instrument used in training spiritual directors, was used to examine the intrapersonal,
interpersonal, structural, and geo-environmental dimensions of his life. Across each
dimension numerous expressions of his hunger and longing for the mystical presence
of God was evident. The uniqueness of Ambrose’s spiritual practices was
demonstrated by his annual retreats, yet he was as likely to taste the ravishing joy of
God when he gathered with others in private fasts. He practiced spiritual duties with
an intensity that both convicted and comforted him with the taste of heaven. On the
night of May 20, 1651 Ambrose attempts to put in words his experience of God:
In the Evening I proceeded in the Common places and uses of sweet passages
that melted my heart; of sensible comforts, and of places hard to be
understood: In the first my heart was sweetly melted, in the second cheered,
in the conclusion the Lord struck me with a reverence of his Majesty and
presence, filled my soul with spiritual refreshings, inlarged my heart with
praises of him, and desireslove so many sweet visits, to live unto him, who hath given me in this time of and kisses of his mouth. Allelujah. (^234)
Unlike some of his fellow Puritans Ambrose did not suffer from anxiety, wondering if
he had received God’s assurance. Instead his many “sweet visits” confirmed to him
God’s love. However, that did not eliminate all the struggles of his soul. Through the
Holy Spirit he discovered increased freedom in dealing with doubt, anger, and
financial fears though pride continued to be his greatest challenge. The combination
of his retreats and struggles of his soul created attentiveness to God as well as a
sensitive heart for others. This prepared him as a physician of the soul to guide those
in need and thereby assist others who were struggling to experience God more freely
and fully in their lives. Throughout his experiences the importance of Scripture was
evident, whether Ambrose was meditating by himself, using it to encourage others or
preaching to his congregation. Closely connected with Scripture was his awareness
of and comfort drawn from God’s providence amid the uncertainties, battles, and
(^234) Ambrose, Media (^) (1652), 74. cf. (^) Media (1657), 89.