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Busy Lives and Restless Souls: How Prayer Can Help You Find the Missing Peace in Your Life
2019 Best Book Awards, Finalist: Religion—Christian Inspirational
If you’ve already figured out your life and feel totally complete, then this book may not be for you. But if you are like the rest of us, every day presents a mountain of to-do items, jobs to go to, errands to run, projects to complete, meals to cook, children to raise... You forge ahead and get it done, but you know that things aren’t as they should be. Even when you check every item off your daily list, you still feel as though something meaningful and essential is missing from the very center of your life.
Spiritual director and writer Becky Eldredge has felt that same longing, and she knows what people are missing—a relationship with God through prayer. In Busy Lives & Restless Souls, Eldredge interprets principles of Ignatian spirituality in a fresh way to equip us with prayer tools that are accessible and practical within the relentless realities of our daily routines. Just as important, she shows us how we can bring our relationship with God to life by becoming what St. Ignatius called “contemplatives in action.” For all who sense that there is a missing peace in their lives, Busy Lives & Restless Souls will help them find it—right where they are.
If you’ve already figured out your life and feel totally complete, then this book may not be for you. But if you are like the rest of us, every day presents a mountain of to-do items, jobs to go to, errands to run, projects to complete, meals to cook, children to raise... You forge ahead and get it done, but you know that things aren’t as they should be. Even when you check every item off your daily list, you still feel as though something meaningful and essential is missing from the very center of your life.
Spiritual director and writer Becky Eldredge has felt that same longing, and she knows what people are missing—a relationship with God through prayer. In Busy Lives & Restless Souls, Eldredge interprets principles of Ignatian spirituality in a fresh way to equip us with prayer tools that are accessible and practical within the relentless realities of our daily routines. Just as important, she shows us how we can bring our relationship with God to life by becoming what St. Ignatius called “contemplatives in action.” For all who sense that there is a missing peace in their lives, Busy Lives & Restless Souls will help them find it—right where they are.
152 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2017
110 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Becky Eldredge
3 books16 followersIt’s nice to meet you! I am passionate about Ignatian spirituality and teaching people how to pray; how to make room for God in the busyness. I work hard to practice what I preach — sharing the wisdom that people taught me– on how to pray and how to use the tools of Ignatian spirituality as a lay person.
Despite the journey it took for me to believe God calls for me, accompanying people deeper in their faith lives is at the heart of my call, whether its walking with someone in Spiritual direction or through writing or in person on a retreat. This is the work of my life for the last twenty plus years, and I cannot see stopping it anytime soon. I am looking forward to accompanying you!
Stick around for just a while and you’ll find out real quick how deep my Louisiana roots run! My faith is influenced tremendously by the Catholic community of South Louisiana that continues to broaden my understanding that being Catholic is a lot more than just showing up to mass on Sunday. It is also about getting outside and seeing God in nature, about hospitality, about sharing meals together, and about supporting your community around you, especially when bad weather is upon us. It is why on any given day there is a good chance you’ll find more than just our family members in our home.
You’ll learn, too, of my deep love for my hubby, Chris, and children, Brady, Abby and Mary. I guarantee you’ll probably hear a story or two from our sixteen years of marriage and the adventures of our lives as a family! Honestly, there is truly no greater joy than sharing life with these four amazing human beings
.
My favorite thing to do is sit in deep conversation with another person listening to each other tell the stories of our lives, exploring the deeper questions , and learning more about ourselves, each other, and God in the process. My hope is that we can do that one day together too- whether it be through meeting each other on a retreat or through my writing.
Despite the journey it took for me to believe God calls for me, accompanying people deeper in their faith lives is at the heart of my call, whether its walking with someone in Spiritual direction or through writing or in person on a retreat. This is the work of my life for the last twenty plus years, and I cannot see stopping it anytime soon. I am looking forward to accompanying you!
Stick around for just a while and you’ll find out real quick how deep my Louisiana roots run! My faith is influenced tremendously by the Catholic community of South Louisiana that continues to broaden my understanding that being Catholic is a lot more than just showing up to mass on Sunday. It is also about getting outside and seeing God in nature, about hospitality, about sharing meals together, and about supporting your community around you, especially when bad weather is upon us. It is why on any given day there is a good chance you’ll find more than just our family members in our home.
You’ll learn, too, of my deep love for my hubby, Chris, and children, Brady, Abby and Mary. I guarantee you’ll probably hear a story or two from our sixteen years of marriage and the adventures of our lives as a family! Honestly, there is truly no greater joy than sharing life with these four amazing human beings
.
My favorite thing to do is sit in deep conversation with another person listening to each other tell the stories of our lives, exploring the deeper questions , and learning more about ourselves, each other, and God in the process. My hope is that we can do that one day together too- whether it be through meeting each other on a retreat or through my writing.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 18, 2018
Confession. When I picked up this book, I came with the attitude that I already know this stuff: stuff being the Ignation Prayer methods as applied to daily life. Although I am not Catholic I am huge fan of this 16th Century Father of the Jesuits and I’ve had the privilege of reading a number of experts on the man and his prayers. Perhaps my bias is understandable, however I was wrong.
Ms. Eldredge comes along side the reader like a friend, a good friend, one who makes you feel comfortable with wherever you are in your prayer life yet encourages you to go a little farther with simple instructions and practical tips. In the simplest and most accessible way she describes how to do the various forms of prayer with a special focus on those found in the teachings of St. Ignatius. I was surprised at how encouraged I was to pick up some simple practices, dust them off and try them on again. I was also surprised to find myself underlining and making notes in the margin (always a sign that I am connecting with a book). Ms. Eldredge comes with much experience but it is the experience of the lay-person and not the priest, which I found rather refreshing, welcoming, and very comforting. This is prayer not for the perfectionist but for the busy person who longs for real and practical ways to connect with God. Although aimed at Catholics (who are more familiar with St. Ignatius) this book is for anyone who wants to learn and practice prayer from the school of a master- St. Ignatius and his able teacher Becky Eldredge.
Ms. Eldredge comes along side the reader like a friend, a good friend, one who makes you feel comfortable with wherever you are in your prayer life yet encourages you to go a little farther with simple instructions and practical tips. In the simplest and most accessible way she describes how to do the various forms of prayer with a special focus on those found in the teachings of St. Ignatius. I was surprised at how encouraged I was to pick up some simple practices, dust them off and try them on again. I was also surprised to find myself underlining and making notes in the margin (always a sign that I am connecting with a book). Ms. Eldredge comes with much experience but it is the experience of the lay-person and not the priest, which I found rather refreshing, welcoming, and very comforting. This is prayer not for the perfectionist but for the busy person who longs for real and practical ways to connect with God. Although aimed at Catholics (who are more familiar with St. Ignatius) this book is for anyone who wants to learn and practice prayer from the school of a master- St. Ignatius and his able teacher Becky Eldredge.
March 8, 2017
I took my time reading this book because I kept going back to re-read and highlight more passages. I felt like I was sitting with Becky in a coffee shop, hearing her stories and receiving the exact encouragement I need for my spiritual journey. Down-to-earth yet soulful, with meaningful questions that are still rolling around in my heart and mind. I am so grateful to Becky for this book, and can't recommend it enough for anyone looking for guidance on their own spiritual quest.
September 26, 2020
Embrace the railways, resituate your life and find your greater Yes
August 22, 2017
I picked up this book because I knew nothing about Ignatian spirituality and I welcomed the chance to learn something new. As a pragmatic person, I found comfort in the practical advice that I learned is a hallmark of the Ignatian way of life and which is so clearly explained by author Becky Eldredge.
The chapters present plenty of examples of real people applying Ignatian spiritual principles in ways that make sense with their current state of life. In other words, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to prayer. The best prayer is the prayer you can pray, and what you can do today is probably different from what you will be able to do next year. But since it's not next year, do what you can today. That's extraordinarily practical, and extraordinarily comforting.
(ARC received from publisher)
The chapters present plenty of examples of real people applying Ignatian spiritual principles in ways that make sense with their current state of life. In other words, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to prayer. The best prayer is the prayer you can pray, and what you can do today is probably different from what you will be able to do next year. But since it's not next year, do what you can today. That's extraordinarily practical, and extraordinarily comforting.
(ARC received from publisher)
March 24, 2019
I gave this book 3 stars but I think some people who are new to Ignatian Spirituality would probably give it a 4. There was a lot of meat in this book on how to live the Igantian spirituality in our everyday lives. An easy read. Not too heady at all and would make a great book study for a beginners book study on living the Catholic faith.
May 2, 2018
This is the best book on prayer and living a life of faith that I have ever read. It spoke directly to my heart. This is a book that won’t gather dust on my shelf but is one I will try to put into practice. Highly recommend!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 29, 2020
This is a good book. What keeps it from being a great book, primarily, are some bizarre statements that seem to attempt to raise the single state to the same status of a married, religious, or priestly vocation.
I have a few minor nitpicks about how she speaks about Jesus too - for example, while it is technically true to say that He had a family (though for whom isn’t this true?), I think what the author means to say is that Jesus was part of a family. She works hard to make the point that Jesus is like us, which is of course true in some sense, but doesn’t address the sense in which He is very much not like us, and said so in ways that might be seen as a rejection of His earthly family. I’m thinking of Mark 3:31; Matthew 12:46; Luke 8:19. Close friends with John the Baptist? Can we talk about Luke 7:18-23 then?
Last criticism - the author too frequently refers to her role as a spiritual director and retreat leader at a young age. I get it but no need to mention it so often!
This book would be a fantastic introduction to prayer and the spiritual life for those seriously contemplating becoming Catholic or Catholics committed to beginning and growing in prayer and discipleship. Especially for women with families in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
I have a few minor nitpicks about how she speaks about Jesus too - for example, while it is technically true to say that He had a family (though for whom isn’t this true?), I think what the author means to say is that Jesus was part of a family. She works hard to make the point that Jesus is like us, which is of course true in some sense, but doesn’t address the sense in which He is very much not like us, and said so in ways that might be seen as a rejection of His earthly family. I’m thinking of Mark 3:31; Matthew 12:46; Luke 8:19. Close friends with John the Baptist? Can we talk about Luke 7:18-23 then?
Last criticism - the author too frequently refers to her role as a spiritual director and retreat leader at a young age. I get it but no need to mention it so often!
This book would be a fantastic introduction to prayer and the spiritual life for those seriously contemplating becoming Catholic or Catholics committed to beginning and growing in prayer and discipleship. Especially for women with families in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
October 31, 2024
My small group at St. Mary's in Hudson, Ohio is currently reading this book, and I wish to say a good word for it here. Becky Eldredge is a very good person and a very good writer who explains very complicated theological traditions in ways anyone can and will understand. Certain prayers stand out as especially helpful: prayers of consideration, the Examen, and the Colloquy stand out. Most important of all, she constantly reminds the reader of God's love for each and every last one of us. She reminds us of God's longing to have a relationship with each of us such that we see and/or feel God's presence in our day to day lives. She wants us to remember to pray and to remember to try to see this world from God's point of view only because to do so will make us so much better and so much happier. She understands the peace of mind and sense of revelation that comes with prayer, and she understands that praying in such a way as to place God at the center of our lives, only makes us that much more successful in any and all pursuits. This is a beautiful book!
January 12, 2019
This is not at all what I expected. I found this book on one of my shelves, and I have no recollection of buying it. I suspect it was an impulse purchase at a diocesan conference a couple of years ago. I thought it was going to be a light read on living simply with the addition of prayer. Instead, it was a nice little introduction to prayer using the methods of St. Ignatius. It's a book I will have to read several times over to fully appreciate.
January 11, 2024
This book is good for those looking for an introduction to Ignatian prayer methods and a great book for a study group with its end of chapter questions. It didn't really have what I was looking for...novel suggestions for creating a prayer routine in the thick of parenting. Easy to read, relatable personal examples. But if your goal is the same as mine, it might not be the one for you.
May 7, 2024
This book was a light read, an early introduction to the Ignatian spirituality. The organization of the book was scattered. One big positive was the author’s explanation of an Examen, as well as her suggestion and reminder throughout the book to pray a daily Examen. I have been taking her advice and am grateful for it!
May 20, 2017
It is so good to read about spirituality as presented by a woman and mother!
There are some really insightful thoughts in here. I owe it to myself and the author to read this again -- slowly -- to appreciate fully the author's wisdom and to respond to her reflections.
There are some really insightful thoughts in here. I owe it to myself and the author to read this again -- slowly -- to appreciate fully the author's wisdom and to respond to her reflections.
September 17, 2021
A solid introduction to Ignatian practices; recommended for any beginner. Those from traditional Roman Catholic backgrounds and married women with children may find more resonance with the author’s examples than those from other traditions or life choices.
March 14, 2025
Hard to read. Told more about her personal life than anything of self-help and growth. Lost interest a lot skipping going quick reads. Lots of information on the Saint she likes. I’ve read similar books that hold one’s attention.
April 17, 2022
Some good prayer ideas... but all taken from St. Ignatius, so a more direct book on him would be better. Rest of her personal tale is slow, circular and so generalized it feels unoriginal.
June 29, 2022
not my favorite book. was hard to push through but some moments were great and I was hooked
May 13, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and the view she has. And while I do not agree with all of her doctrine, as I am not Catholic, I found a lot of value here.
June 1, 2024
Picked this book up at a silent retreat I was on. Easy, light read full of great information and ideas on how to balance life and prayer! Major bonus that it follows the spiritual exercises!
June 14, 2024
Great for a perspective on prayer from a different tradition than I’m familiar. Super approachable and quick read, great tools.
September 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It had lots of good ideas for helping me to become a better person.
February 2, 2025
This fantastic book was so concrete and helpful that it will absolutely enhance (or kickstart) your prayer life! It was recommended at a webinar I attended, and it was better than I expected.
March 11, 2017
The author uses her personal stories to make suggestions for readers to improve their prayer life. This is a fine book for people new to praying and those who like memoirs, but it's nothing groundbreaking.
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
I received an ARC from NetGalley.
February 10, 2017
In this book, Becky talks about prayer tools and how you can infuse prayer in your daily life if you are spiritually inclined.
She focuses on the Ignatian spirituality (based on St. Ignatius) which is about living a life of prayer within our daily realities.
As with good storytellers, Becky first gives us an insight to her life, how she grew up and why she decided to live an Ignatian lifestyle.
Rating: 3/5
Favourite quote: “People ask me all the time. ‘how do I know if I’m hearing God’s voice or not?’ While I don’t have the million dollar answer to this question, I can tell you this: A way to recognise God’s voice is to spend time praying with Scripture.”
Recommendation: If you are looking for a good that simply lays out how to have a daily relationship with God in your day to day life, this is a good book to start with.
In this book, Becky talks about prayer tools and how you can infuse prayer in your daily life if you are spiritually inclined.
She focuses on the Ignatian spirituality (based on St. Ignatius) which is about living a life of prayer within our daily realities.
As with good storytellers, Becky first gives us an insight to her life, how she grew up and why she decided to live an Ignatian lifestyle.
Rating: 3/5
Favourite quote: “People ask me all the time. ‘how do I know if I’m hearing God’s voice or not?’ While I don’t have the million dollar answer to this question, I can tell you this: A way to recognise God’s voice is to spend time praying with Scripture.”
Recommendation: If you are looking for a good that simply lays out how to have a daily relationship with God in your day to day life, this is a good book to start with.
February 7, 2017
Becky Eldredge’s Busy Lives and Restless Souls reads as a purposeful memoire, birthed from her own encounters of God through prayer and rooted in her life experiences.
As a daughter, wife, mother, and professional, she speaks with such authenticity and honesty, exploring areas of sinfulness, self-doubt, and that familiar feeling of restlessness. Perhaps you have faith, maybe attend church, and even pray sometimes, but you experience a longing for something more. This book will help you name the graces there and challenge you to delve deeper into your faith journey, offering timeless prayer tools that can be revisited over and over as we deepen our relationship with God. After the initial reading, the book will likely become a useful and familiar companion to which you will refer over and over.
As a daughter, wife, mother, and professional, she speaks with such authenticity and honesty, exploring areas of sinfulness, self-doubt, and that familiar feeling of restlessness. Perhaps you have faith, maybe attend church, and even pray sometimes, but you experience a longing for something more. This book will help you name the graces there and challenge you to delve deeper into your faith journey, offering timeless prayer tools that can be revisited over and over as we deepen our relationship with God. After the initial reading, the book will likely become a useful and familiar companion to which you will refer over and over.
February 7, 2017
Started off a bit slow for my taste, but had some gems throughout the book. It's a great read for those who rationalize not being strong in prayer and focusing on the spiritual aspect of our lives. It can spark a revelation in the right person...
April 25, 2017
Busy Mamas will especially get something out of this, but so will those who appreciate the goodness of meditation and Ignatian spirituality as central to prayer life.
February 10, 2018
I received this book free from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks NetGalley!
This book was a quick read & wonderful for a wife and mother to three small kids to read and gain valuable insights into the world of Ignatian spirituality and modes of prayer from someone in a similar life position. I thought that although the author is of a Catholic background and faith tradition that she did a very good job making this method accessible for Christians of other denominations while a lot of other Catholic authors I've read seem to only write for Catholic audiences. I appreciated this inclusive tone immensely. I will definitely use the methods in this book in my own prayer life.
This book was a quick read & wonderful for a wife and mother to three small kids to read and gain valuable insights into the world of Ignatian spirituality and modes of prayer from someone in a similar life position. I thought that although the author is of a Catholic background and faith tradition that she did a very good job making this method accessible for Christians of other denominations while a lot of other Catholic authors I've read seem to only write for Catholic audiences. I appreciated this inclusive tone immensely. I will definitely use the methods in this book in my own prayer life.
August 10, 2018
This is a great book for improving your prayer life in any season of life. Sharing from her own life the author, Becky Eldredge shares practical, everyday use of the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises and making prayer a priority.
There are ten chapters that are easy to read but not meant to race through. I highlighted so many things and re-read so many points because there is such enriching information that I had to take notes and take it all in properly. Each chapter ends with a "where are you now" section that has questions that help you look at your life, what you read and how to move forward.
This book is great for individual study but I also think it would make a great group study. Especially with the questions at the end of the book providing excellent accountability markers and group discussion points.
There are ten chapters that are easy to read but not meant to race through. I highlighted so many things and re-read so many points because there is such enriching information that I had to take notes and take it all in properly. Each chapter ends with a "where are you now" section that has questions that help you look at your life, what you read and how to move forward.
This book is great for individual study but I also think it would make a great group study. Especially with the questions at the end of the book providing excellent accountability markers and group discussion points.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews