Sometimes, it’s valuable to set aside the contemporary and take in something classic and time honored. Sometimes, we need to go back and see what those who have come before us have learned, and what they have to share with us.
Brother Lawrence was a 17th-century French Carmelite monk who is best known for his spiritual writings and his practice of living in constant awareness of God’s presence. A simple man, Brother Lawrence served most of his life in the kitchen of a monastery near Paris. What set him apart was his unwavering commitment to practicing the presence of God in his daily life. He believed that anyone could experience a deep and constant communion with God, not just through formal prayers and rituals, but in the midst of ordinary, everyday tasks. Brother Lawrence’s simple and practical approach to spirituality resonated with many, and a friend compiled his teachings and his letters into a small book after his death, called The Practice Of The Presence Of God.
This book is quick and easy to read, although you should take it slow. It may be simple, but is also incredibly profound, and filled with insights and wisdom on how to cultivate a continuous awareness of God’s presence in every aspect of life. I first read this little book in 2000, but recently pulled it out to read it again. There are a few things that stood out to me.
Brother Lawrence emphasizes the importance of simplicity in my relationship with God. He reminds me that I don’t need complex or wordy prayers in order to connect with God; all I need is a sincere and humble heart that is genuinely seeking the Father. Because he can be found in every moment of my life. He is waiting in every task I face, whether I am setting aside time for prayer specifically, or in the midst of doing daily chores. This is a solid reminder that I can make every action a form of worship, and I can maintain a constant conversation with God throughout my day.
Brother Lawrence also emphasizes my need for trust and surrender. I can turn all my anxieties and worries over to Christ. And even in my most difficult of moments, I can find an opportunity to draw closer to God. In every single moment of my day, I can practice God’s presence, turning my thoughts, my attention, and my affection toward the Father.
This book, so simple, and yet so deep and profound, is an encouragement to stay connected to Christ in everything I do. I highly recommend that you read The Practice Of The Presence Of God. Read it slowly. Take the time to really dwell upon what he writes. And see how it might deepen your spiritual connection with God.
If you’d like to purchase The Practice Of The Presence Of God, you can find it on Amazon.com.
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