Seeking the Face of God: The Path to a More Intimate Relationship with Him (Paperback)

~ Gary L. Thomas (Author)
Key Phrases: joyful surrender, spiritual gluttony, soul sadness, William Law, Francis de Sales, Teresa of Avila (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Thomas (Sacred Pathways) offers readers a simple method for fostering greater devotion to God. He uses excerpts from Christian spiritual classics, by authors ranging from Augustine, Pascal and Fenelon, as springboards into topics such as the journey of faith, setting spiritual goals, cultivating simplicity and spiritual gluttony. Thomas explains in seven steps how one can train both body and soul to draw closer to God. Seekers should invest time studying the writings of godly men and women of the past, learn to imitate contemporary models of holiness, cultivate godly character virtues, use bodily discomfort as a way to free the soul, rise early to begin each day with God and live life reflectively. Hoping to inspire and guide readers in their journey, Thomas lists his favorite authors' works in an appendix. Like a fine wine, Thomas's practical guide must be savored slowly to appreciate its fullness and flavor.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

Thomas turns to the classic writings of well-known Christians to offer a program for rediscovering an authentic Christian spirituality that applies to everyday life's frustrations, problems, and even joys. "Many will be grateful for the forceful sensitivity of this survey of classical insights into our fellowship with God".--J.I.

Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Harvest House Publishers; Reprint edition (January 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0736900195
• ISBN-13: 978-0736900195
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.2 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #127,594 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A Spiritual Feast for the Famished Soul, July 14, 2000

By	Brian G Hedges (South Bend, Indiana) - See all my reviews (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)

This book is a spiritual feast for the famished soul. Gary Thomas delivers a thoughtful and provocative study of Christian spirituality through the eyes of the Christian mystics (Pascal, Fenelon, Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, Francis De Sales, John Climacus, William Law, and others). It is a fresh book - not just a rehash of some other excellent books on the disciplines. Thomas offers fresh insight on basic areas of the spiritual quest - such as: spiritual goals, holiness, humility, simplicity, the remembrance of death, surrender, the seasons of the soul, and spiritual direction (mentors). The book is laced with excellent quotations from the authors listed above and many others. In fact, if someone wanted to glean the best thinking of the mystics, while avoiding the sacramentalism that crept into many of their writings, this would be a great place for it. But more than a great survey of old literature, this book presents old truths in such a way that all seekers of God will find benefit.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Penetrating! Humbling!, April 5, 2000

By	gmarsha@entergy (Arkansas) - See all my reviews

Seeking the Face of God is the first book I have read by author Gary L. Thomas. I don't read many books twice without some time [months or years]in between readings, but this book is an exception. I am reading it this time with the use of a highlighter. If you want to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord, then read what the ancients had to say. Gary's research of the Christian classics is evident. Read, meditate, grow.

11 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A well written, thought provoking book, August 28, 1999

By A Customer

This book is one of my favorite devotional books. It brings balance into your theology, while provoking you to a greater relationship with God. His chapter on death is especially excellent.

This author has gone to the early "fathers" of the church to use as a point of stimulation, but his applications are focused on the issues we face (or need to face) daily.

I would encourage anyone to buy this book if they want to be challenged to grow and experience a greater depth in their Christian walk.