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The Way of the Father: Lessons from My Dad, Truths about God
Grammy Award winner Michael W. Smith’s The Way of the Father offers a deeply personal reflection on his father Paul Smith’s legacy and its profound effect on every area of his life. Through the life and lens of his earthly dad, the multi-platinum selling Christian artist gives glimpses of a Father in Heaven that anyone can approach and experience.
Michael W. Smith, multi-platinum artist, celebrated songwriter, producer, best-selling author, and acclaimed actor, himself a father of five adult children and grandfather of sixteen, calls upon his humble experiences of growing up in a small West Virginia town to share his father’s story. Each chapter identifies a quality and characteristic of his dad that came out of an obedient and sacrificial life, committed to serving his Abba Father,
- Finding truth in tragedy
- Loving unconditionally
- Persevering through pain
- Bringing righteousness to the world
- Influencing and inspiring generations
- Discovering identity and approval in Christ
Paul Smith was a familiar face in the crowd at Michael W. Smith’s concerts over the years. A kind and joyful man who would sing, dance, and worship to the singer’s countless number one hits, with his countenance beaming brighter than the spotlights on the stage, Paul would often introduce himself to those nearby and talk about how proud he was of his son. From the artist’s early days as a struggling musician in Nashville to his death in 2015 (the year his son’s album sales surpassed 15 million), Paul was always Michael’s biggest fan.
Michael shares how his dad inspired and encouraged him using biblical principles and virtues. Now, Michael passes on these same truths through stories, testimonies, origins of songs, and personal insights from his family life and thirty-five plus years of touring as a Christian artist. He hopes that by sharing his father’s legacy, readers will come to find that no matter who our earthly parents have been in our lives, our Abba Father will never fail us.
The Way of the Father will likewise challenge readers in their faith journeys so they will one day hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have fought the good fight, run the race, and have been found faithful”—just like Paul Smith heard on the day he was called home to be with his Father.
Michael W. Smith, multi-platinum artist, celebrated songwriter, producer, best-selling author, and acclaimed actor, himself a father of five adult children and grandfather of sixteen, calls upon his humble experiences of growing up in a small West Virginia town to share his father’s story. Each chapter identifies a quality and characteristic of his dad that came out of an obedient and sacrificial life, committed to serving his Abba Father,
- Finding truth in tragedy
- Loving unconditionally
- Persevering through pain
- Bringing righteousness to the world
- Influencing and inspiring generations
- Discovering identity and approval in Christ
Paul Smith was a familiar face in the crowd at Michael W. Smith’s concerts over the years. A kind and joyful man who would sing, dance, and worship to the singer’s countless number one hits, with his countenance beaming brighter than the spotlights on the stage, Paul would often introduce himself to those nearby and talk about how proud he was of his son. From the artist’s early days as a struggling musician in Nashville to his death in 2015 (the year his son’s album sales surpassed 15 million), Paul was always Michael’s biggest fan.
Michael shares how his dad inspired and encouraged him using biblical principles and virtues. Now, Michael passes on these same truths through stories, testimonies, origins of songs, and personal insights from his family life and thirty-five plus years of touring as a Christian artist. He hopes that by sharing his father’s legacy, readers will come to find that no matter who our earthly parents have been in our lives, our Abba Father will never fail us.
The Way of the Father will likewise challenge readers in their faith journeys so they will one day hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have fought the good fight, run the race, and have been found faithful”—just like Paul Smith heard on the day he was called home to be with his Father.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2021
27 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Michael W. Smith
60 books24 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Michael Whitaker Smith is an American contemporary Christian musician.
He is the winner of multiple Grammy Awards and over 40 Dove Awards.
Michael Whitaker Smith is an American contemporary Christian musician.
He is the winner of multiple Grammy Awards and over 40 Dove Awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 17, 2021
While not all of us may have had a great dad here on earth, we all are blessed with the guarantee of a great Heavenly Father who loves us more than we could ever imagine. That is the journey that Michael W. Smith takes the reader by using the amusing life lessons from his dad, Paul Smith. I am blessed to have a dad like Paul so it was encouraging to read these stories and be amused by the care his dad had for him. I feel similar. The book is wonderful because it reminds me that I can strive to be a great dad to my two daughters but I can never be perfect. That isn't the point. The point is that we all are supposed to be looking to our great Abba Father who makes all things perfect. It is a perfection that can only come from a good, good Father. Thank you Michael and Robert for sharing such winsome stories and the gift of this great book.
April 6, 2022
I think a television special was catchy enough to get my interested in this book. The best parts are when Smith writes about his father, who truly did seem to be the real deal and a true man--a vanishing article. As for the theology, well, unfortunately it's the typical "you've got to let God love you" sort of drivel so popular in evangelicalism today. And the Scripture "translations" used are execrable. But all in all, Smitty seems to have matured into a less self-focused version of his younger self, one who wants to use his riches and fame for good. And that is laudable.
June 23, 2025
I always enjoy reading about the lives of people who have a strong walk with God. It didn’t just happen over night. It was a process. The author explained how his father was the example he needed to see how to build his relationship with his Savior. His dad was a steady, strong pillar in his life who encouraged him to use his talents to serve the Lord and reach others.
📖To our Abba Father, whether your name is Billy Graham or Paul Smith, the same opportunity and end result is there to be saturated in the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. God alone gets to decide the size of our platform because He is all about quality not quantity. Whether we are called to reach the world or our neighborhood God determines and offers the size of the assignments. We are simply called to obey.
📖Compassion has become a dying art. God needs those who will be brave enough to offer their presence to be a vessel of His presence.
📖To our Abba Father, whether your name is Billy Graham or Paul Smith, the same opportunity and end result is there to be saturated in the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit. God alone gets to decide the size of our platform because He is all about quality not quantity. Whether we are called to reach the world or our neighborhood God determines and offers the size of the assignments. We are simply called to obey.
📖Compassion has become a dying art. God needs those who will be brave enough to offer their presence to be a vessel of His presence.
January 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, and appreciate MWS all the more after reading it! Michael is an amazing musician and artist, and continues to go strong even into his 60s! One thing Michael W. is known for is sharing the stage and the spotlight with other artists, young and old. I now know partly why, it is the example his father gave to him. Michael is an encourager and a worshipper of God, attributes he learned from his father. MWS honors his father and his Heavenly Father very much in this gospel centered book!
April 19, 2022
A very personal experience with his dad and family he shares for everyone to enjoy
December 24, 2023
Listened to the audiobook. Michael W. Smith is a legend and it sounded like his father was too. Throughout the book, Smith made it a point to point to the Lord - our ultimate Father.
July 23, 2021
I’ve been listening to Michael W. Smith’s music since he came on the scene in the 1980s. Forty years! The Big Picture album was so good and is now a classic! His instrumental albums blew me away. He is an exceptionally gifted musician and has explored many musical genres, from rock, to pop, to worship, to electronic, to instrumental. His creativity and longevity are to be honored.
So naturally, when I saw this book, I was interested in what stories might be within its covers. Michael W. Smith was blessed with a very good father. He related that his dad, in spite of working rotating shifts at the refinery, always found time for him, even when exhausted. He felt loved and championed by his dad every step of the way, from when he was a young kid playing baseball, knowing his dad was cheering him on, to seeing his dad sitting in the large stadiums, beaming, as Michael performed his music.
Michael also related that his dad’s own father died when he was in his teens. He selflessly chose to be a support to his mom over pursuing a career in baseball. And when Michael went through a season of rebellion, his dad met him with love and grace.
Later, reminiscing with his adult children, they came up with key things his father did to love them and others such as spending quality and quantity time together, creating fun nicknames for each grandchild, prioritizing God and family, and praying for them.
A few music touring stories are sprinkled in the book’s pages. Having learned about what is most important in life from his dad, Michael shares how that shaped his own priorities, “My goal in being out front in worship is to lead only from my heart, and not from a set list, or peoples expectations, or even my own musicality. My desire, even though I’m leading, is to disappear. Disappear into the midst of the worshipers. Disappearing to the presence in the power of God. As Jesus said in John 3:30, ‘He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.’”
The book was definitely a quick read. Scripture passages are often included from The Message Bible. I feel like I expected a bit more from the book than what I took away, but it was a very enjoyable read.
I received an ARC copy from the publisher and net galley in exchange for my honest opinion.
So naturally, when I saw this book, I was interested in what stories might be within its covers. Michael W. Smith was blessed with a very good father. He related that his dad, in spite of working rotating shifts at the refinery, always found time for him, even when exhausted. He felt loved and championed by his dad every step of the way, from when he was a young kid playing baseball, knowing his dad was cheering him on, to seeing his dad sitting in the large stadiums, beaming, as Michael performed his music.
Michael also related that his dad’s own father died when he was in his teens. He selflessly chose to be a support to his mom over pursuing a career in baseball. And when Michael went through a season of rebellion, his dad met him with love and grace.
Later, reminiscing with his adult children, they came up with key things his father did to love them and others such as spending quality and quantity time together, creating fun nicknames for each grandchild, prioritizing God and family, and praying for them.
A few music touring stories are sprinkled in the book’s pages. Having learned about what is most important in life from his dad, Michael shares how that shaped his own priorities, “My goal in being out front in worship is to lead only from my heart, and not from a set list, or peoples expectations, or even my own musicality. My desire, even though I’m leading, is to disappear. Disappear into the midst of the worshipers. Disappearing to the presence in the power of God. As Jesus said in John 3:30, ‘He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.’”
The book was definitely a quick read. Scripture passages are often included from The Message Bible. I feel like I expected a bit more from the book than what I took away, but it was a very enjoyable read.
I received an ARC copy from the publisher and net galley in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 31, 2021
This is a wonderful book of short, inspirational life lessons. I wasn't sure if I would relate since I didn't have an encouraging earthly father. To my surprise, I felt warmed by Michael W. Smith's descriptions of his father's unconditional love and by his deep convictions of God's love and kindness for each of us. This book would be a great gift for anyone, even if they didn't have a great father.
July 12, 2021
I can't really say much about this book without giving away all the good parts...because it's ALL good parts. This is a definite "must read" for any one who has an imperfect parent, or a perfect one, anyone who IS an imperfect parent and anyone who hopes to be a parent. ❤
November 1, 2021
A great, quick read but very deep in content. I loved learning about Michael’s dad and connecting it to our Heavenly Father.
May 5, 2021
Even though I don’t listen to the radio that much anymore (you can thank podcasts, audiobooks, and the lack of a commute for that), the K-LOVE jingle will forever be imprinted in my memory from my childhood: “Positive. Encouraging. K-LOVE.” I’ve always had an appreciation for Christian music, but I’m musically illiterate. God gave me talents and the musical realm is not one of them. So imagine my surprise when I discovered that K-LOVE was starting their own publishing imprint—and that a memoir (of sorts) from Michael W. Smith would be their inaugural title.
The Way of the Father is a sometimes-meandering, often-personal memoir in which Michael W. Smith shows the influence—both directly and indirectly—of his father, Paul Smith, on his life and career. The book is pretty much chronological, moving from Michael’s younger years through the death of his dad in 2015. I appreciated the earlier chapters a bit more, as Paul plays a more prominent and direct role in those early years. In reflecting, I think that might be because that’s the stage of life I’m about to be in as a dad. And also because, again, musically illiterate me is more taken in by the simple stories of fatherhood than the “how we got the band together” motif of later chapters.
In fact, on first reading, I felt like the farther The Way of the Father went along, the more it strayed from its initial premise as a book about the lessons Paul taught his son and became a more typical memoir about Michael W. Smith. Still an interesting story, but a bit of a bait-and-switch. As I’ve thought on that, though, I’ve come to the conclusion that I was wrong. Like any good father-son relationship, it evolved over time. Michael grew up, became more independent, and started his career. He left his dad behind, in one sense, but in a much greater sense he took his dad with him as a product of every lesson his dad had ever poured into him. Paul, the person, fades a bit from the narrative, but the lessons that shaped his son live on and influence the story’s path.
The Way of the Father begins each chapter by outlining some lesson from Paul Smith. Michael W. Smith then takes that thread and draws it through some experience in his life, whether on a direct route (such as his Little League stories) or an indirect route (such as the time Bono convinced Christian leaders to use their platforms to care for the impoverished in Africa). You get a behind-the-scenes look at the makings of Smith’s music career and how integral his parents’ support was in it. You see the pride and love that Paul had for his son and how Michael uses that love as an analogy for the love God has for us. Just the premise of a man in his sixties sitting down to write about his father made me want to call my own parents and ask them questions and listen to stories about their own parents.
The Way of the Father is a beautiful tribute to Paul Smith that reflects the Father’s love for his children and shows Michael’s love for his dad.
The Way of the Father is a sometimes-meandering, often-personal memoir in which Michael W. Smith shows the influence—both directly and indirectly—of his father, Paul Smith, on his life and career. The book is pretty much chronological, moving from Michael’s younger years through the death of his dad in 2015. I appreciated the earlier chapters a bit more, as Paul plays a more prominent and direct role in those early years. In reflecting, I think that might be because that’s the stage of life I’m about to be in as a dad. And also because, again, musically illiterate me is more taken in by the simple stories of fatherhood than the “how we got the band together” motif of later chapters.
In fact, on first reading, I felt like the farther The Way of the Father went along, the more it strayed from its initial premise as a book about the lessons Paul taught his son and became a more typical memoir about Michael W. Smith. Still an interesting story, but a bit of a bait-and-switch. As I’ve thought on that, though, I’ve come to the conclusion that I was wrong. Like any good father-son relationship, it evolved over time. Michael grew up, became more independent, and started his career. He left his dad behind, in one sense, but in a much greater sense he took his dad with him as a product of every lesson his dad had ever poured into him. Paul, the person, fades a bit from the narrative, but the lessons that shaped his son live on and influence the story’s path.
The Way of the Father begins each chapter by outlining some lesson from Paul Smith. Michael W. Smith then takes that thread and draws it through some experience in his life, whether on a direct route (such as his Little League stories) or an indirect route (such as the time Bono convinced Christian leaders to use their platforms to care for the impoverished in Africa). You get a behind-the-scenes look at the makings of Smith’s music career and how integral his parents’ support was in it. You see the pride and love that Paul had for his son and how Michael uses that love as an analogy for the love God has for us. Just the premise of a man in his sixties sitting down to write about his father made me want to call my own parents and ask them questions and listen to stories about their own parents.
The Way of the Father is a beautiful tribute to Paul Smith that reflects the Father’s love for his children and shows Michael’s love for his dad.
July 31, 2021
First sentence: My father was my hero. The kindest, gentlest man I have ever known. The person in my life who was always the most like Jesus to me and consistently reflected the qualities of my Abba Father.
The Way of the Father is a son's tribute to his father (Paul Smith). Readers should expect no more than that. Readers will find plenty of stories about Michael W. Smith--past and present--in his role as son, husband, musician, friend. Mainly son and musician if I'm being honest.
If reading about Michael W. Smith's experiences and relationships gives you a thrill, this book is for you. He does provide some background and context for the writing of several of his songs--newer songs mostly, I believe.
What you should not expect is the book to be more than that. For better or worse. Maybe for most readers what they are looking for is 90% of Michael W. Smith and 10% devotional with glimpses of God the Father, Son, and Spirit. But if you're looking for more balance--say 50/50--with ample space given to God, then you might be disappointed.
It's not that Michael W. Smith isn't giving due glory to God in his life. I wouldn't say the book is 100% self-promotion. It's just that he's writing what he knows--and what he knows is his experiences writing, recording, performing, touring, meeting famous people, hanging out with famous people, etc.
If you're looking for something that points you to Jesus Christ and keeps pointing you to Christ over and over and over again, then this isn't quite that. It throws in inspiration/motivation every now and then. But it's not a super-deep book.
But I will say this. I think this is a book he NEEDED to write as a son. I think writing this book helped him in the grieving process. And I think it would be a truly amazing gift for those in the family--Paul Smith's grandchildren, great-grandchilden. As a testament to a person, I think it's good.
The Way of the Father is a son's tribute to his father (Paul Smith). Readers should expect no more than that. Readers will find plenty of stories about Michael W. Smith--past and present--in his role as son, husband, musician, friend. Mainly son and musician if I'm being honest.
If reading about Michael W. Smith's experiences and relationships gives you a thrill, this book is for you. He does provide some background and context for the writing of several of his songs--newer songs mostly, I believe.
What you should not expect is the book to be more than that. For better or worse. Maybe for most readers what they are looking for is 90% of Michael W. Smith and 10% devotional with glimpses of God the Father, Son, and Spirit. But if you're looking for more balance--say 50/50--with ample space given to God, then you might be disappointed.
It's not that Michael W. Smith isn't giving due glory to God in his life. I wouldn't say the book is 100% self-promotion. It's just that he's writing what he knows--and what he knows is his experiences writing, recording, performing, touring, meeting famous people, hanging out with famous people, etc.
If you're looking for something that points you to Jesus Christ and keeps pointing you to Christ over and over and over again, then this isn't quite that. It throws in inspiration/motivation every now and then. But it's not a super-deep book.
But I will say this. I think this is a book he NEEDED to write as a son. I think writing this book helped him in the grieving process. And I think it would be a truly amazing gift for those in the family--Paul Smith's grandchildren, great-grandchilden. As a testament to a person, I think it's good.
October 11, 2022
"The most important conversation you will ever have is with your Abba Father. No matter what kind of earthly dad you had or didn't have.
Regardless of that relationship or lack of relationship.
God is your father
He wants to know you, love you and take care of you."
- Michael W. Smith
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.
I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Mosley w Smith says that his father gave all his grandkids a nickname. If you had a nickname, you were in his inner circle.
"All my kids had nicknames. Terms of endearment, labels of love."
God changed many names in the Bible from Abraham, Sarah, Jacob and Saul to Jesus giving nicknames to his disciples from the sons of thunder, the rock...
Michael W Smith would perform for Billy Graham at all of his stadiums along with DC Talk. He did not care for the awards but to transform a life of someone looking to commit suicide to being saved and radically chaining their life for good.
Regardless of that relationship or lack of relationship.
God is your father
He wants to know you, love you and take care of you."
- Michael W. Smith
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.
I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
Mosley w Smith says that his father gave all his grandkids a nickname. If you had a nickname, you were in his inner circle.
"All my kids had nicknames. Terms of endearment, labels of love."
God changed many names in the Bible from Abraham, Sarah, Jacob and Saul to Jesus giving nicknames to his disciples from the sons of thunder, the rock...
Michael W Smith would perform for Billy Graham at all of his stadiums along with DC Talk. He did not care for the awards but to transform a life of someone looking to commit suicide to being saved and radically chaining their life for good.
June 21, 2021
When I was looking for my next book to read I came across this book on Audible, but I didn’t really feel like I needed to read a book (at that moment) about the Father’s love. I marked it as “Want to read” and started looking for another book. I quickly found a book by Louie Giglio “Not Forsaken”. I didn’t look much into the book, but I knew I liked Louie. Well, I quickly found out the Lord felt I needed to hear about Him being a good Father This book was about “finding freedom as sons and daughters of a perfect Father”. So He has my number.
The Lord blew me away I’m so many areas and reminded me who I was through Louie’s book. So I was primed and ready for Michael’s book.
This book was amazing and Michael is such a great story teller. He was able to tell of his early fathers love and masterfully tied it into the love of our Father. There were wonderful testimonies throughout the book and I cried about five times as I listened to the audiobook.
I started this book the morning of Father’s Day and finished in the afternoon. This is a great book and reminder of our Abba Father and the great love the lavishes in His children!
The Lord blew me away I’m so many areas and reminded me who I was through Louie’s book. So I was primed and ready for Michael’s book.
This book was amazing and Michael is such a great story teller. He was able to tell of his early fathers love and masterfully tied it into the love of our Father. There were wonderful testimonies throughout the book and I cried about five times as I listened to the audiobook.
I started this book the morning of Father’s Day and finished in the afternoon. This is a great book and reminder of our Abba Father and the great love the lavishes in His children!
May 27, 2022
This was a curiously interesting read, despite being a book that really isn't sure what it is most of the time. The book's description and intent make it out to be a memoir of MWS's father and lessons he learned from his dad...and there is plenty of that, but also occasional deviations that make the book a bit uneven. He does a nice job tying in spiritual and life lessons, though, and the whole book is written in a breezy tone that makes it incredibly easy to read. My one big issue with the book is that it has a chapter about "tough issues" from 2020 that never actually names what those issues are, and so the whole thing comes across as bizarrely tone deaf--the chapter is clearly about racism and addressing racism in the world, but is rhetorically couched around the idea of just "needing to have a conversation" but, of course, never names what that conversation is about, and so the whole thing reads like an attempt to be blandly address an issue that he knows his audience doesn't actually want to hear about. This is slightly disappointing, but not necessarily surprising. Overall an easy, occasionally interesting read, though.
May 29, 2021
I've been a Michael W. Smith fan since I was a kid, so getting to read/review an eARC of one of his books was a bit of a pinch-me moment! "Can this really be?! Michael W. Smith?! Noooo way." LOL. And yet, here we are.
Smith's music is often a go-to for me, and a few songs of his defo would make it on my "soundtrack to my life" (if I made such a thing). I've seen him in concert twice over the years; "Friends," "Agnus Dei," "Place in this World," and more are staples on my "list of most influential Christian songs." So reading this was an absolute joy, with insight into his growing-up years, family relationships (especially with his dad, of course), and current activities.
Brimming with Scripture and heartfelt stories, this quick read (<2 hours for me) is a welcome addition to the bookshelf. It's particularly timely with Father's Day coming up in just over a month as of this writing; I think it would be a great gift for any of the dads out there, as well as the people that love them. :)
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Smith's music is often a go-to for me, and a few songs of his defo would make it on my "soundtrack to my life" (if I made such a thing). I've seen him in concert twice over the years; "Friends," "Agnus Dei," "Place in this World," and more are staples on my "list of most influential Christian songs." So reading this was an absolute joy, with insight into his growing-up years, family relationships (especially with his dad, of course), and current activities.
Brimming with Scripture and heartfelt stories, this quick read (<2 hours for me) is a welcome addition to the bookshelf. It's particularly timely with Father's Day coming up in just over a month as of this writing; I think it would be a great gift for any of the dads out there, as well as the people that love them. :)
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
March 23, 2024
"The older I get and the more like my dad I become, I find myself praying through the busyness and chaos of our culture, 'Lord, please don't let me miss it. Don't let me miss You and what You have planned today. Help me be intentional with people, like Dad was, just as You desire me to be.' "
Part topical biography, part devotional, all genuine. This sweet and gentle book is a breath of fresh air, a little opportunity to step into an intimate space where Smith is vulnerable and honest. He shares many stories about his father Paul and how he has learned about the character and person of God from his own father's example. By the end of it, I felt like I knew Paul Smith and had been blessed by him. This is a heartfelt "thank you" letter from Smith to his father and to God. It wanders a bit, but it feels like a front porch conversation - meandering from topic to topic and breezily incorporating personal faith and Scripture into stories of memory and nostalgia. It's an easy read and well worth the time.
Part topical biography, part devotional, all genuine. This sweet and gentle book is a breath of fresh air, a little opportunity to step into an intimate space where Smith is vulnerable and honest. He shares many stories about his father Paul and how he has learned about the character and person of God from his own father's example. By the end of it, I felt like I knew Paul Smith and had been blessed by him. This is a heartfelt "thank you" letter from Smith to his father and to God. It wanders a bit, but it feels like a front porch conversation - meandering from topic to topic and breezily incorporating personal faith and Scripture into stories of memory and nostalgia. It's an easy read and well worth the time.
June 10, 2021
Great book!
In this poignant and inspirational book, Michael W. Smith shares the story of his father who not only inspired and encouraged him, but who helped him to understand what God is like. With real-life examples, he shares actions which inspire, a Godliness that attracts, and a role model to follow.
I found the book deeply resonated with me as the mother of 3 sons as one of my deepest desires is for my sons to be "Men of God" who will grow to be devoted fathers and husbands someday. Like my Dad and my husband, Michael's father left "a lasting imprint on every person he touched". Like our heavenly Father, he showed up by being present with an openly proud "that's my son" countenance. These heart-warming images and stories have a stickiness to them that will be meaningful to sons, fathers and people in general who are striving to love God and others well. Thanks to Michael for a book that will bless both current and future generations.
In this poignant and inspirational book, Michael W. Smith shares the story of his father who not only inspired and encouraged him, but who helped him to understand what God is like. With real-life examples, he shares actions which inspire, a Godliness that attracts, and a role model to follow.
I found the book deeply resonated with me as the mother of 3 sons as one of my deepest desires is for my sons to be "Men of God" who will grow to be devoted fathers and husbands someday. Like my Dad and my husband, Michael's father left "a lasting imprint on every person he touched". Like our heavenly Father, he showed up by being present with an openly proud "that's my son" countenance. These heart-warming images and stories have a stickiness to them that will be meaningful to sons, fathers and people in general who are striving to love God and others well. Thanks to Michael for a book that will bless both current and future generations.
June 16, 2021
Amazing and Inspiring
Although I am writing this on Allan's iPad.....this is Sue Weaver doing the review. I have always loved Michael W. Smith and his music, but this has been a truly wonderful biography of his dad being such a wonderful, fatherly, and devoted family man, who always kept his number one focus on Christ- that resulting in his being an amazing example and role model. An example as Christ follower, father, grandfather, husband, and ethical, hard-working employee. I can personally understand the loss of parents, so I had many memories brought to the forefront of my mind. I truly loved the way Michael expresses his own love for Jesus and his walking with God, so faithfully. I certainly recommend this book, his music, and concerts!!!
I am a nearly compulsive avid reader (and writer), but I haven't found such devotion expressed by any other Christian author, as I found in this book by Michael W. Smith. Enjoy!
Although I am writing this on Allan's iPad.....this is Sue Weaver doing the review. I have always loved Michael W. Smith and his music, but this has been a truly wonderful biography of his dad being such a wonderful, fatherly, and devoted family man, who always kept his number one focus on Christ- that resulting in his being an amazing example and role model. An example as Christ follower, father, grandfather, husband, and ethical, hard-working employee. I can personally understand the loss of parents, so I had many memories brought to the forefront of my mind. I truly loved the way Michael expresses his own love for Jesus and his walking with God, so faithfully. I certainly recommend this book, his music, and concerts!!!
I am a nearly compulsive avid reader (and writer), but I haven't found such devotion expressed by any other Christian author, as I found in this book by Michael W. Smith. Enjoy!
August 25, 2021
You know Michael W Smith for his Contemporary Christian Music over the past several decades. But, in this book, Michael clearly demonstrates that he was loved well by an earthly father that greatly influenced how he now sees his Heavenly Father. This included a prodigal period where many prayers were offered on his behalf. Clearly Michael's father wanted his son to walk in the destiny of God's calling and purpose for his life, to the point, where Michael could not be present when his father passed from earth to heaven due to a concert he was performing at the Budokan. In the book, Michael tells many great stories - among this reviewer's favorites are the flash mom in Bahrain and the 25-minute car-ride on the interstate with U2's Bono. Fan of his music or not, this easily readable book will inspire and encourage you. An advance copy was made available for review without any obligation for favorable comments.
March 7, 2022
"People want to experience authenticity, not celebrity. They desire interaction with integrity, not entertainment. They want to know their lives have a purpose. We have the privilege of sharing the good news that they can know the One who holds their hope and their future... worship is not about about singing a handful of songs once a week, but about our day-in-and-day-out interactions with people."
More than a list of lessons passed on from a father to his son, this book is about the quiet example Michael observed in his dad and how that pointed him to the character of his heavenly Father. I began the book expecting the former but appreciated the latter.
It is largely a book about Michael and his journey,thoughts and observations so if that is what you are looking for you will certainly enjoy this short, insightful read. It may just make you appreciate your Father all the more.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me a chance to check it out!
More than a list of lessons passed on from a father to his son, this book is about the quiet example Michael observed in his dad and how that pointed him to the character of his heavenly Father. I began the book expecting the former but appreciated the latter.
It is largely a book about Michael and his journey,thoughts and observations so if that is what you are looking for you will certainly enjoy this short, insightful read. It may just make you appreciate your Father all the more.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me a chance to check it out!
September 21, 2022
Leave it to Michael to write yet another book that is true to his heart. This time, it is an authentic look at a true relationship he had with his father, written after his death, and he bases it on a genuine relationship God the Father can have with his created people through Jesus Christ.
Michael uses personal experiences throughout his ministry career, Spirit-led intervened experiences or otherwise, consolidated with insights through working alongside other artists like Bono, to explain how a love from God for you as his child is enough for you to appreciate the life for which you have been created, with biblically-based principles surrounding the love of his dad.
This book is written strongly enough for anybody seeking a relationship with Jesus Christ, although it only provides a framework, Also, it provides a simple backdrop of interest for Michael W. Smith fans.
Michael uses personal experiences throughout his ministry career, Spirit-led intervened experiences or otherwise, consolidated with insights through working alongside other artists like Bono, to explain how a love from God for you as his child is enough for you to appreciate the life for which you have been created, with biblically-based principles surrounding the love of his dad.
This book is written strongly enough for anybody seeking a relationship with Jesus Christ, although it only provides a framework, Also, it provides a simple backdrop of interest for Michael W. Smith fans.
October 2, 2024
Michael W. Smith is not just a songwriter and singer; he is a gifted writer who has allowed the Holy Spirit to use him in encouraging the Body of Christ. With the help of co-author, Robert Noland, Michael honors his dad's example of a godly man who led mostly through action rather than words. His father’s walk with the Lord transformed Michael from a prodigal into a devoted man of God. Reading about Michael's life inspires people to believe that, no matter where you come from, there is a heavenly Father watching over you and opening up doors for you to know and serve Him. You know you have a good Christian book in your hands when you're underlining sentences in every chapter and using it for your own devotional time. Read the book, and God will speak to you about your own life, encouraging you to continue pursuing the seemingly impossible pursuit of holiness.
September 15, 2021
If I am totally honest, I was a pretty minor ‘fan’ of Michael W. Smith the best part of 30 years ago! But have always had an underlying respect for him, his music and his evident integrity. Reading this short book – part memoir, part daily devotional - is a good and uplifting experience. Hearing the voice and thoughts of someone you respect who shows such respect for those who have been inspirational in their life (specifically here, his father) at its best, can also be inspirational.
The Way of the Father may not be breaking new ground but it is certainly uplifting and encouraging for those interested in exploring or developing their Christian faith, but I would imagine that from the perspective of a true MWS fan, this would be gold!
The Way of the Father may not be breaking new ground but it is certainly uplifting and encouraging for those interested in exploring or developing their Christian faith, but I would imagine that from the perspective of a true MWS fan, this would be gold!
August 5, 2021
I recommend this for fans of Smith’s, or someone looking forward a good platform for talking about fathers and the Abba Father. I bought the book for my dad for this past Father’s Day, and listened to the audiobook myself. I grew up listening to (and hearing my folks sing along to) so much of Michael W. Smith’s music, so it was enjoyable to hear about his childhood and music career and family. Some of the stories of overseas concerts and opportunities were among my favorites. Many family stories about his dad and growing up were poignant as well, and made me really think about what legacy I am leaving behind too.
October 21, 2025
The Way of the Father is a beautifully written and deeply moving tribute from Michael W. Smith to his late father, Paul Smith—a man whose steadfast faith, humility, and unconditional love reflected the very heart of God. Through touching personal stories, Scripture, and honest reflection, Smith reminds readers how a father’s love can shape a life and illuminate God’s grace.
Having recently seen Michael W. Smith in concert, I was inspired to read this book—and it gave me an even deeper appreciation for his career, his ministry, and his unwavering faith in God. His words are tender, wise, and uplifting, offering both comfort and challenge. A must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, healing, or a reminder of how earthly love points us toward our Heavenly Father.
Having recently seen Michael W. Smith in concert, I was inspired to read this book—and it gave me an even deeper appreciation for his career, his ministry, and his unwavering faith in God. His words are tender, wise, and uplifting, offering both comfort and challenge. A must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, healing, or a reminder of how earthly love points us toward our Heavenly Father.
January 31, 2022
Okay, this book wasn't particularly outstanding, but it got a high rating from me, because COME ON! It's MICHAEL W. SMITH!!! I love his music so much, and I could listen to his stories about his life all day. I mean, this book was totally worth buying (even though it's probably the most I've ever paid for a book, hehe), and I'm going to read it again. Thanks for writing, Michael W. Smith!
If you're a fan of his music, that means two things. One: we've got something in common! Two: you should totally look into this book! I really enjoyed it!
If you're a fan of his music, that means two things. One: we've got something in common! Two: you should totally look into this book! I really enjoyed it!
July 31, 2022
I love the music of Michael W Smith and have for years. So, reading his book was fun because he tells stories from his childhood, from his parents, from his travels as a singer and even behind why he wrote some of his songs. I really enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it especially for any Michael W. Smith fans!! The book is easy to read and honestly made me an even bigger fan of the author. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 14, 2025
We finally got our local library to get this in so we could read it and hopefully others will as well. He is probably my favorite Christian artist of all-time and hopefully I will meet him someday. What a great story about the legacy of both his mom and dad and what it means to try to emulate that lifestyle, work ethic, and attitude of helping others without complaining about one's lot in life. Michael also throws in plenty of scriptures to reflect on and the gospel message is loud and clear just as he does with his music always pointing us to Jesus and our loving Heavenly Father.
June 1, 2021
I have always loved Michael W. Smith’s music and have been fortunate to go to several concerts. On one occasion, his Dad was in the audience and the love Michael had for his Fad was so evident. This book gives more inside to the incredible parents Michael was blessed with. He lovingly tells us that our Heavenly Father loves each of us so much more.
The legacy passed down generation to generation is heartwarming and profound.
The legacy passed down generation to generation is heartwarming and profound.
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