The Twelfth Chapter

     IT IS good for us to have trials and troubles at times, for they often remind us that we are on

probation and ought not to hope in any worldly thing. It is good for us sometimes to suffer

contradiction, to be misjudged by men even though we do well and mean well. These things help

us to be humble and shield us from vainglory. When to all outward appearances men give us no

credit, when they do not think well of us, then we are more inclined to seek God Who sees our

hearts. Therefore, a man ought to root himself so firmly in God that he will not need the consolations

of men.

     When a man of good will is afflicted, tempted, and tormented by evil thoughts, he realizes

clearly that his greatest need is God, without Whom he can do no good. Saddened by his miseries

and sufferings, he laments and prays. He wearies of living longer and wishes for death that he might

be dissolved and be with Christ. Then he understands fully that perfect security and complete peace

cannot be found on earth.

     Prabuddha Bharata>>>

     Vedanta Kesari>>>