31 May Max Lucado Book Reviews

I have several Max Lucado books as I find his conversational writing style to be simple to follow, and mostly because he has the gift of the Holy Spirit and his writing manages to break through my walls. When I am down – and in the wilderness – I find that I need books and encouragement that is approachable, honest and raw which are all elements that Pastor Lucado brings to each and every one of his books. I recently received two of his books from our partners Struik Christian Media that I feel are great additions to any book shelf.

Jesus: The God Who Knows Your Name

I have recently been thinking a lot about the idea that we glorify the people in the bible far too much – bear with me on this thought – but sometimes I wonder how little impact I have had on this world, and can’t help but fear that I will leave this earth having accomplished very little. Yes, I realise that not everyone shares these thoughts, and I understand that sometimes, these thoughts are a result of my own depression and anxiety, but the one, true way, that I have overcome these feelings of doubts is by humanising the people we read about in the Bible. If we look at each person – hero and non-heroes – we quickly begin to see that they are so much like you and me, that they were living their lives, facing debt, infertility, depression. They were going through the motions of life just as we do – and now, hundreds of years later, we still speak of them and hold their stories as slithers of hope – what if we are the next person to be written about? What if we were the generation that believed so boldly, that they wrote stories about us?

That being said, the idea that Jesus walked among us still feels too far for me to fully comprehend. Perhaps this is not the discussion we typically hear from Christians, but I can’t help but feel that while I believe in Jesus Christ, there’s still this barrier in my understanding of how can someone so amazing, so selfless, love a person like me? And I think that’s what Pastor Lucado has been able to achieve in his writing. His book is so insightful and encouraging – it gives an in-depth understanding of grace, and what it means to be known and loved by Jesus, the Redeemer while explaining what it must have been like to walk among Jesus.

The God of the universe knows your name. He has walked your streets. Jesus. Perhaps you’ve heard about him, studied him, or prayed to him. But do you know him? This is the question Max poses to the reader.

Divided into six sections (Immanuel, Friend, Teacher, Miracle Worker, Lamb of God, Returning King) each containing multiple chapters, this book not only describes the person of Jesus but also eloquently dives into the heart of Jesus towards the reader.

By exploring Jesus’ life death and resurrection as well as specific details like how he interacted with his friends and his enemies, what he did with time alone, how he acted at a party, this compilation from Max Lucado, now with original never-before-read content from Max, gives readers the chance to become more familiar with the man at the center of the greatest story ever told.

By learning more about the person Jesus was and is, the reader will understand more clearly the person they were created to be. Max writes “Don’t settle for a cursory glance or a superficial understanding. Look long into the heart of Christ and you’ll see it. Grace and life. Forgiveness of sin. The defeat of death. This is the hope he gives. This is the hope we need.”

Get your copy of this book from all leading book stores including CUM Books.

You Are Never Alone: Trust in the Miracle of God’s Presence and Power 

Just like his other books, this one is written with sincerity and understanding, making it impactful with the relatability that it offers. I loved reading through this book, especially when I was looking for hope and encouragement. I love the ease in which Pastor Lucado shares stories; some that are his own, and then, of course, others that he has gathered over the years. I think that’s what makes his books that much better – we find a little bit of ourselves reflected in those pages. This read makes another great gift for a special friend or family member and shows us how to apply scripture to our daily lives. As I said before, he breaks down all barriers and makes scripture easy to relate to, providing a much deeper understanding and illustrating how we can apply God’s promises to our lives, by finding hope in our trials, darkness, and despair.

You Are Never Alone is available in a six-part study that ties in with videos, making it great for group studies.

In You Are Never Alone, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado will show you that you’re stronger than you think because God is nearer than you know. You’ll be comforted by the living, loving, miracle-working God who doesn’t think twice about stepping into the thorny thickets of your world to lift you out.

When life feels depleted, does God care?
When I hear him say “No”, does he have a response?
I’m facing an onslaught of challenges, will he help?
When life grows dark and stormy, does he notice?
I’m facing the fear of death, will he help me?

The answer in the life-giving miracles in the Gospel of John is a resounding yes. Do you know them? Do you believe in a Jesus who has, not only power, but a passionate love for the weak and wounded of the world? Do you think he cares enough about you to find you in the lonely waiting rooms, rehab centers and convalescent homes of life?

Get your copy of this book from all leading book stores including CUM Books.

Megan Kelly Botha

I’m a coffee-wielding mood reader and romance book collector who may or may not have a slight addiction to buying books. I read a variety of sub-genres within romance, including rom-coms, dark romance, and fantasy. I love sharing my thoughts on books, whether it’s through book reviews, quotes, or recommendations inspired by my current reads. Through my romance book blog, Literary Inspired, I aim to provide in-depth book reviews, curated reading recommendations, and exclusive author promotions. I’m passionate about supporting indie authors and sharing my latest book discoveries with others. When I’m not reading, you can find me cheering on my favorite football team and F1 drivers, crafting, baking with my kids or playing with my pets.

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