Introduction to the Devout Life is a spiritual classic written by Saint Francis de Sales, a French Roman Catholic priest, and renowned theologian, in the 17th century. This book is a guide for Christians who seek to live a devout life, and it is considered a masterpiece of spiritual literature. Any person can read it at any point in their life. De Sales addresses foundational aspects Catholics should implement and consider when pursuing God. He says the devout life, moreover, is a lovely, pleasant, and happy life. [1]
The book begins with a series of letters written by Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop of Geneva, to a young woman seeking guidance on living a devout life. These letters introduce the book and set the tone for the rest of the work. Saint Francis de Sales stresses the importance of holiness in everyday life and encourages the reader to embrace a life of prayer and contemplation. He addresses' his letters to Philothea, or "the one who loves God," as a general address to all of the Faith. Therefore, we took on this name, aiming to find the one who loves God in each other!
The book is divided into five parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the devout life. In the first part, Saint Francis de Sales discusses the nature of true Devotion and the importance of developing a deep love for God. He emphasizes that Devotion is not just a matter of religious practices but a way of living that should permeate every aspect of one's life. He offers several meditations to be contemplated one day at a time. Alone, its ten brief meditations in Part I will orient you toward God for the rest of your life. No one will come away without being profoundly impressed and motivated to enter the devout life, which ultimately leads to God and Heaven.
In the second part, the author encourages the reader to embrace a life of prayer and meditation. He provides practical advice on how to pray and suggests different methods of meditation that can help one to grow closer to God. He suggests that prayer should be an integral part of one's daily routine and beneficial to the man pursuing God if approached with reverence and humility. [2] De Sales says prayer involves three essential components: preparation, meditation, and thanksgiving. Preparation involves quieting the mind and heart, asking for God's grace and guidance, and focusing on one's intentions for prayer. Meditation involves contemplating God's presence, reading and reflecting on scripture, and allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to the heart. Finally, thanksgiving involves expressing gratitude for God's blessings, asking for forgiveness for one's sins, and offering up one's prayers for the needs of others. De Sales stresses prayer should be a continual conversation with God with Faith, trust, and love.
The book's third part is devoted to the virtues essential for a devout life. Saint Francis de Sales emphasizes the importance of humility, meekness, and purity and provides practical advice on cultivating these virtues in everyday life. To the Saint, our first desire to lead a devout life to our full resolution is how we approach God in prayer and the Sacraments. He speaks of the practice of 16 essential virtues, remedies against ordinary temptations, and becoming confirmed in our practice of Devotion. [3] St. Francis says Devotion is spiritual agility and vivacity; with love and readiness, we are ready to work in charity and her in us to fulfill God's laws. Therefore, it is fitting that through employing charity, our Devotion leads us to obey God's commandments with prudence and diligence. [4]
In the fourth part, the author discusses the importance of avoiding sin and temptation. He provides guidance on how to resist temptation and how to turn away from sin. He also stresses the importance of repentance and the sacrament of confession. He advises the reader to avoid situations and places that may lead to temptation, to surround oneself with the virtuous company, and to cultivate good habits. [5] De Sales also suggests that Christians should guard against the three primary sources of temptation: the world, the flesh, and the devil. He recommends that the Christian avoid worldly pleasures that lead to sin, practice self-discipline to overcome the desires of the flesh, and pray for God's protection against the devil's snares. Above all, De Sales stresses the importance of repentance and the sacrament of confession to receive God's forgiveness and grace. By avoiding sin and temptation, the Christian can grow in virtue and holiness and live a devout life pleasing to God.
Finally, in the fifth part of the book, Saint Francis de Sales discusses the importance of spiritual direction and the spiritual director's role in a devout Christian's life. He stresses the importance of finding a good spiritual director and provides practical advice on how to do so. The Christian should approach the spiritual director with humility and a sincere desire to grow in their relationship with God. The Saint also suggests that Christians should be open and honest with their spiritual director, sharing their struggles and challenges, as well as their joys and blessings. [6] Through spiritual direction, Christians can receive guidance, encouragement, and support as they seek to live a devout life that is pleasing to God.
Overall, Introduction to the Devout Life is a timeless work of spiritual literature that continues to inspire and guide Christians of all denominations. Saint Francis de Sales' message of love, Devotion, and holiness is as relevant today as it was when he wrote it over three centuries ago. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God and live a more devout life. The book, if picked up at a young age, or one who is set in their vocation, there is something to be gained. Each time I have picked up this book, I have encountered different parts that speak to me.
[1] De Sales, Francis. Introduction to Devout Life. Translated by Allen Ross, Baronius Press, 2006, 5.
[2] De Sales, Introduction, 17-36.
[3] De Sales, Introduction, 102.
[4] De Sales, Introduction, 3.
[5] De Sales, Introduction, 231- 238.
[6] De Sales, Introduction, 277.
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