Funk turns to the wisdom of the desert fathers for the means of removing obstacles to spiritual growth, which include thoughts of food, sex, possessions, anger, dejection, and pride, among other preoccupations. Redirecting t...

Buy Now From Amazon

Funk turns to the wisdom of the desert fathers for the means of removing obstacles to spiritual growth, which include thoughts of food, sex, possessions, anger, dejection, and pride, among other preoccupations. Redirecting thought away from such weeds in the garden of the spirit can lead to a greater awareness of God. This somewhat Zen-like method to mental discipline may seem impossible at first, Funk admits, but those who succeed at it are rewarded with a liberating experience as they come to observe and control individual thought processes. Drawing on the writings of the fifth-century monk John Cassian, Funk goes on to explore deeply using such tools as memory, imagination, and rational thinking—tools right out of early Christianity—to work on inner healing. She also explains how other positive tools, such as ceaseless prayer, manual labor, and isolation, may lead to uncluttering the mind and purifying the heart.

  • Used Book in Good Condition
  • Used Book in Good Condition

Similar Products

Thoughts Matter: The Practice of the Spiritual LifeThoughts Matter: Discovering the Spiritual Journey (The Matters Series)Lectio Matters: Before the Burning Bush (The Matters Series)Discernment Matters: Listening with the Ear of the Heart (The Matters Series)Humility Matters: Toward Purity of Heart (The Matters Series)Descent into Hell: A NovelThe Way of Spiritual Direction (Consecrated Life Studies)