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Charity Quote by Thomas à Kempis

“The performance of an action is worthless in itself, if it is not done out of charity. Charity must be our motive; then everything we do, however little and insignificant, bears a rich harvest. After all, what God takes into account is not so much the thing we do, as the love that went to the…” quote by Thomas à Kempis
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““The performance of an action is worthless in itself, if it is not done out of charity. Charity must be our motive; then everything we do, however little and insignificant, bears a rich harvest. After all, what God takes into account is not so much the thing we do, as the love that went to the doing of it.””

Thomas à Kempis

About This Quote

Source Book: “The Imitation of Christ” by Thomas à Kempis, 1418

Actions are valuable only when motivated by genuine love and charity, not by self‑interest or external reward.

In simple terms: Charitable motives give meaning to deeds.

Key Takeaway

Act out of love, not for recognition.

Themes

charity motivation spirituality

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

spiritual ethical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • daily chores
  • helping friends

Key Concepts

theology ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates your good deeds?
  • How can you cultivate charitable intent?
A Different Perspective

Self‑less service can be hard to sustain without inner conviction.

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