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Running to the Fire: Helping in Jesus’ Name
Offering an emotionally moving insider view to the most devastating global disasters of the past 35 years, international relief leader testifies of what God can do in the worst of circumstances, showing how you can be a Good Samaritan in Jesus’ name, whether across the street or on the other side of the world.
Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan demonstrates how to be a good neighbor by caring for wounded people in the ditches of life, forever answering the question of, “Can I truly make a difference?” when He said to “go and do likewise.”
Often called the “Indiana Jones of global relief,” Ken Isaacs shares from his thirty-five years of in-the-trenches service with Samaritan’s Purse as Franklin Graham’s go-to man in international disasters. These front-line stories—from Ethiopia to Afghanistan, from famines to floods—offer evidence of Christ’s love and grace while serving others in this broken and hurting world.
When an everyday person with ordinary skills commits to obey God’s call, doors open and provision comes, proving He indeed has a place for anyone who chooses to run to the fire.
Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan demonstrates how to be a good neighbor by caring for wounded people in the ditches of life, forever answering the question of, “Can I truly make a difference?” when He said to “go and do likewise.”
Often called the “Indiana Jones of global relief,” Ken Isaacs shares from his thirty-five years of in-the-trenches service with Samaritan’s Purse as Franklin Graham’s go-to man in international disasters. These front-line stories—from Ethiopia to Afghanistan, from famines to floods—offer evidence of Christ’s love and grace while serving others in this broken and hurting world.
When an everyday person with ordinary skills commits to obey God’s call, doors open and provision comes, proving He indeed has a place for anyone who chooses to run to the fire.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published September 9, 2025
1443 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 10, 2025
A captivating book to read AND to listen to! I have both the physical copy and an audio version. I have found both to be enjoyable, interesting, intense, captivating, informative, and educational. The book is an account of how God took a rural unknown American well driller, and turned him into a Global Humanitarian Leader for over 35 years now, who has, and still is "Running TO the Fire" to help in Jesus name. I definitely recommend it!
October 3, 2025
Very informative as to what goes on around the world and how one man has chosen to confront modern day crisis and evil in the name of our Lord and Savior , Jesus . Through the past 35 years of global disasters Samartians Purse has pursued to assist the needs of many by whatever means possable . This book details a behind the scene look at what it takes to get the job done and just how dangerious the job really is . Kenny Isaacs could ,quite frankly ,be deemed a modern day Indiana Jones for the way he has been confronted by so many dangerous situations .
September 30, 2025
Ken writes a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s excellent, not because he’s does a solid job at putting events into words but because his life continually reflects saying yes in the unknowing of what might lie ahead. The no-go zones, the shots being fired, witnessing many suffering people. He doesn’t allow anything to get in the way of what God has for him to do or the people he desires to help.
Ken has a huge heart, great intelligence, he trusts God, says yes, and keeps moving forward. It doesn’t end here. The story continues for each of us. Will we step into that questionable path and allow God to use us in uncomfortable circumstances? There are no regrets in choosing this sort of life, and the best part—God gets the glory! Thanks Ken, for sharing just a small glimpse into a life of obedience.
Ken has a huge heart, great intelligence, he trusts God, says yes, and keeps moving forward. It doesn’t end here. The story continues for each of us. Will we step into that questionable path and allow God to use us in uncomfortable circumstances? There are no regrets in choosing this sort of life, and the best part—God gets the glory! Thanks Ken, for sharing just a small glimpse into a life of obedience.
September 19, 2025
This is a great book. It’s hard to put down. Ken has given us insight to his many experiences through 40+ years of working around the globe. God has opened many doors for him to run into. You won’t want to miss this. Amazing stories.
September 12, 2025
"Running to the Fire" is an inspirational book that will grab your heart from the very first pages. In this book, Ken Isaacs masterfully tells the story of how God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things if they will say "yes" to His mission to respond to the needs of hurting people in Jesus' name. I encourage yiu to read it and, more importantly, step out of your comfort zone in faith and obedience, and run to the fire.
September 12, 2025
Great book for adventure lovers and those who want their lives to count for God’s work. Harrowing true stories but more importantly you see how God has transformed and used, and continues to use, this ordinary (okay maybe not ordinary) blue collar worker.
October 29, 2025
Excellent book about how God influenced Ken to provide assistance to those in need.
Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2025
Format: Hardcover
I believe the purpose of this book is to show its readers how God works in those who are willing to listen and act upon His call. Understanding that God had given him a set of skills (drilling wells), Ken answered the call to go to Africa to dig wells. What he didn't know was that God had much more planned for him. What was most important was that Ken always said yes to whatever God wanted from him. He thus became a great warrior for God, even going to places to serve that were extremely unsafe. Yet, he always made it home to his supportive wife, who, despite her love of God and the prayers of worldwide friends, succumbed to stage 4 breast cancer. In that respect, this is as much her story as Ken's. As Ken was involved in these missions, his role in Samaritan's Purse grew to the point where he is now Vice President of Programs and Government Relations. He oversees all of the international relief projects for Samaritan's Purse and personally visits each response. I have had the pleasure of knowing Ken for about 10 years and have served under him on numerous DART responses. His visits to the various sites are to ensure things are going according to the standards of Samaritan's Purse, to provide information to the volunteers who are there, and to give moral support.
I was glad to read this book, as it contains a behind-the-scenes look at many of the missions that Ken was involved with. It is very well-written for someone not trained as a writer. The stories are engaging and make the book hard to put down. I don't believe there is anyone else in the world with the experience of Ken in evaluating the needs of those affected by the disasters he writes about and arranging the assistance needed in such an effective manner. I would recommend this book to anyone involved in or thinking about getting involved in humanitarian relief. You will see how God works in those involved and how the process works to get things accomplished, even when faced with what appear to be impossible odds against you.
Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2025
Format: Hardcover
I believe the purpose of this book is to show its readers how God works in those who are willing to listen and act upon His call. Understanding that God had given him a set of skills (drilling wells), Ken answered the call to go to Africa to dig wells. What he didn't know was that God had much more planned for him. What was most important was that Ken always said yes to whatever God wanted from him. He thus became a great warrior for God, even going to places to serve that were extremely unsafe. Yet, he always made it home to his supportive wife, who, despite her love of God and the prayers of worldwide friends, succumbed to stage 4 breast cancer. In that respect, this is as much her story as Ken's. As Ken was involved in these missions, his role in Samaritan's Purse grew to the point where he is now Vice President of Programs and Government Relations. He oversees all of the international relief projects for Samaritan's Purse and personally visits each response. I have had the pleasure of knowing Ken for about 10 years and have served under him on numerous DART responses. His visits to the various sites are to ensure things are going according to the standards of Samaritan's Purse, to provide information to the volunteers who are there, and to give moral support.
I was glad to read this book, as it contains a behind-the-scenes look at many of the missions that Ken was involved with. It is very well-written for someone not trained as a writer. The stories are engaging and make the book hard to put down. I don't believe there is anyone else in the world with the experience of Ken in evaluating the needs of those affected by the disasters he writes about and arranging the assistance needed in such an effective manner. I would recommend this book to anyone involved in or thinking about getting involved in humanitarian relief. You will see how God works in those involved and how the process works to get things accomplished, even when faced with what appear to be impossible odds against you.
October 16, 2025
A Life-Changing Testimony of Faith in Action
Running to the Fire by Ken Isaacs is a powerful and deeply moving account of a man after God’s own heart, relentlessly pursuing the call to serve the most vulnerable across the globe. I purchased both the print edition and the Audible version—and I’m so glad I did.
Listening to Ken narrate his own story on Audible adds a profound emotional layer. You can hear the tremble in his voice, the tears as he recalls moments etched in memory. It’s raw, real, and deeply touching. Meanwhile, the physical book brings the journey to life through vivid photographs and compelling storytelling that leaps off the page.
Each chapter is a spiritual expedition, saturated with God’s presence and truth. The wisdom Ken shares—born from years of service and sacrifice—is both humbling and inspiring. I’ve come to hold immense respect for him, especially after walking alongside him and his wife Carolyn during her courageous battle with cancer at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
One story that especially moved me was the origin of the Operation Christmas Child boxes. It’s a beautiful example of the body of Christ coming together in unity, and Ken’s love for children shines throughout the book.
Ultimately, this isn’t just Ken’s story—it’s the story of Jesus Christ working through His people, sending them into the fire with courage, compassion, and unwavering faith. It’s a testimony of divine protection and purpose.
This book will challenge you, inspire you, and transform the way you see missions and ministry. It’s more than a memoir—it will change your life!
Running to the Fire by Ken Isaacs is a powerful and deeply moving account of a man after God’s own heart, relentlessly pursuing the call to serve the most vulnerable across the globe. I purchased both the print edition and the Audible version—and I’m so glad I did.
Listening to Ken narrate his own story on Audible adds a profound emotional layer. You can hear the tremble in his voice, the tears as he recalls moments etched in memory. It’s raw, real, and deeply touching. Meanwhile, the physical book brings the journey to life through vivid photographs and compelling storytelling that leaps off the page.
Each chapter is a spiritual expedition, saturated with God’s presence and truth. The wisdom Ken shares—born from years of service and sacrifice—is both humbling and inspiring. I’ve come to hold immense respect for him, especially after walking alongside him and his wife Carolyn during her courageous battle with cancer at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
One story that especially moved me was the origin of the Operation Christmas Child boxes. It’s a beautiful example of the body of Christ coming together in unity, and Ken’s love for children shines throughout the book.
Ultimately, this isn’t just Ken’s story—it’s the story of Jesus Christ working through His people, sending them into the fire with courage, compassion, and unwavering faith. It’s a testimony of divine protection and purpose.
This book will challenge you, inspire you, and transform the way you see missions and ministry. It’s more than a memoir—it will change your life!
October 17, 2025
STUNNING, Well-Written, Fast-Moving Book! A MUST-READ for EVERYONE! Spread the word!
This book recounts the work of Ken Isaacs of Samaritan's Purse, who has assisted thousands 0f victims of armed-conflict, disease, famine, and disasters of every stripe around the world for the last thirty-plus years
It is a "BIG GULP" that reads like an adventure novel! You will have a tough time putting this one down!
BUT, this is no novel! THIS GUY is the REAL DEAL !!!! You will see Ken pour out his life to his Lord and Savior and to "the least of these" around the world year after year whenever and wherever he is called.
This book serves as a wakeup call for many and a reminder for all of us that our goal should not be the pursuit of the "American Dream", but to live out our lives for God's Glory as we serve Him and our neighbors whenever and wherever WE are called to help.
Thanks, Ken! Spread the word!
This book recounts the work of Ken Isaacs of Samaritan's Purse, who has assisted thousands 0f victims of armed-conflict, disease, famine, and disasters of every stripe around the world for the last thirty-plus years
It is a "BIG GULP" that reads like an adventure novel! You will have a tough time putting this one down!
BUT, this is no novel! THIS GUY is the REAL DEAL !!!! You will see Ken pour out his life to his Lord and Savior and to "the least of these" around the world year after year whenever and wherever he is called.
This book serves as a wakeup call for many and a reminder for all of us that our goal should not be the pursuit of the "American Dream", but to live out our lives for God's Glory as we serve Him and our neighbors whenever and wherever WE are called to help.
Thanks, Ken! Spread the word!
October 24, 2025
“Running to the Fire” is an inspiring, educational, and encouraging read that will appeal to many. It is an incredible recounting of how one man, Ken Isaacs, has repeatedly answered God’s call and said “send me” (Isaiah 6:8). It should be required reading for anyone interested in disaster response, missionary medicine, or international relief efforts. Ken has been in the middle of many history-making moments over the past several decades. As he discusses multiple response efforts, Ken shares innumerable pearls of wisdom on how to network and get things done when time means human lives. This book is a testimony to how Samaritan’s Purse has and continues to faithfully respond to the needs of many around the world. The audiobook, narrated by Ken himself, illustrates the incredible faith and compassion of this man of God. This book will encourage you to seek ways to serve God faithfully.
September 11, 2025
I have had the privilege of working for Ken Isaacs for a few years, and while I knew him as a dedicated and passionate humanitarian and leader, i never really understood his story. I purchased and listened to the audiobook version, narrated by Ken himself, and I was brought to tears multiple times hearing how God used a humble man to impact so many lives. His dedication and drive to do the right thing no matter what, and willingness to say 'yes' to God's leading is an example I aim to learn from. There are countless lessons to be learned from his experiences, which he shares so well in this book. Those lessons are applicable to many areas of our lives without regard to where we live or work. I have now purchased multiple copies to give to friends and family.
October 4, 2025
A powerful and inspiring book. The personal story is told with honesty, courage, and faith, and it moves the reader deeply.
What impressed me most was how the calling to serve through Samaritan’s Purse is described not as humanitarian work alone, but as a mission in the name of Jesus. The book captures the tension between crisis and hope, showing how God’s love can reach even the hardest places on earth through simple acts of service.
This journey is a true testimony of obedience, perseverance, and compassion. Reading it was both inspiring and a vivid reminder of what it means to live with purpose and to trust that God uses our lives for His glory.
An important book that reveals service not as a duty, but as a privilege and a calling.
What impressed me most was how the calling to serve through Samaritan’s Purse is described not as humanitarian work alone, but as a mission in the name of Jesus. The book captures the tension between crisis and hope, showing how God’s love can reach even the hardest places on earth through simple acts of service.
This journey is a true testimony of obedience, perseverance, and compassion. Reading it was both inspiring and a vivid reminder of what it means to live with purpose and to trust that God uses our lives for His glory.
An important book that reveals service not as a duty, but as a privilege and a calling.
October 13, 2025
Ken has very clearly highlighted the challenges that humanitarian aid workers and organizations face in serving in places with dire needs. But in the midst of those challenges, he highlights God’s goodness, and His sovereignty in making a way in places that seem to be between a rock and a hard place. What struck me most is the line that you will see across all the chapters, “With confidence in God’s leading…” It’s one thing to have confidence for you to go to difficult places. It’s a whole other thing to be so confident in God’s leading, that you’d be willing to take a 100 people with you into those difficult places - I hope to have that kind of confidence in God’s leading one day. The book is clear - There’s nothing that our God can’t do. Definitely recommend.
October 15, 2025
Running to the Fire is the very authentic and exciting account of many of the incredible missions Ken Isaacs has undertaken over the past 40 years. He accepts the danger for the thrill of serving Jesus Christ around the world in the darkest most dangerous times. We have been privileged to work for Ken for 20 years and accompanied him on some of the missions. I will tell you from first hand experience that his book reflects who he is and what he does with great accuracy and humbleness. Ken is a legend in the international disaster relief world and his book will give you insight into God’s great work around this world. This book is a wonderful read. Buy it and read it!
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October 13, 2025I’ve known this author for several years and had the greatest respect for his role in disaster response already. But after reading this book, I was touched and inspired to see how God used him (and still does) in very precarious situations that can only be described as God’s hand. The book is a testament to what impactful things God can do when we truly mean it when we say, “Here am I Lord, send me.” It kept me engaged from word one to the last moving chapters. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
T Shoemaker
T Shoemaker
October 4, 2025
Ken Isaac’s Running to the Fire is a compelling and unforgettable book that shows what it truly means to say “yes” when the Lord calls. It is at once exciting, inspiring, and at times heartbreaking. My hope and prayer is that through these pages, a new generation of young people will rise up, answer God’s call, and go to the hard places—joining in the incredible work He is already doing around the world.
October 11, 2025
Really enjoyed reading Ken’s account of the work over the years Samaritan's Purse has done. They really run into the fire to find those in the ditches of life! And incredible testimony of a life surrendered to God. The logistics and coordination such missions take are fascinating to read. One of my favorite books I read this year! His stories draw you in and take you on the ground to disaster zones throughout the world.
October 11, 2025
Encouraging, Faithful, despite difficult conditions! Insightful steps to follow to grow closer to the Lord despite tough conditions and personal losses.
Ken Isaacs’s wife passed, a very difficult time yet the Lord was with him and encouraged him.
Working in different cultures, people groups, Non-Christian’s, Christian’s, yet working with a medical team to help people and encourage them in very difficult situations.
Ken Isaacs’s wife passed, a very difficult time yet the Lord was with him and encouraged him.
Working in different cultures, people groups, Non-Christian’s, Christian’s, yet working with a medical team to help people and encourage them in very difficult situations.
October 17, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book as it helped me understand God’s plans more through such an impressive and perseverant author. Ken Isaacs mentions war zones, hard times, heartbreaking moments all together in the book and it showed me how honoured one can be to be God’s servant.I am a 16 years old Ethiopian girl living in India so especially when reading the chapters about Ethiopia it made me feel connection back home, thats’s how beautifully it was written
October 27, 2025
Loved the book. What a detailed story of passion and faith. Ken’s dedication to serving others is an example to all of us. When God says Send Me, the faithful go. The journey takes you from the middle east to remote areas of Africa, some places extremely dangerous. This is a very interesting read, written with authenticity and love.
October 30, 2025
Ken is insightful, clear and motivating. He inspires me to want to Go, and to lead with clarity and boldness. My only problem with the book is that it is only 282 pages.
I’m already ready for more Ken!
I’m already ready for more Ken!
October 14, 2025
This book is a must read, it will inspire you and lead you to your journey with Jesus and God's calling in your life.
October 14, 2025
Interwoven with the Truth of God's Word, Ken's story is one of courage, commitment and sacrifice, an inspirational and encouraging read!
October 26, 2025
Excellent! Engaging, intriguing, thoughtful, compelling; hard to put down. What a poignant story of God’s presence, protection and grace!
October 27, 2025
Powerful -- well written -- great read.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews