Timeless Wisdom of ‘Practising the Presence of God’

The book, 'Practising the Presence' of God, has become a timeless classic on Christian prayer. Since if was published after he died many thousands of Christians have benefited from this humble monks wisdom on prayer and spirituality.

Born as Nicolas Herman in 1614, Brother Lawrence was a humble Carmelite monk whose profound spiritual insights have transcended centuries.

The Life of Brother Lawrence

We know little about Brother Lawrence who was originally known as Nicolas Herman, a 17th-century French lay brother who served in a Carmelite monastery in Paris. Born around 1614 in Hériménil, France, to peasant parents, his schooling was limited. He grew up during the tumultuous Thirty Years' War that ravaged central Europe. As a young man, he joined the army out of necessity but had a transformative experience when he saw a leafless tree on a battlefield, a symbol of God's ability to transform hearts. After being wounded in battle, he left the army and became a valet. Later, he entered the Discalced Carmelites Order in Paris as a lay brother, taking the name "Lawrence of the Resurrection".

Though we know little of his biographical history, what we find in these conversations and letters is more than we need to learn how to live a better prayer life.1

The Essence of ‘Practising the Presence of God’

The central theme of Brother Lawrence’s book is the development of an awareness of God’s presence in every moment of life. He believed that one could experience God’s presence not only in formal worship but also in the mundane tasks of daily life. As he says:

"The time of business," said he, "does not with me differ from the time of prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquillity as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament."2

Brother Lawrence saw that the practice of prayer was not one just done in the chapel during times of monastical prayer, but was done at all occasions, even in the hustle and bustle of the monastery kitchen. The low nature of his service in the monastery meant that Brother Lawrence’s approach is both practical and accessible. He emphasized that this practice is not reserved for the spiritually elite but is attainable by anyone willing to make the effort. This can be done in the simple acts each day:

"He requires no great matters of us; a little remembrance of Him from time to time; a little adoration; sometimes to pray for His grace, sometimes to offer Him your sufferings, and sometimes to return Him thanks for the favours He has given you, and still gives you, in the midst of your troubles, and to console yourself with Him the oftenest you can. Lift up your heart to Him, sometimes even at your meals, and when you are in company: the least little remembrance will always be acceptable to Him. You need not cry very loud; He is nearer to us than we are aware of." 3

These small acts over time will form a habit that help us live closely with God each day.

The Importance of Brother Lawrence’s Teachings

1. Accessibility and Simplicity: One of the most compelling aspects of Brother Lawrence’s teachings is their simplicity. His method does not require elaborate rituals or extensive theological knowledge. Instead, it focuses on the heart’s intention and the consistency of practice. This means that all people, not matter what their walk of life, can live their lives this way.

2. Transformative Power: Practising the presence of God has the potential to transform one’s life. By maintaining a constant awareness of God’s presence, individuals can find peace and purpose in their daily activities. The continued practise will form a habit and we will begin to see that living in God's presence is as natural as breathing.

3. Living in God's Presence: By living in God's presence it will help keep us in check and will help stop us from doing things that displease Him. It will also nourish our soul and deepen our faith. God will no longer be at a distance, but will be next to us as we constantly converse with him.

4. Relevance in Modern Life: In today’s fast-paced world, Brother Lawrence’s teachings are more relevant than ever. The constant distractions and demands of modern life can easily lead to a sense of spiritual disconnection. The teachings that he offers will help us to bring a new pace to our lives, helping us to slow down and to consider others as well as ourselves.

Brother Lawrence’s Practising the Presence of God is a profound and practical guide to living a spiritually enriched life. Its emphasis on simplicity, accessibility, and the transformative power of constant communion with God makes it a timeless resource for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice.

If you have never read the book before then I would encourage to read this book. I have recently produced an new version of the book which includes the original text of the main book 'Practising the Presence of God', with some additions: Key point summaries, and reflections. I have also included the Spiritual Maxims in this edition. This is often neglected in many books produced from the original, which is a shame as the Spiritual Maxims are the extra thoughts that Brother Lawrence had and sum up his teachings.

For more information then visit our publishing website here: www.eternalpublishing.com

1. Brother Lawrence, Practising the Presence of God, (England, Eternal Publishing, 2024). p.2

2. Brother Lawrence, p.29

3. Brother Lawrence, p.61