The Imitation of Christ, Chapter 40 summary
Chapter 40 of 115 · Book 3: On Inward Consolation · 3 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 40, the speaker confesses his weakness and dependence on God, contrasting his own instability with God's lasting goodness and power to help. He rejects the pursuit of human praise and places true joy in honoring God rather than claiming goodness or virtue for himself.
What happens
- The speaker admits that he has no goodness of his own and needs God's inward support.
- He contrasts his changing condition with God's steady goodness and asks for help that brings his heart to rest.
- He wishes to reject human comfort so that he can trust God's grace.
- He condemns pride and the desire for praise as obstacles to virtue and divine grace.
- He directs praise toward God alone and dismisses worldly honor beside eternal glory.
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In this chapter
Quick check
According to the speaker, what does seeking human praise take away?
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