soul; but a good life comforts the mind, and a pure conscience gives great confidence toward God.

How much the more and the better you know, so much the more rigorously shall you therefore be judged, unless your life has been the holier. Be not therefore lifted up for any art or science, but rather fear for the knowledge that is given you.

If you think that you know many things and understand them well, know also that there are many things which you know not. "Mind not high things" (Rom. 12:16) , but rather acknowledge your own ignorance. Why will you prefer yourself before another since there are many more learned, and more skillful in the law than you are? If you will know or learn anything profitably, desire to be unknown and to be esteemed as nothing.

The deepest and the most profitable lesson is the true knowledge and contempt of ourselves. It is great wisdom and high perfection to esteem nothing of ourselves, and to think always well and highly of others. If you should see another openly sin, or commit some heinous offense, you ought not to esteem yourself the better; for you know not how long you shall be able to remain in good standing. All of us are frail, but you ought not to think anyone more frail than yourself.

- Thomas of Kempis