The Fight: A Practical Handbook Of Christian Living

by John White

There is joy and triumph in the Christian life. The eternal God loves us and calls us to the highest good that we can enjoy. But that goal is achieved only by a fight.

In this classic guide to the Christian life, John White introduces the key areas in which we must wrestle time and again, including prayer and Bible study, faith and temptation, relationships and holiness. He lets us see our the spirit of the age, our own sinful nature, and the powers of darkness. And he gives us the encouragement to persevere in the battle.

New Christians who read this book will take their first steps in Christian living with confidence. Established disciples will find refreshing insights into the struggles and joys of life in Christ.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Nonfiction, Christianity, Religion, Christian Non Fiction, Theology

240 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1976

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

John White was an Evangelical Christian author, an associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Manitoba and a pastor of Church of the Way.

Reviews

[Malcolm · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could just give one book to everyone seeking to understand what it means to be a committed follower of Jesus Christ...this would be the book.

[Brother Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommended by my pastor.

I judged this book by its cover, but then this book judged me.

[Jack Bingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fight really helped to free me up and remind me of basic, encouraging truths. I think everyone who loves Jesus should take an interest in this book and the way White addresses a broad range of difficult subjects and questions. Just a few:

How do you effectively study the word? What is faith - really? Why is fellowship necessary? How do you 'fight the good fight'? How do you stay real? How does the Holy Spirit guide us - in real, practical terms?

And most importantly of all, what does a life that's pleasing to God actually look like?

[Fern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant book. A book that is so brilliant that I'm finally posting a written review for the first time. One of those books that I know I will keep coming back to time and time again. John White writes in such an honest, personal, and non-sugar-coated way. Learnt so much from this book... filled with great reminders and also new perspectives on my faith. Found the chapter 'Deliverance from Drudgery' particularly liberating. Completely changed my mindset on what it means to be a student, studying for exams, work, and success.

[Dylan Habegger · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know...this is one of the best books I've ever read. This man is honest and very introspected. He thinks as an over thinker, but with poise because of his roots in Christ. He acknowledges doubts and encourages to fight through it. Amazing book! Must read!

[Cheri Creel · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a sermon from the late 90’s, Tim Keller refers to the Fight by John White as the definitive book on Christian living. I found it on Spotify and started listening and two chapters in bought a copy of the paperback because there was so much that I didn’t want to forget! If you just met Jesus last week or you’ve been walking with him for 60 years, this book is one you’ll want to read. He talks about prayer life, Bible study, family relationships, church family relationships, evangelism. And while plenty of authors write about those things, White writes as if you were sitting down with a friend who loves you and loves Jesus and just wants to help you know and serve Him better. I highly recommend the audio version. The production is excellent and the Narrator has a warm endearing (British) voice that makes you want to keep listening. But buy the book or have paper ready to scribble notes because this book is full of things to ponder and share.

[Laurence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best and most practical (and therefore easiest to recommend) book I’ve read on the Christian walk. I imagine it was mainly written for brand new Christians, but I found it so helpful as one who’s been on this road a while.

I find many books on sanctification get lost in the theory “Christians really should walk by the Spirit”, but a lot is lost if writers don’t spend time explaining what that actually looks like, as well as pointing out what it doesn’t look like too.

If you’re looking for a refresher/reframing of your Christian life - The Fight is brilliant at directing your gaze to the only One who can take you all the way.

[Gisele Souza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gostei muito da leitura é um livro rico em instruções para caminhada cristã. O autor traz algumas reflexões inteligente e profundas que nos faz pensar sobre nossa vida com Deus e a importância das disciplinas espirituais.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is awesome. John White is really wise and he knows what he is talking about. Each chapter is about a practical topic, so the book never gets boring. It goes over the Word, prayer, fellowship, warfare, evangelism, faith, and sanctification. What I like the most his how passionate White is about the topics. Even if you think you know all the basics, you'll get a lot out of this book.

[Tyler Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book for a recent convert: an appropriate subtitle would be what Christians think about prayer, the Bible, Evangelism, etc. Parts of it are a little dated and it covers a wide range of topics, but most stands the test of time and lifts up a magnificent Christ who leads us into battle.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this volume four years after I became a Christian, and said to myself “I wish I had found this 4 years ago.” Truly a great book on the basics of faith but with enough depth and wisdom to take you to the next step. Highly recommended.

[Simina Morar · Rating 5 out of 5]

am citit-o in liceu si e una din cartile care le recitesc adesea. foarte buna.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is ideal for new Christians and struggling ones. It lays out clear "how-to" put into practice Christian habits.

[Israel Tibebu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am Fighting to finish reading this book...not that it's not interesting though...It's a fight for me to read books...but this book tells about the real FIGHT...A great book I must say!!

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good sound book about discipleship and devotions

[David Gifford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

Great read with invaluable illustrations and a writing voice akin to C.S. Lewis. Best book I've read in some time!

[Valentin Dimitrov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Невероятна книга ... Впечатлиха ме честните признания на един осъзнат християнин за неговите спънки по пътя към живот основан на вяра.
Практичните изводи и уроци, които си е извадил и споделя, са на всяка страница и носят мир и разбиране насред често срещаната фрустрация по въпроси като стремеж към съвършенство, правилната посока в живота и вземането на решения и много други.
Радвам се, че попаднах на Джон Уайт, макар и по-късно от колкото ми се иска да бях!

[Goofy Nao · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll keep fighting the good fight knowing that my strength is in what He does when I listen 🙏🏻.

«It matters not how much you've got but what you do with it. Use your mediocre gifts for God. Give him your life and with it your brain and your gifts, such as they are. Give him your energy, your time and your strength.»

[Glenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book explores the spiritual struggles Christians face in their daily lives. Drawing on biblical imagery of warfare, White portrays the Christian journey as an ongoing battle against sin, temptation, and spiritual darkness. Through practical guidance, prayer, and faith, it encourages readers to rely on God’s strength to achieve victory and spiritual growth. Well worth a read

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was very informative and well thought out. I liked the real life examples and the practical applications. The writing was clear and easy to read. Recommended.

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need to read this again. I was expecting an easier read, but wow, this book is packed!

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Required reading.

[X · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. It was really insightful and uplifting.

[Ada · Rating 5 out of 5]

A clear and penetrating " textbook" about the battle of faith in this world.

[Lise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished. Time to start reading it again.

[Gerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love how the book gave me an insight as to treat each tasks done as if unto God for his glory.

[Evelyn Lasluisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thorough guide that addresses different aspects of Christian living.

[Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very practical, without fluffy, trite sayings that don't really "work" in reality. Since White was also a psychiatrist, he is realistic, yet (I think) inspired, about his directives in the Christian life. Challenging, too.

[sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm done being someone I'm not.

[Jim Haw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Want to develop classic spiritual disciplines in your life? Read this book.