The introductory story in each chapter of Robert Jeffress' new book provide interesting illustrations of the ten strategies for thriving in a hostile world (book subtitle). While Courageous (Baker, 2020) does not necessarily include any new insights, the principles presented are consistently wise advice for Christian discipleship.

Courageous is easy to nicely organized, and appropriate and engaging for any individual, from teenagers to mature adults. I recommend it!

Note: This book was presented to the reviewer for no cost in exchange for an unbiased review through the Baker Books Bloggers program.

Courageous 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World is author Dr. Robert Jeffress’s blueprint for thriving as a Christian in today’s secular society. The ten strategies are spelled out succinctly, explained brilliantly, and punctuated with modern-day and biblical examples of courage.

The courageous acts taken from both modern and biblical times make for inspiring and motivating examples. Modern-day airline captain “Sully” Sullenberger’s successful plane landing in the Hudson River and Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition heroics rival that of biblical Joseph’s triumph over slavery and betrayal and Joshua who overcame fear with faith.

The strategies in Courageous are simple concepts that build upon each other to create a Christian foundation that’s certain to withstand the pressure of daily struggles. They cover the gamut from ‘Don’t Panic’ to ‘Victor Not Victim Mindset’ to ‘Learn From The Past’. If a reader desires to up the ante on their Christian lifestyle and is willing to apply the concepts and change their current thought process, this book has the potential to be a game-changer.

How this book affected me:
When I first read the subtitle, 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World, I assumed it was overselling a claim Jeffress wouldn’t be able to deliver. But he honestly nailed it. I was inspired by each of the strategies, plus I’m a sucker for real-life inspirational stories. Needless to say, the modern-day and biblical examples of courage really pushed this book over the top for me. On the flip side, I personally opposed the author's viewpoint in a few examples, but it didn’t detract from the overall message.

Who would enjoy this book:
I’ll start by saying that the views in this book oppose homosexuality and gay marriage, as most mainstream Christian books do. Although these aren’t main topics and are mentioned only briefly as examples, let the potential reader beware. On the whole, Courageous is a powerful motivator for living out life as a Christian. It would be inspiring for anyone who’s looking to bring their Christian walk to the next level and definitely for anyone in the midst of a struggle.

Our Christian Book Reviews:
The book reviews at Finding God Among Us focus on Christian books - adult and children, fiction and nonfiction. We're proud to be included in the Top 50 Christian Book Review Bloggers. I chose to read an ARC from Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group. This review is my honest opinion.