Spiritual Reading

When I say "spiritual reading," I'm not talking about listening to podcasts or reading Catholic Answers online (that would fall under the third "S," study). What I'm talking about is sitting down, in the silence, reading a well accredited spiritual book, and LETTING GOD SPEAK TO YOU! 

"Be still and know that I am God" (Ps. 46:10). God doesn't scream and shout at you, He's not "in the earthquake" (1 Kgs. 19:11). His voice is quiet and still (1 Kgs. 19:12-13). Those who hear the truth hear God's voice (Jn. 18:37). Let Christ speak to your heart. Listen to Him. This practice, especially early on in the spiritual life, is a profound help in learning to hear God's voice and recognize Him speaking to you. By reading writings from, or about, the saints, God can use this time to teach us how to truly pray and develop a deep, inner spiritual life. Write down the words that spiritual "hit" you...those words or sentences that resonate or "speak" to you. That's God's voice!! Then, when desolation comes, you can re-read those verses that "hit you," those lines in which the Lord touched your heart, and it will help to renew your love and trust in the Lord. A grace remembered is a grace renewed.

But beware!! There are some really bad books out there. A whole lotta "wolves in sheep's clothing" (Mt. 7:15). Be prudent regarding writers who aren't Catholic saints (especially those who talk about "mindfulness," that can be a red flag that there's some sort of New Age stuff slipping in to the real Catholic doctrine), but don't let still living authors discourage you from reading them! There are some great novels from still living Catholics that are fantastic. 

While I understand not everyone has the money to purchase such books, or the knowledge about where to find them cheap, or for free (check your church to see if they have a library somewhere, or ask your parish priest), you can still find and read some great spiritual books for free in the meantime! Keep scrolling for more...