What do you think?
Rate this book
The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands
Are you tired of living with the stress of an overwhelmed schedule and aching with the sadness of an underwhelmed soul? Do you find yourself unable to say no even when you should? Are you stuck under the weight of endless demands and responsibilities? The good news it doesn't have to be this way. In The Best Yes, New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst guides you through the insightful lessons she's learned about what it means to live out the purpose that God has in store for you. Lysa demonstrates the incredible power of two words-- yes and no-- and the way that these simple, daily decisions can shape the story of our lives. Lysa has learned firsthand that there's a big difference between saying yes to everyone and saying yes to God. Drawing from applicable scriptures and her own personal experiences, Lysa teaches us that if we know and believe that God has a plan for each of us, we'll live it out--serving as living proof of His never-ending grace and kindness. Throughout The Best Yes, Lysa will give you the practical tools you need If we take time to slow down and rise above the rush of the world's endless demands, we can rest assured that God's wisdom will help us make decisions that will still be good tomorrow. No matter what season of life you find yourself in, you deserve the chance to make decisions that bring out the best you.
272 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2014
1881 people are currently reading
22716 people want to read
About the author
Lysa TerKeurst
143 books32.6k followersLysa TerKeurst is president of Proverbs 31 Ministries and the New York Times best-selling author of Univited, The Best Yes, Unglued, Made to Crave, and 18 other books. Her newest book, It’s Not Supposed to be This Way, is scheduled for release in November of 2018. Lysa was recently awarded the Champions of Faith Author Award and has been published in multiple publications such as CNN and Fox News online. Additionally, she has appeared on the Today Show as one of the leading voices in the Christian community.
Each year, Lysa is a featured keynote presenter at more than 40 events across North America, including the Women of Joy Conferences and the Catalyst Leadership Conference. She has a passion for equipping women to share their stories for God's glory through Proverbs 31 Ministries' annual She Speaks Conference and writer training program, COMPEL: Words That Move People.
Connect with Lysa on social media @lysaterkeurst or at http://lysaterkeurst.com/.
Each year, Lysa is a featured keynote presenter at more than 40 events across North America, including the Women of Joy Conferences and the Catalyst Leadership Conference. She has a passion for equipping women to share their stories for God's glory through Proverbs 31 Ministries' annual She Speaks Conference and writer training program, COMPEL: Words That Move People.
Connect with Lysa on social media @lysaterkeurst or at http://lysaterkeurst.com/.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,213 reviews
July 29, 2015
I got some positive takeaways from this book, but I would be careful about recommending it to just anyone.
My main criticism was that this book is written for a very narrow demographic of women. It's not for single moms, not for underprivileged women.... not really for women who have a lot of problems. Now, I fall into the demographic of women for whom this book WAS written, but I can see how many women will not relate to this book. While she had solid points, her examples were laughable. Maybe my problem was that I listened to the audio version, and the reader was describing TerKeurst's anecdotes with such gravity that it made me laugh. For example, the box delivered to the door that she thought was hiding an intruder, the drive-thru problem, the contractor call, etc. For women who are facing unimaginable challenges such as divorce, abuse, poverty, hunger, etc., these examples would not resonate.
I think the author has some great helpful tips about decision-making that I will likely put to good use (the simple no, etc.), but just be aware that this book might not resonate with everyone.
My main criticism was that this book is written for a very narrow demographic of women. It's not for single moms, not for underprivileged women.... not really for women who have a lot of problems. Now, I fall into the demographic of women for whom this book WAS written, but I can see how many women will not relate to this book. While she had solid points, her examples were laughable. Maybe my problem was that I listened to the audio version, and the reader was describing TerKeurst's anecdotes with such gravity that it made me laugh. For example, the box delivered to the door that she thought was hiding an intruder, the drive-thru problem, the contractor call, etc. For women who are facing unimaginable challenges such as divorce, abuse, poverty, hunger, etc., these examples would not resonate.
I think the author has some great helpful tips about decision-making that I will likely put to good use (the simple no, etc.), but just be aware that this book might not resonate with everyone.
January 28, 2015
Run-on sentence alert:
You know how there are some books where you were so touched and shaped by its message that, even though you've long since finished reading, you keep it in your bag to as a visual reminder of the lessons learned-- as if keeping it in your line of sight will somehow catalyst a magical process of osmosis wherein you don't have to reread the book in order to instantly remember the specific points that were so profound in the first place?
Yeah, this is that kind of book.
There are way too many quoteables to share, and if you really don't want to invest the time it takes to read through this (so worth it!) there's a handy dandy index of significant quotes from each chapter in the back, most of which are tweetable and all of which are printed in a terribly-illegible-but-hipsterly-pretty font. The way Lysa shares and writes about her life, capturing key truths in such a compact yet un-cliche manner, is an extraordinary gift.
You know how there are some books where you were so touched and shaped by its message that, even though you've long since finished reading, you keep it in your bag to as a visual reminder of the lessons learned-- as if keeping it in your line of sight will somehow catalyst a magical process of osmosis wherein you don't have to reread the book in order to instantly remember the specific points that were so profound in the first place?
Yeah, this is that kind of book.
There are way too many quoteables to share, and if you really don't want to invest the time it takes to read through this (so worth it!) there's a handy dandy index of significant quotes from each chapter in the back, most of which are tweetable and all of which are printed in a terribly-illegible-but-hipsterly-pretty font. The way Lysa shares and writes about her life, capturing key truths in such a compact yet un-cliche manner, is an extraordinary gift.
January 13, 2018
I read this at a perfect time and it was just what I needed. I'm going to be candid and say that lately, in the past year or so, I have been struggling with balance. I have believed it to be more of a work-life balance but I now realize that I haven't been balancing my personal life very well either. I realize it all sounds cliché but in the effort of trying to "do it all", I probably wasn't doing any of it to my full potential. I knew I wanted to eventually read this book and that I wanted to make some changes so with this New Year started, I decided to pick this up.
Overall, this book was relatable and helpful. It outlined some ways to make a change and also gave examples of how we could be doing things wrong at detriment to ourselves. Lysa Terkeurst is also extremely relatable and humorous so the messages she puts out do not feel like she believes she's 'holier than thou'. I believe she is trying to help people and I believe this book is a result from that.
I know I will be reading this again because I did read it at a fairly fast pace (because I didn't want to put it down). I think it would be more beneficial to read this at a slower pace while putting it to work into everyday life. Next time I read this I think I will do it with the supplemental study.
I cannot wait to read more of Lysa Terkeurst's earlier works as well as books that will come in the future. I fully believe she's trying to help people and her books are her act of doing so. Definitely recommend this book, however I must place a disclaimer that it does involve a heavy aspect of faith and if that isn't for you, this book may not be either.
Overall, this book was relatable and helpful. It outlined some ways to make a change and also gave examples of how we could be doing things wrong at detriment to ourselves. Lysa Terkeurst is also extremely relatable and humorous so the messages she puts out do not feel like she believes she's 'holier than thou'. I believe she is trying to help people and I believe this book is a result from that.
I know I will be reading this again because I did read it at a fairly fast pace (because I didn't want to put it down). I think it would be more beneficial to read this at a slower pace while putting it to work into everyday life. Next time I read this I think I will do it with the supplemental study.
I cannot wait to read more of Lysa Terkeurst's earlier works as well as books that will come in the future. I fully believe she's trying to help people and her books are her act of doing so. Definitely recommend this book, however I must place a disclaimer that it does involve a heavy aspect of faith and if that isn't for you, this book may not be either.
September 7, 2014
I bought this book to read at a time when I was being asked to do multiple things between church, family and homeschool. I was torn and wanted to do it all or say no to it all. This book helped me tremendously. Decisions are hard and I wanted to make sure I was saying yes or no for all the right reasons.
Lysa is amazing. What I received from this book was way more than just help with decision making. She is very transparent with her life and she has a wealth of knowledge. Her gift of writing is one that I envy (in a godly way).
All of her books have helped me in various areas of my life. Highly recommend this one. You will be shaking your head in agreement and sharing a tear or two with her as you digest her words of wisdom and love.
Lysa is amazing. What I received from this book was way more than just help with decision making. She is very transparent with her life and she has a wealth of knowledge. Her gift of writing is one that I envy (in a godly way).
All of her books have helped me in various areas of my life. Highly recommend this one. You will be shaking your head in agreement and sharing a tear or two with her as you digest her words of wisdom and love.
February 14, 2017
This is a hard review to write. This book was highly recommended to me by a sweet friend who's opinion I respect. I hope she doesn't ask me about this book though.... Where to even begin. This book, as other reviewers have pointed out, is definitely not for single moms, mom in poverty, women without children/family. This not a book to read if you are dealing with life or death decisions or even crucial decisions in life. I felt like this book was written to subconsciously make moms feel better - possibly be a little more cognizant of choices they make - but it was too wishy washy. It's okay to say no - but it's okay to say yes too! You should do the right thing, but sometimes the right thing actually isn't the right thing. One situation from the book that really stuck out to me was when the author was contemplating letting a dear friend who had a sitation, stay with her family. In my opinion, she absolutely made the wrong choice. My biggest issue with this book is that sometimes "the best yes" is not the right yes. Sometimes it is hard to do the right thing because it is not the easy thing to do. All this aside, there are some huge issues I take with the author on a Christian level. The most IRRITATING thing of all about this book - is the use of multiple bible versions. Please don't cherry pick scriptures from ten different bible version to warp scripture to say what you want it to say. That's not how it works. At the very least, find one version, and stick with it. Secondly, this is largely reported as a bible study..... a bible study it is not - besides that - it is way too self-helpy. Lastly, this blog post I thought really hit the nail on the head, and I invite people to read it with an open mind and a bible in front of them: https://michellelesleybooks.com/2015/...
In a nutshell - two major items - 1. the author unrepentantly preaches to and instructs men in violation of I Timothy 2:12-14. 2. the author is a member of Steve Furtick's Elevation Church where she has also preached at. These are not biblical examples to be followed.
There were a few little nuggets that I could take away, but not enough to make the three hours I spent listening to this book worth it. Major diasspointment.
In a nutshell - two major items - 1. the author unrepentantly preaches to and instructs men in violation of I Timothy 2:12-14. 2. the author is a member of Steve Furtick's Elevation Church where she has also preached at. These are not biblical examples to be followed.
There were a few little nuggets that I could take away, but not enough to make the three hours I spent listening to this book worth it. Major diasspointment.
January 10, 2015
I started reading this book and thought "maybe I should read this at a later time. I don't have problems saying yes and no right now", but as I turned to the next page and the next I was finished before I knew it. I realized that this book is more than just about saying yes and no to situations to make your life easier or when you're feeling overwhelmed (although, yes, those are great reasons), you uncover a deep layer of who you are and where you want to be. Lysa Terkeurst is incredibly relatable and HILARIOUS, my husband probably thought I was losing my mind as I nodded my head and burst into light giggles while reading. She made my life feel normal, and who doesn't want to feel normal? She uncovered my shameful side of comparing (the wants/desires that cause the "green eyed monster", the "I wish I had those talents/looks/smarts/etc" that make me feel lesser of a person) and brought it into a light that made me feel like I wasn't alone. There are many reasons to read this book. Pick it up!
February 10, 2015
Utter crap. Really puzzled by all the positive reviews on Amazon. The book can be summed up as "have some common sense when making decisions" and I can do that without all the bible verses she quotes.
October 29, 2014
I liked this book, but I didn't love it. But you might. I'd like a 3-1/2 star option for this one. Here are some pros/cons:
Cons:
1. This book seemed a bit long (19 chapters) to cover the topic material. I felt some of the chapters could have been combined.
2. There is not a straight Bible teaching book, so when I signed up for the online corresponding "Bible" study of this book, I felt a little misled. I would say this book is more suitable for a book club setting, and is not for a Bible study.
3. I think a lot of people who need this book unfortunately won't be able to decide to read it, and if they do, they won't make it through the whole thing because it's too long.
Pros:
1. I really enjoy Lysa's writing style. It's similar to some of my other favorite authors like Jen Hatmaker, Melanie Shankle and Kelly Corrigan. I like real life, unexpected twists, and funny writing.
2. Lysa is honest. I don't think I've ever read a Christian book before where an author confesses she has called her husband an "A**". I like people who aren't afraid to disclose their sins and weaknesses. Because no one is perfect, and we all learn from each other.
3. I love this book focuses on the positives of saying "YES" instead of saying no all the time. I've read some of the books on boundaries, but it can all seem so negative to always be saying no to the unhealthy people and things. It's good to find a book on how to say "YES" to the things that really matter.
4. There is a ton of wisdom in here and I appreciate hearing all of it. I've always heard the greatest lesson is for the teacher, and I think that is so true in Lysa's life. Every experience has not been wasted so she can share on this subject.
A few personal notes for later:
p. 30- So I might bless whom?
p.128- the problem with "delay".
p.131- make small "no" answers positive to bless others
p.137- preset "yes" to get ahead of the request
p.170- Pay attention, p.176- take the next step that's right in front of you
p.208- When the world beats you down, open up your Bible. Let His sentences finish yours.
p.228- It's not the activities or accomplishments we string together that make lives well lived, as much as it is the hearts of wisdom we gain and use along the way.
Cons:
1. This book seemed a bit long (19 chapters) to cover the topic material. I felt some of the chapters could have been combined.
2. There is not a straight Bible teaching book, so when I signed up for the online corresponding "Bible" study of this book, I felt a little misled. I would say this book is more suitable for a book club setting, and is not for a Bible study.
3. I think a lot of people who need this book unfortunately won't be able to decide to read it, and if they do, they won't make it through the whole thing because it's too long.
Pros:
1. I really enjoy Lysa's writing style. It's similar to some of my other favorite authors like Jen Hatmaker, Melanie Shankle and Kelly Corrigan. I like real life, unexpected twists, and funny writing.
2. Lysa is honest. I don't think I've ever read a Christian book before where an author confesses she has called her husband an "A**". I like people who aren't afraid to disclose their sins and weaknesses. Because no one is perfect, and we all learn from each other.
3. I love this book focuses on the positives of saying "YES" instead of saying no all the time. I've read some of the books on boundaries, but it can all seem so negative to always be saying no to the unhealthy people and things. It's good to find a book on how to say "YES" to the things that really matter.
4. There is a ton of wisdom in here and I appreciate hearing all of it. I've always heard the greatest lesson is for the teacher, and I think that is so true in Lysa's life. Every experience has not been wasted so she can share on this subject.
A few personal notes for later:
p. 30- So I might bless whom?
p.128- the problem with "delay".
p.131- make small "no" answers positive to bless others
p.137- preset "yes" to get ahead of the request
p.170- Pay attention, p.176- take the next step that's right in front of you
p.208- When the world beats you down, open up your Bible. Let His sentences finish yours.
p.228- It's not the activities or accomplishments we string together that make lives well lived, as much as it is the hearts of wisdom we gain and use along the way.
May 16, 2018
I couldn’t bring myself to write a review back in January, when I finished the book, because I wasn’t sure if any of the ideas would stick with me at all.
They didn’t.
Overall, this book just didn’t work for me. At all. Lysa’s voice was whiny, her examples often way too privileged for me to connect with, and her ideas lacked any depth that actually captured and took hold of my soul. In fact, after reading this book, I found myself more preoccupied with the work of saying “no” or “chasing down a decision” than finding freedom in any of it. There was a lack of gospel-centered grace - it felt as if I were reading a self-help book written by someone who had no idea what it is like to be a human in the 21st century.
Perhaps that is a bit harsh. I know others who enjoyed this book. But for me, it was a very different experience. I couldn’t get into it, struggled through the half-baked ideas, and, 5 months later, can’t remember any of Lysa’s tips or tricks except the ones that make me feel as if I’m living so completely wrong I can never measure up.
Let me be clear - if The Best Yes didn’t connect with you, you may want to try Present Over Perfect instead. These two books get compared to each other often, and some enjoy one over the other. They feel very different to me. If your soul is longing for grace and true empathy, look towards Present Over Perfect instead of The Best Yes.
They didn’t.
Overall, this book just didn’t work for me. At all. Lysa’s voice was whiny, her examples often way too privileged for me to connect with, and her ideas lacked any depth that actually captured and took hold of my soul. In fact, after reading this book, I found myself more preoccupied with the work of saying “no” or “chasing down a decision” than finding freedom in any of it. There was a lack of gospel-centered grace - it felt as if I were reading a self-help book written by someone who had no idea what it is like to be a human in the 21st century.
Perhaps that is a bit harsh. I know others who enjoyed this book. But for me, it was a very different experience. I couldn’t get into it, struggled through the half-baked ideas, and, 5 months later, can’t remember any of Lysa’s tips or tricks except the ones that make me feel as if I’m living so completely wrong I can never measure up.
Let me be clear - if The Best Yes didn’t connect with you, you may want to try Present Over Perfect instead. These two books get compared to each other often, and some enjoy one over the other. They feel very different to me. If your soul is longing for grace and true empathy, look towards Present Over Perfect instead of The Best Yes.
May 2, 2016
This book really spoke to me as balancing my time has been really hard for me over the last year or so. If felt similar to another book that I also loved Your Sacred Yes: Trading Life-Draining Obligation for Freedom, Passion, and Joy and I needed the message again.
February 7, 2017
Never is a woman so fulfilled as when she chooses to underwhelm her schedule so she can let God overwhelm her soul.
I'm the type of person that thrives on busy. I enjoy organizing events, knowing that my days won't be boring, and making sure there are no long stretches of time that are unpeopled. I've even been known to get an adrenaline rush from the stress of looming deadlines. (Yeah, I know I'm crazy.) All that to say, this wasn't a book I actively sought out. I was making another purchase and decided to pick a random title from the discount section.
The Best Yes isn't a book on how to organize your schedule better so you can juggle it all. It's also not advice on how to cut your schedule down to bare bones in order to enjoy simplicity. Instead, it's a book about focus and wholeheartedness. It's about protecting your time at Jesus feet from the endless demands that clamour for our time.
My favorite thing about The Best Yes is that the author didn't advocate saying 'no' to requests simply because you feel busy and need more white space in your life. Instead, she encourages readers to prioritize their walk with God so they can hear his voice directing them in how to spend their limited resource of time.
I'm a Martha kind of girl. Being in the thick of things, serving by organizing and orchestrating, is what I love best. This book reminded me of what I already know--it's important to not loose the quite moments of reverence and learning and worship in the midst of good activity, but it also gave practical advice on how to make space for those times, and how those times can direct what I spend my time on so that all of the activity is the activity God has called me to.
We will steer where we stare. So stare mightily at God and His plan.
I'm the type of person that thrives on busy. I enjoy organizing events, knowing that my days won't be boring, and making sure there are no long stretches of time that are unpeopled. I've even been known to get an adrenaline rush from the stress of looming deadlines. (Yeah, I know I'm crazy.) All that to say, this wasn't a book I actively sought out. I was making another purchase and decided to pick a random title from the discount section.
The Best Yes isn't a book on how to organize your schedule better so you can juggle it all. It's also not advice on how to cut your schedule down to bare bones in order to enjoy simplicity. Instead, it's a book about focus and wholeheartedness. It's about protecting your time at Jesus feet from the endless demands that clamour for our time.
My favorite thing about The Best Yes is that the author didn't advocate saying 'no' to requests simply because you feel busy and need more white space in your life. Instead, she encourages readers to prioritize their walk with God so they can hear his voice directing them in how to spend their limited resource of time.
I'm a Martha kind of girl. Being in the thick of things, serving by organizing and orchestrating, is what I love best. This book reminded me of what I already know--it's important to not loose the quite moments of reverence and learning and worship in the midst of good activity, but it also gave practical advice on how to make space for those times, and how those times can direct what I spend my time on so that all of the activity is the activity God has called me to.
We will steer where we stare. So stare mightily at God and His plan.
July 16, 2016
Though I'm giving this book three stars, my heart may grant it four as I move away and contemplate what I've learned. This book, written to help women learn how to stop feeling overwhelmed with commitments and find their "Best Yes", does a pretty amazing job of rooting every precept heavily in Scripture. I valued this a lot, especially when so many self-help, Christianese books lack serious meat or insights that go past the surface.
Her anecdotes, while too lengthy, were helpful in tying her tactics to practical examples. The book also largely targets mothers and wives with stable incomes and home lives -- not single women, widows, career-women without kids, women struggling with poverty, etc. It's unfortunate, too, because overlooking these demographics left a lot of issues unaddressed that I'm dealing with in my own life.
The most significant message was this: acquire wisdom. Acquire that wisdom through the deep perusal of the scriptures and fellowship with friends whom we respect and trust to provide wise counsel. Again and again she hammers this home, and I found it profoundly true and convicting.
The second most significant message -- saying no isn't just about clearing your schedule to make life easier. Saying no is useful to make space for our best assignments. The stuff we're called to do and should devote our energy to. That's a tough pill to swallow for someone like me, who just selfishly wants to keep my free time all to myself to recharge. Mostly.
Overall -- stylistically not my thing, but content-wise, there were rich nuggets that are worth exploring. I'd recommend it.
Her anecdotes, while too lengthy, were helpful in tying her tactics to practical examples. The book also largely targets mothers and wives with stable incomes and home lives -- not single women, widows, career-women without kids, women struggling with poverty, etc. It's unfortunate, too, because overlooking these demographics left a lot of issues unaddressed that I'm dealing with in my own life.
The most significant message was this: acquire wisdom. Acquire that wisdom through the deep perusal of the scriptures and fellowship with friends whom we respect and trust to provide wise counsel. Again and again she hammers this home, and I found it profoundly true and convicting.
The second most significant message -- saying no isn't just about clearing your schedule to make life easier. Saying no is useful to make space for our best assignments. The stuff we're called to do and should devote our energy to. That's a tough pill to swallow for someone like me, who just selfishly wants to keep my free time all to myself to recharge. Mostly.
Overall -- stylistically not my thing, but content-wise, there were rich nuggets that are worth exploring. I'd recommend it.
August 24, 2014
I love The Best Yes! Wise, warm, honest, funny, and do-it-now practical, this guide to making smart decisions is just the thing for those of us who have too much on our calendars and need help to stop the madness. Lysa has clearly lived and learned what works and what doesn't. Her stories, examples, and advice all ring true, and wisdom pours from every page. This is her best yet!
January 5, 2021
One of my favorite quotes from the book: "If I'm trusting myself, I will stare at all the possible ways I could fail. If I'm trusting God, I will stare at all the possible ways He'll use this whether I fail or succeed."
May 30, 2018
Sometimes I just add books without reading their description - perhaps a friend recommended it or it was featured on Overdrive. Who knows? And I had no clue how this audiobook ended up in my queue. I actually had to check it out twice - I ran out of time during the initial loan period. And... I felt really underwhelmed. Much of the advice was trite -- and aimed mostly at stay-at-home mothers. As a single woman in my 30s, I felt the author was passing judgments on the things that I have privileged within my own life's journey. I am interested in reading Christian-based non-fiction books, but with this one, I would avoid.
January 18, 2018
I enjoyed this book. I think it had a lot of good information on making wise decisions, and learning to be okay with saying "no" when we need to. I liked that the author included a lot of Scripture. Toward the end I was finding it a bit repetitive, but overall I think it was really good. There definitely is a certain target for this book; adult Christian women who are involved in ministry of some sort and have families, and I mostly fall into this so it was helpful for me.
August 8, 2015
I liked the idea of this book, but after two chapters I couldn't handle the poorly-written, amateur blogger tone. Her weak examples of personal "dilemmas" are bound to make people with actual problems laugh, if not angry. After reading Lara Casey's incredible Make It Happen, this was not enough to pull me in.
October 13, 2015
Such a hard hitting, and timely book for me...and honestly, probably for most women I know. We are living in an age where "busy" is next to godliness, but I think that the constant state of doing to much is leading us astray.
March 8, 2017
Holy sentence-fragments, Batman!
If you can get past the speech-to-text writing, the cloying, saccharine tone, and the bizarre mix of theologies, there are a couple of good *moments* in this book. I won't be recommending it to anyone, though.
If you can get past the speech-to-text writing, the cloying, saccharine tone, and the bizarre mix of theologies, there are a couple of good *moments* in this book. I won't be recommending it to anyone, though.
August 19, 2014
Great book! Great message... Many things are underlined which is a good sign of meaningful things...
November 11, 2022
There were a lot of great, balanced points in this book. I feel like most any Christian can read it and find something to identify with. She has a lot of examples and analogies (some of them did not resonate with me, but some of the were spot on).
I don’t care that she uses The Message, as I feel like it really waters down the meaning of the Bible. But apart from that, her message was solid.
A few quotes:
“Not making a decision is actually a decision. It’s the decision to stay the same. And staying the same when I know I need to change is a choice that carries consequences with it.”
“Like a tree, a woman can’t carry the weight of two seasons simultaneously. In the violent struggle of trying, she’ll miss every bit of joy each season promises to bring.”
“Do the next right thing that’s right in front of you. And then do the next right thing. Take baby steps of right decisions, and soon, you will walk in a new strength you don’t think possible.”
I don’t care that she uses The Message, as I feel like it really waters down the meaning of the Bible. But apart from that, her message was solid.
A few quotes:
“Not making a decision is actually a decision. It’s the decision to stay the same. And staying the same when I know I need to change is a choice that carries consequences with it.”
“Like a tree, a woman can’t carry the weight of two seasons simultaneously. In the violent struggle of trying, she’ll miss every bit of joy each season promises to bring.”
“Do the next right thing that’s right in front of you. And then do the next right thing. Take baby steps of right decisions, and soon, you will walk in a new strength you don’t think possible.”
April 17, 2015
I can't seem to take off my 'editor hat'. I read with a pencil so I can take notes - instead, I'm editing the book and it's distracting me.
First paragraph,
"She's an amazing, beautiful, talented, witty, kind-hearted girl. Who is amazing. I believe I might have mentioned that already."
Is this a first draft? What does beauty have to do this vignette? And - yup, you mentioned 'amazing' before, so you don't need to say it again and then add another sentence reminding us that you mentioned it already. This kind of writing sends a message that the book may be a tedious read and/or has not been thoroughly edited.
"She is a witty, kind-hearted girl." Then move on . . .
Maybe I'm PMSing. I'm only on chapter 1 and I'm hoping it will grow on me.
First paragraph,
"She's an amazing, beautiful, talented, witty, kind-hearted girl. Who is amazing. I believe I might have mentioned that already."
Is this a first draft? What does beauty have to do this vignette? And - yup, you mentioned 'amazing' before, so you don't need to say it again and then add another sentence reminding us that you mentioned it already. This kind of writing sends a message that the book may be a tedious read and/or has not been thoroughly edited.
"She is a witty, kind-hearted girl." Then move on . . .
Maybe I'm PMSing. I'm only on chapter 1 and I'm hoping it will grow on me.
March 23, 2016
Not what I thought it would be
This book was basically about decision-making, which most people would expect from the title. But I was looking for more of a book about margin and living in our priorities.
The writing style was also in the new trend of being loose, conversational and redundant (more like a blog). And that's not my favorite style--I like "tight" writing that is well-crafted. I've read other books by the author that I really enjoyed. I think her style has just gotten looser through the years.
This book was not my favorite...
This book was basically about decision-making, which most people would expect from the title. But I was looking for more of a book about margin and living in our priorities.
The writing style was also in the new trend of being loose, conversational and redundant (more like a blog). And that's not my favorite style--I like "tight" writing that is well-crafted. I've read other books by the author that I really enjoyed. I think her style has just gotten looser through the years.
This book was not my favorite...
June 26, 2016
I'm a 20-something working girl who begrudgingly read The Best Yes in Bible study. (I'm not a fan of self-help books.)
While Lysa offers some decent advice for decision-making, I thought she used Bible verses to support her own claims instead of digging into Scripture for a Biblical view of wisdom and prioritization. In some cases, Lysa's interpretation of Scripture were taken out of historical context.
And to make matters worse, I was rolling my eyes at her chatty, gabbing-with-girlfriends schtick.
January 8, 2016
I could not have read this book at a better time, when I'm wrestling with what to say "yes" to and what I need to let go of in order to be the best me and have the best life possible. This book is insightful and refreshing and freeing-- ladies, do yourself a favor and pick this one up. You'll feel empowered and ready to conquer your life boldly and wisely afterward!
June 8, 2016
*2.5 stars*
Though this book grew on me as I read, I was never able to completely stop pausing, cocking my head, and inserting "no...," "huh," and the high-pitched uncertain "mmmm." I know I would have appreciated it more at another time in my life, but not at this point.
Though this book grew on me as I read, I was never able to completely stop pausing, cocking my head, and inserting "no...," "huh," and the high-pitched uncertain "mmmm." I know I would have appreciated it more at another time in my life, but not at this point.
August 26, 2021
I’ll read anything Lysa Terkeurst writes!
I walk away filled to the brim with relatable stories, tangible advice, and powerful scripture.
Took SO many notes that are all going into this review so that I can hold onto them for safe keeping:
We must not confuse the command to love with the disease to please !!!
The best yes? It’s you playing your part
In gods plan, you’ve got a part to play
We miss simple acts of obedience because we are “too busy”
We have to long for unbroken companionship with God
Isaiah 30:21 - this is the way, walk in it
In repentance and rest, is your salvation
In quietness and trust, is your strength
“This is one of your best yes assignments for today, don’t miss it” - God
Seek instruction before direction
“Pay attention, see what I want you to see”
The one who obeys Gods instruction for today will develop a keen awareness of His direction tomorrow
Overwhelmed schedule, underwhelmed soul
- Establish new patterns and change your approach
- Schedule time for your soul thing
- Honoring God with the time you have
- Never is a woman so fulfilled, as when she chooses to underwhelm her schedule so she can let God overwhelm her SOUL
THIS IS SO GOOD - the decisions you make determine the schedule you keep. The schedule you keep determines the life you live. And how you live your life determines how you spend your soul.
John 14:26
Psalsms 111:10
The fear of the lord is the beginning of wisdom
Discernment - be known as a wise woman
One who sees the hand of God in everything = fear of the lord (being in awe)
Be one of the rare few who looks deeper than just the surface. See something more in the everyday. It’s there.
Gods word, ways and wonder
- How we approach something matters
- My approach must honor Jesus
- Physically, financially, spiritually, emotionally
- Emotionally bankrupt ... this is ugly
- Colossians 3:17
- Is it loving to say no?
- Doing an activity without an attitude of love will not reflect Gods love
- My attitude of love must not be sacrificed on the altar of activity
- God is the master provider
Chase down that decision
- No decision is an isolated choice, it’s a chain of events
- I won’t crave something I never try
- The scariest place in a relationship Not when the talking is hard, but the talking stops
We steer where we stare
Good decisions will often have bad elements
There can be 2 good decisions
With release comes more peace
Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life -proverbs 19:20
Wisdom requires work!!
If we lack wisdom, ask for it - James 1:5
I can be protected BY wisdom
The more verses we memorize the more our thinking will align with His truth
Satan will acknowledge God, but does not have a personal relationship with Him and wants to make sure that we don’t either
Give the best of who you are, to what you already are committed to
Let evaluation eliminate potential frustration
The power of the small no
- Nips something in the butt early on
- Delaying your no does not make it better
- “Being nice” ... but what if a small no can be given in such a way that it becomes a gift rather than a curse?
- While my heart wants to say yes, the reality of my time makes this a no
- I’m sorry, but I can’t give this the attention it deserves
- Let God lead you beside still waters abs then jump in
Those that constantly try to impress others will depress themselves
If I am the person constantly saying yes, I might be hindering others from trusting God
Love is more about presence then getting a job done
Leaving room in my life for the un rushed yes strengthens the fabric of my relationships So they can better withstand the wear and tear of everyday life
Relationships nourish us in ways nothing else can. It’s the relationships that help unrush us.
Delicate sweater story
Go against the urge to resist your spouse
It’s not easy
Leave time on your calendar for relationships
Leave space for people and not just projects
Fixed mindset chains our identity to our insecurity
Growth mindset...
I chain my identity to the word of God that breathes hope and powerful potential back into any situation
I am a child of God, therefore insert scripture
Isaiah 54:17
Zephaniah 3:17
As long as our relationship is growing, it’s living
Our souls need truth flowing steadily in and out of us
Sometimes young means incapable of handling situations the right way
James 3:13-17
Humility comes through wisdom
Wisdom will help us not repeat the mistakes we’ve made but rather grow stronger through them
Sin and consequences always walk hand in hand
James 1: 3-9 Double minded and unstable in all they do
A desperate dependence on God is your very best yes
When my best yes doesn’t yield what I expect
- What mama will be courageous enough to let me write this child’s story??
- It’s not the activities or accomplishments we string together that make lives well lived as much as it is the hearts of wisdom we gain and use along the way.
Lord, help me become a heavenly creature that is in harmony with you. Please help me seek counsel and wisdom... Let this be displayed through my choices and actions. So that people may see, hear and know Jesus.
I walk away filled to the brim with relatable stories, tangible advice, and powerful scripture.
Took SO many notes that are all going into this review so that I can hold onto them for safe keeping:
We must not confuse the command to love with the disease to please !!!
The best yes? It’s you playing your part
In gods plan, you’ve got a part to play
We miss simple acts of obedience because we are “too busy”
We have to long for unbroken companionship with God
Isaiah 30:21 - this is the way, walk in it
In repentance and rest, is your salvation
In quietness and trust, is your strength
“This is one of your best yes assignments for today, don’t miss it” - God
Seek instruction before direction
“Pay attention, see what I want you to see”
The one who obeys Gods instruction for today will develop a keen awareness of His direction tomorrow
Overwhelmed schedule, underwhelmed soul
- Establish new patterns and change your approach
- Schedule time for your soul thing
- Honoring God with the time you have
- Never is a woman so fulfilled, as when she chooses to underwhelm her schedule so she can let God overwhelm her SOUL
THIS IS SO GOOD - the decisions you make determine the schedule you keep. The schedule you keep determines the life you live. And how you live your life determines how you spend your soul.
John 14:26
Psalsms 111:10
The fear of the lord is the beginning of wisdom
Discernment - be known as a wise woman
One who sees the hand of God in everything = fear of the lord (being in awe)
Be one of the rare few who looks deeper than just the surface. See something more in the everyday. It’s there.
Gods word, ways and wonder
- How we approach something matters
- My approach must honor Jesus
- Physically, financially, spiritually, emotionally
- Emotionally bankrupt ... this is ugly
- Colossians 3:17
- Is it loving to say no?
- Doing an activity without an attitude of love will not reflect Gods love
- My attitude of love must not be sacrificed on the altar of activity
- God is the master provider
Chase down that decision
- No decision is an isolated choice, it’s a chain of events
- I won’t crave something I never try
- The scariest place in a relationship Not when the talking is hard, but the talking stops
We steer where we stare
Good decisions will often have bad elements
There can be 2 good decisions
With release comes more peace
Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life -proverbs 19:20
Wisdom requires work!!
If we lack wisdom, ask for it - James 1:5
I can be protected BY wisdom
The more verses we memorize the more our thinking will align with His truth
Satan will acknowledge God, but does not have a personal relationship with Him and wants to make sure that we don’t either
Give the best of who you are, to what you already are committed to
Let evaluation eliminate potential frustration
The power of the small no
- Nips something in the butt early on
- Delaying your no does not make it better
- “Being nice” ... but what if a small no can be given in such a way that it becomes a gift rather than a curse?
- While my heart wants to say yes, the reality of my time makes this a no
- I’m sorry, but I can’t give this the attention it deserves
- Let God lead you beside still waters abs then jump in
Those that constantly try to impress others will depress themselves
If I am the person constantly saying yes, I might be hindering others from trusting God
Love is more about presence then getting a job done
Leaving room in my life for the un rushed yes strengthens the fabric of my relationships So they can better withstand the wear and tear of everyday life
Relationships nourish us in ways nothing else can. It’s the relationships that help unrush us.
Delicate sweater story
Go against the urge to resist your spouse
It’s not easy
Leave time on your calendar for relationships
Leave space for people and not just projects
Fixed mindset chains our identity to our insecurity
Growth mindset...
I chain my identity to the word of God that breathes hope and powerful potential back into any situation
I am a child of God, therefore insert scripture
Isaiah 54:17
Zephaniah 3:17
As long as our relationship is growing, it’s living
Our souls need truth flowing steadily in and out of us
Sometimes young means incapable of handling situations the right way
James 3:13-17
Humility comes through wisdom
Wisdom will help us not repeat the mistakes we’ve made but rather grow stronger through them
Sin and consequences always walk hand in hand
James 1: 3-9 Double minded and unstable in all they do
A desperate dependence on God is your very best yes
When my best yes doesn’t yield what I expect
- What mama will be courageous enough to let me write this child’s story??
- It’s not the activities or accomplishments we string together that make lives well lived as much as it is the hearts of wisdom we gain and use along the way.
Lord, help me become a heavenly creature that is in harmony with you. Please help me seek counsel and wisdom... Let this be displayed through my choices and actions. So that people may see, hear and know Jesus.
May 27, 2025
FINALLY finished this book today. It was good. There were lots of good takeaways about making good commitments, how to do that, how to say yes to what we should but not to everything (i.e. giving our “best yes”), etc. I learned some helpful things. It was very much written to a specific audience of young women and so it was harder to follow examples referencing “your husband” because surprise, i don’t have one of those lol so the book was good, just wish it was a little more gender neutral in its audience because the material was so good!
April 12, 2019
I was honestly pretty disappointed in this initially, but it did improve a little as it went on. It wasn't quite the "approach" that I guess I would have preferred, but there were some good things to glean from it.
August 26, 2015
Source: self-purchase.
Rating: 5 stars for excellent.
Summary:
The back cover of the book does not share the thrust of the book's emphasis. I purchased the book because of the author, secondly for the title and subtitle. The subtitle states the summary of the book perfectly: Making Wise Decisions In The Midst Of Endless Demands. If you ponder the subtitle, making wise decisions is what most Christians want to make; however, how can this be achieved? Lisa Terkeurst examines, explains, and answers the question of making wise decisions.
My Thoughts:
The Best Yes is one of those books where in the beginning, I'm not quite sure what I've gotten myself into; however, before long I'm glued to the pages and cannot lay the book down until the last page.
I wish I'd had this book when I was in my twenties and thirties. At this point in life, I have learned (and sometimes through trial and error) how to make wise decisions. I've also learned there is no "perfect choice." Lastly, life is a journey, and as a Christian, God has taken the bad choices I made in life, and in His grace and mercy has blessed me immeasurably. God makes the ugly beautiful.
The Best Yes is filled with memorable quotes. At the end of the book, many of these quotes are enlarged and ready to cut-out (since photocopying is not okay.) I've not seen other nonfiction books display memorable quotes in the book for key emphasis.
Some examples of quotes are:
"We must not confuse the command to love with the disease to please."
"The one who obeys God's instruction for today will develop a keen awareness of His direction for tomorrow."
"Our decisions aren't just isolated choices. Our decisions point our lives in the directions we're about to head. Show me a decision and I'll show you a direction."
"Humility and wisdom are a package deal. And often the people who have the most wisdom have experienced the most humility. Or sometimes even the most humiliation."
Some examples of chapter titles are:
"Chapter 3: Overwhelmed Schedule, Underwhelmed Soul."
"Chapter 4: Sometimes I Make It All So Complicated."
"Chapter 10: Managing Demands Means Understanding Expectations."
"Chapter 18: When My Best Yes Doesn't Yield What I Expect."
Also, at the end of the book is a helpful tool section for decision making. Questions to ask when making decisions.
The paperback copy does not have discussion questions. There is a study guide and DVD that can be bought separately.
Lastly, do I believe The Best Yes is written to an audience of only young women? No. Making wise choices is a subject women of any age can relate to and learn from. However, as I stated in the above review, some of Terkeurst's points in decision making I'd already learned.
Rating: 5 stars for excellent.
Summary:
The back cover of the book does not share the thrust of the book's emphasis. I purchased the book because of the author, secondly for the title and subtitle. The subtitle states the summary of the book perfectly: Making Wise Decisions In The Midst Of Endless Demands. If you ponder the subtitle, making wise decisions is what most Christians want to make; however, how can this be achieved? Lisa Terkeurst examines, explains, and answers the question of making wise decisions.
My Thoughts:
The Best Yes is one of those books where in the beginning, I'm not quite sure what I've gotten myself into; however, before long I'm glued to the pages and cannot lay the book down until the last page.
I wish I'd had this book when I was in my twenties and thirties. At this point in life, I have learned (and sometimes through trial and error) how to make wise decisions. I've also learned there is no "perfect choice." Lastly, life is a journey, and as a Christian, God has taken the bad choices I made in life, and in His grace and mercy has blessed me immeasurably. God makes the ugly beautiful.
The Best Yes is filled with memorable quotes. At the end of the book, many of these quotes are enlarged and ready to cut-out (since photocopying is not okay.) I've not seen other nonfiction books display memorable quotes in the book for key emphasis.
Some examples of quotes are:
"We must not confuse the command to love with the disease to please."
"The one who obeys God's instruction for today will develop a keen awareness of His direction for tomorrow."
"Our decisions aren't just isolated choices. Our decisions point our lives in the directions we're about to head. Show me a decision and I'll show you a direction."
"Humility and wisdom are a package deal. And often the people who have the most wisdom have experienced the most humility. Or sometimes even the most humiliation."
Some examples of chapter titles are:
"Chapter 3: Overwhelmed Schedule, Underwhelmed Soul."
"Chapter 4: Sometimes I Make It All So Complicated."
"Chapter 10: Managing Demands Means Understanding Expectations."
"Chapter 18: When My Best Yes Doesn't Yield What I Expect."
Also, at the end of the book is a helpful tool section for decision making. Questions to ask when making decisions.
The paperback copy does not have discussion questions. There is a study guide and DVD that can be bought separately.
Lastly, do I believe The Best Yes is written to an audience of only young women? No. Making wise choices is a subject women of any age can relate to and learn from. However, as I stated in the above review, some of Terkeurst's points in decision making I'd already learned.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,213 reviews