_Of thinking humbly of ourselves._
*ALL men naturally desire to know; but what availeth knowledge, without
the fear of God?
Surely, an humble husbandman that serveth God, is better than a proud
philosopher, that neglecting himself, studies the course of the heavens.
He that knoweth himself, is vile in his own eyes, and is not pleased
with the praises of men.
If I understood all things in the world, and had not charity, what
would that help me in the sight of God, who will judge me according to
my works?
2. Cease from an inordinate desire of knowing, for therein is much
distraction and deceit.
There are many things, to know which doth little profit the soul.
And he is very unwise, that minds any other things than those that tend
to the welfare of his soul.
Many words do not satisfy the soul; but a pure conscience giveth
confidence towards God.
*The more thou knowest, and the better thou understandest, the more
grievously shalt thou be judged, unless thy life be the more holy.
Be not therefore lifted up; but rather let the knowledge given thee
make thee afraid.
If thou thinkest that thou knowest much; yet there are many more things
which thou knowest not.
Be not over-wise, but rather acknowledge thine own ignorance.
*If thou wilt know any thing profitably, love to be unknown, and of no
account.
4. The highest and most profitable lesson is, the true knowledge of
ourselves.
It is great wisdom to esteem ourselves nothing, and to think always
well and highly of others.
If thou shouldst see another openly sin, yet oughtest thou not to
esteem thyself better than him.
*We are all frail, but remember, none more frail than thyself.