The Porch and the Cross

In medieval times, Christian monks copied the Stoics' handbooks, and scholastic theologians mined their works for gems of natural moral wisdom. In the 1960s, cognitive psychotherapists turned to the Stoics to discover methods to conquer depression and anxiety. And there is still today much that Christians can learn from these "teachers on the porch" of antiquity.

"Kevin Vost has done his readers a tremendous service once again! The Porch and the Cross is suffused with wisdom that is relevant, timely, and brilliantly articulated. Read and be inspired."--KEVIN LOWRY, author of Faith at Work

Key takeaways:

• Stoic principles align strongly with Christian virtues like humility, patience, and moral courage.

• Daily discipline and self-examination help build stronger character and spiritual resilience.

• The Stoics (especially Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, Epictetus, and Musonius Rufus) offer powerful models for living virtuously under pressure.

• Stoic practices like focusing on what we can control support emotional steadiness and reduce anxiety.

• Christianity and Stoicism differ in ultimate purpose — salvation vs. inner virtue — but both aim toward a life of meaning.

• Integrating Stoic mindset with faith can help us respond to suffering with strength and grace.

• Ancient wisdom still offers clear direction for navigating the challenges of modern life.