Section 4
Chapter 4 — Prudence in Action explained simply
The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis
Original excerpt
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Of in action We must not trust every word of others or feeling within ourselves, but cautiously and patiently try the matter, whether it be of God. Unhappily we are so weak that we find it easier to believe and speak evil of others, rather than good. But they that are perfect, do not give ready heed to every...
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CHAPTER IV
Of in action
We must not trust every word of others or feeling within ourselves, but
cautiously and patiently try the matter, whether it be of God.
Unhappily we are so weak that we find it easier to believe and speak
evil of others, rather than good. But they that are perfect, do not
give ready heed to every news-bearer, for they know man’s weakness that
it is prone to evil and unstable in words.
2. This is great wisdom, not to be hasty in action, or stubborn in our
own opinions. A part of this wisdom also is not to believe every word
we hear, nor to tell others all that we hear, even though we believe
it. Take counsel with a man who is wise and of a good conscience; and
seek to be instructed by one better than thyself, rather than to follow
thine own inventions. A good life maketh a man wise toward God, and
giveth him experience in many things. The more humble a man is in
himself, and the more obedient towards God, the wiser will he be in all
things, and the more shall his soul be at peace.
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Simple English explanation
This chapter tells readers not to believe every report or impulse. Wise action requires patience, testing, and freedom from quick suspicion.
1-minute summary
Chapter 4 gives practical counsel: slow down, test what you hear, and do not act from every feeling or rumor.
Key takeaways
- Do not trust every report immediately.
- Patience protects judgment.
- Human weakness makes gossip easy.
- Wise action tests before deciding.
Modern example
Before sharing an angry post online, a prudent person checks whether it is true and whether sharing it helps.
For kids
Do not believe or repeat everything right away. Check carefully.