Chapter 24. Of avoiding of curious inquiry into the life of another (Book 3. On Inward Consolation as a Gift of God) (The Imitation of Christ) (a-Kempis, Thomas)

1. "My Son, be not curious, nor trouble yourself with vain cares. What is that to you? Follow you Me. For what is it to you whether a man be this or that, or say or do so or so? You have no need to answer for others, but you must give an answer for yourself. Why therefore do you entangle yourself? Behold, I know all men, and I behold all things which are done under the sun; and I know how it stands with each one, what he thinks, what he wills, and to what end his thoughts reach. All things therefore are to be committed to Me; watch you yourself in godly peace, and leave him who is unquiet to be unquiet as he will. Whatsoever he shall do or say, shall come to him, for he cannot deceive Me.

2. "Trouble not yourself about the shadow of a great name, nor about the friendship of many, nor about the love of men towards you. For these things beget distraction and great sorrows of heart. My word should speak freely to you, and I would reveal secrets, if only you did diligently look for My appearing, and did open to Me the gates of your heart. Be sober and watch to prayer, and humble yourself in all things."

John xxi. 12. 1 Peter iv. 7.