Analysis Of Sacred Pathways By Gary Thomas

“Sacred Pathways,” by Gary Thomas is an enlightening book which describes nine ways humans can draw closer to God. Thomas explains many people are drawn to God through outward influences such as nature or their own five senses. Others are inspired more by routine and structure, interaction, experiences, or care-taking roles. Still other people are more inclined to feel closer to God through quiet and withdrawal, intense focus, or knowledge-seeking. Thomas explains one person may identify with multiple pathways and may even expand or change pathways over time (Thomas 23-30) . In my personal life, I find myself drawn to God via the Intellectual pathway. I love to read the Bible and research the root words in certain passages. Detailed …show more content…
7-9) . Intellectuals can find a closeness with God in learning more about His ways and gaining knowledge. Psalm 9 can encourage Activists in their relationship with God, speaking about just causes and divine judgement (v. 3-10) . Activists can feel close to God when fighting for truth and good. Psalm 63 can encourage the soul of the Contemplative, praising the Lord in earnest (v. 1-5) . Contemplatives can desire a path of adoration and love of God the Father. Psalm 42 can fill the heart and mind of the Caregiver, emphasizing God’s care for each of his beloved people (v. 1-3) . Caregivers can draw closer to God when pouring into others and this psalm speaks that same language. Psalm 37:7 and Psalm 16:9 can speak to the heart of an Ascetic. These verses encourage Ascetics in the quiet and simple life that can build a deeper relationship with God. Psalm 96 can set Naturalist heart to song, rejoicing in all of God’s creation (v. 11-13) . Naturalists can see the glory and majesty of nature and feel a closeness with God the Creator. In David’s writings, we see so many sacred ways to encounter and grow in relationship with