Chapter 01. Of the inward voice of Christ to the faithful soul (Book 3. On Inward Consolation as a Gift of God) (The Imitation of Christ) (a-Kempis, Thomas)

1. I will listen what the Lord God shall say within me. Blessed is the soul which hears the Lord speaking within it, and receivs the word of consolation from His mouth. Blessed are the ears which receive the echoes of the soft whisper of God, and turn not aside to the whisperings of this world. Blessed truly are the ears which listen not to the voice that sounds without, but to that which teaches truth inwardly. Blessed are the eyes which are closed to things without, but are fixed upon things within. Blessed are they who search inward things and study to prepare themselves more and more by daily exercises for the receiving of heavenly mysteries. Blessed are they who long to have leisure for God, and free themselves from every hindrance of the world. Think on these things, O my soul, and shut the doors of your carnal desires, so may you hear what the Lord God will say within you.

2. These things says your Beloved, "I am your salvation, I am your peace and your life. Keep you to Me, and you will find peace." Put away you all transitory things, seek those things that are eternal. For what are all temporal things but deceits, and what shall all created things help you if you be forsaken by the Creator? Therefore put all things else away, and give yourself to the Creator, to be well pleasing and faithful to Him, that you may be able to attain true blessedness.