Spiritual Direction: Wisdom for the Long Walk of Faith

I enjoyed this book as I've enjoyed much of Houses' writing. It is sweet and simple. A good way to explore deepening intimacy with God.The exercises are familiar and not hard, but we are challenged to slow down. Something hard to do in the 21st century.Approach the exercises with an open and thoughtful mind and heart and see where God might lead you.

The book caused me to look into going into a deeper life with Jesus

I am a Henri Nouwen fan. His insights and ability to communicate always speak to me. This is book is based on Henri's material ... but it is a compilation. In the back of my mind I always had a small question of whether this was really Henri's words. As much as I liked the content, I guess I would have preferred to have Henri's material quoted rather than ghost written.

I was satisfied with my purchase

I enjoyed the book, but one needs to know right off the bat that this is a compilation of unpublished texts and letters and not a book written by this author. That is why I deducted one star. One can never be sure when the biases of a compiler enter into the selection of texts and sometimes the "author" ends up "saying" something he never meant. Nevertheless, I think that the compilers have done a good job at selecting text that resonate with my readings of this fine author.The title is misleading. While one could argue that it is meant to be an act of spiritual direction to the reader, I found it to be reflections on Nouwen's own spiritual journey. It certainly is not a text on how to be a spiritual director.Overall a good book -- I enjoyed reading it.

A compilation of writings, well edited, that communicate Nouwen’s heart on spiritual formation and movements of the heart. If you care to go deeper, read this, then find a soul friend who will tell you the truth.

I am interested in becoming a spiritual director and wanted to find some good books on the subject and this book has not failed in bringing me the insight I was looking for in this field. I am not even half way into the book and I can't rave enough of the inapiration of right to the point knowledge of Henri Nouwen on the topic of spiritual direction. So much wisdom in such a small 200 page book. I love it!

A most fascinating and insightful read. Taking the journey of spiritual discipline requires discipline and perseverance. This book will be of great help to anyone who is willing to start the journey.

This compilation of various of Nouwen's works is imminently readable. The authors have done a wonderful job of stitching it together. Nouwen's words are always challenging and thought provoking. Wisdom is imparted but not on a spoon, it will come only after ongoing and serious soul searching.

As a fan of Henri Nouwen, I was a little perturbed that on receiving the book it had been produced after his death and thus was the product not of his own crafting but rather those who had worked closely with him. However, I should not have been concerned. The style keeps closely to that which I have become familiar in the way that Henri Nouwen expressed his insights and his spirituality, exposing his vulnerability but inspiring our own life journey. Most of the book is said to come from his personal notes. I have already given the book as a gift to one 80 year old friend from a traditional faith background who has found the layout of the book such an encouragement in the reading of an individual chapter, contemplation and reflection in the form of taking an individual "retreat". It has been inspirational to the deepening and maturing of her faith.

Amazing full of insight and relatable. Best book I have read for a long time, I have purchased additional copies for friends

This book contains a wealth of encouragement to anyone who is struggling with prayer and spiritual direction. It is written for Directors and seekers alike. It also has plenty of ideas for moving deeper into prayer and contemplation. The chapters take one question at a time and enable the reader to move on quickly or slowly according to individual need. It encourages every reader to find a spiriual director to share the journey, and has plenty of useful information for those who are already active in this ministry.

A beautiful book on intimacy with Jesus. A discipleship book really. If you do not feel connected to Jesus - this will help you to carve out room in your life to begin an intimate relationship with Him. And He will turn up!