God Is Here

this book makes the old classic that it is based on contemporary and relevant. the theme and the content are not new but have been ignored by many of us in certain denominations of our faith. Case does a great job expanding on the thoughts of Brother Lawerence. i found this book valuable enough to purchase it for 15 graduating seniors at our church.

Steve Case takes the classic of Brother Lawrence and The Practice of the Presence of God and remixes it to a new tune. One of emerging themes of Christian literature is the remix of "classics." The fear is that the depth of meaning and message is lost in the updated version. Case does not allow this to happen with Brother Lawrence, in fact his last chapter on Gathered Thoughts (prayer) is a wonderfully presented way of approaching prayer throughout the day - giving simple examples and offering challenging questions regarding what to pray for. Without becoming trite, Steve Case offers simple applications, thoughts, and questions that I till carry with me, quote, and meditate on. If you are looking for a fresh perspective on how you may increase the presence and focus with God, this is the book for you!

This book is simultaneously an evaluation and an application of Brother Lawrence's The Practice of the Presence of God. Brother Lawrence's work was compiled after he died in the 17th century, and as a result it tends to be scattered, although beneficial. God is Here attempts to provide some progression to the thoughts of Brother Lawrence. This book also makes The Practice of the Presence of God more accessable to 21st century Christianity. It does this through personal narrative, applied exposition of Brother Lawrence's book, illustrations, and modern paraphrasing of scriptural passages. This book is phenomenally well written. However, if a reader likes a very structured outline form in the books that he or she reads, this is definitely not that book. Instead, it tends to discuss illustrations, narratives, and sections from The Practice of the Presence of God centered on a theme. God is Here is like getting to know both Brother Lawrence and Steve Case as people, not as writers. -- R. Ben Armstrong, Christian Book Previews.com

I love the way Steve Case quotes Brother Lawrence, and then uses modern terminology and examples to bring these beloved words to life for this generation. I have quoted this book to several people already, and I believe it will be a regular part of my devotional life for many years to come.

God is Here is a very clever take on the writings of Brother Lawrence. I good read that will keep you thinking and recognizing God's presence in every moment of every day. Highly Recommended!