Discovering the Narrow Path: A Guide to Spiritual Balance

by N. Graham Standish

In a time when competing and often irreconcilable belief systems seem to dominate all religious conversation in Christianity, N. Graham Standish offers an alternative for leading a spiritual and faithful life. Providing models that embrace elements of many spiritual traditions within Christianity, Discovering the Narrow Path seeks to hold all extremist positions in perfect tension, by integrating their essential truths yet also recognizing their flaws. In doing so, Standish surveys the wisdom of the mystics, the practice of forming a Trinitarian faith, the openness of healing traditions, and the value of balancing prayer and action, as well as spirituality, theology, and religion. Complete with two appendices, one a guide for group study and one an introduction to spiritual reading, Discovering the Narrow Path is an essential resource for those seeking spiritual fulfillment.

232 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2002

About the author

The Rev. N. Graham Standish, Ph.D. (Formative Spirituality, Duquesne University; M.S.W., University of Pittsburgh; M.Div., Pittsburgh Theological Seminary), is Executive Director of Samaritan Counseling•Guidance•Consulting in Sewickley, Pennsylvania. Previously he served as senior pastor of Calvin Presbyterian Church in Zelienople, PA; and was adjunct professor at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Doctor of Ministry program, as well as at Tyndale Theological Seminary in Toronto, Ontario.

Reviews

[Les]

In a time when competing and often irreconcilable belief systems seem to dominate all religious conversation in Christianity, N. Graham Standish offers an alternative for leading a spiritual and faithful life. Providing models that embrace elements of many spiritual traditions within Christianity, "Discovering the Narrow Path" seeks to hold all extremist positions in perfect tension, by integrating their essential truths yet also recognizing their flaws. In doing so, Standish surveys the wisdom of the mystics, the practice of forming a Trinitarian faith, the openness of healing traditions, and the value of balancing prayer and action, as well as spirituality, theology, and religion. Complete with two appendices, one a guide for group study and one an introduction to spiritual reading, "Discovering the Narrow Path" is an essential resource for those seeking spiritual fulfillment.

[Ruth Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Graham tells us, "This book is a discussion of the "streams" of faith that fill you with truth and grace." Aim of book: to help you hold these various beliefs in a tension that will draw you closer to God by helping you discern what your narrow path is for spiritual balance.

When I travel to Zelienople, PA, I always try to attend services led by Rev. Dr. Graham Standish. I believe he is a dynamic preacher and his writings reflect his deep faith. After reading this book, I suggested it for a small group study at my church. They liked it so much that they choose another of his books for continued study. Included at the end of the book is a study guide for group leaders to use.