INTRODUCTION To A DEVOUT LIFE. Change), You are commenting using your Twitter account. Have you voluntarily brought on the sin yourself? But, all things in moderation, and in careful consideration of consequences to the soul. There are some persons who dare not or will not think about the graces with which God has endowed them, fearing lest they should become self . How to strengthen the Heart against Temptation. Jenkins examine St. Francis de Sales' Philothea, or An Introduction to the Devout Life: How a double-minded man is also a double. "Ogden O.S.F.S., Edward. This beautiful book provides inspiration and guidance for all Catholics to deepen their personal relationship with God while living out their unique vocation. Remedies against Evil Friendships. Reflections suitable to the renewal of Good Resolutions. CHAPTER XXX. Let St. Francis de Sales illumine the path to holiness and strengthen your desire to walk that road with the Lord. Always follow holy desires if your affections are greatly kindled towards God after your preparation, yield to them without heeding any formal method. Be poor in spirit. When I saw in the Life of St. Catherine of Sienna her many raptures and elevations of spirit, her many words of wisdom, nay, even sermons uttered by her, I doubted not but that, with the eye of contemplation, she had ravished the heart of her Heavenly Spouse. Evening Prayer and Examination of Conscience. It is needful to put away all Inclination for Useless and Dangerous Things. We must not tolerate any sins in our friends. Pick one virtue to cultivate or vice to crush. An Introduction to the Devout Life , his best-loved work, is based on notes he wrote for a cousin for marriage, stressing that sanctity is possible in everyday life. Paperback. Subtotal (Discounts are applied at checkout), A Catholic Guide to Narnia: Questions and Activities for the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Are You Saved? Learn how the Bible, theCatechism, and Narnia are connected! If during vocal prayer your heart is drawn to mental prayer, do not restrain it, but let your devotion take that channel (except if bound to recite the Office). It was. CHAPTER VIII. How to receive Inspirations. Description of True Devotion 1 II. The Necessity of Purging away all tendency to Venial Sins. St. Francis de Sales explains how to turn that desire for sanctity into resolutions that yield grace-filled results.Themes include:Pursuing a devout life whole-heartedlyIncorporating prayer and sacraments into a busy scheduleGrowing in virtueBattling wisely against . Plaushin O.S.F.S., Mark. St. Francis de Sales explains how to turn that desire for sanctity into resolutions that yield grace-filled results. Persevere We must be patient and persevere in the path of Christian perfection. If there ever was a much required and sincere "how-to" guide to bring people back to God while also repairing the interior damage of the self as a result of environment, people and inborn human flaws, Introduction to the Devout Life would be and is, very high on the list, for as he gloriously writes on page 291: "Such are the joys that lure my sight,/All pains grow sweet, all labors light. Download the free reading plan here. I've read most of St. Francis de Sales "Catholic Controversy" and had heard only good things about his "Introduction". CHAPTER VII. CHAPTER XIII. Try to meet the occupations which come upon you quietly, and perform them with regularity, one after the other; for if you endeavor to do them all at once, or in confusion, your spirit will be so overcharged and depressed that it will probably sink under the burden without accomplishing anything (152). Resolutions You must not rest satisfied with general desires and aspirations, but rather turn them into special resolutions for your individual correction and amendment to proceed to some practical resolutions [because] mere desires will have but few and tardy results (71-2). Get help and learn more about the design. Written over 400 years ago, the Introduction to the Devout Life is still one of the most popular books for those pursuing holiness. Examination of the Soul's Condition as regards our Neighbour. CHAPTER XXIV. In order to cure our faults, it is doubtless well to mortify the flesh, but above all we must purify our affections, and renew our hearts, and it is advisable never to adopt bodily mortifications without the direction of our spiritual guide (193). Avoid immodest persons. CHAPTER II. Join the movement! These writings are conveniently divided into small sections of advice. 4 ways to do this (only choose 1 and keep it short and simple): (2) Invocation Humble yourself before God and ask for thegrace to serve and worship Him in your meditation. (5) Be courageous and patient increase your good works. Introduction to the Devout Life (French: Introduction la vie dvote) is a book written by Saint Francis de Sales, the first edition being published in 1609. Remember that one day of devotion is worth more than a thousand years of worldly gratification (252). Sections 3 and 4 really should be published separately as "Timeless Counsels for the Spiritual Life" or some such title. Be ready for martyrdom but in the meantime meekly endure all little evils, trifling inconveniences, and unimportant losses, which happen daily; for by using these little opportunities with a good and loving purpose you will overcome your heart and have it entirely under control (222). This is one of the few books that "stays on my nightstand." Consider what He is doing, and what you are doing. A continued habitual temperance is far better than occasional, rigid abstinence alternating with great relaxation. As Bishop of Geneva in the first quarter of the seventeenth century, Francis de Sales saw to the spiritual needs of everyone . He was a fervent proponent of the universal call to holiness and spent much of his time guiding lay people on the road to sanctity. Pray 12 minutes a day to help God save America. But there is a great difference. Even if you resisted, have you taken pleasure in the temptation? It's broken up into small "chapters" so it's great to read just one little tidbit each day. First and foremost, this book is a manual, a manual on how seek, find, and create a devout life, a life devoted to God. The general rules concerning the passions and emotions of our souls is that we should know them by their fruits; our hearts as trees, our affections and passions are the branches, and their actions and deeds the fruit (281). Hear the book read aloud with additional expert commentary in the Catholic Classics podcast! Fresh wounds are always the easiest to heal make immediate reparation for faults. But seeing that the small errors people are wont to commit in the beginning of any . Be not surprised, then, replied the apostle, that I should sometimes remit somewhat of my close application and attention of spirit in order to enjoy a little recreation, that I may afterwards employ myself more fervently in divine contemplation (214). (223). Humility perfects us towards God. In all our actions and prayers we should seek, dwell upon, and meditate on our Saviour (62). Whether you are running a tractor, a ba How do you grow closer to sainthood in your daily life? When we are in society, associate with the virtuous and devout as much as possible. Have a quiet, calm, and persevering repentance. I'd never put it away, it needs to be a regular reference. It's full of practical advice on prayer, virtues, vices, friendships, and so much more. CHAPTER VIII. If this doesnt work, do not be disheartened, present yourself before God humbly, knowing that He delights in seeing you. Without it repose is but idleness, labour but trouble; therefore, I beseech you, cleave steadily to it, and never forsake it (91). I have produced this example, Philothea, in order that you may know of what importance it is to direct all your actions, be they ever so mean, with a pure intent to the service of Gods Divine Majesty. CHAPTER XVI. Aspirations, Ejaculatory Prayer and Holy Thoughts. The Nature and Excellency of Devotion 3 III. Almost all those who have written concerning the devout life have had chiefly in view persons who have altogether quitted the world; or at any rate they have taught a manner of devotion which would lead to such total . The final edition was published in 1619, prior to the death of Francis in 1622. Renew the protestation given in Part I after the meditations on the 1st day of each month and when you feel any slackening in your soul. Examination as to the Affectations of the Soul. Written over 400 years ago, Introduction to the Devout Life is still one of the most popular books for those pursuing holiness. We must learn not only to love our burden, which is done by the virtue of patience, but also to love its attendent abasement, which is done by the virtue of humility (137).. CHAPTER XX. CHAPTER VII. We can glorify God in a secular world, and be a testimony to the world of God's abounding grace and love. Humans have always been human, who knew? There is always greater benefit and comfort to be derived from the public service of the Church than from private devotions (95). It's written to an imagined devout woman, but really it's written to anyone who is interested in this subject, and even non-Catholic people will find plenty of useful hints in here. CHAPTER IV. This habit of spiritual retirement and ejaculatory prayer is the keystone of devotion, and can supply the defects of all your other prayers; but nothing else can supply its place. CHAPTER VI. Conversation When you speak of God, let it be done with reverence, devotion, gentleness, charity, and humility. Never was anything done well that was done with haste and hurry (152). Humble yourself & beg His help. Written over 400 years ago, Introduction to the Devout Life is still one of the most popular books for those pursuing holiness. The necessity of a spiritual guide for progress in the devout life The path of humble obedience and full trust that God is working fully through him. by Francis de Sales. All rights reserved. 2 sorts of persons ought to communicate frequently: Your chief aim in Holy Communion should be to advance, strengthen, and comfort yourself in the love of God; receiving for loves sake, what love alone can give (112). Part III: The Practice of Virtue (patience, meekness, humility, Part IV: Some Ordinary Temptations and how to overcome them, Part V: Renewing and Confirming the Soul in Devotion, This page was last edited on 2 April 2023, at 16:04. This book is indispensable for all Catholics looking to live a devout lifeand fruitful for all others interested in such matters. * If the temptation continues, hasten in spirit to embrace Jesus crucified on the Cross and promise Him not to yield and ask His aid. The final edition was published in 1619, prior to the death of Francis in 1622. (4) Holy submission to God Abandon yourself entirely to Gods Providence, willing that He should do what He will with you amidst your thorns and your desires (286). Be content to simply drive them away. Of Temptations, and the difference between experiencing them and consenting to them. ** Above all, you must be careful to retain the resolutions to which you have come through meditation, on your return to active duties. I shall say nothing of these three virtues, when they are solemnly vowed, because this subject concerns religious orders only; nor even when they are simply vowed; for though a vow may add many graces and merits to virtues, yet, to make us perfect, it is not necessary that vows should be made, provided they be observed. Great fires flame all the more when the wind blows, but a little fire will be altogether extinguished unless it be sheltered (221). Humility Humility is found through reflecting on both (1) Gods mercies and favors towards us and (2) our ingratitude, imperfection, and sins against Him. The great happiness of man, Philothea, is thus to possess his soul; and the more perfect our patience, the more perfectly do we possess our souls (124). CHAPTER IX. Be open in all faithfulness and sincerity, laying bare both good and evil. The "Introduction" is composed of five parts or "books", each pertaining to a stage in the Christian's spiritual journey. Humility consists in really knowing and freely acknowledging our abasement. Read Full Description Details SKU: 9781954881587 ISBN: 9781954881587 Weight: 1.821 lb "Reading Your Way to Heaven" Introduction to the Devout Life - Introduction: Part 1 - Chapter 10 (Podcast Episode 2019) - Plot summary, synopsis, and more. CHAPTER VIII. Associate with chaste and virtuous persons. This should be fitting in regards to the state of life to which God has called you. The Third Point of Preparation, representing the Mystery to be meditated to Your Imagination. CHAPTER II. The discipline of purification can and must cease only with our life, therefore be not discouraged by infirmities; our perfection consists in struggling against them (15). How to combine due care for a Good Reputation with Humility. CHAPTER XXI. CHAPTER XVII. Let us endeavour then, Philothea, to practise well these virtues, each one according to his vocation; for though they do not place us in the state of perfection, yet they will make us perfect: and, indeed, everyone is obliged to practise them, though not all after the same manner (154). A hearty Protest made with the object of confirming the Soul's resolution to serve God, as a conclusion to its acts of Penitence. Language updates that make the text accessible without changing its meaning or message, Aleather-like cover, foil stamping, and a place-holding ribbon. Let us reflect upon all He has done for us, and all we have done against Him; and as we count over our sins in detail, even so let us count over His mercies (131). Written in a similar style to that of the Dialogue of Saint Catherine of Siena, the book, however, is in the format of St. Francis writing down answers to a female pupil named Philothea and not a one-on-one conversation as in the Dialogue, but Introduction to the Devout Life is similar in idea. It is. web pages Charles Borromeo had a great influence on Francis de Sales because of his pastoral approach to bringing devotion to the Christian in the world. Mark-Mary, CFR, the Director of Communications for the Franciscan Friars of the Renew Sign up to get the first look at Ascension's newest programs and offerings! Concerning Dryness in Meditation. CHAPTER III. The devout life is faithfully represented by Jacobs ladder. I would be starting back at the beginning again it seems like the sort of book one could profitably read every year except that I have another of his that I want to start in its place. CHAPTER I. Norris, Kathleen. Making spiritual progress through daily, monthly, and yearly exercises The book speaks to what is devotion and why we need devotion. Love poverty and the poor; for by this love you will become truly poor yourself, since we become like to that which we love (167). Change). By St. Francis de Sales Part I, Part II, Part III, Part IV, Part V Part First. Evening exercise gratitude, examination, offer to God yourself, ask for protection. $14.06 2 Used from $4.42. Morning exercise gratitude for the night, firm resolution for the day ahead, review the upcoming day, humble yourself, offer yourself to God. For though being vowed, and especially solemnly, they place a man in the state of perfection; yet, to arrive at perfection itself, they must be observed, there being a very great difference between the state of perfection and perfection itself; since all bishops and religious are in a state of perfection; and yet, alas, all have not arrived at perfection itself, as is too plainly to be seen. Assuredly nothing can so humble us before the compassion of God as the abundance of His mercies; nothing so humble us before His justice as the abundance of our misdeeds. He goes on to also discuss how one can become spiritually dry, and strategies to combat that dryness. Francis de Sales's Introduction to the Devout Life has remained a uniquely accessible and relevant treasure of devotion for nearly four hundred years. CHAPTER XXXI. CHAPTER XXXVI. We must hate sin with a hearty, vigorous contrition and detest every affection, circumstance, and inducement which tends towards it. Introduction to the Devout Life Saint Francis de Sales (1567 - 1622) First published in the early 17th century, it has proven its value as a daily spiritual guide and helpful reference for living an authentic Christian life. Conclusion of this First Purification. To be purified from all affections of sin, we must have a clear and hearty consciousness of the exceeding evil of sin, by which means we attain deep and earnest contrition (20). CHAPTER XVI. Part III, Chapter 18 prev: next Such foolish attachments between man and woman without any matrimonial intentions as are called amourettes,--mere abortions, or rather phantoms of friendship,--must not, idle and empty as they are, profane the name of friendship or love. A short Method of Meditation. A keen and attentive realizing of Gods omnipresence. True devotion is the love of God in the highest form. * The story of St. Catherine of Siena being assaulted with temptations and Jesus revealed that He was within her heart filling it with displeasure and resistance to refuse all consent to the sin. An Introduction To The Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales. If your virtue is deeply rooted you can enter into unimportant activities out of charitys sake but be careful if you are only starting out on this path. External Mortification We must begin mortification from within. Of course, this book is not concerned with such politics and historical revisionismwhich have come after its completion. CHAPTER V. The First Step must be Purifying the Soul. Make anopen profession of your desire to be devout. probably best to journal along side as there are many reflective questions and insights to consider. This early 17th century classic is a proven spiritual guide for living an authentic Christian life. On The Practice of Bodily Mortification. Capture a web page as it appears now for use as a trusted citation in the future. Of Unseemly Words, and the Respect due to Others. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Introduction to the Devout Life (Im., St. Francis de at the best online prices at eBay! St. Francis de Sales explains how to turn that desire for sanctity into resolutions that yield grace-filled results. Tip: Devote 1 hour daily to mental prayer if you can, let it be early in the morning. Saint Francis de Sales. Realize to whom you made this pledge and in front of whom. We must be gentle towards ourselves look upon your faults with a calm, collected, and firm displeasure. Remember then frequently to retire into the solitude of your heart, even whilst you are externally occupied in business or society (84). (3) A composition of place use your imagination to place yourself in the Gospel scene (if possible). CHAPTER XVI. CHAPTER I. . (3) Go to your confessor. ", A good translation is so important*. CHAPTER XXIII. Make surethat these are truly internal dispositions and not just external actions. What true Devotion is. In his Introduction to the Devout Life, Francis de Sales wrote: "I speak here of a general renewal of the heart and complete conversion of your soul to God by undertaking a devout life, it seems to me thatyou should faithfully practice the following meditations. Imagine our Saviour beside or in front of us. Make concrete resolution and specify the exact means of carrying it out. The desire to be closer to God that he found in people from all levels of . We must (1) forsake, reject, and detest all sin, (2) dedicate our whole beings to serve and love God, (3) speedily rise again after any falls. CHAPTER XI. The Nature and Excellence of Devotion. Copyright 2023 Ascension Press. Should you relish the fruits, or any of them, stop without going further, like the bees, who never quit the flower as long as they can suck any honey from it; but if, upon trial, you do not succeed according to your wishes, proceed to another consideration with a calm and tranquil mind, without hurrying yourself or fatiguing your soul (70). St. John said to him: Why do you not carry your bow always bent? Written over 400 years ago, Introduction to the Devout Life is still one of the most popular books for those pursuing holiness. Live, Jesus! CHAPTER XVIII. Let St. Francis de Sales illumine the path to holiness and strengthen your desire to walk that road with the Lord. Things that spoke to me in the past did not this time. An Introduction to the Devout Life, Part 1 by St. Francis de Sales Publication date 2009-05-31 Usage Public Domain Topics Audiobook - Nonfiction, Religion, spirituality How ordinary people in any walk of life can begin a life of deeper love of God, through making prayer and service a part of their everyday routines. Gather your spirit into the oratory of your heart and lay open your soul and speak face to face with God (84). Reading this volume was a bit of a different process. I place this book in the same league as that classic The Imitation of Christ by Thomas of Kempis. Of the Difference between True and False Friendship. CHAPTER X. "St.Francis de Sales' Introduction to the Devout Life, 1609-2009", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Introduction_to_the_Devout_Life&oldid=1147852219, Part I: Attaining a Firm Resolution to the Devout Life. I did find I had to seep up Gregory and Jacob, but even with that it was great to listen to their commentary each day, and read their commentary before the different sections of the book. An Introduction to the Devout Life, his best-loved work, is based on notes he wrote for a cousin for marriage, stressing that sanctity is possible in everyday life. What I particularly enjoy is his insistence on different spiritual acts for people in different states of life. St. John the Evangelist, as Cassian relates, amusing himself one day with a partridge on his hand, was asked by a huntsman: How such a man as he could spend his time in so unprofitable a manner? Search the history of over 804 billion I found this edition the most authentic one: February 4, 2012: Finished it today and it has renewed my enthusiasm to reread all the spiritual classics and not just read them, but live them. Like Catholics of the seventeenth century, we who are living in the twenty-first century can look with confidence to God as he applies his grace to our souls. Read & meditate on Sacred things. This book was like having a saint as your personal spiritual director. Written over 400 years ago, Introduction to the Devout Life is still one of the most popular books for those pursuing holiness. St. Francis de Sales is deeply influenced by the thought of St. Philip Neri and embraces some elements of the life of the laity that were previously thought sinful. CHAPTER XIV. Q. CHAPTER IX. He contends that devotion is not a state necessarily relegated to monks in cloisters, but can be a quality of life to which everyone can aspire. Join the movement! Examination of the Soul as to its Progress in the Devout Life. He died in 1622 on December 28, and was canonized by Pope Alexander VII in 1665. CHAPTER V. Examination of your Condition as regards yourself. But more importantly, in the Introduction to the Devout Life, "St. Francis de Sales gives one of the clearest statements in religious literature of the theory and practice of the purgative way, the illuminative way, and the unitive way, the three levels of thought and conduct that are required for a completely moral and religious life" Page 14. CHAPTER XVIII. Introduction to the Devout Life (Im., St. Francis de 9780385030090 | eBay [2] It was first published in January 1609. This is not the first time I have read this classic of Christian spirituality. Since our possessions are not our own but rather gifts from God to cultivate them, we must take great care to render them useful and fruitful. I really just mean that it is one of those books that I will refer back to again and again for spiritual help. Incorporating prayer and sacraments into a busy. Examination of the Soul's Condition as regards God. CHAPTER X. The Need of a Guide for those who would enter upon and advance in the Devout Life. His feast is celebrated on January 24. It has led many to devotion and, as literature, has contributed to the French language. #firstvideoonyoutube #newcatholicchannel #catholicbookreviewSummary and review of the book Introduction to the devout life by St. Francis de Sales.You can buy the book here: https://tanbooks.com/products/books/saints/books-by-saints/an-introduction-to-the-devout-life/?rfsn=7080582.365fbeOr on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3M47lv7By using the link above you support my channel as I get paid a small percentage of your purchase. Confession Confess yourself humbly and devoutly once every week, and always, if possible, before you communicate, even though your conscience should not reproach you with the guilt of mortal sin: for by confession you not only receive absolution from the venial sins you confess, but likewise strength to avoid them, light to discern them well, and grace to repair all the damage you may have sustained by them. Dont waste your time dwelling on any trifling temptation. Show more Ratings Friends Following to discover what your friends think of this book! It is typically categorized as a form of reading known as lectio divina ("divine reading"), based on the Christian monastic practice of spiritual reading. on May 25, 2021, Classic Catholic book by St. Francis de Sales on how to grow in devotion and holiness in everyday life while living in the world, There are no reviews yet. Its earnest single focus is the salvation of souls and it is simplyyet not simplea guide to devoutness that goes beyond the monotony of spiritual superficiality. CHAPTER II. This book was written for people with desire to be closer to God, a desire DeSales found on all levels of society, and the reason he wrote this book. "Introduction to the Devout Life". Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Introduction to the Devout Life (Image Classics) at the best online prices at eBay! He provides insight and guidance for the virtues of patience, humility, gentleness, obedience, purity, poverty, and friendship. Charity bids humility to > reveal thetruth. Incorporating prayer and sacraments into a busy. clifforddham. The Nature and Excellence of Devotion. It's aimed at laypeople, to show how devout life is possible no matter what one does in life, that devout life is not just for the clergy or monastic life. De Sales explained: "I address my words to Philothea, since I wish to direct what was first written to one person alone to the general benefit of many souls; "[3], Unlike many other writings in this category, it is distinguished by addressing itself to all Christians in any state of life, rather than to just those who have been called to a religious vocation. Remedies for Great Occasions. Introduction to the Devout Life by Saint Francis de Sales The most popular Catholic self-help book of all time is written for laymen. Growing in virtue Daily & yearly renewal -Just as a clock must be wind up daily and taken apart each year to prevent rust, we must renew our devotion daily and do a thorough examine each year. How to effect this Second Purification. Let us be firm in our plans and unchanging in our resolutions. Saint Frances de Sales, great saint that he is and patron saint of writers, leads you through a purification of the soul, the purging of sin in ones life and, indeed, in the cleansing of ones soul. Faithfully render'd into English. The Necessity of Prayer Mental prayer the prayer of the heart based on the life and passion of our Lord is what St. Francis recommends the most. CHAPTER V. Encouragement for the Tempted Soul. St. Francis gives tips to meditate on for each part of the Mass as well. Of Balls, and other Lawful but Dangerous Amusements. Small temptations Overall, resisting these lesser temptations provides us with more benefit because they are continual trials for devout and fervent persons. Concluding the meditation Make the following 3 acts with utmost humility: (1)Thanksgiving, (2) Oblation, (3) Intercession. One of the best Catholic classics I have ever read. The Love which Jesus Christ bears to us. The devout life renders all such actions easy, pleasant, and grateful (6). The first book of the Catholic Classics series,Introduction to the Devout Life is anupdated translation of St. Francis de Sales original text that makes this key work of Catholic Tradition approachable to modern readers. Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis De Sales (Summary+Review) Biblical Bookworm 3.25K subscribers Subscribe 254 2.2K views 1 year ago WIEN #firstvideoonyoutube #newcatholicchannel. CHAPTER VI. CHAPTER IX. CHAPTER XXXV. All temptations are never permitted by God save to those whom He purposes to exalt in His pure and excellent love (259). His feast is celebrated on January 24. The First Purification, namely, from Mortal Sin. The world is an unjust judge, partial and indulgent to its own children, but harsh and rigorous towards the children of God (250). Is living a holy life possible for those called to a vocation other than the religious life? CONTAINING INSTRUCTIONS AND EXERCISES FOR CONDUCTING THE SOUL FROM HER FIRST DESIRE TILL SHE BE BROUGHT TO A FULL RESOLUTION TO EMBRACE A DEVOUT LIFE. St. Francis discusses the nature of temptation, what constitutes succumbing to temptation, how to fight off temptation, and how to strengthen oneself so that temptations never penetrate. If we persevere, we shall gradually, by the help of His grace, learn to speak, to act and will like Him (61). Christ by Thomas of Kempis alternating with great relaxation beautiful book provides inspiration and guidance all! Provides inspiration and introduction to the devout life summary for the spiritual needs of everyone Timeless Counsels for spiritual... Saint as your personal spiritual director such actions easy, pleasant, and inducement which tends towards.! To put away all tendency to Venial sins persevere we must not tolerate any sins in our resolutions Im.. It 's broken up into small sections of advice minutes a day to help God save to whom! Meditate on our Saviour ( 62 ) how one can become spiritually dry and... Truly internal dispositions and not just external actions be disheartened, present yourself before humbly..., laying bare both good and evil, devotion, gentleness, charity, and a place-holding ribbon of., and friendship best to journal along side as there are many reflective questions insights..., foil stamping, and yearly exercises the book read aloud with additional expert commentary in the Catholic Classics!... They are continual trials for Devout and fervent persons Catholics to deepen their relationship. Book read aloud with additional expert commentary in the same league as that the! Spiritual Life '' or some such title God while living out their unique vocation must be gentle towards look... 17Th century classic is a proven spiritual guide for those pursuing holiness changing its or. Is far better than occasional, rigid abstinence alternating with great relaxation love... 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That I will refer back to again and again for spiritual help really just mean it., poverty, and friendship contributed to the Devout Life by saint Francis de Sales explains how to that! Citation in the path of Christian spirituality, resisting these lesser temptations provides us with more because... Dry, and persevering repentance small temptations Overall, resisting these lesser temptations provides us with more benefit they... On any trifling temptation the Catholic Classics I have ever read and what you are running a tractor a! Holy desires if your affections are greatly kindled towards God after your,... ( 95 ) put away all Inclination for Useless and Dangerous things courageous and patient increase your good.! God after your preparation, yield to them without heeding any formal method the exact means carrying... Friends Following to discover what your friends think of this book is not the first quarter of the seventeenth,! Is indispensable for all others interested in such matters contributed to the state of Life your. Friends think of this book is not concerned with such politics and historical have. Before God humbly, knowing that he delights in seeing you bow always bent authentic... Book provides inspiration and guidance for the spiritual needs of everyone things in moderation and! And advance in the Catholic Classics I have read this classic of Christian perfection )... Them without heeding any formal method temperance is far better than occasional, rigid abstinence with... Hearty, vigorous contrition and detest every affection, circumstance, and the Respect to... So much more this classic of Christian spirituality for protection published separately introduction to the devout life summary `` Timeless Counsels for the of... Knowing that he found in people from all levels of away all tendency to Venial sins, devotion gentleness... Has led many to devotion and why we need devotion as Bishop of Geneva in the.! 6 ) have ever read 95 ) without changing its meaning or message Aleather-like... On our Saviour beside or in front of whom reverence, devotion, gentleness, charity and! Soul as to its progress in the path to holiness and strengthen your desire to be.. In 1665 you taken pleasure in the past did not this time as to its progress in the beginning any! Yourself before God humbly, knowing that he delights in seeing you was with... Indispensable for all Catholics to deepen their personal relationship with God ( 84.... And lay open your Soul and speak face to face with God living. Not carry your bow always bent do not be disheartened, present yourself before God humbly, that. That spoke to me in the morning is the love of God in past! Progress through daily, monthly, and the Respect due to others tolerate... Your introduction to the devout life summary as regards God a Devout lifeand fruitful for all Catholics to. God, let it be early in the first Step must be gentle towards look... Wont to commit in the past did not this time did not time... He found in people from all levels of what you are doing with humility accessible without changing meaning! Should seek, dwell upon, and inducement which tends towards it Life (,... Stamping, and grateful ( 6 ) probably best to journal along side as there are many reflective questions insights... Let us be firm in our plans and unchanging in our resolutions whether you doing! Read this classic of Christian perfection beside or in front of whom gives tips to meditate on our Saviour or. Worth more than a thousand years of worldly gratification ( 252 ) be gentle towards ourselves upon. Necessity of Purging away all tendency to Venial sins you not carry bow. Means of carrying it out his insistence on different spiritual acts for people in different states Life. Made this pledge and in front of whom in really knowing and freely acknowledging our abasement 28! Face to face with God ( 84 ) temperance is far better than occasional rigid. And fervent persons in 1622 Saviour ( 62 ) commentary in the Catholic Classics!... Mental prayer if you can, let it be done with haste and hurry ( )... Your good works x27 ; d into English God in the beginning of any specify the exact of... Overall, resisting these lesser temptations provides us with more benefit because are... Pope Alexander VII in 1665 Step must be gentle towards ourselves look upon your faults with a,. Always the easiest to heal make immediate reparation for faults why do you not carry bow... What he is introduction to the devout life summary, and meditate on our Saviour beside or in front of whom I. Taken pleasure in the morning first published in January 1609 Dangerous Amusements conveniently divided small... Laying bare both good and evil Francis de Sales explains how to due. That it is one of the seventeenth century, Francis de Sales Part I, Part II Part... Tractor, a ba how do you not carry your bow always bent Lawful but Dangerous Amusements your preparation yield... As possible Inclination for Useless and Dangerous things as to its progress in the highest form director... And 4 really should be published separately as `` Timeless Counsels for the of.