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Ask It Study Set - Ask It! The Question That Will Revolutionize How You Make Decisions
Should I take this job? Buy this house? Marry this person? We ask questions every day about the choices we face. But are we asking the most important question of all? In Ask It, Andy Stanley identifies the one question that makes it easy to determine the answer to all other questions. You’ll learn how to make decisions with confidence simply by applying the question that brings clarity to life’s most challenging decisions. In this six-session DVD, Andy Stanley identifies the one question that makes it easy to determine the answer to all other questions. Through Andy's dynamic teaching style, you'll learn how to make decisions with confidence simply by applying THE question that brings clarity to life's most challenging decisions.
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First published October 21, 2014
113 people are currently reading
900 people want to read
About the author
Andy Stanley
276 books839 followersAndy Stanley is the senior pastor of North Point Community Church, Buckhead Church, and Browns Bridge Community Church. He also founded North Point Ministries, which is a worldwide Christian organization.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
July 14, 2018
“It is possible to live life with few regrets.” This book uses many truths and principles from the Bible to show you how. Wow, it is jam-packed with wisdom! Which, is in essence, the backbone of this book: “What is the wise choice to make?” Stanley doesn’t give pat answers for every situation. Rather, he gives principles (which he backs with Scripture) that can be applied to any aspect of life.
Because this book deals with examples of moral choices (both wise and poor), I recommend it for 18+. It is a book that would be extremely helpful for older teens who are on the brink of making some major life choices—or even daily smaller choices that add up to directing their future lifestyle.
In essence, “It was really good. Read it.”
Quote: (speaking about justifying decisions) “Instead of trying to make a right decision you’re trying to make a decision right.”
Because this book deals with examples of moral choices (both wise and poor), I recommend it for 18+. It is a book that would be extremely helpful for older teens who are on the brink of making some major life choices—or even daily smaller choices that add up to directing their future lifestyle.
In essence, “It was really good. Read it.”
Quote: (speaking about justifying decisions) “Instead of trying to make a right decision you’re trying to make a decision right.”
June 16, 2016
For me this book was more of an encouragement than anything else. For years I've been trying to grow better at trying to think twice and pray a lot before taking the next life's step. This book is a good exhortation to bring the question of what God wants for our lives to the forefront of our thinking and planning. Just because something feels good in the moment does not mean it is good, wise, or economical.
The writing style is a bit unusual and the first chapters were a trifle jarring as I adjusted to it. But I soon caught my stride and enjoyed the rest.
Highly recommended, especially to graduates, newlyweds, and others facing lots of decisions.
I received a copy for review from Netgalley. I was not obligated to leave a favorable review.
The writing style is a bit unusual and the first chapters were a trifle jarring as I adjusted to it. But I soon caught my stride and enjoyed the rest.
Highly recommended, especially to graduates, newlyweds, and others facing lots of decisions.
I received a copy for review from Netgalley. I was not obligated to leave a favorable review.
January 6, 2019
Great book! The question we need to ask ourselves before we make any decisions is a great way to make things easier in life!
November 1, 2020
Our lives and living through each day of them are about questioning: We are asking what clothes and shoes to wear, what to eat, where to go, and so on.
Even in more complex situations, we are always continually questioning. Who should I marry? Should I take up this job offer? Should I go on this trip? How about this new phone? Should I buy it or keep using my current one? Etc.
Life and living in short are about deciding. Success at deciding on anything revolves around a single, important question.
There are numerous books on this all-important key to success called decision-making, but none compares to “Ask It: The Question That Will Revolutionize How You Make Decisions”, written by Andy Stanley.
In 22 chapters broken down into six parts, the author takes his reader on a journey that simplifies the decision-making process. Although he draws inspiration both from real-life situations and biblical stories (as exemplified by quotes from the Bible), “Ask It” is still a must-read for every human being – Christian and non-Christian alike - who desires to live a life devoid of regrets.
Part 1 is aptly titled “The Question” as it lays the foundation for understanding why success at decision-making revolves around a single question. In seven chapters, Andy Stanley guides us on a quest to discover this question which when answered truthfully in turn provides answers to all others.
In “Part 2: The alternatives”, the book explains the dangerous alternatives to the big question which keep us from paying attention to the actual focal point.
The big question governs all areas of our lives but nowhere else is its answer or denial of its truth most felt than in how we manage our time and our relationships. Andy Stanley therefore devotes the next two sections of the book – “Part 3: A Question of Time” and “Part 4: A Question of Morality” - to these important concerns.
In “Part 5: Wisdom for the Asking”, the author lets his reader in on the secret that the world’s best decision makers know too well and employ which continuously makes them appear wise.
Finally, “Part 6: The Best Decision Ever” challenges the reader to make a big decision that not only confirms the truth contained in the single, all-important question but that also ensures that the benefits of this book sink and become a daily practice for the reader whose aim is to get better at making decisions.
Andy Stanley’s “Ask It” is an essential read for all persons aged 18 years and older. The message presented has a life-changing consequence designed to help the reader live with fewer regrets.
The reference to the HIV-AIDS pandemic however gives the book away as having been published in the early 2000s – an era when the scourge ravaged the globe.
Sadly though, Andy Stanley falls in the disappointing habit of many persons in developed economies who often seek to portray HIV/AIDS as a condition peculiar to Africa and Africans.
This fallacy is evident in Chapter 15 where he wrote as follows:
For the record, HIV/AIDS killed millions of people and left many families devastated the world over and should therefore not be portrayed as an African health condition.
Even in more complex situations, we are always continually questioning. Who should I marry? Should I take up this job offer? Should I go on this trip? How about this new phone? Should I buy it or keep using my current one? Etc.
Life and living in short are about deciding. Success at deciding on anything revolves around a single, important question.
There are numerous books on this all-important key to success called decision-making, but none compares to “Ask It: The Question That Will Revolutionize How You Make Decisions”, written by Andy Stanley.
In 22 chapters broken down into six parts, the author takes his reader on a journey that simplifies the decision-making process. Although he draws inspiration both from real-life situations and biblical stories (as exemplified by quotes from the Bible), “Ask It” is still a must-read for every human being – Christian and non-Christian alike - who desires to live a life devoid of regrets.
Part 1 is aptly titled “The Question” as it lays the foundation for understanding why success at decision-making revolves around a single question. In seven chapters, Andy Stanley guides us on a quest to discover this question which when answered truthfully in turn provides answers to all others.
In “Part 2: The alternatives”, the book explains the dangerous alternatives to the big question which keep us from paying attention to the actual focal point.
The big question governs all areas of our lives but nowhere else is its answer or denial of its truth most felt than in how we manage our time and our relationships. Andy Stanley therefore devotes the next two sections of the book – “Part 3: A Question of Time” and “Part 4: A Question of Morality” - to these important concerns.
In “Part 5: Wisdom for the Asking”, the author lets his reader in on the secret that the world’s best decision makers know too well and employ which continuously makes them appear wise.
Finally, “Part 6: The Best Decision Ever” challenges the reader to make a big decision that not only confirms the truth contained in the single, all-important question but that also ensures that the benefits of this book sink and become a daily practice for the reader whose aim is to get better at making decisions.
Andy Stanley’s “Ask It” is an essential read for all persons aged 18 years and older. The message presented has a life-changing consequence designed to help the reader live with fewer regrets.The reference to the HIV-AIDS pandemic however gives the book away as having been published in the early 2000s – an era when the scourge ravaged the globe.
Sadly though, Andy Stanley falls in the disappointing habit of many persons in developed economies who often seek to portray HIV/AIDS as a condition peculiar to Africa and Africans.
This fallacy is evident in Chapter 15 where he wrote as follows:
“In the case of the HIV epidemic in Africa, crossing certain lines morally has resulted in hundreds of thousands of homeless children.”
For the record, HIV/AIDS killed millions of people and left many families devastated the world over and should therefore not be portrayed as an African health condition.
March 22, 2024
I love Andy Stanley’s books. Although this particular book is not my favorite of his, I appreciate that he is able to take biblical truths and apply their teaching into everyday happenings. Following the principles outlined in this book will help in making wise and better decisions.
There are many that will criticize Christian authors for not using enough scripture in their writings, but hear me out. When Jesus taught, he would many times reference a single truth from the scriptures and then use common everyday language and stories (we call them parables) to help the listener better understand that truth. I have great admiration for current Christian authors, such as Andy Stanley, that are gifted at this style of teaching through their books.
There are many that will criticize Christian authors for not using enough scripture in their writings, but hear me out. When Jesus taught, he would many times reference a single truth from the scriptures and then use common everyday language and stories (we call them parables) to help the listener better understand that truth. I have great admiration for current Christian authors, such as Andy Stanley, that are gifted at this style of teaching through their books.
Want to read
November 9, 2020I can't really rate this book because:
I didn't read it all
I don't believe in what he is preaching
The Question-which takes 22 pages to get to is: What is the wise thing for me to do?
This question simply isn't the perfect thing to ask in every situation. The author talks about marriage, investments, major decisions.
But the logic is faulty, if you know if something is the wise thing for you to do then you would do it. If you know something isn't wise then you are probably not going to do it. Maybe there is the middle ground where if you don't know if it is wise then you just don't do it. But a non-decision is a decision.
I speak from experience, I did actually think that a decision I had to make was wise, smart. It wasn't.
There is no magic question, there is no way to know. Give yourself a break and realize that you are going going to make bad decisions on occasion. That's life.
I didn't read it all
I don't believe in what he is preaching
The Question-which takes 22 pages to get to is: What is the wise thing for me to do?
This question simply isn't the perfect thing to ask in every situation. The author talks about marriage, investments, major decisions.
But the logic is faulty, if you know if something is the wise thing for you to do then you would do it. If you know something isn't wise then you are probably not going to do it. Maybe there is the middle ground where if you don't know if it is wise then you just don't do it. But a non-decision is a decision.
I speak from experience, I did actually think that a decision I had to make was wise, smart. It wasn't.
There is no magic question, there is no way to know. Give yourself a break and realize that you are going going to make bad decisions on occasion. That's life.
May 8, 2015
Wish I had read this a long time ago! It's about answering life's questions with "is this wise". He says it's a better question than "is this good or bad" or "does God want me to do this" because you can't rationalize your way or if it as easy. He gives lots of application to different areas of your life. Very helpful and I wish I had read it when I was younger and stupider!
November 16, 2015
Everyone needs to read this book! It centers around a simple yet powerful question. Now - to act on it and follow through.
June 12, 2017
Every time I read or listen to Andy I am literally blown away by how one man could have been imparted with so much wisdom on how to live a good life. He is truly one of the most gifted communicators of our time and I can wholeheartedly recommend any of his works. This book is no exception! It is basically the more practical version of his book The Principal of the Path (one of my favorites of all time), and gives you the question to ask in every situation to make sure that you are choosing the Path of Wisdom. It is absolutely excellent! There is not a single person who wouldn't benefit from reading it!
Favorite Quote: "The truth is, most people's dreams don't come true. I don't know too many adults who are living their dreams. And while it is true that the twists and turns of life can reshape our futures, that is not the primary reason people are robbed of their dreams. We rob ourselves. We rob ourselves when we make decisions in the moment with no thought of how those decisions will impact our future."
Favorite Quote: "The truth is, most people's dreams don't come true. I don't know too many adults who are living their dreams. And while it is true that the twists and turns of life can reshape our futures, that is not the primary reason people are robbed of their dreams. We rob ourselves. We rob ourselves when we make decisions in the moment with no thought of how those decisions will impact our future."
August 30, 2018
I like Pastor Stanley the younger, but if you've ever listened to his podcast or watched his sermons, there's not a lot of new information here. This book is short, like really short. The audio version doesn't break four hours, and it wasn't read by Andy, so starting off it lost a few points.
I like Andy's style, and though I don't always agree with him, he is really good at breaking things down for his audience, and he's great at reaching a wider audience than some pastors might. I wish there had been more scripture in this book, but Andy's style is all about using God, faith, and scripture and applying it to modern life, so there is some good stuff here, particularly if you're not familiar with Andy's work already.
I like Andy's style, and though I don't always agree with him, he is really good at breaking things down for his audience, and he's great at reaching a wider audience than some pastors might. I wish there had been more scripture in this book, but Andy's style is all about using God, faith, and scripture and applying it to modern life, so there is some good stuff here, particularly if you're not familiar with Andy's work already.
March 31, 2022
If you're happy with your shaky relationships, poor health, repeated mistakes, paycheck to paycheck lifestyle, mountains of debt, or simply remaining stagnant, this book isn't for you. The concepts leave no room for any of us (me included, and I appreciated the reminder) to make excuses for our lackluster decisions and the messes they get us into. If you want out, read this book.
We've all made mistakes. Learn from them; don't repeat them. This book is a helpful tool to show you how to plan toward a better future for yourself and those around you.
No, it's not easy to change bad habits. Yes, you can do it with enough dedication if you face your excuses. And yes, you have to admit you have a problem and be willing to make sacrifices to grow. Is it worth it? That's up to you.
We've all made mistakes. Learn from them; don't repeat them. This book is a helpful tool to show you how to plan toward a better future for yourself and those around you.
No, it's not easy to change bad habits. Yes, you can do it with enough dedication if you face your excuses. And yes, you have to admit you have a problem and be willing to make sacrifices to grow. Is it worth it? That's up to you.
July 24, 2017
I am a big fan of Andy Stanley. My men's group just got done doing this study along with the DVD. Will result in me asking myself "What is the wise thing for me to do?" on a regular basis. It is funny how the big mistakes we make in our lives are directly a result of not asking that question or often ignoring the issue completely and plowing ahead. We then face the consequences that we knew would result if we just thought about it.
I highly recommend any of Andy Stanley's books or DVD series. He is a great communicator who is able to get God's message out to you.
I highly recommend any of Andy Stanley's books or DVD series. He is a great communicator who is able to get God's message out to you.
July 21, 2020
I feel this book is the rude awakening that many of us need. Even if you are not a Christian or even care to be, I believe this book would still be useful for you. Of course, if you don’t care to look at it from a Christian point of view, you could just ignore those certain words of advice.
Either way, this book really makes you think about how you’ve been making decisions up until this point in your life and urging you to reevaluate and hopefully change that. It was a great read, and I plan to revisit it sometime in the future to remind myself of the advice given.
Either way, this book really makes you think about how you’ve been making decisions up until this point in your life and urging you to reevaluate and hopefully change that. It was a great read, and I plan to revisit it sometime in the future to remind myself of the advice given.
September 5, 2022
Unbelievable read! I haven’t read a book like this with such practical take always. I push this book to all of my friends and I “Ask it” all the time in my day to day life! Can’t recommend this book enough for any age! So packed with wisdom and left me equipped and confident to make any decision that comes my way! The author is a pastor and approaches decision making from a biblical worldview— predominantly getting the idea for this book from Ephesians, I’m not going to spoil any more tho, just pick it up and trust me
July 18, 2023
"Ask It" by Andy Stanley is a witty guide to making better decisions. With a dash of humor and a ton of insight, Stanley introduces his simple yet powerful question: "What is the wise thing to do?" This book persistently urges readers to tap into their imagination and think beyond the immediate consequences. It's like having a wise, sarcastic friend nudging you in the right direction. Stanley's intuitive approach and concise writing style make this book a delightful read. If you're looking for a book that combines practical wisdom with a touch of humor, "Ask It" is a must-read!
August 24, 2019
The big question the author encourages you to ask is so simple that you might blow it off. However, the way this book breaks down the decision making process with versions of the question "is it wise?" is great. It may not be new information that we should all ask ourselves if a course of action might be the wise way to go but the way it is layed out and discussed in this book can definitely notch your level of wisdom up a bit if you allow it to do so. Reading this book is well worth it!
January 21, 2023
Andy Stanley some of the most clear and practical books for the Christian trying to live the life God has called them to live. His book Ask It is no different. Stanley invites the reader to ask a very simple (almost too simple) question in every time of decision making. One that has been helpful for me on numerous occasions, and will continue to help me and anyone who is willing to take the time to apply this method and Ask It.
October 8, 2019
Outstanding book! Certainly helped me in making any decision, not just the big ones. I'm always hesitant in making decisions and then at that last possible moment when I'm pressured into a decision, I regret it. Now I have encouragement and practical advice (backed up by God's word) to help me make better (wiser) decisions.
May 28, 2021
Another "Read This Early & Often" Book
I am not a huge fan of Andy Stanley. Yet he continues to hit "home runs" with life-changing books on basic subjects. This is a book that I will encourage everyone to read, to get them on solid footing for making wise decisions throughout life. Easy to understand, simple to grasp, yet profoundly foundational to living.
I am not a huge fan of Andy Stanley. Yet he continues to hit "home runs" with life-changing books on basic subjects. This is a book that I will encourage everyone to read, to get them on solid footing for making wise decisions throughout life. Easy to understand, simple to grasp, yet profoundly foundational to living.
June 5, 2023
Very short and easy read! Andy lays out a simple, yet profound concept while providing a lot of self reflection opportunities throughout the book! The book challenges a new way of thinking and provides an important framework for making everyday decisions. I would certainly recommend to anyone looking for a good quick self development read.
June 18, 2017
Excellent book. Helps us answer many questions wisely.
This book answers the question , "what do we do when Scripture is silent on a given topic ? " the answer is, what is the wisest choice given our past experience, present reality, and future hope.
This book answers the question , "what do we do when Scripture is silent on a given topic ? " the answer is, what is the wisest choice given our past experience, present reality, and future hope.
June 28, 2017
RATING 4.25 STARS
Great book. Filled with sound advice and thought provocation. If you don't read much (and why are you here if that's the case?) at LEAST go listen to this series on his podcast. Really good stuff.
Great book. Filled with sound advice and thought provocation. If you don't read much (and why are you here if that's the case?) at LEAST go listen to this series on his podcast. Really good stuff.
December 11, 2017
After just 2 chapters, my thought was, "Where was this book when I was in my teens?" Thinking of the regrettable choices and decisions made are quite sobering. That said, my past is just that, my past. I listened to this book twice during a road trip and will most likely purchase this book.
January 29, 2018
Likely to to the best book I have read this year. It is all based on the the simplest yet probably least asked question, "In light of my past experiences, current circumstances or future hopes and dreams, what is the wise thing to do?" A question so obvious it hurts
March 9, 2018
took me forever to finish this one as it was a slow read, but I actually did like the whole idea. probably could have shaved of 100 pages easily for repetition. When you make a summary for yourself you might find it very practicle.
July 21, 2018
Great content. Once you get to the question the book picks up speed as he gives examples on how to apply the question to your life. In light of your past experiences and your future hopes and dreams, what is the wisest thing to do?
August 27, 2019
This was an excellent book! It explains a simple but very important truth: we all need wisdom to make the right decisions and making the wise choices in the little things will prevent a lot of pain and hardship in our lives.
January 16, 2022
This book is all about asking the most important question. Is this a wise thing for me to do? It has already helped me make wiser life decisions and has helped me guide others. It's a simple book and a fun little read.
March 24, 2023
I listened to this on Audible. This is typical Andy Stanley. He is very good at boiling big, Biblical principles down to very simple to understand ideas. The only reason this is a 4 instead of 5 is Andy Stanley doesn't read it. Come on, Man! :) Andy Stanley HAS to read Andy Stanley books!
August 3, 2017
A great book. Short but life-changing or reaffirming if you already believe.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews