Meeting God in Quiet Places: The Cotswold Parables

by F. LaGard Smith, Glenda Rae (Illustrator)

In these inspiring parables drawn from his daily walks through the magnificent Cotswolds, LaGard shares life-renewing insights to guide readers to the very heart of God. These personal meditations refresh both the eye and the soul, bringing renewed perspective to the values and qualities of life people cherish.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Inspirational, Christian Non Fiction, Spirituality, Devotional, Christian Living

272 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1992

Reviews

[Cindy Rollins]

The hardcover I have of this book is gorgeous. It looks so pretty on the basket.
I am a huge fan of walking books, and this book combines walking in the Cotswolds with thoughts on Christian living. I wanted to dismiss the devotional material as light but often it was more than that.

[Cathryn]

Thoroughly enjoyed this book! It is one I will read several more times. Mr. Smith’s stories of life in the Cotswolds are so insightful and relative. Loved this book!

[Mike Shaw]

Loved it! Reminds us of God’s simple truths in elegant short stories of his life in the countryside of England

Honestly, I thought it would be a bit thin, but truly enjoyed and found meaning in each story.

Very reminiscent of Max Lucado’s works (Max wrote the forward).

I highly recommend as a quick read when you have a few minutes to relax. Read a chapter or two when you can and I feel confident you will consider it time well spent.

[Elizabeth]

My dear friend Linda gave me this book a few years ago and I love to read it. It's so beautiful, comforting and inspiring. I just finished using it as a daily devotional. Other times, I've picked it up and read favorite chapters. Still other times I've read it like a regular book. Each time I learn something new about myself and my Lord. I think I may just open it back up and read it again as a daily devotional for the month of April :-)

[Angela Pyle]

In “Meeting God in Quiet Places,” F. LaGard Smith invites readers to join him on scenic meanderings through the Cotswolds in the English countryside. As I read, I almost felt as if I were taking walks with Smith and he was sharing the meditations of his heart. His sense of joy, contentment, and wonder is inspiring. Each chapter tells a beautiful metaphorical story that draws readers closer to Christ. Some of favorite chapters include: “Church Bells,” “Seasons,” “Sunsets,” and “Signposts.” I also enjoyed Glenda Rae’s beautiful illustrations. They set a lovely tone for each chapter and helped me visualize the things Smith wrote about. Reading this book is a wonderful way to meet God in quiet places.

[Joan]

I had an opportunity to visit Buckland, where Mr. Smith's cottage is located in the Cotswolds, before reading this book so his descriptions of the local area were a delight to read. He writes very well, the book is nicely organized, and the illustrations are beautiful. That said, Mr. Smith is a retired law professor, not a theologian, and this comes through in his parables. He does, indeed, make some quite thoughtful observations in his parables but they do not demonstrate a great deal of theological depth.

[Machaia]

My mom and I buddy read this one, and that was my favorite part. This book had some beautifully written chapters, and others that seemed like he was stretching to find inspiration. I loved the idea of this book, but sometimes the execution was poor and he leaned a little too hard into a self-flagellating version of Christianity for my tastes. However, I'm glad I read it for the little gems sprinkled here and there throughout it.

[David Blankenship]

This book is a series of experiences Smith has had while living in the Cotswalds that he ties into Biblical truths. Relies on the earnest, sentimental type spirituality that is pervasive in much of American Christianity today. Not wrong, necessarily...but I expected better.

[Jasmine Shadows]

I have found another author that has moved up to favorite. I recommend this book to Christians that are not looking for someone to paint a soft life and easy road picture. I will read this book again, and I will definitely be reading others by this author.

[Margie B’s Reads]

Just excellent!! Highly recommend if you would like a beautifully illustrated and written devotional. This can be read as a book or a daily devotional with 31 chapters. I loved the analogies from his time as a resident in the Cotswalds with lessons from God’s Word. I will read this again for sure!

[Natalie Quast]

Stumbled on this book while taking a trip in the Cotswolds and really enjoyed my journey through it. The reflections are thoughtful and a good length and the illustrations are incredible. The version I bought has a very beautiful cover and is bound nicely. A good book just to have out!

[Laura Sassi]

I just re-discovered this book on my shelf and have been enjoying reading a chapter a morning. Smith's faith-based analogies set in the Cotswolds are soul nurturing. I highly recommend.

[Rivers Houseal]

Delightful!

[Karen]

Read before our trip to the Cotswolds in May 2023

[Sydney Weaver]

Very sweet - good for quick morning devotionals

[The Book Man]

Jesus is always at the door of our hearts, waiting to come in.
He's more than a friend dropping by for a visit; He's there to make your house His home. Let Him be more and more at home in your heart, and there'll be no end to life, love, and laughter!

[Steph]

Fast read, but I thought there would be a bit more on the actual locations, travel log style. Too many 'lessons' and some were a bit of a stretch.

[Wendy]

A great book for a chapter a day. A great writer tells a parable about his quiet walks & adventures on the Cotswald. A life saver if you have insomnia~

[Tiff (fictionaltiff)]

One of my favorite books. A great book amidst anxiety or sadness. In a time where it's hard to find a quiet place to pray and enjoy God's beauty, the author creates just that for you.

[Ann Adams]

A book that inspired me to trek through Buckland Chapel, dine at Buckland Inn and walk to F. LaGard Smith's home there to view his gardens from the road! It was worth the walk!

[Cathy Klingler]

Really enjoyed the author's parables which took place in the Cotswolds of England. They were thought-provoking, and his Christian message were treasures.

[Roland W.]

Using his daily walks along the trails of the Cotswolds in England as inspiration F. LeGard Smith
provides us with 31 devotionals to bring us closer to God in meditation. Each 'walk' that he takes
us on is unique and interesting.