The Real God: How He Longs For You To See Him by Chip Ingram is a study focusing on seven attributes of God - His goodness, sovereignty, holiness, wisdom, justice, love, and faithfulness. The purpose of this book is to shatter whatever preconceived notions you may have as to who or what God is, both in your life and in the universe, and to replace these concepts with a more accurate view of God, based on His holy scripture.
Ingram starts by explaining why and how so many of us have partial or inaccurate views of God, how this affects our world and those around us, and what we can do in order to try to realign our view with the view God wants us to have of Him. Ingram goes on to share personal stories, vivid examples, and lots of scriptural references to help us get a more refined and in-tune image, while stressing that we should not try to limit God to our earthly and human notions of what is - or is not - possible.
In this intense study, Ingram also weaves in suggestions, prayers, and action plans that will help us live out these seven main attributes in a more Christ-like and God-honoring fashion in our everyday lives. Our ultimate goal is to have a closer relationship with God, and honor him by assisting others in their relationship with him. This can only happen if we are open to seeing the real God - the God that is full of goodness, rules with absolute sovereignty, encompasses all holiness, has unlimited wisdom, yields perfect justice, and loves us unconditionally with endless faithfulness.
Each of the seven main attributes is designed to be a week-long focus, making this perfect for individual or small group study. This book is great for anyone who longs to have a closer personal relationship with God, or to better relate to, understand, and demonstrate any of the covered attributes. 5/5 stars.
*Disclaimer: I received a free print edition of this book from Baker Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
About the book's author (back cover copy): Chip Ingram is the senior pastor of Venture Christian Church in Los Gatos, California, and teaching pastor and CEO of Living on the Edge, an international teaching and discipleship ministry. A pastor for over thirty years, Chip has a unique ability to communicate truth and challenge people to live out their faith. Chip is the author of many books, including Culture Shock, The Real Heaven, The Invisible War, and Love, Sex, and Lasting Relationships. Chip and his wife, Theresa, have four grown children and nine grandchildren and live in California.
Purchase Links:
No comments:
Post a Comment