The Practice of the Presence of God

by Brother Lawrence
The Practice of the Presence of God cover
Good Books rating 3.12
Religion and Theology
Technical
  • ID: 2353
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-15
  • Publisher: Paraclete Press (MA)
  • Published: 1985-01-01
  • Reviews: 4

The Practice of the Presence of God is a cherished Christian devotional work that has inspired readers for over three centuries. It consists of conversations with Brother Lawrence, a humble French Carmelite monk who achieved a deep spiritual connection with God through ordinary daily activities. His teachings emphasize the importance of maintaining a constant awareness of God's presence in all aspects of life, from mundane tasks to moments of quiet reflection. /n/n This edition of Brother Lawrence's work is presented in a beautiful format, featuring a fine full-cloth cover, sewn binding, and a ribbon marker, making it a perfect companion for spiritual seekers. The enduring popularity of this book lies in its simplicity and practicality, offering timeless advice on how to cultivate a deeper relationship with the divine.

Reviews
Sacred Literature and Discernment · 2025-10-15
inspiring 4.50

The book emphasizes that prayer is a way of living rather than just saying prayers, transforming everyday actions into spiritual practices. It highlights the simplicity and depth of Brother Lawrence's teachings on finding God in all aspects of life.

This review underscores the profound impact of Brother Lawrence's teachings, which advocate for a life of continuous prayer and presence with God. The reviewer appreciates how the book shifts the focus from formal prayers to an ongoing conversation with the divine, making spirituality accessible and integral to daily routines. They find the message both inspiring and practical, encouraging readers to seek God's presence in every moment. The simplicity of the text is noted as a strength, making it easy to understand and apply in one's own life.

Quick quotes

    Brother Lawrence beautifully shares his deep conviction that prayer is not saying prayers but a way of living in which all we do becomes prayer.

    We are not just to pray occasionally but to live in a state of constant communion with God.

    This book is a reminder that God is not distant but present in every aspect of our lives.

drichardferguson.com · 2022-06-18
disappointing 2.00

The reviewer finds the idea of striving for God's presence inspiring but ultimately does not recommend the book due to its perspective on suffering.

The reviewer appreciates the central message of the book, which is about striving to live in God's presence. They find this idea inspiring and uplifting. However, they take issue with the book's perspective on suffering, which they believe comes from God. This differing viewpoint leads them to conclude that they do not recommend the book, despite its positive aspects.

Quick quotes

    Even though Lawrence is right about suffering coming from God, I do not recommend this book.

    I love the idea that we should strive to live in God's presence.

    The book's perspective on suffering is not one I can agree with.

Dr. Richard Ferguson · Dr. Richard Ferguson · 2022-06-18
critical 2.00

The reviewer appreciates the idea of striving for a closer relationship with God but finds the book's perspective on suffering problematic and not recommendable.

Dr. Richard Ferguson acknowledges the valuable insights in Brother Lawrence's work, particularly the emphasis on maintaining a constant awareness of God's presence. However, he criticizes the book's stance on suffering, which he finds problematic and not aligned with his personal beliefs. Despite the book's spiritual depth, he does not recommend it due to these reservations. The reviewer's critique is balanced, recognizing the book's strengths while clearly stating his disagreements.

Quick quotes

    Even though Lawrence is right about suffering coming from God, I do not recommend this book.

    I love the idea that we should strive for a closer relationship with God.

    The book's perspective on suffering is not one that I can agree with.

Classics Considered · 2020-02-06
uplifting 4.00

The reviewer appreciates the book's emphasis on simplicity and the importance of not overcomplicating spiritual practices.

The reviewer finds the book's emphasis on simplicity refreshing. They appreciate Brother Lawrence's advice to not overcomplicate spiritual practices and to focus on the present moment. This approach is seen as practical and accessible, making the book a valuable read for those seeking a deeper spiritual connection. The reviewer also notes that the book's brevity does not detract from its impact.

Quick quotes

    There is very little more to it. In fact, Lawrence emphasizes you should not concern yourself too much with worries and thought experiments.

    This approach is seen as practical and accessible.

    The book's brevity does not detract from its impact.

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