Brother Lawrence - The Practice of the Presence of God: Complete Illustrated Edition with Modern Reflections, Deep-Dive Questions, and Practical Spiritual Exercises for Daily Life

by Brother Lawrence, Bibliotheca Magna (Illustrator)

77 pages, Hardcover

Published March 9, 2026

About the author

Brother Lawrence was born Nicolas Herman in Hériménil, near Lunéville in the region of Lorraine, located in modern day eastern France and as a young man went into the army due to his poverty. At the age of 18 he received what he felt was a revelation of the providence and power of God. He went on to fight in the Thirty Years' War and later served as a valet, but within six years joined the Discalced Carmelite Priory in Paris.

Nicolas entered the priory in Paris as a lay brother, not having the education necessary to become a cleric, and took the religious name, "Lawrence of the Resurrection." He spent almost all of the rest of his life within the walls of the priory, working in the kitchen for many of these years and as a repairer of sandals in his later years.

Despite his lowly position in the life of the priory, his character attracted many to him. He had a reputation for experiencing profound peace and visitors came to seek spiritual guidance from him. The wisdom he passed on to them in conversations and in letters would later become the basis for the book The Practice of the Presence of God.

[From Wikipedia]

Reviews

[Joanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short and simple book about the presence of God at all times. I agree that a set time to acknowledge, pray, and give reverence doesn't foster a deeper connection, but acknowledging God's presence in our words, actions, and all locations is key. God shouldn't have constraints in the lives of believers. Whether your atmosphere is noisy or quiet, whether you are at work or at home, God is present. In the smallest moments, be grateful that He is present. In the worst of days, be grateful that He is working for the betterment of everyone who trusts Him and believes in him. God is love, and his love is unconditional, just as our love towards him should be reciprocal. I think the brother shares the sentiment to keep our hearts pure and humble.

In the everyday walk of life, God should be right by our side. He shouldn't be locked in a prayer room or compartmentalized as religion for one or two nights a week.