Tuesday, September 15, 2020

You Are Never Alone by Max Lucado

Lucado is a master communicator. Even though he has written scores of books, this is another excellent one. He gives us lessons on many of Jesus' miracles, retelling the events. He adds other stories too with some from his own life. There is an extensive section of questions for reflection so this would make a good book for personal journaling or group discussion.

Here are a couple of insights from the book that made a big impression on me. When the royal official came to Jesus to request his son be healed, he traveled from Capernaum to Cana. (John 4:46-54) That was 18 miles. When Jesus told him the son was well, he still had to go back to see it. Granted, he was met part way with good news but he still had to travel hours believing before seeing. What a lesson for someone between Cana and Capernaum, waiting to see the answer God promised.

Another insightful lesson comes from the man beside the pool, waiting 38 years for healing. Could he have done something in all those years to move him closer to the healing pool or was he satisfied in his condition? Lucado asks, “What can I do today that will take me in the direction of a better tomorrow?” (410/1631)

And one more insight. John recorded miracles not only to affirm Jesus' deity but to assure us of the presence of God and that God cares for us. “...[E]very one of Jesus' miracles was an act of kindness. Someone benefited.” (96/1631)

This is a very encouraging book. It is full of encouraging stories and lessons. I highly recommend it.

You can watch the book trailer, listen to seven days of devotionals, and join an online study here.

My rating: 5/5 stars.

Max Lucado entered ministry in 1978 and has served churches in Miami, Florida; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and San Antonio, Texas. He currently serves as teaching minister of Oak Hills Church in San Antonio. He 140 million books in print. You can find out more at www.MaxLucado.com.

Thomas Nelson, 240 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

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