The Practice of the Presence of God (Brother Lawrence)

Brother Lawrence was a monk living near Paris in the seventeenth century. This book captures some of his conversations, letters, and maxims, largely focused on practicing God's presence. The basic point of the book is that we should be continually talking with God throughout our day, always aware of his presence and delighting in it through constant discourse.

"The most holy and necessary practice in our spiritual life is the presence of God. That means finding constant pleasure in His divine company, speakin humbly and lovingly with Him in all seasons, at every moment, without limiting the conversation in any way."

- "In order to know God, we must think about Him often. Once we get to know Him, we will think about Him even more often, because where our treasure is, there also is our heart!"

- "There is no sweeter manner of living in the world than continuous communion with God."

- "We are often content with too little. God has infinite treasures to give us, he ways. Why should we be satisfied with a brief moment of worship?"

- We need to keep Him in mind always. In chores great and small, "we should offer our work to Him before we begin and thank Him afterward for the privilege of having done it for His sake."

- "Even suffering will be easier when we are with Him, but without Him, even the greatest pleasures will be joyless."

This is a short and simple book with a powerful and humbling reminder. I first read this in college and have tried to practice it since; I agree with the brother that it is profoundly important and helpful.

Rating: A