Talking with God

For Brother Lawrence, God was not a concept or part of a religion. God was his Heavenly Father. He was very real – the center of his life and his constant companion.

Lawrence was not a trained theologian but a man who had been an ordinary soldier in the Thirty Days’ War during the 17th century. Then, after joining a monastery outside Paris, Lawrence decided to give himself “wholly to God.”

After making this commitment, everything began to change. Serving as an ordinary cook, he discovered that he could develop an intimate relationship with God in that place – or anywhere.

He made God the focus of his life, listening to and talking with Him constantly. He spent time in worship, “keeping my mind in His holy presence,” eliminating anything that interrupted that focus.

Spending time with God, he experienced a profound peace. He sought to “walk before God simply, in faith, with humility, and with love.” He desired to do or think “nothing which may displease Him.”

Continually conscious of God’s constant presence, he had the joy of “a continual conversation with God.” These were real encounters, real dialogue.

During this hectic, complex world, God still speaks to those prepared to listen, who seek His face, who make Him their highest priority. Believe that God can speak to you. Quiet your heart. Fill your mind with His Word. Talk with Him. But always take time to listen.