“The difficulties of life do not have to be unbearable. It is the way we look at them – through faith or unbelief – that makes them seem so. We must be convinced that our Father is full of love for us and that He only permits trials to come our way for our own good.” – Brother Lawrence
I have been reacquainted with the classic book The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence, a 17 century Carmelite friar. He was able to find connection with God even in everyday tasks like working in the kitchen.
I wanted to read this book because I wanted to acquire the same sense of God’s presence in my life. I wanted to be near Him not only when I pray or when I read the Bible, but even as I go about my ordinary tasks.
While I could start on my own and try to call to mind God’s presence, I wanted to have assistance in this journey. On my own, I know that due to my weaknesses, it will not be an easy task. Because while it is ideal, the thought of being connected always to God is not a light matter even for those who believe in Him.
What if I keep on sinning? What if my thoughts wander all the time? Considering my somewhat scrupulous tendencies, I need God’s grace to help me with this.
If you also want to read the book, below are the links to the free copies you may download online:
The thing about hope is that it’s a positive force that shines the most when it’s dark. When everything’s going well, we hardly notice it’s there. But when things go against us, when our dreams fade and when we see no immediate reprieve from our troubles, that’s when hope does its best work for us.
"Where Hope Can Be Found"