Product Description

A revised and updated edition of the manifesto that shows how simplicity is not merely having less stress and more leisure but an essential spiritual discipline for the health of our soul.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #48079 in Books
• Published on: 2005-09-01
• Released on: 2005-08-30
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 272 pages

From AudioFile
Lloyd James narrates this fascinating book, which addresses the problem of people's attempts to find satisfaction in their lives by acquiring more and more things--which, of course, rarely achieves the desired end. Instead, more possessions clutter our lives and create more concerns. The answer, Foster says, is to take our focus off ourselves and to work to satisfy the needs of others. To simplify our lives, he believes, is to find greater peace in a frenzied world. James's well-modulated voice reflects the author's passion. His strong, clear delivery creates a convincing presentation. This dynamic audiobook is well worth your time. N.L. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Review
"This book will become a challenging and formative part of your spiritual life." -- Lauren Winner, author of Girl Meets God and Real Sex: The Naked Truth About Chastity

From the Publisher
Articulates a creative, more human style of living and points the way for Christians to make their lives "models of simplicity."

Customer Reviews

Simply Excellent!
I must say Richard Foster's Freedom of Simplicity ranks among the most helpful and spiritually formative books in my personal life. It is so well-written that there's not a wasted line in it and it's cogently presented, biblically grounded and immensely workable! No, it's not a book about how to save the world economically, or even about winning the world to Christ, or making heroic sacrifices - it's about what the Danish prophet Kierkegaard calls 'the purity of heart' - the simple intention in seeking the Kingdom of God. In it is freedom, joy and fruitfulness which Jesus speaks of when one chooses God for his master, over and above all others, not least the spirit of mammon.

I especially love his chapter on the Divine Centre which Thomas Kelly has taught us about. Oh what a life it is to slip into that oasis, that wellspring that nourishes our lives amidst the frantic pace and noise that so easily pushes us over!

Foster is an excellent writer who demonstrates how writing can be such an art. It is informative but not stuffy, revolutionary but not naive - he exercises great poise and deliberation even when discussing the intricate balance one needs to strike in living simply. He invites us to see how the life of simplicity is such a joy, that even the seemingly arduous discipline of 'praying unceasingly' can be a game we could delightfully enter into. I find myself informed, uplifted and challenged on nearly every page.

It is a very well-rounded book that draws deeply from the rich resource of ancient spiritual tradition (which is vintage Foster!) as well as from scriptures and offers practical strategies for both novices and the experienced how simplicity can be embodied both individually and corporately in our world today. If the modern church were to embrace just a fraction of its counsels, she will be a great beacon of hope to a world bent on destroying itself with its militant consumerism and be a credible witness to the in-breaking Kingdom of God which is one of justice and compassion.

Personal Freedom as a lifestyle
Excellent material the updated edition is underscored with author's personal experience. Excellent resource for resource management people as well those subscribing to The Volantary Simplicity lifestyle. Those seeking security in life will also profit from Foster"s work.

If you're looking for a HOW-TO book, this ain't it!
Don't look for any helpful insights on how to live live more simply. Just be prepared for a book full of socialist propaganda about how there are only so many resources in the world, and anything you use is stealing from someone else less fortunate!
I'm already sold on the IDEA of simplicity or I wouldn't be buying this book. I want a book with useful suggestions for living a more simple, down to earth life. If that's what you're looking for, buy Eliot Wiggington's FOXFIRE books, or Tom Brown's Survival Guides. You get really useful suggestions without the attempt at a guilt trip.