Introduction
The Text of the Rules
Prologue: What Is Discernment of Spirits?
When a Person Moves Away from God (Rule 1)
When a Person Moves Toward God (Rule 2)
Spiritual Consolation (Rule 3)
Spiritual Desolation (Rule 4)
Spiritual Desolation: A Time for Fidelity (Rule 5)
Spiritual Desolation: A Time for Initiative (Rule 6)
Spiritual Desolation: A Time for Resistance (Rule 7)
Spiritual Desolation: A Time for Patience (Rule 8)
Why Does God Allow Spiritual Desolation? (Rule 9)
Spiritual Consolation: A Time to Prepare (Rule 10)
Spiritual Consolation and Spiritual Desolation: Finding Our Balance (Rule 11)
Standing Firm in the Beginnings (Rule 12)
Breaking the Spiritual Silence (Rule 13)
Strengthening the Weak Point (Rule 14)
Conclusion: Setting Captives Free
In an extraordinary sequence of quieting verse and meditative writing, Joyce Rupp reflects on Sophia -- Feminine Wisdom in the Hebrew Scriptures. Each healing reflection invites us to dip into Sophia's quiet guidance and come away refreshed. Sophia emerges as a comforting presence in the process of examining our old beliefs, left-over hurts, self-acceptance, and connections with the earth. Accompanying mandalas and suggestions for spiritual exercises and journaling make this book especially valuable for personal meditation and growth, and as a group resource/study guide.