Before I read this book I felt like I was pretty well-versed in what many Christians are calling the "Bridal paradigm," the Biblical idea that God is the Bridegroom of the church and much of how we relate to God should be seen in light of this reality. But when I read this book, I found out I was wrong! There is so much more to know and to learn, and Gary Wiens explains it wonderfully here. No matter how familiar or unfamiliar you are with this idea, this book is a must-read if you want to grow in what God desires for you in the place of prayer.
Difficult to begin unpacking this book but I am deeply affected and put this at the top of all I’ve read this year. This gets a place in the “all-time” favorites, no question. Gary delivers insights on prayer and intimacy with Jesus that are corrective to common misconceptions and inflammatory to the burning heart. This is the best of the IHOP movement.
I really enjoyed this book. A lot of this information is similar to what we hear at IHOP-KC but it was written in a very personable way. I'd recommend this book for anyone who desires to grow in intercession and their relationship with Jesus. The focus on the book is heart and relationship and the prayer/intercession that flows out of that focus fixed on Him.
Can we really learn who we are as the beloved of Christ? The author reveals we can though understanding scripture in light of our relationship, not on what we do to somehow try to please God.
I have been reading this book off and on for a long time. (Thanks, Laurel, for giving it to me!) It continues to be life-and-thought changing as I discover how much God loves me, the joy of worshiping Him, and the privilege of partnering with Him in prayer.
Knowing who you are as you approach the throne of grace is critical to removing shame and condemnation. Your prayer life will increase in authority when you approach the throne as Esther did.