It is vanity to wish for a long life: and to take little care of leading a good life.
It is vanity to mind only this present life, and not to look forward into those things which are to come.
It is vanity to love that which passeth with all speed: and not to hasten thither where everlasting joy remains.
5. Often remember that proverb: The eye in not satisfied with seeing, nor is the ear filled with hearing. Ecclesiastes i. 8.
Study therefore to withdraw thy heart from the love of visible things, and to turn thyself to things invisible; For they that follow their sensuality, defile their conscience, and lose the grace of God.
Chap. II.
Of having an humble sentiment of one's self.
1. All men naturally desire to know; but what doth knowledge avail without the fear of God?
Indeed an humble husbandman, that serveth God; is better than a proud philosopher, who, neglecting himself, considers the course of the heavens.
He, who knows himself well, is mean in his own eyes, and is not delighted with being praised by men.