Chapter 36. Against vain judgments of men (Book 3. On Inward Consolation as a Gift of God) (The Imitation of Christ) (a-Kempis, Thomas)

1. "My Son, anchor your soul firmly upon God, and fear not man's judgment, when conscience pronounces you pious and innocent. It is good and blessed so to suffer; nor will it be grievous to the heart which is humble, and which trusts in God more than in itself. Many men have many opinions, and therefore little trust is to be placed in them. But moreover it is impossible to please all. Although Paul studied to please all men in the Lord, and to become all things to all men, yet nevertheless with him it was a very small thing that he should be judged by man's judgment."

2. He laboured abundantly, as much as in him lay, for the building up and the salvation of others; but he could not avoid being sometimes judged and despised by others. Therefore he committed all to God, who knew all, and by patience and humility defended himself against evil speakers, or foolish and false thinkers, and those who accused him according to their pleasure. Nevertheless, from time to time he replied, in case his silence should become a stumbling-block to those who were weak.

3. "Who are you, that you should be afraid of a man that shall die? To-day he is, and to-morrow his place is not found. Fear God and you will not quail before the terrors of men. What can any man do against you by words or deeds? He hurts himself more than you, nor shall he escape the judgment of God, whosoever he may be. Have you God before your eyes, and do not contend with fretful words. And if for the present you seem to give way, and to suffer confusion which you have not deserved, be not angry at this, nor by impatience diminish your reward; but rather look up to Me in heaven, for I am able to deliver you from all confusion and hurt, and to render to every man according to his works."

1 Corinthians ix. 22. 1 Corinthians iv. 3.