The Introduction to the Devout Life

Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales

Goodreads: Introduction to the Devout Life
Series: None
Published: 1609



Though written over four centuries ago, the great Christian classic, Introduction to the Devout Life, is still as relevant to life today as it was in the world of St. Francis de Sales.  This down-to-earth, easy-to-read book provides practical guidance for individuals striving for holiness.  Echoing the words of the more modern St. Therese of Lisieux, St. Francis de Sales stresses that the key to holiness is not necessarily in performing great deeds, but rather in going about one’s daily business with great devotion.  He offers advice for those in all walks of life: single persons, married couples, even young people who struggle to find a balance between prayer, responsibilities, and recreation.

I believe that the most helpful part of this book lies in its advice for developing an authentic prayer life.  I personally often struggle with prayer.   Prayer is a relationship with God, yet I often find myself reading Scripture, analyzing it, and trying to fix my tendencies to sin.  St. Francis de Sales urges a prayer life centered upon a God who heals all who come to Him.  He encourages the faithful to call to mind the presence of God and to beg for His inspiration before meditating upon His word.  Furthermore, St. Francis de Sales tells His readers that the most important part of prayer comes after prayer, when we go back into the world and to our duties.  Following our meditation, we should make daily resolutions that will help us grow closer to God and be more loving towards others.  If our prayer remains only within our minds and fails to change the way we live, then we are prone to deceiving ourselves of holiness.  We think we are saints when we are nothing more than Pharisees who uttered many words to God in the synagogue. 

Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales is an excellent guide to holiness for those who seek a greater sense of God’s presence in their daily lives.  Through the wisdom of this great saint, we can ask God to help us to become more like the unique person He is calling us to be; indeed, we can learn to truly “be who we are and be that well”.