Book Review: "Simply Jesus" by Joe Stowell

"Simply Jesus" by Joe Stowell was an incredible book to read that really challenged and encouraged by heart all at the same time. Stowell kept the book simple, gave short stories/examples with each chapter, and really just wrote in a way that made me feel like I was sitting in his living room, drinking coffee and listening to truths he has learned (and continues to learn) in life.


The short description of the book captures the heart of it well:
"Simply Jesus. What would it mean to fix our attention fully on the Person of Christ? To approach Him apart from systems, formulas, religion, and well-meaning Christian culture? To see Jesus Himself? And how would that change us? Moody Bible College President Joseph Stowell ponders these probing questions -- showing through dramatic stories and surprising insights how believers can experience significant life-change as they encounter Christ -- our model of understanding, love, and courage, today. Simply Jesus identifies experiences that can awaken the realization of our basic need to focus on Him ... like temptation, trouble, and surrender. A book intended for both spiritual seekers and Christians who are ready for a fresh, personal encounter with the Savior their heart searches for. Clear, stylish typeset, with user-friendly links to referenced Scripture."


While the description of the book sounded great, and I have enjoyed hearing Joe Stowell speak in the past, I also had reservations about how simple the book would actually stay... As a busy mom with a toddler & baby, I crave to read a book that continues to challenge me in life, but in reality I don't have time to read really long books right now (oh how I miss those days!). "Simply Jesus" was a perfect match for me in my season of life because the author truly kept it simple, keeps directing the reader to Jesus, included Scripture verses in the book so I didn't have to go look up the passage mentioned, and kept the ten chapters short & sweet. I could read a chapter in a few minutes, then ponder what I had read all day long. Several of the chapters gave me enough food for thought that I asked my husband to read them so we could discuss it.


I would definitely say this was a time when the description of the book was spot on. Through interacting with what I was reading, my heart was encouraged in new ways to focus on Jesus in the midst of whatever my day might hold (and as the mom of two small kids, I NEVER know what's coming next! :-p) 


If you're looking for a simple, refreshing book that encouraged your heart as it longs for God, I highly recommend "Simply Jesus". You won't regret it, and most likely will find yourself turning back to re-read a chapter. I already have.



Don't forget, if you rank my review in the little box below, you will be entered in a drawing to win your own copy of "Simply Jesus". So take a moment and click some stars!



* I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest review, as part of their Blogging for Books program. All views expressed are strictly my own.