One of the greatest spiritual classics of all time is Introduction to the Devout Life, the St. Francis de Sales masterpiece written in the seventeenth century. Deacon Matthew Newsome breaks open this divine guide from one of the most sought-after spiritual counselors in history and helps you apply it to your life today. In these pages, you will find the direction you need to grow closer to God and practice Christian discipleship regardless of your vocation.
De Sales insisted that devotion is for everyone, not just the professional religious class. He wrote for the average layperson, as Deacon Matt does in bringing de Sales’s wisdom to any Christian looking for practical advice on advancing in holiness today.
Deacon Matt aligns short, easy-to-read chapters derived from de Sales’s work with relatable circumstances of modern life to prepare you for a life of communion with God. You will learn how to cultivate prayerfulness and virtue, weed out temptations, and enkindle holiness. Included are questions for self-reflection, Scripture for contemplation, and additional step-by-step meditations. This book is perfectly designed for both private devotion and small-group discussions.
Paperback
336 pgs.
ISBN: 978-1-64413-862-5
“St. Francis de Sales is not only a supreme spiritual director, he is also a masterful writer. His classic writings are profound, practical, creative and accessible to all. Deacon Matthew Newsome opens the treasure house of St Francis de Sales’ masterpiece with step by step suggestions, meditations and scripture passages. If you want to learn how to pray or deepen your prayer life, The Devout Life is a must-read.”
Fr. Dwight Longenecker