Spiritual Archives

C. S. Lewis’s Book Mere Christianity: Overview & Takeaways

What is C. S. Lewis’s book Mere Christianity about? Why is it so enduring? C. S. Lewis explains and defends Christian beliefs to a skeptical modern audience through a series of essays—originally delivered as a series of radio addresses in the United Kingdom between 1941 and 1944. Broadcast to a population in the midst of World War II, Lewis’s discussions struck a chord with a wide audience. Keep reading for an overview of the book that covers Lewis’s views on moral laws and their Creator, the Christian understanding of God, Christian virtues, answering God’s call to virtue, and the example

Follow the Example of Jesus Because It’s Uniquely Perfect

Is Jesus divine? How does the dual nature (humanity and divinity) of Jesus work? What difference does this dual nature make for people? C. S. Lewis argues that the Christian faith requires, not simply surrendering to God’s moral laws, but following a perfect example. Lewis writes that only Jesus is capable of setting this perfect example of surrender because he is both human and divine. Keep reading for an exploration of Lewis’s intriguing argument for why we should follow the example of Jesus.

How Extreme Control of Breathing Affects the Body

What role does breathing play in the regulation of bodily functions? How can the control of breathing be used to tap into the body’s latent capabilities? As scientists work to better understand the ways that breath regulates our body’s functions, practitioners of ancient traditions have used breath to control the body for thousands of years. In many cultures, breath is believed to be the energy of life, an energy that can be manipulated to spectacular effect. In this article, we’ll explore the nature of these beliefs using the example of Swami Rama, whose amazing, breath-induced control of his body was

What Matters to God? A Response From C. S. Lewis

What matters to God? What is God chiefly concerned with? In Mere Christianity, C. S. Lewis asserts that we should cultivate Christian virtue. He argues that virtue is essential to human thriving. Most importantly, though, God cares about the kind of people we are. Here’s C. S. Lewis’s take on what matters to God and why that should matter to us.

What Is the Secret to Happiness? 3 Points of View

We take it as a given that we want to be happy, but what does attaining happiness entail in practice? Is there a universal secret to happiness? Is happiness a realistic goal to even reach for? Or is it like perfection—an unattainable ideal that you can strive toward but never achieve? Happiness is an elusive concept that is assigned many different meanings. But there is one thing that is certain: Happiness is a highly desired state that everyone is striving for in one way or another. Perspectives on what the pursuit of happiness entails in practice, however, vary widely, depending

Submit Yourself to God to Pursue His Standard (C. S. Lewis)

What does God require of people? How can God’s high standard be reached? C. S. Lewis argues that God calls you to be virtuous, and he explains how you can answer this call. He describes his conception of God’s high moral standard and how you must submit yourself to God to pursue it. He also explains how this decision will change you and why your intentions matter. Read more to understand the importance of submitting yourself to God and what difference it makes.

Daily Mantras and Affirmations to Reprogram Your Mind

What’s the purpose of a mantra? What are the psychological benefits of reciting daily mantras? A mantra is a word or phrase used to help train the mind to be in the present and instill a certain state of mind. Reciting or meditating on mantras can help you reprogram your mind from life’s conditioning and limiting beliefs. Here’s how reciting mantras can help you reprogram your mind along with some examples of daily mantras you can use for your practice.

Why Is Virtue Important? 3 Reasons Why It Matters (C. S. Lewis)

Why is virtue important? What difference does it make if you practice Christian virtues? What purposes do they fulfill in your life? Often, people view virtue as a killjoy, holding us back from fun and enjoyment. C. S. Lewis sees it differently. He asserts that, if we truly want to get the most out of life, we’ll practice Christian virtue. Continue reading to understand Lewis’s argument on the importance of virtue.

C. S. Lewis: Humility Is the Most Important Virtue

What’s the best virtue? What’s the worst sin? Why? According to C. S. Lewis, humility is the most important Christian virtue. Its opposite—pride—is the greatest sin. In his classic book, Mere Christianity, Lewis explains why pride is so dangerous. Keep reading for a brief discussion of humility and pride from Lewis’s perspective, along with an explanation of the difference between pride and self-esteem, as understood by psychologists.

The Virtue of Moderation: C. S. Lewis on Sex & Other Appetites

What exactly is moderation? When should we practice moderation, and when should we practice abstinence instead? God calls on everyone to choose good over evil, but how do we know what is “good”? In Mere Christianity, C. S. Lewis argues that Christianity instructs us to be good by following Christian virtues, or moral principles that can be applied to a wide range of situations. One of these is moderation. Continue reading to understand Lewis’s take on the virtue of moderation, including his perspective on sexuality.