Chapter 09. Of obedience and subjection (Book 1. Admonitions helpful for the spiritual life) (The Imitation of Christ) (a-Kempis, Thomas)

1. It is truly a great thing to live in obedience, to be under authority, and not to be at our own disposal. Far safer is it to live in subjection than in a place of authority. Many are in obedience from necessity rather than from love; these take it amiss, and repine for small cause. Nor will they gain freedom of spirit, unless with all their heart they submit themselves for the love of God. Though you run hither and thither, you will not find peace, save in humble subjection to the authority of him who is set over you. Fancies about places and change of them have deceived many.

2. True it is that every man willingly follows his own inclination, and is the more inclined to those who agree with him. But if Christ is amongst us, then it is necessary that we sometimes yield up our own opinion for the sake of peace. Who is so wise as to have perfect knowledge of all things? Therefore trust not too much to your own opinion, but be ready also to hear the opinions of others. Though your own opinion be good, yet if for the love of God you forego it, and follow that of another, you will the more profit thereby.

3. Often I have heard that it is safer to listen and to receive counsel than to give it. It may also come to pass that each opinion may be good; but to refuse to listen to others when reason or occasion requirs it, is a mark of pride or wilfulness.