Habits of the Mind: Intellectual Life as a Christian Calling

by James W. Sire

InterVarsity Press

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but it isn’t for everyone. Sire is addressing those who earnestly want to develop a Christian intellectual life. However, he cautions strongly against intellectualism for its own sake, stressing the need for a passion that simultaneously seeks to know truth and to attain holiness. He explains what this entails, relying extensively upon John Henry Newman (Anglican prelate who converted to Roman Catholicism) as a model. Sire does more than outline the goals; he also describes practical steps toward achieving these goals. Quoting generously from a host of intellectual and spiritual forebears, Sire draws on their wisdom and examples to help us in our growth. If you want to grow in the wisdom and knowledge of God, I highly recommend this book.