Since it first appeared in English translation in 1962, has achieved classic status. In thirteen concise reflections Helmut Thielicke offers wise counsel on the difficulties—and vital importance—of maintaining one's spiritual health in the course of academic theological study. Thousands of beginning theological students over the years have had the opportunity to eavesdrop, as it were, on a practical theology seminar by one of the twentieth century's leading Christian thinkers. More experienced pastors and theologians have also returned to this volume again and again for the valuable insights that Thielicke brings to bear on their vocation.