This is a great wisdom book for any Christian. The wisdom is all based on the Desert Fathers and the early church Fathers. Very practical guide for us Christians living in a modern secular world that has gone crazy.

This book takes spirituality to a new level as they address the challenges of spirituality. It's a bit academic if you're looking for something to read for pleasure.

One of the best books I've ever had the blessing of reading. The author is well-versed and scholarly. A highly recommended read.

Thanks

On of my favorite books, though its not written for everyone

I have not read this...It was bought as a gift for my husband and he really enjoyed the reading it.

Abba Ammon was asked, 'What is the "narrow and hard way?" (Mt. 7.14) He replied, 'The "narrow and hard way" is this, to control your thoughts, and to strip yourself of your own will, for the sake of God. This is also the meaning of the sentence, "Lo, we have left everything and followed you." (Mt. 19.27)

This book begins by discussing the nature of sin and man's fall, and how man's redemption takes placed through Christ's sacrifice and our renewal through Holy Baptism. Baptism and the grace which we receive therefrom becomes sullied through sin, and in light of this Father Athanasius discusses the means by which we are aided in overcoming our vices and building up virtues in light of the Tradition of our Holy Desert Fathers (the Abba's and Amma's).

Father Athanasius' book presents what can be described as a step-by-step `guide' (and I use the term very loosely), divided roughly into two parts - the vices and virtues. This assists the reader in understanding the nature of sin, and where they ought to begin (i.e. at the very bottom of the ladder) - breaking down the walls of sin first and then replacing these with virtues.

It all begins with the mind. Father Athanasius discusses how we should protect ourselves from `information overload' and useless information with which we are bombarded, especially by the media and the internet. Too much information leads us to become armchair judges and the Bible itself warns against this "But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters." This leads to gossip, and slander and of course anyone who slanders his brother is...a murderer. With this in mind Father Athanasius gives practical guidance on how we should only `overload' our mind with spiritual knowledge - through prayer. It is God who truly enlightens.

Humility and our relations with others through humility are also discussed. Prayer for those who persecute us is essential and Father Athanasius provides numerous examples of God's providence for those who do pray for their enemies. As Abba Zeno said, 'If a man wants God to hear his prayer quickly, then before he prays for anything else, even his own soul, when he stands and stretches out his hands towards God, he must pray with all his heart for his enemies. Through this action God will hear everything that he asks.'

Discipline of the will is also addressed - the power to say `no'. When a person is assailed by evil thoughts we should accustom ourselves to prayer - man is powerless without God, irrespective of how good his intentions may be, and it is only through God that man can ever gain victory over sin and the devil. Abba Macarius was asked, 'How should one pray?' The old man said 'There is no need at all to make long discourses; it is enough to stretch out one's hands and say, "Lord, as You will, and as You know, have mercy." And if the conflict grows fiercer say, "Lord, help!" He knows very well what we need and He shows us His mercy.'

Abba Xanthias said, 'The thief was on the cross and he was justified by a single word; and Judas who was counted in the number of the apostles lost all his labour in one single night and descended from heaven to hell. Therefore, let no-one boast of his good works, for all those who trust in themselves fall.' and in light of these words presumptuous sins i.e. self righteousness and legalism, false tears, and a false sense of humility are all addressed.

Discipline of the senses, and of the memory are important because it is through the senses that sin comes to dwell in the heart of man. Numerous examples from both the Scriptures and the examples of the lives of the Desert Fathers are put forth. Father Athanasius puts this into a modern context for us. He firstly explains what these sins are (and some may surprise you!) and then provides practical examples and advice on how we ought to overcome these.

The second part of the book discusses the virtues, and how once we have begun to destroy the `old man', we need to build up the virtues within us, which as Father Athanasius reiterates can only be accomplished through God's grace. Obedience, patience, meekness, and chastity are all discussed in great detail with practical advice provided in light of the Tradition of the Desert Fathers. "The way of humility is this: self-control, prayer, and thinking yourself inferior to all creatures." Abba Tithoes

This book is extremely well presented, and laid out. It provides so much assistance in the spiritual struggle, and is aimed at a modern audience; something which is badly needed in our modern times. People often use the excuse that our times are different from those of the Desert Fathers and therefore their advice no longer applies. Father Athanasius rubbishes that argument with his practical counsels based on the Traditions of the Desert Fathers. This book is an absolute gem. Highly recommended reading. May God bless Father Athanasius for the assistance he has provided on the rungs up the ladder to salvation.

Just like it says, "Practical", unlike most Christian Spirituality books. Gets right to the point and give you something to actually do. I will read it again.