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154th out of 288 books
—
93 voters
Freedom of Simplicity: Finding Harmony in a Complex World
In this warm and inviting guide to creating a more human style of living, Foster guides readers on the simple path toward finding God by learning to listen, to give, to understand, to show compassion, and to accept what they already have.
Paperback, 272 pages
Published
August 30th 2005
by HarperOne
(first published December 5th 1997)
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This book, published in 1981, tackles the now very trendy topic of living simply. Before it was popular to talk about paring down (remember this was the decade of prosperity and soaring stocks) and being "green" was so "in", the author teaches these concepts (and others)all in the name of simplicity. Couched in spirituality, specifically Christianity, Foster offers the theories, benefits and suggestions to simplify our lives.
At the heart of his premise is to focus on only one pursuit: seeking G...more
At the heart of his premise is to focus on only one pursuit: seeking G...more
I'm surprised I haven't run across references to this book or author -- overall, it's an excellent book. Very little of it seems dated, even after 30 years. Foster approaches simple living from a Christian perspective -- when we have a singleminded focus on God, he says, our lives will take on an external simplicity. He then offers several very practical (though not easy!) suggestions for reducing personal consumption in order to increase giving to those in need of both physical and spiritual fo...more
Excellent book about living a simple life. Everyone living in western culture should consider these ideas.
Simplicity, says Foster, is far more than getting rid of household clutter. It starts with inner simplicity, a state of awareness of and communion with God. It means learning to have a single focus--hearing his voice and obeying. It entails simplicity and truthfulness of speech. It has as its goal the ability to serve others, to give more of one's money, time, and talents. Foster moves on from individual simplicity to simplicity in the church and then from there to its impact on the world. He re...more
Another book for Lenten reading from Quaker theologian Richard Foster. He lays out the Biblical argument for material and spiritual simplicity and offers examples from the early church fathers to 18th-20th century Quakers. He draws a distinction between walking the path of simplicity--which emphasizes great intention and focus--and being merely simplistic. He also offers guidelines on transforming society from the individual, congregational, and business and societal levels. Much of what is cont...more
Foster has given us a very compelling book that tackles a very complicated subject (a paradox which even he admits to). While still managing to leave the matter broad enough for widespread lifestyle and life mile-marker application, Foster thankfully does not shy from getting into nitty-gritty matters.
I would recommend this book to anyone and simply suggest they skim it as much as need be on account of several cheesy or boring parts. If you are ripe for the taking, this book will pull you into i...more
I would recommend this book to anyone and simply suggest they skim it as much as need be on account of several cheesy or boring parts. If you are ripe for the taking, this book will pull you into i...more
After being so inspired and challenged by Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth, I searched for anything else written by Richard J. Foster & stumbled upon this book. He had so much more to say on the spiritual discipline of simplicity that what was originally one chapter in the Celebration of Disciplines book became a book itself. I read it because I believed Richard Foster had experienced a level of spiritual depth that I could only dream of before now...I discovered I was...more
In this book from 1981 Foster writes about something that is trendy today, simplification. We find few specifics or prescriptions here, but a helpful book to think through how we should live. This book is ideal for those of us who are in the fight to use our resources to glorify Christ and advance His kingdom. Foster argues for the "Divine Center," meaning, in my vernacular, the Christ-centered life.
One of the most helpful chapters was "Simplicity Among the Saints"--a diachronic survey of simpli...more
One of the most helpful chapters was "Simplicity Among the Saints"--a diachronic survey of simpli...more
I've benefited from some of what Foster has written previously but this book was a great idea with poor execution. I think Foster is a wonderful person with a great ministry but I think his writing is just flat-out boring. In this book he comes off as someone who is straining to be a scholar, a mystic, and an ordinary guy. Have you ever sat under a really boring pastor who just throws out verse after verse of obscure bible passages and tells you what they mean in the Greek or Hebrew? Oh, then he...more
"A pivotal paradox for us to understand is that simplicity is both a grace and a discipline...There is no way that we can build up our willpower, put ourselves into this contortion or that, and attain it...It is a discipline because we are called to do something."
"The connection between obedience and blessing is genuinely significant, and the significance is not primarily in the notion of being rewarded for doing what is right. That has its place, but it is a minor place, almost a childish plac...more
"The connection between obedience and blessing is genuinely significant, and the significance is not primarily in the notion of being rewarded for doing what is right. That has its place, but it is a minor place, almost a childish plac...more
I read this book because I am interested in leading a simpler, less materialistic life. But what I actually liked about the book is the author's attitude toward scripture, prayer, and spirituality in general. The last third of the books seems to be specific to the leaders of Christian churches, but the first two-thirds were quite thought provoking. Foster is a Quaker, but I didn't realize this until I looked him up on Wikipedia. The book was first published in 1981, but I read the updated editio...more
I think this book does an excellent job of explaining why simplicity is an essential spiritual discipline.
Foster first gives what he considers to be the foundation for simplicity. In this section, he covers the complexity and paradoxical nature of simplicity, traces its biblical roots in the Old and New Testaments, and then finally gives examples of how simplicity has been manifested and taught by Christians throughout history.
After establishing the foundation for simplicity, Foster goes on to d...more
Foster first gives what he considers to be the foundation for simplicity. In this section, he covers the complexity and paradoxical nature of simplicity, traces its biblical roots in the Old and New Testaments, and then finally gives examples of how simplicity has been manifested and taught by Christians throughout history.
After establishing the foundation for simplicity, Foster goes on to d...more
I learned a great deal from this book. In some parts I felt that the author dwelt too much on a type of simplicity that is not practical for most to achieve, but overall this book really helped to change my perspective on materialism and taught me how to keep Christ at the center in my day to day living. I highly recommend it to those that are seeking to live for the kingdom and not be entangled by the cares of this world.
If you want a simpler life, or think that you should, this is the book to read.
Foster writes early on that he was very hesitant to write this book. His worry is that material simplicity, divorced from the other spiritual disciplines and Christ, becomes just a trapping legalism. Readers should have no reason to share his worry. Foster does an incredible job of building up what holistic simplicity really means (simplicity of faith, mind, time, possessions, etc.) and building everything on Christ....more
Foster writes early on that he was very hesitant to write this book. His worry is that material simplicity, divorced from the other spiritual disciplines and Christ, becomes just a trapping legalism. Readers should have no reason to share his worry. Foster does an incredible job of building up what holistic simplicity really means (simplicity of faith, mind, time, possessions, etc.) and building everything on Christ....more
I read this book about three years ago and remembered getting a lot out of it. To be honest, I'm not sure I enjoyed it as much the second time through, but it was still a worthwhile read.
I was unsure whether I should give it three or four stars. There are a few directions that the author goes that I'm not sure I totally agree with and I'm always nervous about that fine line between the idea of the gospel transforming society and the transformation of society becoming the gospel.
I ended up going...more
I was unsure whether I should give it three or four stars. There are a few directions that the author goes that I'm not sure I totally agree with and I'm always nervous about that fine line between the idea of the gospel transforming society and the transformation of society becoming the gospel.
I ended up going...more
While reading Freedom of Simplicity I was given a breath of fresh air, as well as the initiative to declutter my faithwalk. Whether it be encouraging advice in dealing with certain uncalled for feelings of guilt and restlessness or random creative advice in material concerns I was blessed with the wisdom that is shared. Foster is both practical and passionate as he shares with us his quest for the simple life.
When I was in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, the group's emphasis on simplicity as a lifestyle really appealed to me. This book follows in very much the same vein, exploring this concept from a spiritual, and specifically Christian, perspective--I didn't like some of what he had to say about evangelization (I hate that word anyway), but otherwise, sign me up for pretty much everything this guy is talking about to work toward a more just world from within our culture of excess.
He uses Scripture, history, and simple life examples to crack open our modern culture and its desires. Simplicity is not an end in itself, but a means to draw closer to God and to love his people. Challenges on every page - I will not go ten (fifteen?) years before I read (or listen to) this again. Probably should have read it before we just purchased our house.
Feb 16, 2012
Ann-Marie
rated it
4 of 5 stars
Recommends it for:
everyone
Shelves:
christian-spiritual,
2012
Richard Foster has in a very humble way written his thoughts about how to lead your life as a christian in a simple, grateful, humble and conscious way. It´s about solidarity with those not so rich, it´s about taking care of our world and it´s about freeing ourselves from the demands of this world, about how to be content with what we have, about trusting in God and about finding peace through a simpler way of life without isolating yourself from the world. I liked it. It´s of course a bit provo...more
A classic. After 30 years it's still a go to book. Amazing how little has changed culturally since Foster wrote this. I found his reflections on simplicity mostly encouraging, save some of the usual hagiography regarding seemingly perfect saints. Also his practical advice is good solid, well, practical advice. Worth the read.
Not quite as deep or as solid as Celebration of Discipline, but with some great gems of wisdom none the less. The book is copyrighted 1981 and there are some disappointingly out of date cultural and environmental references that distract a bit in a few places. However, there is some great practical advice on simplicity. The main thrust of the book is that in general "seek first the kingdom and His righteousness" leads to a simplicity of heart and of outward expression. There are a couple of shor...more
I've tried to read this book many times, but failed to get moving or interested. I imagine, as I look back on finally finishing it, that is was meant to read it now, not then. Very close to my heart and fitting to the patterns of growth in my life presently, this has been a joyful, challenging, exciting read.
Aug 06, 2011
Keith
added it
Definitely a must read! Great thoughts and ideas that motivate us toward living a simple life as Christian practice. It is the better life, a more freeing life, as well as a morally responsible life. It is also a process...
Apr 23, 2010
Ashley
rated it
5 of 5 stars
·
review of another edition
Recommended to Ashley by:
Josh Spilker
Shelves:
faith,
on-my-shelf
I learned that simplicity is a scriptural mandate, not just a great idea and that it begins and flows from an internal relationship with God. Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all the things will be added unto you. A must read for any Christian. Foster writes which such solid theology and such balance. He's not claiming a new law, but certainly a new way of life.
Apr 28, 2008
Daniel
rated it
5 of 5 stars
·
review of another edition
Recommends it for:
everyone except extreme capitialists, no, especially extreme capitialists
I have read and re-read this book since Beecroft turned me on to it. It is a convicting life-changer. The most powerful thing about it was one of the very first chapters. Foster did something that I had never seen done before. He placed every scripture, every word Christ uttered concerning wealth and possession end to end, slap together. I was stunned. Taken one at a time, I believe I was able to rationalize them away or dismiss His words or just slide over them with an easy, "but I'm not rich."...more
Loved his book, Celebration of Discipline, but this book, not so much. I felt like he had great ideas of how the world needs to be, but not many ideas for how I, as an individual can work toward simplicity. I guess I was looking for more practical advice or change on a smaller scale.
Freedom of Simplicity is one of those books that reminds you that not much is really 'needed' in this life. Simplicity is freedom and some may find that this book sets them free.
Absolutely fantastic. Richard Foster's brain is huge. Seriously.
This book could be a yearlong discussion group. There is that much information in it.
This book could be a yearlong discussion group. There is that much information in it.
First half is a too complex plan for simplicity...the second half is a very practical map for living a simpler life and it well worth the read...
classic foster. celebration of discipline changed my life and I suspect I will look back and say the same of this one.
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Richard J. Foster is the author of several bestselling books, including Celebration of Discipline, Streams of Living Water, and Prayer, which was Christianity Today's Book of the Year and the winner of the Gold Medallion Award from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. He is the founder of Renovaré, an intrachurch movement committed to the renewal of the Church in all her multifaceted...more
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“Jesus Christ and all the writers of the New Testament call us to break free of mammon lust and live in joyous trust...They point us toward a way of living in which everything we have we receive as a gift, and everything we have is cared for by God, and everything we have is available to others when it is right and good. This reality frames the heart of Christian simplicity. It is the means of liberation and power to do what is right and to overcome the forces of fear and avarice.”
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Apr 05, 2012 06:05am