Three Years: Making A Difference In The Time You Have Left

by Drew M. Christian

Do you want your life to be "effective" and "productive"? Do you want your life's impact to be felt over future generations? If you discovered you only had three years left to live, what might you do differently to make sure this happens?

These questions led Dr. Drew M. Christian to "The Ladder of Virtues," found in 2 Peter, which escapulates the characteristics Jesus displayed during His three years of ministry. Regardless of what you believe about Jesus, His short life was certainly "effective" and "productive," leaving an impact still felt two thousand years after His death and still transforming lives today.

"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ." -2 Peter 1:5-8

Drew believed that the virtues listed in 2 Peter 1:5-8, and displayed by Jesus over three years of ministry, would be a good place to start if one wanted to make sure one's life was effective and productive in the time they had left.

This led Drew to ask, "If I made an intentional effort to climb "The Ladder of Virtues" over the next three years, what difference might I make and how might I affect generations after me? How might it affect my leadership, my work, my family, and my community?"

This journey, along with a study guide for individuals and small groups, is recorded in the book. The book challenges the reader to consider climbing the ladder of virtues, choosing to practice each rung of the ladder, and shows how this can lead to a life of purpose and impact.

180 pages, Paperback

Published September 30, 2024

Reviews

[Louise Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Three Years: Making a Difference in the Time You Have Left" by Dr. Drew M. Christian is a remarkable work that serves as a profound gift to its readers. The author approaches his subject matter with a level of vulnerability and honesty that is both admirable and inspiring. His personal testimony resonates deeply, providing invaluable insights for anyone who engages with the text. His extraordinary and sincere accounts illustrate the biblical tenet of sharing testimonies, revealing the transformative influence it can have on the propagation and validation of God's word.

The exploration by Dr. Christian into the impact of Jesus on our lives is particularly enlightening, as he discusses the meaningful changes that can happen when individuals invite the Holy Spirit into their hearts. A central theme is the importance of embodying the teachings of Christ, prompting readers to take immediate steps and to cultivate their faith on a daily basis rather than postponing their spiritual growth. It has certainly encouraged me to pursue a more meaningful and productive existence while working to elevate my virtues, and I believe it will evoke a similar response in others who come across it. One chapter that particularly struck a chord with me was the one discussing the distinction between working out and working on salvation. The guidance provided was exactly what I needed to hear, and I am grateful to the author for offering such wisdom. It’s refreshing when a book not only inspires self-improvement but also deepens one’s faith, reminding us that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

After immersing myself in this book, I was left with an enormous sense of love, gratitude, and motivation. This book is not just a read; it’s an invitation to reflect and act. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking renewal and a deeper connection to their faith, as it has the potential to uplift and transform lives.

[Abdullah Yasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I dedicate most of my days to teaching young minds and attempting to influence how they perceive life, thus I am constantly attracted to the books that address the issue of character and purpose. Three Years was something that actually got me to stop and think about my personal time utilization. The concept of stamping your feet is very uncomfortable and motivating as it suggests living as though you have a limited time. The most interesting point was the so-called ladder of virtues allowing me to have a practical method of assessing my personal development. It even affected my day to day interaction on handling matters of discipline and responsibility through conversations. This is not a book to read and to forget but to remain with and subtly transform your point of vie

[Fahd Abdullah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me rediscover the sense of purpose, not only in what I do, but also in how I do it. I will continue to go back to it.

Sometimes I get home emotionally exhausted after looking after people, and I did not imagine that such a book would affect me this way. It taught me that even minor gestures do have their weight. The thoughts of time and purpose expressed by the author were especially close to me since I often experience how weak life can be. I was very moved by the part about perseverance since it is closely connected to the power to continue to appear in people in times of troubles.

[Seymour · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a person who enjoys structure because most of my time is spent in problem solving and constructing things that need to be efficient. The thing that shocked me about this book is that it outlines personal growth sequentially in a very clear manner. The ladder virtues seemed very similar to the kind of plan I could use. The thought of being deliberate in the process of developing character rather than spontaneous was quite attractive. Another thing I liked is how it explained that you do not force or coerce growth. It also caused me to reconsider my approach to my personal life and also the manner in which I tackle challenges.

[Trevor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an intriguing read and does not make one feel pressured. I am accustomed to reasoning all situations correctly and doubting everything but this book seemed to speak the truth to me and to be easy to relate to. The author does not portray himself or herself as flawless and that is what made the message more realistic. This concept of leading a purposeful life by thinking that time is running short has caused me to contemplate the extent to which I engage in work at the expense of all other things. The ladder of virtues presented an effective strategy of considering growth beyond pro career.

[Ethelbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Proximate living to the land makes you patient, timely, and consistent, and this book read as a more profound lesson of these elements. The message of being able to make the most out of time you have is something that has really resonated with me. It was a reflection that all seasons are important, as any phase of our life is. I liked the simplicity of writing, but the depth of the message. It was important that the communal aspect of life encompassed the goodness and doing good to others. This book affirmed my purpose and made me live more consciously.

[Gage Arlen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a teacher and a guide in many other persons in the ways of faith, so when I read this book I became motivated as well as thought-provoking. It supports the known values and makes them appear new and practical. This conscious developmental focus penetrated me. Faith is talked about, not necessarily executed in a more organized manner. That practice has an evident way offered by the ladder of virtues. It is not a book that can be agreed with either on a superficial level.

[Bob Dillon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three years made me rediscover the value of integrity and compassion. The emphasis on good and ethical power was quite noticeable. It served as a reminder of the fact that the manner in which you react is important even during very hard situations. The concept of a change in just a short period of time left me with thoughts about the relevance of every day actions. It is a strong lesson to keep my feet on the ground.

[Thomas Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having spent years guiding others, I found this book to be a refreshing reminder that growth never truly stops. The “ladder of virtues” concept is both simple and profound, offering a clear path forward. What stood out most was the balance between accountability and grace. The author does not shy away from difficult truths but presents them with compassion. It is a book that encourages reflection while also providing direction, making it valuable for both personal and shared discussions.

[Megan Blake · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a fast-paced routine where everything feels urgent, this book slowed my thinking in the best way possible. It shifted my focus from constant activity to intentional living. The structure was one of its strongest aspects, guiding the reader through a clear and meaningful progression. Each chapter felt purposeful, building on the last. It helped me realize that being busy is not the same as being effective, which is a lesson I needed.

[Alexandre Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Managing daily responsibilities often leaves little room for reflection, but this book created that space for me. It highlighted the importance of influence in everyday moments, something I had not fully considered before. The organized layout made it easy to engage with each idea without feeling overwhelmed. I appreciated how it encouraged steady growth rather than perfection. It reminded me that small, consistent actions shape a lasting impact.

[Crawford Clarence · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t normally read books like this, but I am glad I read it. I have remembered the message on taking advantage of your time. It made me consider my day-to-day life and my way of treating people. The examples were straightforward and comprehensible, yet strong. I also liked the fact that it pays attention to becoming a better little by a little. It is something I can practice in real life.

[François Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three years reinforced the importance of discipline in a way that felt natural, not forced. I admired how the structure built gradually, making each concept easy to absorb and apply. It reminded me that meaningful change does not happen overnight but through consistent effort over time. That perspective felt both familiar and encouraging.

[Amber Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

From a storytelling perspective, I appreciated how the author used personal experiences to support the message. The structure allowed the narrative to flow while still delivering clear lessons. It felt balanced and intentional, not overly complicated. Each chapter added depth without losing clarity. It showed how storytelling can be used to communicate meaningful ideas effectively.

[Damien Logan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book served as a reminder that personal growth never truly stops. The structured approach made it easy to revisit key ideas and reflect on them deeply. I appreciated how each virtue was presented clearly, allowing for both understanding and application

[Tiffanie Z. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! Honored to know the author, graduated high school with him. The book is very inspiring and accessible. Practical and nice sharing of real life stories. Thanks Drew!

[Kayla Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being in a role that demands discipline and accountability, I found the message of this book very aligned with those values. What a great read.