Preliminary Stuff:

Book reviews are dangerous territory. You can read a few lines and determine whether or not the writer is kissing up, tearing down or being moody. If you’re like me, I (cynically) sometimes wonder, “what’s the angle here?” Thus, while I get asked to do book reviews from time to time, I seldom indulge.

However, Jud Wilhite has been a friend for more than 20 years and was one of the few people who knew me during the first stages of my ministry life. We’ve been able to stay connected over the years, and he’s someone whose experience and leadership I respect deeply. 

A few days ago, I received a copy of this book in the mail and a note from Jud asking me to post a little on Instagram (my first ever post btw) and just get the word out. He did not, (repeat…did NOT) ask me to do a review or shill for him. So, I read the book. In fact, I could not put it down.

I don’t have anything to gain here… Jud’s already an old friend, and he already gave me a book (sucker!). But if you want to keep reading, I’ll give you some more details on why I liked it.

Fundamentals:

I tend to avoid books that are just one leader’s opinion. Often, the writer can’t help but drive their own opinion out there without some background work to prop it up. But Jud dives deep into the promises of God. To me, this is an essential element to the authority of the writer as they speak into my life. Sound logic is a plus as well. Jud’s work on the promises of God reminds me of the philosophy and authority of Tozer. I like that.

But as a leader in our culture today, I also am on the lookout for books that are fun. I’m impressed at how Jud explains hard concepts in a fun, conversational tone that anyone can enjoy. To be honest, I found myself jealous at times of his gift. But, if you’ve read his other books, you know that this is just what he does.  I go from laughing at his description of his dog with the “smushed-up face” to being awed by the power of the Word of God. Jud laughs at himself and pushes us to admire God. I like that.

More Courage Please…

The craziness of our world right now is causing anxiety to fly off the charts. Books that get preachy and self-righteous right now seem to just create more stress. Blech. This book is about taking courage that despite the difficulty of the journey, God’s promises give us the courage and hope to keep going. THAT is something I really appreciate.

The basic concept of the book is that the promises of God are the way to experience the freedom God has for you.

Jesus declared that he came to give his people life to the fullest. You walk into that life by walking in the promises of God. They are the bedrock of not just the Christian life, but all of life. When you connect to his promises, you reconnect to your source of life and your life overflows. Love, joy and peace well up within you and spill out for others.¹

Jud addresses eight of these promises. And he starts with the one I think is most critical to the whole experience of a Christ-follower– God’s presence.

Shut up and take my money!

So, you’ve probably realized I’m not giving you a lot of detail about the book itself. But that is because I don’t want to ruin it for you. It’s FUN to read, and it’s encouraging! Let me just say that I’m buying several copies for people I love. I’m hoping it will bless you too.

¹pg. 17