The Courage to Change: Saying Goodbye to Good Enough and Embracing the Promise of What Can Be

by Joyce Meyer

We can't keep change from coming, but we can manage our reaction to it and even come to welcome it through the transformative power of God's Word.
Do you feel like you are constantly battling changes that make your life feel unsteady? Many things in life jobs, relationships, social norms, responsibilities, people's expectations. Changes impact our lives in big, small, positive and negative ways. But even in our ever-changing world, we have hope and assurance because our God never changes.

#1 New York Times bestselling author and beloved Bible teacher Joyce Meyer wants us to know that even when we feel like everything around us shakes and changes, we can stand on the promise of God’s Word that He will see us through. No matter what we are going through, we have been given everything we need to embrace the changes we face. Not only that, but we can trust that God works in all changes for good in our lives, even the most painful and difficult ones.

The Courage to Change shows us the importance of changing our mindset, maintaining a positive attitude toward change, and handling our emotions in ways that will help us manage the shifts in our lives through the strength from God.

You don’t have to live another day dreading the challenges of change!


The Courage to Change also contains study questions at the end of each chapter for individual or group reflection.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Faith, Spirituality, Inspirational, Religion, Christian Living

224 pages, Hardcover

Published May 6, 2025

About the author

Joyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A New York Times bestselling author, Joyce’s books have helped millions of people find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Through Joyce Meyer Ministries, Joyce teaches on a number of topics with a particular focus on how the Word of God applies to our everyday lives. Her candid communication style allows her to share openly and practically about her experiences so others can apply what she has learned to their lives.

Joyce’s programs, Enjoying Everyday Life and Everyday Answers with Joyce Meyer, can be seen around the world through television, radio, and the Internet. Joyce has authored more than 100 books, which have been translated into more than 100 languages and over 65 million of her books have been distributed worldwide. She teaches in cities across America as well as internationally. Joyce Meyer Ministries has offices in nine countries.

Joyce’s passion to help hurting people is foundational to the vision of Hand of Hope, the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Hand of Hope provides worldwide humanitarian outreaches such as feeding programs, medical care, orphanages, disaster response, human trafficking intervention and rehabilitation, and much more – always sharing the love and Gospel of Christ.

Her latest book, LIVING A LIFE YOU LOVE, releases Spring 2018.

Hachette Book Group has sold over 30 million copies of Joyce Meyer's books.

Reviews

[Rachel Hanes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, there’s a couple of things to start off with for me. First, Joyce Meyer can do no wrong in my book! I could listen to and read her teachings all day. She’s about as down to earth as they come. Secondly, while reading this book, I found out that Joyce Meyer has written over 150 books as of this writing! 😳 Now, I have read a handful of them, but I would never be able to read all 150 of them- let alone write that many!

This book is about adjusting to change obviously (hence the title). What I really enjoyed after reading each chapter, is that there are questions that were given that you could ask yourself how you are adjusting to change according to the chapter that you just read. It was nice to reflect on how my life is changing or needs to change.

Of course, this is one of those books that I just wanted to quote almost every single line and sentence. So on that note, I will have to get a physical copy to do so.

One of my favorite quotes that Meyer’s provided in the book was “Don’t live the same year 75 times and call it a life.” ~ Robin Sharma.
I would also like to point out that Chapter Eight was my favorite in this book, and I think I need to photocopy all those pages and carry them around with me.

This wasn’t a very long book, but it was a good book about change in one’s life and also about deep reflection. I definitely recommend reading this book if you are a fan of self-help books/Christian, and also if you love Joyce Meyer as much as I do!

Many thanks to NetGalley, FaithWords, and the author for a DRC of this book.
This book has already been published, May 6, 2025.

[SusanTalksBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

*** 5/17/25 *** Thank you, NetGalley, for providing an Advance Reader Copy of The Courage to Change to read and review. I reviewed the Kindle version of the book.

I requested this book based on the title and NetGalley book summary, and must be the only one who wasn't aware that author Joyce Meyer is a preeminent educator on the bible, as well as a prolific writer, authoring over 100 books, maybe 140!

I am more a spiritual person versus religious, but I very much enjoyed Meyer's personal stories and lessons. Her advice and lessons share a lot of what is taught in self development books - ideas such as living for yourself, not expecting others to change, acceptance of people and situations, taking one step at a time, learning as you go, dealing with fear and uncertainty. Every chapter in her book opens with a quote by someone and a few of them really spoke to me. One was about how you should not live the same year 75 times and call it a life. She is a proponent of 'get moving, try something, the path will reveal itself' and I really love that philosophy even if it is hard to do myself some days.

I can see how Joyce Meyers has become so successful, and I like that she writes many shorter books that have a theme. They are easy to digest and have good messages. Again, her personal stories were what resonated most with me, as I didn't pick it up for the bible education. 4-stars, as I think the book cover and description should more accurately describe the high level of bible-based narrative in the book.

[Jolene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always loved Joyce Meyer—whether I’m watching her on Sundays, listening to her podcasts, or reading her books, her message is consistently powerful and relatable. She has a unique gift for sharing God’s Word with both humor and clarity, making deep truths easy to understand and apply. In Courage to Chan, she continues this approach, using biblical stories to illustrate how we can live out God’s plan in our everyday lives. This book is filled with practical wisdom and encouragement, offering guidance on how to live boldly and faithfully.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, FaithWords, for providing me with this ARC! 😊

I always find Joyce's books to have an abundance of applicable life information. The questions and prompts are always a favorite of mine. This book is perfect for those who struggle with change and even with letting go of past things.

"Change is inevitable. And sometimes it’s confusing and difficult, even when it’s good. We can’t keep change from coming, but we can allow it to transform us rather than derail us by facing it and embracing it through the lens of God’s unchanging promises to us."

As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨

Pub Date May 06 2025

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: The Courage to Change
Author: Joyce Meyer       
Genre: Christian   
Rating: 5 out of 5

I really enjoyed this read! Joyce Meyer’s style is straightforward and matter of fact, making her books easy to read. It’s the application that will get you! I like all the examples she gives from her life, making the book feel relatable. This book isn’t full of difficult to understand theological concepts. Instead, it’s full of examples from the author’s life and Biblical wisdom.

(Galley courtesy of FaithWords in exchange for an honest review.)

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific book! straightforward writing, all points applicable to the struggles we face today. I’ve highlighted so many standout sentences. A book I’m glad to have read. I’ll be recommending this book to many.

[Crystal Storms · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Courage to Change was an easy and encouraging read. I enjoyed the real-life examples and how Joyce addressed change from multiple angles. From the changes I never wanted to the changes I desire but don't have to the change I desire but need the power of His Spirit working in and through me.

[Nic · Rating 4 out of 5]

A reflective, faith-driven guide to embracing change! Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC and chance to review.

I read this book at just the right time, while adjusting to a new job after leaving the one I held for 14 years. Change has never been easy for me, and this book helped me reflect deeply on why that is. Written from a Christian perspective, it gently encourages readers to be open to transformation, even when it’s uncomfortable or painful.

This isn’t a quick-fix kind of read. You have to be ready to examine your own heart and be open to what God might be doing in your life. If you’re in a season of transition and want a faith-based perspective, I think you’ll find value here.

Content note: The author shares personal stories, including her experience with childhood sexual assault, so be mindful of that going in.

[Laney · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Courage is not the absence of fear but the mastery of it”

I requested this book on NetGalley not knowing that it would show up at the perfect time. I recently went through a big change that had me worried about what this new change would mean for the future. Not soon after that I received the notification that my request was approved. Joyce Meyer’s writing came at the perfect time and I felt truly uplifted and encouraged by the real-life examples she used from the scripture. I really loved the inclusion of questions at the end of each chapter. I will definitely be recommending this book to others! Thank you to NetGalley and Joyce Meyers for the ARC. All opinions are my own!

[Daveann · Rating 2 out of 5]

As one of the most world renowned Bible teachers, she is true to her word (The word).

[Ashley Provencher · Rating 5 out of 5]

“If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down”

[Anya potgieter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book to listen to during my car rides going to and from school! I love Joyce’s voice throughout the story, telling us how we shouldn’t view change as being negative, or how our history (past) does not determine our destiny (future), even with the people in our lives. If we want them to change something about themselves, instead of forcing change to instead pray about it to god.

I can’t wait to read/listen to more audiobooks from Joyce Meyer! I honestly cannot get enough of her books!

[Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joyce Meyer still offers uplifting words of wisdom.

I found this book to be motivating and even inspiring. Often books like these no longer ring true at my age. I think this book is for all women.

I was given the opportunity to read this book prior to publication via Net Galley. The review is my own, honest review as the preview copy came with no strings attached!

[BookHobby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love her books. It takes you step by step on a path of accepting that things change constantly and the most important thing is to change how we view it. Very helpful right now.

Thank you netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

[Symone · Rating 3 out of 5]

*ARC REVIEW* This book had some good lessons on change, but it wasn't my favorite of her books ive read. I didn't agree with some of her points, and i felt like i was reading the same things over and over in some places. I liked the biblical examples and scriptures she added though. The questions at the end of each chapter were also nice.

[Amanda Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

THANK YOU FaithWords and GoodReads for this awesome giveaway!

This was one of those books I didn’t know I needed until I started reading it. The lessons were so powerful and relevant to my life. This was the first book I have read of Joyce Meyer but I have heard her speak several times. True to her delivery style, this book hands out hard biblical truths, regardless of how uncomfortable they might make you feel. Ultimately, challenging readers to let go and trust God. I love the honesty and passion of this book. I also appreciated the thought provoking questions at the end of each chapter. I can definitely see myself revisiting this book in multiple rereads to take on the lessons of change.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! I have so many tabs in this book it is difficult to choose a couple of quotes to place here.

Submit to change with a good attitude:

"When we don't like change, we tend to judge the people who made that change. But we should realize that they have perspectives and responsibilities we don't have and trust that they have good reasons for making the changes they make"

Mercy:
"Showing someone forgiveness and mercy doesn't always mean restoring a relationship, especially if the offending party is abusive. It does mean that our attitude toward them changes and that we pray for them. People who are hurting hurt people, and if we remember this, it is easier to be merciful"

[Pam Osterhus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Change happens to everyone. Change doesn’t have to be feared. Sometimes a new season is ahead of us. Have courage to face change. The author, Joyce Meyer, puts it very well and makes you think. I’d recommend this book to anyone facing change.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a little bit behind in reading this book, but, Gods timing is always perfect and I don’t think this book would have impacted me the same way had I read it a few weeks early. I’m about to face some big changes and this book was exactly what I needed during this upcoming transition. I loved how Joyce weaved Biblical truths into the concept of changing. She highlighted why change is good and how to face the fears you have surrounding change. It was really well written and a beautiful message!

[Shelley Marushak Langelaar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading (and listening) to Joyce for over 30 years. I find at times her books to be a bit repetitive, however I don’t view that as a bad thing. Sometimes we need to hear something over and over again before our heart and head both get it. I love how she shares her struggles and ways she has applied the Word of God to work through her struggles. I believe that change is crucial in our Christian walk as we are instructed to press forward. I appreciate Joyce’s wisdom in this.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book. All opinions are my own.

[Aimee Van Alstyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joyce Meyer consistently brings the word of God into practical application. “The Courage to Change” does just that. No matter what the change is (health, work, relational, familial, etc.) this book gives practical insight in applying God’s word to your life and circumstances. Joyce uses language that is easy to understand and it feels like she is in the room with you, having a conversation about your struggle and encouraging you to keep going on this journey with God.

[Shamyra Felix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joyce is always so encouraging, and I love that she uses Scripture to validate what we go through in life. The answers to our problems are right there in the Bible, and I’ve been Christian my whole life but I’m just now understanding this. Great read! Can’t wait to read “Battlefield of the Mind”.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy Joyce whether on TV or in her books. She is down to earth and has scripture for every idea. Now I want to go back reread some of her older books.

[Reba Woodward · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book.. Joyce Meyer gives us ideas on how to deal with the changes we deal with in our daily lives.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Courage to Change, Joyce Myer has written a book to guide readers on how to embrace changes and not to run or hide from them. Change happens to everyone and it’s inevitable. She shared how she has seen technology grow in her lifetime and changes she had to endure. In scriptures in multiple places, we are reminded that God doesn’t change and His word remains. At times, it has been difficult for herself to roll with the changes. In her ministry, she shared how about 20 years ago she looked around and saw the crowds getting smaller and smaller. Her son, Daniel was younger and he suggested that she dress differently, get younger bands, and modernize the platform look. They also redid their monthly magazine. She as least was against his changes and didn’t want to do any of his ideas. She saw that she needed to listen and them their ministry grew even more after the changes.


In the book, she explained how she experienced change in herself. She grew up in a tormented childhood and was abused by her own father. When she began her walk with God, she had to heal her soul with God’s assistance. Satan had robbed her of her peace and joy. She lashed out at everyone and was angry all the time. She admitted to feeling cheated in her childhood. She realized that she had to let go of her negative attitudes and mindset in order to move forward. She noticed that she could have a better ending even though her beginning was anything but good. God helped her to overcome and God would repay her for her trouble. She stated how she had to learn to forgive people who hurt her.


One of my favorite chapters discussed on how to let go and let God. She encouraged readers to never be afraid to let go of something that is outdated. Sometimes friendships are only for a season and something we need to learn to realize it was just for a season. She compares this to an example of expired food and how food is only good for a certain amount of time then it will go bad. She enlightened how she had to rework her own schedule because it was making her really unhappy. She was complaining a lot and felt overwhelmed. One of her tips was for readers to write down everything they are doing and then cross out whatever it’s bearing much fruit. Learning to let go of things that aren’t helping us can help us to relax and have more joy. Another lesson in this chapter is forgiveness and scriptures even stated that if we don’t forgive our prayers won’t be answered. Also, if we choose to not forgive, we give satan an advantage over our lives. This chapter can help assist you with bitterness and forgiving others.


I would recommend this incredible book to anyone who is resistance to changes they like to hold on for dear life to the past. Joyce does an excellent job in sharing how she had to go through changes in her life and ministry to allow God to do a new work. The principles in this book will guide readers in embracing changes and to live their lives more fully. It had the power to help you manage your emotions, change your mindsets, and learning how to manage change. There are also discussion questions at the end of each chapter. This book will help you to change!

[Carmaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bible teacher and author of more than 150 books, Joyce Meyer’s The Courage to Change and
Hand of Hope foundation focus on sharing the Gospel and helping people in their greatest times of need. Although change is inevitable and potentially confusing or challenging, Meyer encourages readers to accept alterations. “Allow change to transform us rather than derail us by facing it and embracing it through the lens of God’s unchanging promises to us.”

Hand of Hope’s mission outreach offers meals, medical care, ministry, and freedom from addictions and trafficking. Emphasizing partners for peace, President John F. Kennedy, believed, “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” Meyer guards against “staying stuck…don’t always choose the easy road. Jesus didn’t, and neither should we.”

Avoid fear that destroys our lives, creates doubt, and makes us miserable. Dodge the devil with faith and believe in a fulfilling and peaceful life with Christ. Avoid Satan’s anxiety and condemnation, while concentrating on God’s conviction remaining constant. “Your ability to change is a gift from God,” which stems from step-by-step transformation.

Meyer credits Don Colbert’s Deadly Emotions and campaigns the “Courage to Change” dark emotions. Avoid toxic, destructive feelings including: “anger, hostility, rage, shame, guilt, fear, worry, and resentment.” Imitating successful leaders and effective communicators, Meyer champions, “Change what you can, and pray about what you can’t.” With an open mind, the author restates, “Only a fool thinks he can always do what he has always done.” Meyer encourages the choice to, “Pay attention to the condition of your mind…stay sharp…clothe yourself in humility and mercy.”

As a charismatic nondenominational Christian, Joyce assures the reader we “can stand firm on the promise of God’s Word” and become a change warrior. Embrace change as a necessary part of growth mindset. Equip ourselves to become brave and optimistic people. “Let go and let God…Hold onto the truth of God’s word, “truth, integrity, love, gratitude, and excellence…If we stop changing, we stop growing.”

Complete with quotations from famous ministers, authors, and diplomats, this self-help, personal growth, and religious exploration acknowledges the trophy of grace with spiritual integrity. Those who “complain without ever taking action never change anything.” Richard Branson’s philosophy, “Every success story is a tale of constant adaption, revision, and change” reminds us of the expiration principles; don’t hold back.

Highlighting this evangelical collection of inspirational scriptures, The Courage to Change contains study questions at the end of each chapter for individual or group reflection in the form of online and workbook discussions. Meyer’s titles and study guides are available in more than 150 languages including Spanish. Enhance your journey with The Courage to Change.

[Christina Claypool · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first, I was reluctant to pick up Joyce Meyer's book, "The Courage to Change: Saying Goodbye to Good Enough and Embracing the Promise of What Can Be." I falsely feared it wouldn't say anything new, or that I was too old for it to be relevant.
As an individual who has been in recovery for drugs/alcohol for decades, having "The Courage to Change..." has been a key component in my sobriety. After all, a lot of folks like me who struggle with addiction are self-medicating due to circumstances and relationships, that seem unmanageable and unchangeable.
Yet, ultimately, we are the only ones who can change the things that are unacceptable. Living the Serenity Prayer every single day, I frequently contemplate the true meaning of the words, "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference."
Also, it was erroneous to believe that being in the winter season of life and struggling with some physical disabilities, I am too to change anything. We are never too old to stay on the journey of all that God has for us, and this book helped to reinforce this thought through its wisdom.
For instance, on page 183, Joyce Meyer writes, "Sometimes, as people experience the changes associated with aging, they don't want to accept that they are unable to do things they once did. Perhaps they don't want to accept that they are getting older." This is so wise, as we do have to "accept the things" we cannot change like our bodies getting older, while trying to discover how we can be effective for God's kingdom today. We have to change over and over in this lifetime.
As I age, I also noticed my tendency to worry a lot about my loved ones, and even a deep-seated desire to fix whatever problem they are encountering. Joyce addresses this and her own tendency to want to rescue others. Her poignant words reminded me to let God work in the lives of those I love without my interference, even though it might be well-meaning. Although the author does emphasize the power of prayer in implementing change and our own responsibility to pray if we want to see effective results. "Prayer itself is an action on our part that if not taken, nothing will happen." pg. 174
I am beyond grateful that I took the time to read this book as I found it to be both challenging and encouraging. My only regret is that it was not written decades ago, when I was constantly struggling to change everything my way, not waiting for God's direction. Another five star Joyce Meyer book!

[Mary Vogelsong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of The Courage to Change: Saying Goodbye to Good Enough and Embracing the Promise of What Can Be, by Joyce Meyer
Popular Christian author and television personality Joyce Meyer’s latest book releases May 6. Meyer says this is her 150th book, and if you’ve read her previous books, you will find The Courage to Change comfortably familiar.
Like her previous books, Meyer references her points with Biblical scripture. Meyer acknowledges change can be difficult, but it isn’t necessarily bad. Some change is God-ordained, and will help you move forward on your path in life and in your walk with God. Sometimes you have to initiate the change.
The tone of this book is a little different from previous books. Meyer speaks from a perspective of having gone through many changes in her life and is now on the other side. She describes changes in her ministry, her finances, her marriage, and her relationship with her children. These changes often filled Meyer with worry and stress, emotions which she hopes to minimize in her readers.
The takeaway message I got from this book is, trust God and it will all work out according to his plan.
If you feel stymied or are in a difficult situation and need change, you may benefit from reading Meyer’s latest offering.
Thanks to NetGalley and FaithWords, and imprint of Hachette Book Group, for the advance reader copy of this book.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I have found in other books by Meyer, this one is full of tidbits of wisdom. It is not possible to get through life without encountering change, and often that change is not particularly wanted at that time. This book is a reminder of the importance of keeping a positive mindset and attitude when we encounter changes that life puts in our path. Meyer infuses Scripture, along with personal examples, to make her points. If you have read other books by this author in the past, you may recognize some of the examples she uses, but in some cases, you may notice new details. Her points for action are realistic, though some might not be the most comfortable things to implement. But if you are interested in and willing to attempt change, this could be a good book for you to check out.


Trigger Warning: Meyer does include mentions of her experience with childhood sexual assault.

[Walumbike · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.4/5 stars
When I saw the promo for this book, I immediately thought, "Wow, God had Joyce Meyer write a book just for me."
I have long been concerned about whether, or more accurately, how fast I can change as a Christian. I want so deeply to become something else, a verision of myself God can rely on, count on to help and serve. I want people to be able to rely on me and be fully persuaded by the word he has taught me.
There is so much to say and I probably will edit/add to this review but for now,
Thank you Joyce Meyer for giving me the read of my life. The Holy Spirit has been so insistent on me finishing it and now I am sure of why.
Love,
Walu