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When Life's Not Working: 7 Simple Choices for a Better Tomorrow
Life is hard--for everyone. No matter how gifted or fortunate, everyone will experience some level of disappointment in difficult classes, jobs, relationships, and losses. But by following basic disciplines anyone can experience accomplishment, freedom, and ease in navigating through life's daily challenges.
In this positive, insightful book, Bob Merritt describes a set of universal principles that work for everyone in every stage of life, showing that what we do today determines who we become tomorrow. Anyone who has experienced pain or confusion from lost opportunities, broken relationships, or a nagging sense of emptiness will treasure this book that shows them that the best of life has not passed them by.
In this positive, insightful book, Bob Merritt describes a set of universal principles that work for everyone in every stage of life, showing that what we do today determines who we become tomorrow. Anyone who has experienced pain or confusion from lost opportunities, broken relationships, or a nagging sense of emptiness will treasure this book that shows them that the best of life has not passed them by.
- GenresSelf Help
253 pages, Hardcover
First published February 15, 2011
10 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 2, 2011
I picked up this book because I felt obligated, not really because I was interested. You see, Bob Merritt is the pastor at my church so I felt like I needed to read the book just to be supportive. After all, I had probably heard all of the stories and why read a book called "When Life's not Working" when life IS working? But this book turned out to be truly inspiring. And although I was familiar with some of his stories there was much more that I wasn't familiar with. And, to be honest, I needed some of the old stories as reminders! This book honestly motivated me to put the book down and go for a run, and that is saying a lot. I hate to run, especially on a cold dreary day, which we have had quite a few of this spring. But Bob's strategies (Don't Quit, Do a Few Things Well, Be Prepared, Increase Your Consistency, Use Small Tugs, Stretch Yourself and Practice Self Control) can be applied to any and everything in life. Even if life is working there is always room for improvement. Looking back on his 7 strategies I can't even say for sure which section inspired me to run in 40 degree weather, there are so many that could apply to my struggle with exercise and motivation and, really, many other areas in my day to day situations. Why does it surprise me that Bob speaks to the real issues in my life? He always does but, somehow, this book is better than a 30 minute service. Maybe because I can reread it or maybe because I can put it down when he isn't speaking to my heart and pick it back up when I know I am open to hearing the truths he is sharing. Maybe both. Then too, there is the added benefit of sharing it with others (with maybe a few passages strategically highlighted). This is the best book of this genre I have read in a long time!
May 20, 2011
Starting 5/16/2011.
Wow I really enjoyed this book!
Recommend.
I liked his mixture of life stories, Biblical stories, and info from other authors and people. His book has caused me to get serious about thinking about the 5 Big Values in my life, and etc.Bob is so honest about his life and shares perhaps a LOT of his 'darker' side. But he is goofy and easy to read/listen too which makes the experience enjoyable. I hope this one sticks with me and help me gain some ground in my life!
Wow I really enjoyed this book!
Recommend.
I liked his mixture of life stories, Biblical stories, and info from other authors and people. His book has caused me to get serious about thinking about the 5 Big Values in my life, and etc.Bob is so honest about his life and shares perhaps a LOT of his 'darker' side. But he is goofy and easy to read/listen too which makes the experience enjoyable. I hope this one sticks with me and help me gain some ground in my life!
December 31, 2012
This is probably the best book that I read in 2012. The title is a bit misleading. Anyone would profit by reading this book. Bob Merritt is so real you feel like you've known him forever.
June 3, 2011
Pastor Bob's first book was I would say a success. Bob does a good job balancing humorous anecdotal stories with in your face Bible that keeps both "new" and "seasoned" Christians entertained. Being a born and bred Minnesotan I enjoyed the close to home references that Bob uses to get some of his points across. After reading his book I feel more motivated to lead a disciplined, purposeful life than I ever have. Pastor Bob really lays out the benefits and positive reasons why leading a disciplined, structured life is the way that brings success and joy to life. After reading Bob's book, I really want to find my own "Hog Hole Heaven"
My only complaint is towards the later half of the book the chapters seem to get long and the book feels like it beings to lose the spark that it had in the first half. Otherwise, I highly recommend it!
My only complaint is towards the later half of the book the chapters seem to get long and the book feels like it beings to lose the spark that it had in the first half. Otherwise, I highly recommend it!
September 3, 2020
A friend bought this for me and I was immediately offended by her pick for me. I looked at the cover and thought, " but my life IS working." But she is my best friend so I said thank you and decided to read it for her. 5 pages later I was all in. This book isn't about your life being a mess, it's about living your best life. It was a life changing book for me. I buy it for everyone. I love it!!!! Bob is amazing at drawing you into a real life story and relating it to scripture in a way that makes it so relevant you'd swear He wrote it for you. (I had been to Bob's church and loved it. I now belong to it and even had the privilege of being baptized by him.) this book is about being content and faithful where you are. You will love it!
October 5, 2012
This book is very well-written and a great example of how God has a presence in our everyday life. Pastor Bob shares real life examples which help to demonstrate that not everyone is perfect but through a life led by God we will be on the right path. I found each chapter easy to relate to and underlined so many passages that I will come back to one day.
For anyone struggling with a current situation or to find their way in life, this is a great read. And even for those who aren't struggling, this is a good book to help answer questions and provide guidance.
For anyone struggling with a current situation or to find their way in life, this is a great read. And even for those who aren't struggling, this is a good book to help answer questions and provide guidance.
May 26, 2011
THis book is Life Changing. Though many of these chapters have material taken out of his messages at Eaglebrook church, it's not one of those "chapters based on sermons were have heard" books. Bob Merritt discusses the high and low points of his life, lessons he has learned and what we can take away from these situations. When I am struggling or having a hard time I find myself often turning back to these chapters. Highly recommended book!
January 9, 2019
This was a very timely read for me. After leaving my job of 5 years due to poor management and feeling very frustrated, God used this book to get my attention and show me areas in myself where I contributed to the situation. I’ve been doing a lot of self reflection and I’m looking forward to being changed, challenged and stepping out of my comfort zone into a greater faith. To being more disciplined, my list of self improvement is quite lengthy.
I love how relatable this book is and there’s no sugar coating. He says it the way it is, all fingers point back to self. I would highly recommend this book.
I love how relatable this book is and there’s no sugar coating. He says it the way it is, all fingers point back to self. I would highly recommend this book.
June 1, 2019
Well mostly it's Meritt's own life story interspersed with Biblical texts. Did enjoy it though. Learned some very valuable lessons. Merritt's story did gave me encouragement.
February 16, 2026
a must read. I already liked Bob being from eagle brook but reading this book really related to me and helped me grow in my faith
June 28, 2014
Disclaimer- right away I want to say that I attend Pastor Bob's church. And I really appreciate his wisdom as a pastor and leader and love him for it.
If you want a taste of what 30,000 of us get every weekend from Bob I recommend reading this book. It is filled with Bob's antidotes about his kids, hunting, fishing, and pastor-ing, many of which are entertaining and all of which lead into a parable of sorts to a point he is trying to make.
I think the title has changed for the 2nd edition of the book, but in any case, you should read this book regardless of the stage of life you are in and how well it is "working". Some concepts, like "Give it 20 years" can apply to a variety of aspects even if they are going smoothly for you.
Disclaimer for my fellow EBC-ers: Some of this material is probably going to sound familiar because a lot of the topics have been covered in sermons before. I confess that I started this book during the "Simplify" series at the beginning of the year and I had to set Bob's book aside for a while since some things were TOO similar and I was just getting annoyed at the repetition. "I know, Bob, you told me about $6 lattes this weekend!" that sort of thing. EBC ers should definitely still read this book! Just be aware. The current series doesn't overlap so now is a great time to pick it up!
If you want a taste of what 30,000 of us get every weekend from Bob I recommend reading this book. It is filled with Bob's antidotes about his kids, hunting, fishing, and pastor-ing, many of which are entertaining and all of which lead into a parable of sorts to a point he is trying to make.
I think the title has changed for the 2nd edition of the book, but in any case, you should read this book regardless of the stage of life you are in and how well it is "working". Some concepts, like "Give it 20 years" can apply to a variety of aspects even if they are going smoothly for you.
Disclaimer for my fellow EBC-ers: Some of this material is probably going to sound familiar because a lot of the topics have been covered in sermons before. I confess that I started this book during the "Simplify" series at the beginning of the year and I had to set Bob's book aside for a while since some things were TOO similar and I was just getting annoyed at the repetition. "I know, Bob, you told me about $6 lattes this weekend!" that sort of thing. EBC ers should definitely still read this book! Just be aware. The current series doesn't overlap so now is a great time to pick it up!
May 29, 2015
The author is new to me but his candor is refreshing and makes his words even more believable and doable. The ideas presented in the book were inspirational and could be applied to everyday life very easily.
If you've ever felt "Geez, how did my life end up here?" this book is not meant to be a "quick fix" solution for your life. The focus is on 'disciplines' and sticking with it. Has some valid points - It combines real life, relatable stories with challenging topics everyone faces. Its a fast read.
These are the three choices that stand out for me:
* Give it one more day, don't quit
* Manage your load and do a few things well
* Try things you can't do so that you attempting to do something that is clearly beyond your abilities, and then you stretch yourself.
There are plenty of Biblical examples and passages that are expounded upon - He pulls out a number of Biblical cases of "do this, not that". Being a person who believes on karma and morals, I was simply amazed how they were correlated and translated.
Would I recommend?:
Love the humor, and storytelling! Highly recommend!
If you've ever felt "Geez, how did my life end up here?" this book is not meant to be a "quick fix" solution for your life. The focus is on 'disciplines' and sticking with it. Has some valid points - It combines real life, relatable stories with challenging topics everyone faces. Its a fast read.
These are the three choices that stand out for me:
* Give it one more day, don't quit
* Manage your load and do a few things well
* Try things you can't do so that you attempting to do something that is clearly beyond your abilities, and then you stretch yourself.
There are plenty of Biblical examples and passages that are expounded upon - He pulls out a number of Biblical cases of "do this, not that". Being a person who believes on karma and morals, I was simply amazed how they were correlated and translated.
Would I recommend?:
Love the humor, and storytelling! Highly recommend!
January 4, 2016
I picked up this book several years ago as I thought the title was interesting. I started reading it but did not get that far. I picked it up again several months ago looking for sermon ideas. Oh, my oh my what a hidden gem it was. This by far being one of the best books and resources I have found for sermon seeds for my congregation who really needed to hear these things. Great read. Great words. I have ordered Bob's other two books. I can only hope they are as good as this one has been. If they are half as good I will be a happy pastor.
Bob thanks for your words of wisdom and the elegant way you express them.
Bob thanks for your words of wisdom and the elegant way you express them.
July 7, 2016
It is easy to see why the congregation Bob pastors is growing to such proportions. His life experiences mixed with Scripturally accurate applications of God's Word make this a good read for all people. Men will relate to this "Man's Man" telling of adventures in the Great Boundary Waters of Northern Minnesota and their hearts will be challenged to grow in thier walk with Gog.
February 5, 2016
loved it
November 22, 2017
This is a book with a Christian view of handling troubling times. When things are not going well, take a step back and get in touch with your Creator.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews