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Average Joe: God's Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men
“What is happening to my life?” Have you ever honestly asked yourself that question? As young boys, we dreamed of being pilots, firefighters, doctors, and cowboys. Now we’re older, with a wonderful wife and kids, as well as a mortgage, a minivan, and a fulfilling but not-so-glamorous job. What happened? All the dreams that once inspired us have evaporated into traffic jams, computer screens, bills, and deadlines. Why is life so ordinary? If you think your life is nothing special, take a look at it through God’s eyes. The revealing truth is that God chooses “ordinary,” faithful men to do His most important work—regular guys like Peter the fisherman, David the shepherd, Stephen the waiter, Gideon the farmer, Paul the tentmaker, and even Jesus the carpenter. In this engaging book, Troy Meeder blends stories about biblical characters and contemporary men to show that an “average-Joe” life, an “ordinary” existence, shapes a man’s integrity, moral stability, resolve, and strength. The world desperately needs an army of “average Joes.” Like you. “Troy Meeder’s heart-felt accounts from both his own personal experience and those of friends and family touch a raw nerve in your soul…. Average Joe reminds us that living a life focused on faith, family, and friends is what makes a man exceptional.”—Rick Wiggers, average Joe and account manager Includes a study guide for use by men’s groups.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2011
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December 1, 2013
I can understand why the reviews for this book seem polarized. I can also understand why so few have wanted to read it. I just tried to give my copy to my dad, who was repulsed by the title and coughed up all kinds of excuses as to why he didn’t have time to read it (mainly because he is so busy chasing success and significance). His idea of “Christianity” is the extraordinary: wealth, fame, influence. Dad believes that everybody who “really” follows God will be as successful as Donald Trump or James Dobson. Dad is more concerned with passing national laws that affect millions of people rather than mentoring one or two young people in the neighborhood. As a result, he refused to read this book. (For the record, Dad also has refused to read my own book with a similar theme, even though I gave him one of the first copies.)
I mentioned the “belt of bigger purpose” (as opposed to the belt of truth) in one of my other reviews—and I suppose I ought to blog it to explain what it means—but this is a wonderful book to counter that cursed piece of armor. I want to recommend this book to men and women everywhere who struggle with the idea that God’s plan for them is “bigger” than where He has put them right now. Reading the negative reviews for this book, it is apparent that there are many who have bought this lie, and to them the idea of being “average” is synonymous with “God does not love you”. If you are one of those people, I just wish you could understand that sometimes it is more important to make a difference to a few than to many. A tree that bears one fruit is far better than any tree, no matter how tall, no matter how beautiful its blossoms, that does not ever produce anything edible.
For those of you who gave this book a bad review, I hope you do not end up like my dad, who in his final years has convinced himself that none of his children are successful because we have not aspired to the definition of greatness he set for us. We are not world-famous athletes, specialty-surgeons, rocket scientists, or national leaders. To my dad, we have failed. Dad now surrounds himself with the people he views as successful—wealthy people whose business ethics give me the shivers, but whose financial and political influence makes him drool. It was only because these wealth-flaunting celebrities did not want him to join them for Thanksgiving that I had the pleasure of my dad’s presence at all. Even then, conversation was limited to him talking about his friends and his “bigger” agenda. My family was nothing more than a cog that refused to mesh with the machine of ambition that he has placed at the center of his universe.
If you think God only manifests in the great and powerful, I suppose there is no hope for you. If you are reading this review and are still trying to figure out what purpose God has for your life, I hope my own story can help you to realize that sometimes the “Men of Renown” are not the ones whose names are remembered (Genesis 6:4).
I mentioned the “belt of bigger purpose” (as opposed to the belt of truth) in one of my other reviews—and I suppose I ought to blog it to explain what it means—but this is a wonderful book to counter that cursed piece of armor. I want to recommend this book to men and women everywhere who struggle with the idea that God’s plan for them is “bigger” than where He has put them right now. Reading the negative reviews for this book, it is apparent that there are many who have bought this lie, and to them the idea of being “average” is synonymous with “God does not love you”. If you are one of those people, I just wish you could understand that sometimes it is more important to make a difference to a few than to many. A tree that bears one fruit is far better than any tree, no matter how tall, no matter how beautiful its blossoms, that does not ever produce anything edible.
For those of you who gave this book a bad review, I hope you do not end up like my dad, who in his final years has convinced himself that none of his children are successful because we have not aspired to the definition of greatness he set for us. We are not world-famous athletes, specialty-surgeons, rocket scientists, or national leaders. To my dad, we have failed. Dad now surrounds himself with the people he views as successful—wealthy people whose business ethics give me the shivers, but whose financial and political influence makes him drool. It was only because these wealth-flaunting celebrities did not want him to join them for Thanksgiving that I had the pleasure of my dad’s presence at all. Even then, conversation was limited to him talking about his friends and his “bigger” agenda. My family was nothing more than a cog that refused to mesh with the machine of ambition that he has placed at the center of his universe.
If you think God only manifests in the great and powerful, I suppose there is no hope for you. If you are reading this review and are still trying to figure out what purpose God has for your life, I hope my own story can help you to realize that sometimes the “Men of Renown” are not the ones whose names are remembered (Genesis 6:4).
June 10, 2011
“Average Joe” by Troy Meeder
“What is happening to my life? Have you ever honestly asked yourself that question? As young boys, we dreamed of being pilots, firefighters, doctors, and cowboys. Now we’re older, with a wonderful wife and kids, as well as a mortgage, a minivan…” This is the back cover of Mr. Meeder’s new book, “Average Joe God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men.”
As an “Average Joe” myself I started reading this short book without much expectation, however I was quickly surprised with the very practical and timely book on how God views ordinary men. This is a short book with only 148 pages of very easily read material. This book also includes an eight session study guide that helps one begin to dig deeper into the topics addressed.
In “Average Joe” Troy Meeder carefully weaves personal stories of himself, family, or friends, in the different chapters, and then weaves in the history of Biblical characters as well. Each chapter is then topped off with some practical questions, or insights into the different topics he discusses.
One of the strengths of this book was the fact that Troy didn’t hold back the punches, and was very personal in the book sharing his own struggles and victories through Christ. For someone who has never heard of Troy Meeder before, this book was an introduction to a man who I would love to get to know, and the kind of guy most of us would love to have as a friend.
Another strength of this book was that Christ was the primary focus of almost every chapter. The only chapter that I didn’t feel this was the case on was Chapter 6, however, all in all Troy focused indeed on Christ, and had a great statement where he said, “I beg you please don’t waste your time reading this or any other book if it is replacing time in the Book.” I think when an author is willing to put the focus where it belongs the book rises in worth and value.
I gladly rank this book a 5. I think any man who reads this book would greatly benefit from the wisdom imparted through the stories, and the applications that Troy shares. This would be a great book for Men ministries, or even for a couple of guys to go through together.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
“What is happening to my life? Have you ever honestly asked yourself that question? As young boys, we dreamed of being pilots, firefighters, doctors, and cowboys. Now we’re older, with a wonderful wife and kids, as well as a mortgage, a minivan…” This is the back cover of Mr. Meeder’s new book, “Average Joe God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men.”
As an “Average Joe” myself I started reading this short book without much expectation, however I was quickly surprised with the very practical and timely book on how God views ordinary men. This is a short book with only 148 pages of very easily read material. This book also includes an eight session study guide that helps one begin to dig deeper into the topics addressed.
In “Average Joe” Troy Meeder carefully weaves personal stories of himself, family, or friends, in the different chapters, and then weaves in the history of Biblical characters as well. Each chapter is then topped off with some practical questions, or insights into the different topics he discusses.
One of the strengths of this book was the fact that Troy didn’t hold back the punches, and was very personal in the book sharing his own struggles and victories through Christ. For someone who has never heard of Troy Meeder before, this book was an introduction to a man who I would love to get to know, and the kind of guy most of us would love to have as a friend.
Another strength of this book was that Christ was the primary focus of almost every chapter. The only chapter that I didn’t feel this was the case on was Chapter 6, however, all in all Troy focused indeed on Christ, and had a great statement where he said, “I beg you please don’t waste your time reading this or any other book if it is replacing time in the Book.” I think when an author is willing to put the focus where it belongs the book rises in worth and value.
I gladly rank this book a 5. I think any man who reads this book would greatly benefit from the wisdom imparted through the stories, and the applications that Troy shares. This would be a great book for Men ministries, or even for a couple of guys to go through together.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 30, 2011
The average Joe. What in the world can God do with him? Have you ever asked that question? Have you ever felt average? I know I have, and a lot of us ask that question because we always seem to find someone better looking, smarter, faster, stronger and even more Godly.
If that hits a nerve, Troy Meeder has written a book just for us called Average Joe: God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men. Now, I have to admit that I’d seen this book around, but it was not screaming at me to pick it off the shelf or download it to my Kindle. Well, a fellow Third Option Man asked me to check it out and see what I thought. So glad I did.
The main goal of this book is to help realign our vision of who and what we are in order to get it in line with who God has made us to be. He wants us to be men of integrity, men of honor, men of character, and men of simple faith. Throughout this book, Meeder uses the stories of other “Average Joes” to illustrate how God uses ordinary men to change the world. The stories that are told show God’s faithfulness, but are not always the most flattering to the men. But that’s okay; we all stumble and fall.
Some of the topics Troy covers are: friendships, being mentored as well as mentoring another, marriage, and getting into the Word or, as he calls it, “The Playbook.” Most of the stories revolve around the outdoors, which is totally understandable as Troy and his wife Kim run the Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. Throughout all Meeder’s adventures we see how God has used each event to shape and mold him into the man he is today.
The only issue I had with the book is that, at times, Troy would repeat part of a story. Once, I thought I had accidentally returned to a page I had just read.
I read this book by myself, but I believe the power of this book will be seen when it is used in a small group setting. It could be extremely beneficial for a group of guys to use chapters of the book to “prime the pump” for the study guide in the back. The questions can help build authentic friendships and help us deal with the baggage we might be carrying.
From Third Option Men
If that hits a nerve, Troy Meeder has written a book just for us called Average Joe: God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men. Now, I have to admit that I’d seen this book around, but it was not screaming at me to pick it off the shelf or download it to my Kindle. Well, a fellow Third Option Man asked me to check it out and see what I thought. So glad I did.
The main goal of this book is to help realign our vision of who and what we are in order to get it in line with who God has made us to be. He wants us to be men of integrity, men of honor, men of character, and men of simple faith. Throughout this book, Meeder uses the stories of other “Average Joes” to illustrate how God uses ordinary men to change the world. The stories that are told show God’s faithfulness, but are not always the most flattering to the men. But that’s okay; we all stumble and fall.
Some of the topics Troy covers are: friendships, being mentored as well as mentoring another, marriage, and getting into the Word or, as he calls it, “The Playbook.” Most of the stories revolve around the outdoors, which is totally understandable as Troy and his wife Kim run the Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. Throughout all Meeder’s adventures we see how God has used each event to shape and mold him into the man he is today.
The only issue I had with the book is that, at times, Troy would repeat part of a story. Once, I thought I had accidentally returned to a page I had just read.
I read this book by myself, but I believe the power of this book will be seen when it is used in a small group setting. It could be extremely beneficial for a group of guys to use chapters of the book to “prime the pump” for the study guide in the back. The questions can help build authentic friendships and help us deal with the baggage we might be carrying.
From Third Option Men
April 4, 2020
Cowboy pastor offers life advice to men while telling stories of all the cool things he does. I guess I'm not an average Joe because I couldn't relate to this book. I'm puzzled over who would, but there are all types of people. Fortunately, it's fairly short.
April 8, 2018
A lot of good little stories and quips - but the substance was very lacking. I mean, I enjoyed it but definitely not theologically deep.
February 27, 2013
As an author, former youth pastor and now head of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch, Troy Meeder has a lifetime of experience in what it means to be someone with a title as well as what he aptly describes as an Average Joe, a title which forms the basis for this book. Despite being written for the average layman, this book nevertheless contains salient perspectives on the necessity to not be distracted by the pursuit of a title. Meeder reminds his reader of an important scriptural truth, namely that God is not impressed with titles or positions but rather a humble and contrite spirit.
Meeder's comments throughout his book that God uses the Average Joe to accomplish great things is in keeping with passages such as James 5:17 which states "Elijah was a human being, even as we are." Far too often believers overlook the amazing fact God sought out the Average Joe. Perhaps the disciples are a prime example of this principle. Peter was certainly not a man of means or superior academic acumen yet when Jesus called him Peter dropped everything and followed after Jesus. Does this mean believers should not pursue higher education, become pastors or make a name for oneself in the public arena? Certainly not! What this does mean is found in Meeder's salient comment "peace, contentment, and honor are to be found in the simple."
The story that was most interesting in this book was the story of how Meeder's experience as a youth pastor at a growing church in Oregon. After many long hours and hard work, the youth ministry Meeder headed began to flourish. He had all the makings of what appeared to be a long career in ministry ahead of him. The corner office, the secretary, the name on the door, the title of pastor on the stationary - these were all signs of "making it." All was not as it appeared as soon he was informed his tenure as youth pastor had come to an end. The next stop on the job market was landscaping which is the domain of the blue-collar Average Joe. Such stories carry with them the reality that many men face. Men often seek purpose in climbing the corporate ladder or obtaining a certain reputation in the community, among friends, or even in their local church. More often than not their perception of themselves as being an Average Joe is viewed negatively.
Meeder reminds us we are the clay in the hands of an Almighty Potter. If we are merely willing to let ourselves be shaped into the man he desires us to be, then he can use us to accomplish great things for the kingdom of God. Great things do not have to simply reside in an accomplishment that is recognized on a national level. Conversely, even in the seemingly mundane activities of life, a man who is truly open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in their life will be used by God. This is especially true for men who are husbands and/or fathers. Meeder aptly reminds us that "You and I are the men God has placed as a covering over our family and others." This certainly puts a new perspective on the title Average Joe.
Another important aspect of the Christian walk Meeder addresses is the need for men to reject compromise. When men view themselves as not having an important role or not having influence on others because they are simply the Average Joe, the temptation to compromise rears its ugly head. Meeder admonishes men "The Bible is very clear about what belongs on the throne of our heart: His name is Jesus." If Christ is not the focal point of our lives, the temptation to stray will become all the more attractive often resulting in devastating consequences.
Average Joe closes with a very poignant statement, one which all men should grasp on to tightly. Meeder notes "The Word of God is quite clear in that, by following Jesus, we may lose friends, comfort, family, even our life. However, a life sold out for Jesus is the very best life we can have." Someone whose life is completely focused on serving God will soon find they are no longer just an Average Joe; they are a child of God.
Troy Meeder's effort is a great read with an important message for men who are feeling as if they are not measuring up to their the status they see other men obtaining. Meeder artfully weaves in stories and biblical principles to make it clear serving God is not about status but about living every day in obedience and service to God in order that he may use us to further the purposes of his kingdom. As an Average Joe, I recommend this book to all the other Average Joe's out there. Remember, Elijah was a man just like us!
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Meeder's comments throughout his book that God uses the Average Joe to accomplish great things is in keeping with passages such as James 5:17 which states "Elijah was a human being, even as we are." Far too often believers overlook the amazing fact God sought out the Average Joe. Perhaps the disciples are a prime example of this principle. Peter was certainly not a man of means or superior academic acumen yet when Jesus called him Peter dropped everything and followed after Jesus. Does this mean believers should not pursue higher education, become pastors or make a name for oneself in the public arena? Certainly not! What this does mean is found in Meeder's salient comment "peace, contentment, and honor are to be found in the simple."
The story that was most interesting in this book was the story of how Meeder's experience as a youth pastor at a growing church in Oregon. After many long hours and hard work, the youth ministry Meeder headed began to flourish. He had all the makings of what appeared to be a long career in ministry ahead of him. The corner office, the secretary, the name on the door, the title of pastor on the stationary - these were all signs of "making it." All was not as it appeared as soon he was informed his tenure as youth pastor had come to an end. The next stop on the job market was landscaping which is the domain of the blue-collar Average Joe. Such stories carry with them the reality that many men face. Men often seek purpose in climbing the corporate ladder or obtaining a certain reputation in the community, among friends, or even in their local church. More often than not their perception of themselves as being an Average Joe is viewed negatively.
Meeder reminds us we are the clay in the hands of an Almighty Potter. If we are merely willing to let ourselves be shaped into the man he desires us to be, then he can use us to accomplish great things for the kingdom of God. Great things do not have to simply reside in an accomplishment that is recognized on a national level. Conversely, even in the seemingly mundane activities of life, a man who is truly open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in their life will be used by God. This is especially true for men who are husbands and/or fathers. Meeder aptly reminds us that "You and I are the men God has placed as a covering over our family and others." This certainly puts a new perspective on the title Average Joe.
Another important aspect of the Christian walk Meeder addresses is the need for men to reject compromise. When men view themselves as not having an important role or not having influence on others because they are simply the Average Joe, the temptation to compromise rears its ugly head. Meeder admonishes men "The Bible is very clear about what belongs on the throne of our heart: His name is Jesus." If Christ is not the focal point of our lives, the temptation to stray will become all the more attractive often resulting in devastating consequences.
Average Joe closes with a very poignant statement, one which all men should grasp on to tightly. Meeder notes "The Word of God is quite clear in that, by following Jesus, we may lose friends, comfort, family, even our life. However, a life sold out for Jesus is the very best life we can have." Someone whose life is completely focused on serving God will soon find they are no longer just an Average Joe; they are a child of God.
Troy Meeder's effort is a great read with an important message for men who are feeling as if they are not measuring up to their the status they see other men obtaining. Meeder artfully weaves in stories and biblical principles to make it clear serving God is not about status but about living every day in obedience and service to God in order that he may use us to further the purposes of his kingdom. As an Average Joe, I recommend this book to all the other Average Joe's out there. Remember, Elijah was a man just like us!
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
December 8, 2011
God chooses ordinary, faithful men to do His most important work.
In a sentence, that is the thesis of Troy Meeder's book, Average Joe. Meeder wants the John Does and John Deers of the world to stop feeling and living "average" and to step into their extraordinary calling. Meeder uses a story telling style to illustrate his point, introducing the reader to "average Joe's" that he has met along the journey of his life. Along the way, he sprinkles the stories of these average men with a few biblical analogies, but the bulk of the book relies on pointing out the significance of the average day of ordinary men.
Unfortunately, I don't think the book fulfills the promise made to the reader. With a subtitle like "God's extraordinary calling to ordinary men" and with a thesis of God doing His most important work through ordinary men, I came to the book hoping to get a glimpse of the incredible work of God on display through the lives of ordinary people. While Meeder did a good job of illustrating the importance of the daily contributions of ordinary men, I think he failed to demonstrate the extraordinary work of God through the average Joe's. It seemed more like an encouragement to work harder instead of a guide to see God's hand at work in our ordinary lives.
Like many books for men, the manly occupations like cowboys and soldiers are on display, as well as the required emphasis on fishing and adventure sports like flying a plane. Is this really the definition of average? What about the men who work in a cubicle, or who drive a truck, or who sell insurance? By highlighting the high flying adventure of an airplane pilot in the mountains of Colorado, ordinary guys like myself just feel all the more ordinary.
My biggest critique of the book is the failure of Meeder to open our eyes to the extraordinary work of God through ordinary people. Instead of focussing on the great sacrifice of a soldier, I was looking to see examples of God's grace flowing through the average Joe's as a testimony to His power and strength in earthen vessels. I was left more impressed with the average Joe's than I was with an above average God.
All that said, many other readers will find Average Joe to be an encouraging devotional read. It is light on biblical truth, using Bible stories to illustrate the stories of average men instead of mining the deep truths of God's Word, but it is motivational and encouraging. The study guide in the back contains good discussion questions, but I would think a men's group leader is going to have to go else where to find the spiritual meat to serve his small group.
Disclosure: I was given a free copy by the publisher, Waterbrook Multnomah, as part of their "Bloggers for Books" program. However, I was not required to give a positive review.
In a sentence, that is the thesis of Troy Meeder's book, Average Joe. Meeder wants the John Does and John Deers of the world to stop feeling and living "average" and to step into their extraordinary calling. Meeder uses a story telling style to illustrate his point, introducing the reader to "average Joe's" that he has met along the journey of his life. Along the way, he sprinkles the stories of these average men with a few biblical analogies, but the bulk of the book relies on pointing out the significance of the average day of ordinary men.
Unfortunately, I don't think the book fulfills the promise made to the reader. With a subtitle like "God's extraordinary calling to ordinary men" and with a thesis of God doing His most important work through ordinary men, I came to the book hoping to get a glimpse of the incredible work of God on display through the lives of ordinary people. While Meeder did a good job of illustrating the importance of the daily contributions of ordinary men, I think he failed to demonstrate the extraordinary work of God through the average Joe's. It seemed more like an encouragement to work harder instead of a guide to see God's hand at work in our ordinary lives.
Like many books for men, the manly occupations like cowboys and soldiers are on display, as well as the required emphasis on fishing and adventure sports like flying a plane. Is this really the definition of average? What about the men who work in a cubicle, or who drive a truck, or who sell insurance? By highlighting the high flying adventure of an airplane pilot in the mountains of Colorado, ordinary guys like myself just feel all the more ordinary.
My biggest critique of the book is the failure of Meeder to open our eyes to the extraordinary work of God through ordinary people. Instead of focussing on the great sacrifice of a soldier, I was looking to see examples of God's grace flowing through the average Joe's as a testimony to His power and strength in earthen vessels. I was left more impressed with the average Joe's than I was with an above average God.
All that said, many other readers will find Average Joe to be an encouraging devotional read. It is light on biblical truth, using Bible stories to illustrate the stories of average men instead of mining the deep truths of God's Word, but it is motivational and encouraging. The study guide in the back contains good discussion questions, but I would think a men's group leader is going to have to go else where to find the spiritual meat to serve his small group.
Disclosure: I was given a free copy by the publisher, Waterbrook Multnomah, as part of their "Bloggers for Books" program. However, I was not required to give a positive review.
July 31, 2011
I'd like to thank Blogging for Books for the opportunity to read and review "Average Joe", by Troy Meeder. Meeder takes the reader on a journey through literary experience of just how God uses the what may be called the run of the mill man, to further His Will. As the reader first opens this book, they will find themselves engrossed in how the author begins his story of what each of us thinks about how our lives should develop and grow, only to find that God has a purpose for each and every one of us.
As Meeder states in Chapter One, "God seems to have a special fondness for average Joes. Before they accomplished extraordinary deeds, normal guys like Gideon, David, Peter and Paul, went about their farming, sheep herding, fishing and tent making. Even Jesus, our Redeemer, Healer, and coming King, started out using a hammer and saw in a carpenter's shop."
Not every "Average Joe", will reach a notoriety of champion or recognition of note, but as Meeders explains, God is in control and He knows what He wants from each and every one of us. We need to be listening, so that we will know what His plan for us is.
Follow Meeder's story as he takes you through the hurdles in his life. You will not be disappointed at the outcome. What comes to my mind is the quote, "The Meek shall inherit the Earth." I can only say that the average Joe's of the earth represent the meek.
Here is an excerpt from Chapter Ten, entitled 'The Test.' - The Responsible Husband - The marriage relationship between a husband and wife is an earthly image of the church and Christ. Ephesians 5:32 says, "This is a great mystery, but marriage is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one." Within the context of marriage, no failure in a relationship is one-sided. It takes two. However, I strongly believe that the health of a marriage is directly related to the spiritual health and leadership of the husband, the 'pastor', of the home. When things go south, more often than not, it is because we husbands have failed to embrace our role in the manner God intended."
Thank you Troy for the above statement. Sometimes as husbands we forget our responsibilities.
This book also has a study guide at the end for further contemplation and reflection. Thank you again Troy Meeder for providing such an insightful book, and Thank You again to Blogging for Books for providing me the opportunity of reading such a wonderful book. This book can be added to any Christian Library and it also provides the tools for every man to serve God and his family.
As Meeder states in Chapter One, "God seems to have a special fondness for average Joes. Before they accomplished extraordinary deeds, normal guys like Gideon, David, Peter and Paul, went about their farming, sheep herding, fishing and tent making. Even Jesus, our Redeemer, Healer, and coming King, started out using a hammer and saw in a carpenter's shop."
Not every "Average Joe", will reach a notoriety of champion or recognition of note, but as Meeders explains, God is in control and He knows what He wants from each and every one of us. We need to be listening, so that we will know what His plan for us is.
Follow Meeder's story as he takes you through the hurdles in his life. You will not be disappointed at the outcome. What comes to my mind is the quote, "The Meek shall inherit the Earth." I can only say that the average Joe's of the earth represent the meek.
Here is an excerpt from Chapter Ten, entitled 'The Test.' - The Responsible Husband - The marriage relationship between a husband and wife is an earthly image of the church and Christ. Ephesians 5:32 says, "This is a great mystery, but marriage is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one." Within the context of marriage, no failure in a relationship is one-sided. It takes two. However, I strongly believe that the health of a marriage is directly related to the spiritual health and leadership of the husband, the 'pastor', of the home. When things go south, more often than not, it is because we husbands have failed to embrace our role in the manner God intended."
Thank you Troy for the above statement. Sometimes as husbands we forget our responsibilities.
This book also has a study guide at the end for further contemplation and reflection. Thank you again Troy Meeder for providing such an insightful book, and Thank You again to Blogging for Books for providing me the opportunity of reading such a wonderful book. This book can be added to any Christian Library and it also provides the tools for every man to serve God and his family.
December 23, 2011
I finished this book a while ago and I just haven’t gotten around to reviewing it. Sometimes I like to let books simmer in my subconscious and develop into more complete thoughts, deeper insights, and practical solutions. Sometimes – as in this case – they don’t. In fact, Average Joe all but disappeared from my thoughts shortly after finishing. It’s not that it’s a boring book or a “bad” book, but it’s definitely a lightweight approach to a pretty heavy topic.
It seems that the topic of embracing manhood and engaging men within the church has become a hot topic. I suppose the flames were lit initially by the widely popular title, Wild At Heart, which I never could get into, but it’s slowly become a fire that’s spread through churches and lit up sales in the Christian bookstores. That’s all fine. I’m not knocking that or denigrating the topic – it is extremely important. However, this Joe hardly stands out as a great example of how to address it.
As I read through each chapter, I enjoyed many of the anecdotes and I really did identify with the blurb that advertised the book, but overall, I felt like I was at a barbecue without any meat. There’s lots of stories about how guys are supposed to love fishing, hunting, riding horses, and various other stereotypically “guy” activities. I did appreciate the notion that recurred throughout the text that everything we do can ultimately make a difference. And the recognition that most of us have a significant chasm between their dreams and their reality makes sense. But really, all that can be summed up a lot quicker.
I did enjoy reading the book, it’s not that it isn’t entertaining, I just don’t feel like I walked away with much in the end. As an alternative to this book – or perhaps as a follow-on, I’d strongly recommend Twelve Ordinary Men by John MacArthur.
-from trudatmusic.com/raw
It seems that the topic of embracing manhood and engaging men within the church has become a hot topic. I suppose the flames were lit initially by the widely popular title, Wild At Heart, which I never could get into, but it’s slowly become a fire that’s spread through churches and lit up sales in the Christian bookstores. That’s all fine. I’m not knocking that or denigrating the topic – it is extremely important. However, this Joe hardly stands out as a great example of how to address it.
As I read through each chapter, I enjoyed many of the anecdotes and I really did identify with the blurb that advertised the book, but overall, I felt like I was at a barbecue without any meat. There’s lots of stories about how guys are supposed to love fishing, hunting, riding horses, and various other stereotypically “guy” activities. I did appreciate the notion that recurred throughout the text that everything we do can ultimately make a difference. And the recognition that most of us have a significant chasm between their dreams and their reality makes sense. But really, all that can be summed up a lot quicker.
I did enjoy reading the book, it’s not that it isn’t entertaining, I just don’t feel like I walked away with much in the end. As an alternative to this book – or perhaps as a follow-on, I’d strongly recommend Twelve Ordinary Men by John MacArthur.
-from trudatmusic.com/raw
May 21, 2011
Average Joe – really average
I picked up this book while looking for a new study for our church men’s group. The reviews seemed to say that it was a real page-turner, but needed more Biblical content. That would work well for us, as supplementing Biblical material is easier than making an average book interesting to a group of guys. But the reviews were wrong.
What we look for in our guys group is a book that is clear, blunt, fun to read, Biblically in-your-face, and exciting. To me, this book seemed average.
The study guide in the back of the book is great. Certain chapters come to life. There is great content in here, but it’s lost in its averageness (not a word but you get my meaning). It was a bit like having to eat a box of brand X cereal to get to the prize. I found myself skimming ahead hoping the next prize would drop out without having to read everything in-between.
It’s worth a read, and a study. Just don’t expect a Ferrari. Think Prius.
I received this book free from Multnomah Books for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. DanielCooley.com
If you liked this review please rate it at http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggi....
I picked up this book while looking for a new study for our church men’s group. The reviews seemed to say that it was a real page-turner, but needed more Biblical content. That would work well for us, as supplementing Biblical material is easier than making an average book interesting to a group of guys. But the reviews were wrong.
What we look for in our guys group is a book that is clear, blunt, fun to read, Biblically in-your-face, and exciting. To me, this book seemed average.
The study guide in the back of the book is great. Certain chapters come to life. There is great content in here, but it’s lost in its averageness (not a word but you get my meaning). It was a bit like having to eat a box of brand X cereal to get to the prize. I found myself skimming ahead hoping the next prize would drop out without having to read everything in-between.
It’s worth a read, and a study. Just don’t expect a Ferrari. Think Prius.
I received this book free from Multnomah Books for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. DanielCooley.com
If you liked this review please rate it at http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggi....
November 17, 2012
I feel bad giving this a low rating because the publisher sent it to me. But honestly, there is nothing special in here. The author describes an average Joe as being a hard working, ordinary, man of God. He sees this in most of the men he knows. Which, could be true, i don't know. I did tell myself to put aside religious perspective before reading it. I hate to say it, but this book is kind of boring. I was waiting for him to say something interesting, but it didn't happen. He brings in men he has known, like his grandfather or a janitor, and then a page or two later he has someone else. This makes the book very inconsistent, and it is very repetitive. Also, he has weird flashbacks to being stuck in a sewage filled hole or something, not sure if it was to represent God pulling him out of crap or something. I admire how Troy really sees the good in the people around him, and describes them as average but at the same time he shows that they are outstanding people. If you are Christian or have a person in your life who is a father figure, or just a friend or brother, read this because I think someone else besides me would be able to enjoy it more.
August 29, 2012
This was a good (not excellent) devotional on what it means to be an ordinary guy in the Christian context. I don't think it really went far enough in showing how there is a God-given role for men and masculinity, despite all the 'bad press' we've been getting lately. Also, he tends to focus mostly on the football-loving, blue collar, hunting type of man. I myself am a white-collar man who doesn't like football and has never really been hunting, so I take a bit of issue with how much time he spends directly or indirectly saying that those things define 'manliness.' He also could have spent more time building up the importance of the average and ordinary man according to the roles that God has given us to fill. It seems that he was in a bit of a rush and wanted to keep it light and easy. I'd like to see (and might write it myself) a book that spends more effort showing people that really, changing diapers and feeding your family are indeed heroic deeds.
July 1, 2011
AVERAGE JOE: GOD'S EXRAORDINARY CALLING TO ORDINARY MEN by Troy Meeder is a christian living/practical life/men and a must for all spiritual believers.It is well worth the read. Any male would desires to further his knowledge his faith,and be a true hero,should and must read Average Joe. It will enlighten not only your faith,soul,but also your heart. This book should be in anyone's library.This book was received as a gift from Publisher. Details can be found at WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing and My Book Addiction Reviews.
August 19, 2011
This book was definitely average. A few of the chapters were strong, but many were simply stories with a little life/Bible lesson tossed in. Now maybe that's because I identified with a few chapters & didn't so much with the others. There's nothing bad or wrong about this book really, I just wouldn't recommend it. Go read Proverbs. :-) The strongest & best part of the book was simply the idea that just being faithful to our calling, however in-glamorous it is, is what it really means to be a man.
January 18, 2015
If your walk with Christ is strong men, read this book at cursory level to reinforce what you already know. Use it to measure yourself and commit to make whatever corrective adjustments are necessary to keep you aligned. If your walk with Jesus is new or faded/fading or is taking a lower position on your priority list in life, read this book as a study guide. Embrace it, meditate on portions where God prompts you and instill the teachings deep into your heart.
April 5, 2016
An easy-to-read book dealing with the challenges of significance and purpose from a Christian perspective. Overall a good book, fairly well-written, encouraging, and worth a look for any middle-aged man looking to make a difference for Christ.
September 3, 2015
God's extraordinary calling to ordinary men - good premise, partially carried out
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