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River Dwellers
Did you ever wish there was more to your Christian life? Too often the Christian life is reduced to going to church, attending meetings, serving God, and doing devotions. But Jesus promised us abundant life – a deep, intimate, satisfying connection with the living God. How do we access the abundant life that Jesus promised? The key is the presence and life of the Holy Spirit within us. Jesus said that the Spirit of God flows within us like a river – He is the River of Life. But we need to dwell in the river in order to access the Spirit’s fullness. In his latest book, Dr. Rob Reimer offers a deep look at life in the Spirit and provides practical strategies for dwelling in the River of Life. We will explore the fullness of the Spirit, tuning into the promptings of the Spirit, walking in step with the Spirit, and developing sensitivity to the presence of the God in our lives. This resource will guide you toward becoming a full-time river dweller, even in the midst of life’s most difficult seasons when the river seems to run low. Together let's become River Dwellers, living where the fullness of God flows so that we can carry living water to a world dying of thirst!
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2015
103 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 5, 2021
This is a great book! I was recommended to read it as a foundational book to understanding the role and fullness of life in the Spirit and it did not disappoint. The stories and vulnerability of the author were a breath of fresh air. Theologically this book was rich and made me want to read more of his work.
November 19, 2023
A new favorite!! If anyone asks me about not just my theology of the Spirit, but how to practically live that out, this is the book! So simple, clear, and powerful. LOVED.
May 22, 2024
Might have to go in my top 5 for the year. One of the best books I have read
October 21, 2025
I read through this with a close friend & we both agreed that this is a “core” book - one you could read over and over in your lifetime and learn something new about the Lord. Truly inspired to live IN the River of Life - where the truest intimacy and blessings flow. Rob did a great job giving practical ways to realize when you have left the River and how to overcome this - ultimately allowing the Spirit to gently carry you along His current - bringing the kind of peace and stillness that can only be found in relationship with the Father. To anyone wanting to know the Lord in a deeper way, I highly suggest going through this book!
July 22, 2015
Wow! This book really moved me. The message within the pages of River Dwellers by Dr. Rob Reimer will challenge any Christian who wants to live closer to Christ. The book was filled with practical suggestions on how to consistently live in the River of Life and timely reminders on why it is important. Dr. Reimer included numerous real-life examples from his years of ministry illustrating some results of River dwelling. He also included potential pitfalls and dangers which could lead to unintentionally moving away from God. Discussion questions at the end of the chapters helped emphasize important points introduced in the chapter and encouraged further thinking on how the principles related to the reader’s life. Other books for further reading on topics discussed were also mentioned throughout the book. I would highly recommend this book to any Christian of any denomination who wants to follow closely to the Savior. There is so much material in this book I plan to read it again to absorb what I missed the first time through.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
June 15, 2015
I love reading about the Holy Spirit - learning as much as I can about Him. I was excited to receive River Dwellers by Rob Reimer. This is a book I’m glad I received and I will be reading it again slowly, savoring the words between the pages. I love how Dr. Reimer talked about its easier to hear God’s voice when we slow down to listen - it’s harder to hear His voice the busier we are. I so know how true that is in my own life.
This is a book that would be great to use as personal devotions, in a Bible study at your church or book club, or with one or two friends.
I received this book for free from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review. I have posted on Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.
This is a book that would be great to use as personal devotions, in a Bible study at your church or book club, or with one or two friends.
I received this book for free from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review. I have posted on Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.
January 2, 2019
Definitely a must read for those wanting to go deeper.
October 23, 2025
Excellent book. Reimer does an excellent job of simplifying the complex and speaking in word pictures that touch your triune being. I especially loved the last chapter called "Twists In the River Bend." It's really helpful for those going through grief and loss and gives simple, practical ways to walk with the Lord through them. Great book for a small group as there are discussion questions at end of each chapter. I'm doing this with a Bible study group, but read the whole thing because it was so good. I will re-read for more application.
May 20, 2024
River Dwellers is a great book that offers profound insights to strengthen our relationship with God. This book not only empowers readers with practical tools but also serves as a heartfelt reminder to never lose our first love for Jesus. Dr. Rob Reimer wisdom and spiritual guidance flow through the pages, helping readers get our souls back in alignment with God and our eyes back on Jesus when our own choices or the heaviness of the world have taken us out of the River.
January 14, 2022
Rob gives such great insight into what it looks like to walk in the fullness of the Holy Spirit, an area of faith that is not talked about enough! For those curious about what it looks like to understand the power and impact the Holy Spirit can have on our lives each day, this is a good read!
December 30, 2022
Superb. A breathe of the life of the spirit of God for me. Practical. Accessible. Inspirational. Challenging. Only slight push I would have is to focus on the work of the spirit for witness a little more. We will read this book as a church.
July 10, 2024
I am in awe with Daddy and how He has manifested His prescence through your books. Thank you so very much for reminding us to always keep our First Love first. Daddy has truly made me rich with your testimonies and teachings. God bless you!
November 29, 2024
Wow!
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a greater empowerment of the Spirit for your dreams AND your daily living.
Rob Reimer presents the material as one who understands and encourages us as a father.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a greater empowerment of the Spirit for your dreams AND your daily living.
Rob Reimer presents the material as one who understands and encourages us as a father.
June 18, 2025
Owners Manual for understanding Holy Spirit
The clarity through difficult concepts of the Holy Spirit is remarkable! Need to explore Dark night of the Soul topic to gain insight into purification.
The clarity through difficult concepts of the Holy Spirit is remarkable! Need to explore Dark night of the Soul topic to gain insight into purification.
October 16, 2018
This book is one that I will continually go back to and keep working through. It is completely marked up and underlined.
May 14, 2023
Amazing book- I'm planning to re-read
As I'm writing this I am planning to start again in chapter 1. This is such a rich book. It has changed me.
As I'm writing this I am planning to start again in chapter 1. This is such a rich book. It has changed me.
October 5, 2023
I read this book two times in a row. It was so rich I needed a second go around to retain it all. Highly recommend if you’re looking to grow your relationship with the Lord.
March 10, 2025
Learning to walk with the Holy Spirit
Great reminder about listening to God and living in the fullness of Jesus. Empowering book that can be applied to our everyday life.
Great reminder about listening to God and living in the fullness of Jesus. Empowering book that can be applied to our everyday life.
May 22, 2025
I loved this book. It is life changing.
June 23, 2025
Super helpful book as all of his books are. It was both motivating and practical in encouraging a life living in the Spirit. The reflection questions at the end of each chapter were helpful to think through.
Here are some quotes I found helpful and want to remember even as I pass the book on for others to read:
It's important to distinguish between receiving the Holy Spirit and being baptized by the Spirit. Martyn Lloyd-Jones argues in Joy Unspeakable that these disciples who were awaiting the baptism of the Spirit had already received the Holy Spirit. The Spirit was already indwelling them, as we see in John 20:21-22: "Jesus said, 'Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, lam sending you.' And with that he breathed on them and said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit." (21)
Let's change water analogies for a moment: Think of the baptism of the Spirit like the ocean. The baptism of the Spirit should be like waves crashing up onto the shore. It is an ongoing series of events, encounters, and fillings. God doesn't just want us to be filled once. He wants us to be filled and then to live in the fullness of the Spirit. (26)
Oftentimes revivals are cut short because people seek God, experience some encounter, and get satisfied. They live their whole lives looking back at their encounter with God. It's a mistake believers often make: rather than continuing to pursue more of God, we sometimes look back at our initial encounters with God, and we mistakenly think that is all there is.
We need to be filled regularly, to pursue the baptism of the Spirit boldly, and to expect continuous encounters with the Living God. God is infinite, and therefore there is always more of God to be experienced. (27)
—> This was a helpful reminder to notice our own state and how much we need this closeness with God:
When we are walking in the fullness of the Spirit, the presence of God adds a weightiness to our words that is clearly supernatural. Our words go beyond touching the mind only and begin to penetrate the heart. Sometimes Finney noticed he was empty of this power. This is how Finney responded: "I would then set apart a day for private fasting and prayer, fearing that this power had departed from me, and would inquire anxiously after the reason of this apparent emptiness of power. After humbling myself, and crying out for help, the power would return upon me with all its freshness. This has been the experience of my life." (28)
When the Spirit comes in fullness, there are three results, according to Scripture: bold witness, power, and prophecy. (29)
Often we rely on our gifting, but not on the fresh filling of the Spirit. Sadly, it shows in the results. (32)
Writers of old used the word "tarry." It is not a passive waiting. It is an intentional, passionate pursuit while we wait for the promise of God to be fulfilled and the answer to come. I think this is the great mistake the church makes about revival — we passively wait for God to mightily move in power, when God has told us to actively seek Him. If we seek Him with all our heart, we will find Him, the Scripture promises.
The disciples waited by passionately pursuing God for the promised outpouring of the Holy Spirit. They "all joined together constantly in prayer" (Acts 1:14). They waited in active, pursuing faith. (38-39)
So often we wish we had more of God, but we aren't willing to pay the price. We want God to come to us on easy terms, but pursuing God is costly business. (40)
Moody experienced God's purging before he experienced God's filling. Moody wrote:
"I believe firmly that the moment our hearts are emptied of pride and selfishness and ambition and self-seeking, and everything that is contrary to God's law, the Holy Spirit will come and fill every corner of our hearts. But if we are full of pride and conceit, ambition and self-seeking, pleasure and the world, there is no room for the Spirit of God; and I believe many a man is praying to God to fill him when he is already full with something else. Before we pray that God would fill us, I believe we ought to pray Him to empty us. There must be an emptying before there can be a filling."
Living a confessional lifestyle is a key concept in living in the fullness of the Spirit. (44)
When the Spirit of God is present, He often speaks. This is why hearing God's voice is one of the results of being baptized with the Spirit. As we develop an increased awareness and sensitivity to His presence, we become more attuned to His voice. When all of our prayer is a one-sided monologue, there isn't much depth in the relationship. In order for our relationship with God to expand, it must become a dialogue.
All of God's friends throughout the Scripture are in a dialogical relationship with Him. This is true of God's Old Testament friends like Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and Daniel. It is true of God's New Testament friends who are baptized with the Spirit and begin to hear the Spirit's promptings. It should be true of us today, as well. (53)
Let's look again at Peter's teaching on the day of Pentecost. He quotes
Joel's prophecy:
"This is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: "In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy" (Acts 2:16-18).
In the Old Testament, there were a few people who were set apart to be prophets — to hear God speak and to relay His messages. But Joel, one of God's prophets, foresaw a time where God would pour out His Spirit on all of His people, and all of His people would prophesy. It no longer would be just a select few, but there would be a community of people who were soaked in the Spirit, and one of the results of the fullness of the Spirit's presence in their lives would be prophecy. They would hear from God directly for themselves and for others. This was part of God's plan to make all of His people into a nation of priests who could bring His presence, His message, and His Kingdom to the world. (54)
If you are praying for someone and you get a prompting of the Spirit, the person you are receiving the word for should be involved in the interpretation process. Just present what you have received, and begin by asking, "Does that mean anything to you?" If there isn't a clear meaning, then wait on the Lord for wisdom. Don't elaborate on what you heard; don't expound upon it. If you receive one word, give one word and ask if it means anything. Don't give five words if you've received one.
Many people start with an authentic word from the Spirit, but then they expand on it, and by the time they finish, they have missed the moment with the Spirit. They add all kinds of human words that lack power and distract the person from what was really a little nugget from God. If they had stayed with just what God said, the person would have received from the Spirit, but often because we talk too much, the person misses the word from the Lord. (71)
Others try to fill this deep longing with pleasure. They turn to lust or sexual exploits, or drugs or alcohol, to fill the void. Sex is good, but the good felings don't last, and we crave more. The soul constantly cries out for more. It is never satisfied.
This is why people become addicted to things. They keep returning to the empty and broken cistern hoping to find living water there that will satisfy their deep longings. They end up ensnared - ever thirsty, but never satisfied. We try to borrow life from things which cannot give life.
Good things often point us to the source of life, but they have no life in and of themselves. This is why there is a restlessness in our souls. Only God satisfies.
David turned these inner desires toward God. His longing motivated his pursuit of God's presence. He writes later in the Psalm it is God's love that satisfies, so "my soul clings to you" (Psalm 63:8, NIV). We must learn to go to God for satisfaction and to rest in His presence. In the River of His presence, there is a continuous flow of His life in our inner being. This is the only place that can satisfy the deepest longings of our soul. (89)
On pages 91-92 I found the explanation of the difference between God’s omnipresence and his manifest presence very helpful. His omnipresence is always with us and is comforting, but his manifest presence changes andempowers us. Then on 93-94 I liked the idea of cultivating God‘s presence, which is where we develop an awareness of the presence of God to assist in staying the Spirit.
The section on manifestations from 96 to-100 is also helpful, and I thought gave a good balanced view on it. I have often heard people giving the extremes of being got or against it, but I thought his explanation was very balanced and made a lot of sense.
Another thing that can greatly increase our sensitivity to God's presence is to recognize how often we misdiagnose spiritual hunger. Our spiritual hunger is a gift from God to draw us into the River, but far too often we don't recognize this hunger as a spiritual tap on the shoulder by the Spirit of God. I'll give you the classic example. Let's say you finished eating dinner at 6:00. You cleaned up the dishes, put away the food, and you go into the living room to sit down. You are checking email, looking at Facebook, watching TV, or reading a book. After a little while you think, "I need a little something."
You wander back into the kitchen to satisfy this desire for "a little some-thing." You aren't hungry; you just ate. So what is that desire? It isn't a physical desire for food. I think quite often we are feeling spiritual desire; we are longing for God. We are misdiagnosing a spiritual hunger, and because we feel an emptiness inside, we are associating it with physical hunger. It is the empty, eager, greedy, restless longing of our soul for something more. It is our soul longing for God - the only One who can truly satisfy. The Spirit of God is triggering our heart longing, so that we will come to Him.
It is a sign of His presence; it is an invitation to His companionship. (107)
It kept happening, so I went to talk to one of the monks at the monastery about it. The monks and I don't agree about all theological points, but we do agree about the most important thing: our love for Jesus and for people. It saddens me that so many people cannot learn from anyone if they disagree with them. If you can only learn from people you agree with, you won't grow very much. If you only allow yourself to learn from people who are like you, you will always hover right about where you are. You can learn from people without compromising the essential truths of God, if you're humble, so I went to Father Robert, who was the guest master at the monastery. (113)
—> this is such an important point!
The different gauges and how to get back on track to being in the Spirit on pages 138-141 was very helpful.
Here are some quotes I found helpful and want to remember even as I pass the book on for others to read:
It's important to distinguish between receiving the Holy Spirit and being baptized by the Spirit. Martyn Lloyd-Jones argues in Joy Unspeakable that these disciples who were awaiting the baptism of the Spirit had already received the Holy Spirit. The Spirit was already indwelling them, as we see in John 20:21-22: "Jesus said, 'Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, lam sending you.' And with that he breathed on them and said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit." (21)
Let's change water analogies for a moment: Think of the baptism of the Spirit like the ocean. The baptism of the Spirit should be like waves crashing up onto the shore. It is an ongoing series of events, encounters, and fillings. God doesn't just want us to be filled once. He wants us to be filled and then to live in the fullness of the Spirit. (26)
Oftentimes revivals are cut short because people seek God, experience some encounter, and get satisfied. They live their whole lives looking back at their encounter with God. It's a mistake believers often make: rather than continuing to pursue more of God, we sometimes look back at our initial encounters with God, and we mistakenly think that is all there is.
We need to be filled regularly, to pursue the baptism of the Spirit boldly, and to expect continuous encounters with the Living God. God is infinite, and therefore there is always more of God to be experienced. (27)
—> This was a helpful reminder to notice our own state and how much we need this closeness with God:
When we are walking in the fullness of the Spirit, the presence of God adds a weightiness to our words that is clearly supernatural. Our words go beyond touching the mind only and begin to penetrate the heart. Sometimes Finney noticed he was empty of this power. This is how Finney responded: "I would then set apart a day for private fasting and prayer, fearing that this power had departed from me, and would inquire anxiously after the reason of this apparent emptiness of power. After humbling myself, and crying out for help, the power would return upon me with all its freshness. This has been the experience of my life." (28)
When the Spirit comes in fullness, there are three results, according to Scripture: bold witness, power, and prophecy. (29)
Often we rely on our gifting, but not on the fresh filling of the Spirit. Sadly, it shows in the results. (32)
Writers of old used the word "tarry." It is not a passive waiting. It is an intentional, passionate pursuit while we wait for the promise of God to be fulfilled and the answer to come. I think this is the great mistake the church makes about revival — we passively wait for God to mightily move in power, when God has told us to actively seek Him. If we seek Him with all our heart, we will find Him, the Scripture promises.
The disciples waited by passionately pursuing God for the promised outpouring of the Holy Spirit. They "all joined together constantly in prayer" (Acts 1:14). They waited in active, pursuing faith. (38-39)
So often we wish we had more of God, but we aren't willing to pay the price. We want God to come to us on easy terms, but pursuing God is costly business. (40)
Moody experienced God's purging before he experienced God's filling. Moody wrote:
"I believe firmly that the moment our hearts are emptied of pride and selfishness and ambition and self-seeking, and everything that is contrary to God's law, the Holy Spirit will come and fill every corner of our hearts. But if we are full of pride and conceit, ambition and self-seeking, pleasure and the world, there is no room for the Spirit of God; and I believe many a man is praying to God to fill him when he is already full with something else. Before we pray that God would fill us, I believe we ought to pray Him to empty us. There must be an emptying before there can be a filling."
Living a confessional lifestyle is a key concept in living in the fullness of the Spirit. (44)
When the Spirit of God is present, He often speaks. This is why hearing God's voice is one of the results of being baptized with the Spirit. As we develop an increased awareness and sensitivity to His presence, we become more attuned to His voice. When all of our prayer is a one-sided monologue, there isn't much depth in the relationship. In order for our relationship with God to expand, it must become a dialogue.
All of God's friends throughout the Scripture are in a dialogical relationship with Him. This is true of God's Old Testament friends like Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and Daniel. It is true of God's New Testament friends who are baptized with the Spirit and begin to hear the Spirit's promptings. It should be true of us today, as well. (53)
Let's look again at Peter's teaching on the day of Pentecost. He quotes
Joel's prophecy:
"This is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: "In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy" (Acts 2:16-18).
In the Old Testament, there were a few people who were set apart to be prophets — to hear God speak and to relay His messages. But Joel, one of God's prophets, foresaw a time where God would pour out His Spirit on all of His people, and all of His people would prophesy. It no longer would be just a select few, but there would be a community of people who were soaked in the Spirit, and one of the results of the fullness of the Spirit's presence in their lives would be prophecy. They would hear from God directly for themselves and for others. This was part of God's plan to make all of His people into a nation of priests who could bring His presence, His message, and His Kingdom to the world. (54)
If you are praying for someone and you get a prompting of the Spirit, the person you are receiving the word for should be involved in the interpretation process. Just present what you have received, and begin by asking, "Does that mean anything to you?" If there isn't a clear meaning, then wait on the Lord for wisdom. Don't elaborate on what you heard; don't expound upon it. If you receive one word, give one word and ask if it means anything. Don't give five words if you've received one.
Many people start with an authentic word from the Spirit, but then they expand on it, and by the time they finish, they have missed the moment with the Spirit. They add all kinds of human words that lack power and distract the person from what was really a little nugget from God. If they had stayed with just what God said, the person would have received from the Spirit, but often because we talk too much, the person misses the word from the Lord. (71)
Others try to fill this deep longing with pleasure. They turn to lust or sexual exploits, or drugs or alcohol, to fill the void. Sex is good, but the good felings don't last, and we crave more. The soul constantly cries out for more. It is never satisfied.
This is why people become addicted to things. They keep returning to the empty and broken cistern hoping to find living water there that will satisfy their deep longings. They end up ensnared - ever thirsty, but never satisfied. We try to borrow life from things which cannot give life.
Good things often point us to the source of life, but they have no life in and of themselves. This is why there is a restlessness in our souls. Only God satisfies.
David turned these inner desires toward God. His longing motivated his pursuit of God's presence. He writes later in the Psalm it is God's love that satisfies, so "my soul clings to you" (Psalm 63:8, NIV). We must learn to go to God for satisfaction and to rest in His presence. In the River of His presence, there is a continuous flow of His life in our inner being. This is the only place that can satisfy the deepest longings of our soul. (89)
On pages 91-92 I found the explanation of the difference between God’s omnipresence and his manifest presence very helpful. His omnipresence is always with us and is comforting, but his manifest presence changes andempowers us. Then on 93-94 I liked the idea of cultivating God‘s presence, which is where we develop an awareness of the presence of God to assist in staying the Spirit.
The section on manifestations from 96 to-100 is also helpful, and I thought gave a good balanced view on it. I have often heard people giving the extremes of being got or against it, but I thought his explanation was very balanced and made a lot of sense.
Another thing that can greatly increase our sensitivity to God's presence is to recognize how often we misdiagnose spiritual hunger. Our spiritual hunger is a gift from God to draw us into the River, but far too often we don't recognize this hunger as a spiritual tap on the shoulder by the Spirit of God. I'll give you the classic example. Let's say you finished eating dinner at 6:00. You cleaned up the dishes, put away the food, and you go into the living room to sit down. You are checking email, looking at Facebook, watching TV, or reading a book. After a little while you think, "I need a little something."
You wander back into the kitchen to satisfy this desire for "a little some-thing." You aren't hungry; you just ate. So what is that desire? It isn't a physical desire for food. I think quite often we are feeling spiritual desire; we are longing for God. We are misdiagnosing a spiritual hunger, and because we feel an emptiness inside, we are associating it with physical hunger. It is the empty, eager, greedy, restless longing of our soul for something more. It is our soul longing for God - the only One who can truly satisfy. The Spirit of God is triggering our heart longing, so that we will come to Him.
It is a sign of His presence; it is an invitation to His companionship. (107)
It kept happening, so I went to talk to one of the monks at the monastery about it. The monks and I don't agree about all theological points, but we do agree about the most important thing: our love for Jesus and for people. It saddens me that so many people cannot learn from anyone if they disagree with them. If you can only learn from people you agree with, you won't grow very much. If you only allow yourself to learn from people who are like you, you will always hover right about where you are. You can learn from people without compromising the essential truths of God, if you're humble, so I went to Father Robert, who was the guest master at the monastery. (113)
—> this is such an important point!
The different gauges and how to get back on track to being in the Spirit on pages 138-141 was very helpful.
August 28, 2024
This book is Amazing and I saw a shift in my walk with the Lord. This is one of those life changing books that lead you deeper into the knowledge of a Good God. I put this up there with Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby. A must read. I will be reading all of his books.
April 27, 2023
Good book! Has some good teaching on various things such as baptism of the Holy Spirit, prophecy, God’s presence, dark night of the soul, etc.. He uses cool personal examples and stories that help the reader connect and learn more!
April 17, 2018
I love reading about the deeper life. Dr. Reimer's hunger for a fuller walk with the Lord reflects the desire every believer should have. The need for the filling of the Holy Spirit is a necessity if we want to live a life overflowing with the love of Jesus. So he and I agree 100% on that. But I bristled at how that life is manifested. I really appreciated that there was no emphasis on the gift of tongues, which many propose as THE sign. Thankfully, he did not fall into that misinterpretation of Scripture. But there were certain practices that seemed mystical and dangerous. When people start to talk about different spiritual pathways to God it gets a little strange.
A few things that made me wrinkle my nose: He at one point calls God weird. He says he means it reverently but I can't even begin to understand that. Yes, God is different. Yes, he is so other than we are, but I would never dare to refer to the King of kings, the Most Holy One, my Savior, my Lord in that way.
Also he started out saying that prayer and Bible reading are the only two disciplines that his church talked about. I wonder. There were probably more that his young heart did not see. He makes reading through the Bible every year from cover to cover sound stale and so uninspired. Oh, for people today who would read the Bible from cover to cover every year! We are a bunch of Bible illiterates. He offers other ways to connect to God and basically they were meditating on Scripture, praying Scripture, worshipping and thanking God, among other things. I am like, wait a minute, those are prayer and Bible reading. But I always cringe when people begin to look for experiences rather than for solid time in the Word. Rather than pathways to God I wish he had talked about the means of grace. These are practices that are Biblical. Through certain practices we receive an outpouring of God's grace, such as in prayer, in Bible reading/study, while performing acts of service, while fasting, in giving and partaking the sacraments.
There are a few people who can talk about the Spirit-filled life without making it sound "weird". The Wesleys for sure, but he only mentioned them a hand full of times. John Wesley talks about the Spirit-filled life in solid, practical terms. He says it is loving God with all of your heart, mind and soul, and loving your neighbor as yourself. Yes! I am currently reading Samuel Logan Brengle, Helps to Holiness. Wow! He talks about the deeper life in such away that it stirs in me a hunger to let Jesus have all of me, without it sounding strange. Actually, Brengle makes it sound like exactly what we are made for.
Dr. Reimer does use a lot of Biblical support but it was not engaging for me. I am not sure why. He had a lot of good solid stuff but enough "other " stuff to make me not give it such a high rating. I am glad that so many have found this book helpful but I didn't resonate with it.
A few things that made me wrinkle my nose: He at one point calls God weird. He says he means it reverently but I can't even begin to understand that. Yes, God is different. Yes, he is so other than we are, but I would never dare to refer to the King of kings, the Most Holy One, my Savior, my Lord in that way.
Also he started out saying that prayer and Bible reading are the only two disciplines that his church talked about. I wonder. There were probably more that his young heart did not see. He makes reading through the Bible every year from cover to cover sound stale and so uninspired. Oh, for people today who would read the Bible from cover to cover every year! We are a bunch of Bible illiterates. He offers other ways to connect to God and basically they were meditating on Scripture, praying Scripture, worshipping and thanking God, among other things. I am like, wait a minute, those are prayer and Bible reading. But I always cringe when people begin to look for experiences rather than for solid time in the Word. Rather than pathways to God I wish he had talked about the means of grace. These are practices that are Biblical. Through certain practices we receive an outpouring of God's grace, such as in prayer, in Bible reading/study, while performing acts of service, while fasting, in giving and partaking the sacraments.
There are a few people who can talk about the Spirit-filled life without making it sound "weird". The Wesleys for sure, but he only mentioned them a hand full of times. John Wesley talks about the Spirit-filled life in solid, practical terms. He says it is loving God with all of your heart, mind and soul, and loving your neighbor as yourself. Yes! I am currently reading Samuel Logan Brengle, Helps to Holiness. Wow! He talks about the deeper life in such away that it stirs in me a hunger to let Jesus have all of me, without it sounding strange. Actually, Brengle makes it sound like exactly what we are made for.
Dr. Reimer does use a lot of Biblical support but it was not engaging for me. I am not sure why. He had a lot of good solid stuff but enough "other " stuff to make me not give it such a high rating. I am glad that so many have found this book helpful but I didn't resonate with it.
August 13, 2015
Review Title: Standing in the River of Life (review of River Dwellers by Dr. Rob Reimer)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
*****5 Stars
Dr. Reimer pursued and found eternal treasure in becoming what he labels as a River Dweller. His book generously shares how to join in with those who go into the depths with God. I loved this book and its message. I want to go back through it and take notes so as to not forget any parts of what he related that will help me in spiritual growth. He gives names of other authors and book titles that helped him go deeper. He shares the credit with others for training people in the ways of living at the deeper level with God. You will desire to go deeper once you read about the rewards found, the peace available, and ways to help others with this information.
I already know who I will share this book with first in my friends circle. The one who is going through rough times and needs rest and peace that only comes through giving all burdens over to the Lord will appreciate this book. They will find their needs met in the deepness and fullness of God. Instruction is given about listening for God's still small voice in our loud world. I liked Dr. Reimer's idea of taking short quiet retreats to get alone with God much like Jesus did. Also, Dr. Reimer talks about when God is silent and how to get through those times. He is transparent about problems he overcame with God's help. Those include marriage problems and church financial issues. He does not sugar coat the process of going deeper and encourages always doing what would be the right thing as you wait upon God's amswers.
I am thankful I now have this book to share with those ready for its message. Some people reject hearing from God in any way outside of Scripture reading. They would not relate well to parts of the book explaining other ways that we may hear from God. The book aligns with Scripture, in my way of belief, but I realize there are those who interpret Scripture differently. The author consistently insists throughout that what one perceives to be heard from God must in no way be outside of what Scripture says.
I received this wonderful book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review after reading it. I believe all Christians have something to gain from this book. For some it will affirm what they already know, for others it will enlighten, and for doubters it will be a challenge to understand differences in ways people consider hearing from God. All the information is written in a loving attitude with no demands that readers must see things the way the author has shown to be a major help in his spiritual growth.
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
*****5 Stars
Dr. Reimer pursued and found eternal treasure in becoming what he labels as a River Dweller. His book generously shares how to join in with those who go into the depths with God. I loved this book and its message. I want to go back through it and take notes so as to not forget any parts of what he related that will help me in spiritual growth. He gives names of other authors and book titles that helped him go deeper. He shares the credit with others for training people in the ways of living at the deeper level with God. You will desire to go deeper once you read about the rewards found, the peace available, and ways to help others with this information.
I already know who I will share this book with first in my friends circle. The one who is going through rough times and needs rest and peace that only comes through giving all burdens over to the Lord will appreciate this book. They will find their needs met in the deepness and fullness of God. Instruction is given about listening for God's still small voice in our loud world. I liked Dr. Reimer's idea of taking short quiet retreats to get alone with God much like Jesus did. Also, Dr. Reimer talks about when God is silent and how to get through those times. He is transparent about problems he overcame with God's help. Those include marriage problems and church financial issues. He does not sugar coat the process of going deeper and encourages always doing what would be the right thing as you wait upon God's amswers.
I am thankful I now have this book to share with those ready for its message. Some people reject hearing from God in any way outside of Scripture reading. They would not relate well to parts of the book explaining other ways that we may hear from God. The book aligns with Scripture, in my way of belief, but I realize there are those who interpret Scripture differently. The author consistently insists throughout that what one perceives to be heard from God must in no way be outside of what Scripture says.
I received this wonderful book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review after reading it. I believe all Christians have something to gain from this book. For some it will affirm what they already know, for others it will enlighten, and for doubters it will be a challenge to understand differences in ways people consider hearing from God. All the information is written in a loving attitude with no demands that readers must see things the way the author has shown to be a major help in his spiritual growth.
May 29, 2016
This is a difficult book to review, just as it was difficult to read. It is addressing a challenge for the modern evangelical church, and its members - the apparent absence of the spiritual dynamism of the first century church and the tangible presence of Gods spirit. The approach is largely a product of the authors reflections and experience - potentially a good thing. The downside is that the use of scripture comes across as a justification of his experience and lacks 'authority'. (Despite suggesting that there are greater concerns to chase than 'defending theological positions', he also reinforces the place of scripture as a benchmark for prophecy, teaching, etc. The challenge of the structure chosen, therefore, is that the scripture used can appear secondary to the overall story, making it hard to be persuaded to take on a new perspective on issues I hold different views on.)
The central theme of the book is the idea that Christians would be filled with 'streams of living water', and the development of this thought in terms of the receiving, expressing, living and struggling of the Holy Spirit. The analogy with a river is not an unbiblical one, resonating with ideas such as baptism, times of refreshing, etc. Maybe living in a dry country (Australia) leaves me a bit removed from the emotional connection others might have with rivers, but I found the image strained. Given its centrality to the theme, it also seemed a shame that the original passage (John 7) is not explored further - I'm sure there's more in it than used here.
I found the third chapter on living in the river the most beneficial. As I read recently, most Christians feel a sense of God's presence and this theme being prevalent in scripture, working out how to make this a reality today is important. Some of the advice is not new, but worth retelling - ie the spiritual disciplines discussed by Foster in Celebration of Discipline - solitude, silence, meditation and worship. But I'm not convinced - I think this has probably worked well in the author's pastoral ministry but didn't translate well as a book.
The central theme of the book is the idea that Christians would be filled with 'streams of living water', and the development of this thought in terms of the receiving, expressing, living and struggling of the Holy Spirit. The analogy with a river is not an unbiblical one, resonating with ideas such as baptism, times of refreshing, etc. Maybe living in a dry country (Australia) leaves me a bit removed from the emotional connection others might have with rivers, but I found the image strained. Given its centrality to the theme, it also seemed a shame that the original passage (John 7) is not explored further - I'm sure there's more in it than used here.
I found the third chapter on living in the river the most beneficial. As I read recently, most Christians feel a sense of God's presence and this theme being prevalent in scripture, working out how to make this a reality today is important. Some of the advice is not new, but worth retelling - ie the spiritual disciplines discussed by Foster in Celebration of Discipline - solitude, silence, meditation and worship. But I'm not convinced - I think this has probably worked well in the author's pastoral ministry but didn't translate well as a book.
November 28, 2016
River Dwellers by Dr. Rob Reimur is a unique and enlightening guide to the presence of God and intimacy with God. Dr. Reimur explores in depth the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, prophecy, living in the river—recognizing and cultivating His presence, and navigating dark times and trials. The author shares personal experiences and struggle and how he faces the dark times and times when he does not feel God’s presence. This is an excellent book to be reread and consulted frequently. It is a guide to a deeper relationship with God and to developing a sense of His presence in our lives. It is extremely helpful for the Christian walk. He reminds us of what is important and lasting. I highly recommend this book that I received through TBCN in exchange for an honest review.
May 13, 2015
This is an excellent book on Spirit filled living. Reimer speaks from his own experience and from that of others, through pastor role. He looks at the evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit, how God speaks to us, and what we are to do with what we receive. He also looks at disappointments and times of the dark night of the soul. This is one of the best books I've read in a while on living in the flow of the Spirit.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1AXvhnn.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Book Club Network for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1AXvhnn.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Book Club Network for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
July 8, 2016
Drawing upon the metaphor of the Holy Spirit as a river, Rob Reimer explains practically and pastorally and personally what it means to live in the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Rob’s genuineness in truly knowing and loving God and finding real reality in the Holy Spirit is vivid and life giving – being filled, hearing God speak, staying in the stream of the Spirit, returning to the river of God when we’ve drifted away, and facing difficult turns downstream. He addresses potential misunderstandings and misuses of the ministry of the Holy Spirit wisely and deftly. Finally a book on the Holy Spirit I can without reservation endorse fully!
July 14, 2020
Discovering Dr Reimers work almost 3 years ago has literally changed the course of my life. I’m overwhelmed by the insightful work he has dedicated his life to bring to others. If you ever wondered how to walk daily in Gods presence and hear His voice. Dr Reimer offers several examples on ways to hear God for yourself - enriching your intimacy with Jesus. There is no ‘right’ order to read Dr Reimers books, but this one seems appropriate after Soul Care. It felt difficult to enter the River before dealing with my Soul issues and deliverance needs.
December 20, 2015
River Dwellers is a great book to be used as a devotional or group study. The author explains how to better hear the voice of God. He also explains how to have a Spirit filled life. It is a book to be read slowly to be best appreciated.
This book was received from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book was received from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
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