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Comments: After reading Ortberg's book on this same topic, I was interested in reading more, perhaps from another perspective. I had heard that this book is considered a classic, and so picked it up when the opportunity arose.
I'm glad I did. As in Ortberg's book, the first chapter had some good things to say about the quest for spiritual discipline, including warnings against allowing it to become a form of legalism by itself. I thought this paragraph provided some good perspective:
"When we despair of gaining inner transformation through human powers of will and determination, we are open to a wonderful new realization: inner righteousness is a gift from God to be graciously received. The needed change within us is God's work, not ours... we cannot attain or earn this righteousness of the kingdom of God; it is a grace that is given."
In a later chapter, Foster talks about not confusing our expression of a discipline with the discipline itself. He references Matt 6:33 -- "Seek first the kingdom of God, and His Righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you", and then asks how we go about seeking God's kingdom. Are we to use our talents and powers to exert influence on others? Are we to give our fortunes to the poor? Are we to proclaim His teachings to the world? Foster's answer: none of the above. Not that they are wrong, but rather that they are not the focus; we are to seek the Kingdom first, and then allow these actions to flow from it. If we make them the center of our efforts, they become idolatry. Strong words, but good inputs for someone who, like me, grew up with a fairly legalistic brand of Christianity.
Speaking of the 1970's (which is when this book was published), if you're from that era, the writing style may take you back a little. Remember when the mark of a true Christian was being able to talk a good line of spiritual-speak? Foster really shines in this respect, pulling off sentences like "worship is our responding to the overtures of love from the heart of the Father. It is kindled within us only when the Spirit of God touches our human spirit." Nice words, whatever they mean. All in all, I guess I prefer substance to poetry.
Still, a good book, worth reading - probably more than once. You can borrow mine if you'll promise to return it.
