Learning to Be Happy

by Philip Tait

This is a modern-English edition of Burroughs' most well-known and beloved book, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, first published in 1648. It has long been regarded as the most useful book ever written for promoting a contented, thankful, uncomplaining and grateful walk with God. We live in a world of grumblers, discontent with God's widespread goodness. It is all too easy for Christians to share in this spirit with the world. This book, in typical Puritan form, 'doctors' the reader by proposing remedies to our spiritual diseases and helps us grow a spirit of thankfulness in its place. The author focuses especially on helping to bring calm and contentment to the hearts of those in sad and discouraged times. He also aims to promote peace and harmony among believers with various differences of opinion.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Christianity

64 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1987

Reviews

[Sarah Norton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short little book is the abridged and made easier-to-read version of "The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment" written by Jeremiah Burroughs in 1648. It was rewritten by a group of editors and published multiple times between 1988 and 2011.

What the editors tried to do was simply the language and make it understandable for modern-day readers. I personally have a hard time understanding authors before 19C. The book is broken up into four sections and questions for discussion or further study at the end of each section.

This is a good and challenging book, not challenging to understand but convicting. Burroughs doesn't pull any punches, he is a Puritan and very serious about sin, holiness, and glorifying God. One "hangup" is the editors use the words 'happy' and 'happiness' when referring to contentment which can make the ideas and focus sound silly. Yes, Christian's should be happy, as in joyful. But more importantly and the focus on the book is Christian's should be content in all circumstances knowing that God works all things for good (Rom 8:28) and this light affliction can't compare to the glory to come (2 Corinthians 4:17). In light of those verses, talking about being happy sounds funny, but he really means content.

If you are unable to read the original book, or just want a short book on contentment than this is a good one.

[Bobby Bonser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, concise book by Burroughs, one of the lesser known Puritans. Burroughs does a wonderful job of using words and illustrations and pack a lot into just short of 70 pages. He cuts like a knife using the Word about complaining, about what happiness truly is, about how faith and happiness correspond. It is a very worthwhile read, and extremely sanctifying.

[AmyRose · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Lone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book. It is an extract from his book The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment. I loved it.