Book: “Desiring God” by John Piper
Our church Community Group has been going through Desiring God by John Piper over the last few weeks. As we wrap up our final thoughts on this book as a group I am personally still reflecting on many of the topics that we discussed from this book. How often as believers do we experience true joy? The chief end of man is to glorify God by enjoying him forever. Piper addresses several key areas of Christian’s life including worship, prayer, the word, marriage, money, suffering, and missions to help equip you as you seek for your ultimate joy in God.
This book helps those who are wanting to strengthen their relationship with God plus it helps reveal why your deepest happiness can only be found in God. I am thankful for the opportunity to look into my own heart and think about my thoughts as well as my attitude towards God. It is a book that will make you evaluate your own walk with Christ as you consider the source of your joy.
In the book Piper points out that enjoying God can seem mutually elusive because we often do not believe that we were created to pursue pleasure. Somehow we believe the lie that “If it’s enjoyable or pleasurable, it’s probably not right.” One of the quotes that stuck in my mind from the book that originated with C.S. Lewis:
“We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about……when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.”
I am often content with the little joys of life when I know I was created for so much more. The back of the book includes a discussion guide if you would like to have a group discussion. I recommend reading it for yourself or sharing in the journey with others.
Free Audio Book: “Think” by John Piper
FREE Audio Book Download
For the month of October Christian Audio is offering a free download of their audio book . This month the audio book is “Think“ by John Piper.
John Piper’s newest book will help Christians think about thinking. Focusing on the life of the mind helps us to know God better, love him more, and care for the world. Along with an emphasis on emotions and the experience of God, we also need to practice careful thinking about God. Piper contends that “thinking is indispensable on the path to passion for God.” So how are we to maintain a healthy balance of mind and heart, thinking and feeling?
Piper urges us to think for the glory of God. He demonstrates from Scripture that glorifying God with our minds and hearts is not either-or, but both-and. Thinking carefully about God fuels passion and affections for God. Likewise, Christ-exalting emotion leads to disciplined thinking.
Readers will be reminded that “the mind serves to know the truth that fuels the fires of the heart.” insert from Christian Audio
If you have been wanting to listen to a book from John Piper throughout the day or while driving then this is a great opportunity to listen to the book for free when you download it from Christian Audio in October. Make sure to submit your order by October 31, 2011 to get your free audio book. Thanks Christian Audio!