Important truths. With extracts from the way to Christ by Jacob Boehme

...the exercise of CHRIST'S precepts, which bring such an infinite reward with them. They are not contrary even to nature; for all the philosophers were aware that mortification mortification was useful for the rooting out of vice. They aimed at the perfection of which they were capable by refining their nature with abstinence, renouncing pleasures, correcting their passions and senses, and finally by focusing their minds on the contemplation of the highest and most worthy objects—striving (as one of them has said) to exalt themselves above a purely rational life and attain a kind of god-like contemplation.

For unless men study to correct themselves in this way, all their sacrifices, prayers, and worship will be in vain. If pagans original: "Heathens" spoke and acted so well by the light of reason alone, how much higher might the heavenly fire of grace and love elevate our natures and make us like GOD, who is love? But instead of that grace influencing our actions, we see the fire of anger, hatred, and envy pushing men toward strife, conflict, and murder; and the flames of lust breaking out into lewdness and obscenity. Can men hope to find the way to hea- The text likely continues "heaven" on the following page.

mortification — The practice of self-discipline and abstaining from physical pleasures or comforts in order to overcome sin and strengthen the spirit.