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Be You. Do Good.: Having the Guts to Pursue What Makes You Come Alive
Almost anyone you asked would say that they want to do work that matters. Yet just one third of Christians feel "called" to the work they currently do. Others may feel a sense of calling but lack either the courage or the supportive community to carry it out. But if God created each of us "on" purpose, "for "a purpose, we should be ordering our lives "around" that purpose.
Jonathan D. Golden, founder of Land of a Thousand Hills coffee company, has discovered and is living out his unique calling to promote social, spiritual, and economic justice while providing a living wage to 2,500 farmers in Rwanda and Haiti. Now he reveals to readers how to identify their calling, dispels the myths and misunderstandings we often have about what constitutes a calling, and challenges them to pursue that calling with a courage that can surmount the many obstacles that may lie in their path. He also shows readers how to cultivate a community of support that will help them fulfill their calling.
For anyone who is dissatisfied with the work they are doing, especially young Christians just entering the workforce, this book shows how to embrace the meaningful life they were meant to live.
Jonathan D. Golden, founder of Land of a Thousand Hills coffee company, has discovered and is living out his unique calling to promote social, spiritual, and economic justice while providing a living wage to 2,500 farmers in Rwanda and Haiti. Now he reveals to readers how to identify their calling, dispels the myths and misunderstandings we often have about what constitutes a calling, and challenges them to pursue that calling with a courage that can surmount the many obstacles that may lie in their path. He also shows readers how to cultivate a community of support that will help them fulfill their calling.
For anyone who is dissatisfied with the work they are doing, especially young Christians just entering the workforce, this book shows how to embrace the meaningful life they were meant to live.
220 pages, Paperback
First published January 19, 2016
30 people are currently reading
481 people want to read
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January 27, 2016
One star? Five Stars? Oh, I have no idea. I've settled on three, but I'm not even certain that this right. The book sets out to help people find their purpose and then provide the encouragement to follow that -- but I felt throughout the the book that the author had a secondary, that often times fronted to a primary purpose, of telling his readers about his coffee business in Rwanda. And frankly, this was where the book got really good. I loved hearing the stories about the work he was engaged in and the people he met. There was a beautiful story in here about forgiveness that I will likely never forget. But in between these lovely moments, were sections where I felt like I was listening to a poorly organized sermon. I found myself wishing that Golden had set out to write a memoir instead of a Christian self-help book.
The most difficult part of this book is what call his tendency to maybeize decisions -- as in maybe you could do this or perhaps you could do this or maybe this might be better. I completely understand that it is difficult to give advice to people about their calling because callings are unique. But it wasn't helpful nor even interesting to have lists of maybe this, maybe that. I work with students everyday who can't figure out their calling and often have a great deal of angst about this. Giving them a whole bunch of maybes is not only not helpful, but also can produce a fair amount of anxiety.
I also took issue with his assumption that everyone has inklings and that these inklings should be followed, often at great cost (like moving, quitting a job, taking out a loan). He even has a six step plan for dealing with these inklings, which I am sure for those who get them might be useful, but for someone whose brain doesn't work this way, I found it a little strange to be told repeatedly that I should follow them.
Finally, I felt like Golden tried to do too much. He gave advice for so much more than finding ones calling -- really it was more about living the spiritual life. For a reader who is looking to discover their calling, this book is too much of everything else and not enough on what might be involved in finding this for those who really have no idea what it is that makes them come alive.
If Golden ever writes a book specifically about this work in Rwanda, I'd read it in heartbeat. But if someone is looking for vocation/calling guidance, I'd suggest Parker Palmer's Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation.
The most difficult part of this book is what call his tendency to maybeize decisions -- as in maybe you could do this or perhaps you could do this or maybe this might be better. I completely understand that it is difficult to give advice to people about their calling because callings are unique. But it wasn't helpful nor even interesting to have lists of maybe this, maybe that. I work with students everyday who can't figure out their calling and often have a great deal of angst about this. Giving them a whole bunch of maybes is not only not helpful, but also can produce a fair amount of anxiety.
I also took issue with his assumption that everyone has inklings and that these inklings should be followed, often at great cost (like moving, quitting a job, taking out a loan). He even has a six step plan for dealing with these inklings, which I am sure for those who get them might be useful, but for someone whose brain doesn't work this way, I found it a little strange to be told repeatedly that I should follow them.
Finally, I felt like Golden tried to do too much. He gave advice for so much more than finding ones calling -- really it was more about living the spiritual life. For a reader who is looking to discover their calling, this book is too much of everything else and not enough on what might be involved in finding this for those who really have no idea what it is that makes them come alive.
If Golden ever writes a book specifically about this work in Rwanda, I'd read it in heartbeat. But if someone is looking for vocation/calling guidance, I'd suggest Parker Palmer's Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation.
January 2, 2016
I think I wore out my highlighter while reading Be You. Do Good. (from here on out, BYDG). If the entire book could be highlighted, I would honestly do it. There are so many nuggets of goodness, I cannot even begin to tell you.
I love this book. I will be re-reading this book. Several times. In 2016, if not in January.
It's already one of the best books I've read this year, even though we're only 2 days into 2016!
BYDG is doubly profound because it stems out of Golden's experience. He doesn't hesitate to share with you the good times and the bad in finding his calling. Sometimes the process screwed things up for him, and his company. But he pressed on, taking his friend Bob's advice to "never go back to something. Go forward" (p. 208).
BYDG begs interaction. Not just because each chapter wraps up with three questions to get you thinking and, ideally, doing, too - but just as a whole, there is a profound invitation to pursue your calling.
One of my favorite (and most convicting) lines in the book is "When inklings are given attention, fed, and watered, they can grow into beautiful expressions of vocation."
I'm looking forward to pondering that quote throughout the year and my future re-reads!
Keep a pen and journal handy (with your highlighter), because BYDG will stir up thoughts and emotions, and strike up a deep conversation between you and your Creator before you know what hit you.
This book is absolutely a great read for the new year. Nothing like a new year to reflect on life - where you've been and where you're headed - and BYDG is a perfect accompaniment to that.
I love this book. I will be re-reading this book. Several times. In 2016, if not in January.
It's already one of the best books I've read this year, even though we're only 2 days into 2016!
BYDG is doubly profound because it stems out of Golden's experience. He doesn't hesitate to share with you the good times and the bad in finding his calling. Sometimes the process screwed things up for him, and his company. But he pressed on, taking his friend Bob's advice to "never go back to something. Go forward" (p. 208).
BYDG begs interaction. Not just because each chapter wraps up with three questions to get you thinking and, ideally, doing, too - but just as a whole, there is a profound invitation to pursue your calling.
One of my favorite (and most convicting) lines in the book is "When inklings are given attention, fed, and watered, they can grow into beautiful expressions of vocation."
I'm looking forward to pondering that quote throughout the year and my future re-reads!
Keep a pen and journal handy (with your highlighter), because BYDG will stir up thoughts and emotions, and strike up a deep conversation between you and your Creator before you know what hit you.
This book is absolutely a great read for the new year. Nothing like a new year to reflect on life - where you've been and where you're headed - and BYDG is a perfect accompaniment to that.
January 1, 2016
How do you find the true calling for your life and work? Jonathan David Golden gives readers the path of discovery in BE YOU. DO GOOD. This book is well-written and holds interest throughout the pages. Each chapter includes pointed questions for the reader to review the contents and apply it to their own life.
I loved on page 34, where Golden writes, "The first secret to discovering our calling is to look at our talents, our knowledge areas, our skills and our past. It is to see our loves as a story, to read it, and to be who you are."
This book mixes personal experiences with how-to information with Scripture. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I loved on page 34, where Golden writes, "The first secret to discovering our calling is to look at our talents, our knowledge areas, our skills and our past. It is to see our loves as a story, to read it, and to be who you are."
This book mixes personal experiences with how-to information with Scripture. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
January 8, 2016
A little too preachy for me. The author spins faith to market himself and the coffee company. Some good ideas, but not the book for me.
March 31, 2016
Everyone who wants to make a difference during the time they have on this earth should read this book! This is not just another self-help book. Using the life stories of many people, some famous, others not, and his own experiences, Golden shows how to build a life, a career, a ministry, that focuses outwardly, on others. In the Forward to this book, Bob Goff says, "...not only is God up to something here and something now, but God's instrument of choice happens to be you. If you're feeling flattered, you should be. As unlikely as it seems, God has chosen you and me to be divine agents in the world today. When you own that, everything changes." (pg. 12)
The basic premise is to take one step at a time, some small, some large, in pursuit of your personal passion, your calling, always working toward God's plan for you. Many throw their hands up to heaven, begging God to tell them what to do. Golden says God has given you a specific talent and skill set for His purpose. To discover that one must ask such questions as, "What do you want me to do? What are you good at? What makes you come alive?" (pg. 89) He will give you a word, an inkling, a thought, an affirmation that you can know with certainty He wants you to pursue.
The concept that resonates and runs throughout this book is that of bahora bahora. These are the Rwandan words for 'little by little'. It's all about not rushing through life. It's about taking the time to build relationships with God, one another, and the world around us. Slowly and carefully.
"Little by little we become more holy."
"Little by little we craft lyrics to entire songs."
"Little by little we become proficient at our callings."
(pg. 12)
I highly recommend you take a small step a read this book, cover-to-cover. It could be the one small thing you need to discover God's purpose for your life.
The basic premise is to take one step at a time, some small, some large, in pursuit of your personal passion, your calling, always working toward God's plan for you. Many throw their hands up to heaven, begging God to tell them what to do. Golden says God has given you a specific talent and skill set for His purpose. To discover that one must ask such questions as, "What do you want me to do? What are you good at? What makes you come alive?" (pg. 89) He will give you a word, an inkling, a thought, an affirmation that you can know with certainty He wants you to pursue.
The concept that resonates and runs throughout this book is that of bahora bahora. These are the Rwandan words for 'little by little'. It's all about not rushing through life. It's about taking the time to build relationships with God, one another, and the world around us. Slowly and carefully.
"Little by little we become more holy."
"Little by little we craft lyrics to entire songs."
"Little by little we become proficient at our callings."
(pg. 12)
I highly recommend you take a small step a read this book, cover-to-cover. It could be the one small thing you need to discover God's purpose for your life.
December 28, 2015
This is a great story of stepping out in faith and seeing what God can do. Golden has a coffee company in Rwanda, Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee. His business provides employment for hundreds of Rwandans. Some of their stories are here also. It is easy to read and full of wonderful illustrations and life lessons. He writes of his failures and victories in a most honest and matter-of-fact manner. Read about his Muslim driver's rescue of a little boy, forgiveness shared with men who murdered family members and his own family's rich and full life in Christ.
January 22, 2018
I enjoyed reading the story of Land of a Thousand Hills coffee. Golden has several good things to say as he told his own story. I didn’t underline a ton, but what I did is worth thinking about - over a good cup of coffee.
March 22, 2016
“There are two types of people: hunters and farmers. Hunters scan the horizon for what might be next. They enjoy movement, quest, uncertainty. Farmers, though, like clear boundaries. They like to know that if they invest their time within certain boundaries there is a likelihood they’ll be rewarded for their work.”
My husband is a hunter, literally and figuratively, but in this instance mostly figuratively. I, on the other hand, am farmer all the way, and ironically come from a long line of Illinois farmers, but again I’m talking figuratively in Golden’s example of the two types of people. My hunter husband is always searching for the next opportunity, thrives on living by the seat of his pants, and constant movement, never idle. However, the farmer I am, likes clear boundaries, staying in a particular place and job is completely fine with me. I like knowing what to expect, investing my time and effort in hopes of reaping a reward. We are two very different types of people, and the question remains: can this hunter and farmer co-exist together? We’re still figuring that out. The point is to do more than co-exist, realize the other’s wants and needs while (hopefully) the other is doing the same, but to make it both parties need to ultimately buckle down and do life together.
“This faithful long obedience is too often a lost art in a society in which we have starter homes and starter spouses, where we change churches as if we’re choosing between movie theaters on Friday nights.”
Here’s the best thing about having a hunter for a spouse: he is always aware of our downside and tries to protect it, while I’m still toiling away to try and keep what we have, he’s the one who steps in and says, maybe we need to let go. He’s the one who pries my claws out of whatever I’m holding onto and tells me it’s okay, there is life after this. He is quite literally the opposite of everything I’ve been taught, he helps me look at life and the obstacles in it in a totally different light, to look outside of the box I’m hunkered down in. I digress, this is after all a book review.
A quotable and applicable book, Be You. Do Good. eloquently illustrated the struggles change can bring on each and every page. Jonathan David Golden is a former life coach who discovered how many people desire to know their calling. How else are you going to know what you’re made for if you don’t ask the one who created you? Filled with personal stories of those he’s coached, Golden used incredible accounts for the reader to realize they can also be in the middle of life and change careers, while delivering a most shocking message that none of us even think about (the end goal): why not be happy for the remainder of your life? As adults with responsibilities, we think we’re stuck, we can’t change anything because we can’t afford to.
Golden claims you don’t necessarily have to change what you do, you don’t have to be a missionary, not all missions look the same. You can be a missionary directly where you are. Now, that’s not an excuse to not witness or help where needed. You have to step out of where you are to help, push yourself to the uncomfortable limits and God will reward you. You will be happier and fulfilled helping someone else, that’s ultimately what God made us for, to help and be accountable to one another.
“When you integrate who you are with what you do, you have nowhere to run.”
“This is the time when you have to use your gifts, your talents, and your passion for all they are worth.”
“Those who are bold to embrace their callings stand back up.”
And as an aside, this is the reason I’m not particularly fond of romance as Golden writes, “A psychology professor of mine taught that syrupy romantic comedies that suggest that marriage is ‘easy’ are far more destructive to relationships than pornography.”
About the author:
“Jonathan David Golden is the founder of Land of a Thousand Hills, a multi-million dollar coffee company that provides a living wage to more than 2,500 Rwandan farmers and their families. He and his company have been featured by CNN, Fox News, Christianity Today, Relevant, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and Charisma. Learn more about Jonathan at BeYouDoGood.com.” (From the back cover of Be You. Do Good.)
(This is a public apology to my husband for my hardheadedness and refusal to move on, I’m sorry my dear…you were right, I’ll go eat my crow now.)
***** 5 Stars
Be You. Do Good.: Having the Guts to Pursue What Makes You Come Alive
by Jonathan David Golden
226 Pages
Published January 2016 by Baker Books
Genre: Christian, Inspirational, Non-fiction
ASIN: B012H105T0
*Disclaimer: This paperback copy was received from Baker Books in exchange for an honest review.
Gilt & Buckram Reviews . . . the framework that holds adventure.
My husband is a hunter, literally and figuratively, but in this instance mostly figuratively. I, on the other hand, am farmer all the way, and ironically come from a long line of Illinois farmers, but again I’m talking figuratively in Golden’s example of the two types of people. My hunter husband is always searching for the next opportunity, thrives on living by the seat of his pants, and constant movement, never idle. However, the farmer I am, likes clear boundaries, staying in a particular place and job is completely fine with me. I like knowing what to expect, investing my time and effort in hopes of reaping a reward. We are two very different types of people, and the question remains: can this hunter and farmer co-exist together? We’re still figuring that out. The point is to do more than co-exist, realize the other’s wants and needs while (hopefully) the other is doing the same, but to make it both parties need to ultimately buckle down and do life together.
“This faithful long obedience is too often a lost art in a society in which we have starter homes and starter spouses, where we change churches as if we’re choosing between movie theaters on Friday nights.”
Here’s the best thing about having a hunter for a spouse: he is always aware of our downside and tries to protect it, while I’m still toiling away to try and keep what we have, he’s the one who steps in and says, maybe we need to let go. He’s the one who pries my claws out of whatever I’m holding onto and tells me it’s okay, there is life after this. He is quite literally the opposite of everything I’ve been taught, he helps me look at life and the obstacles in it in a totally different light, to look outside of the box I’m hunkered down in. I digress, this is after all a book review.
A quotable and applicable book, Be You. Do Good. eloquently illustrated the struggles change can bring on each and every page. Jonathan David Golden is a former life coach who discovered how many people desire to know their calling. How else are you going to know what you’re made for if you don’t ask the one who created you? Filled with personal stories of those he’s coached, Golden used incredible accounts for the reader to realize they can also be in the middle of life and change careers, while delivering a most shocking message that none of us even think about (the end goal): why not be happy for the remainder of your life? As adults with responsibilities, we think we’re stuck, we can’t change anything because we can’t afford to.
Golden claims you don’t necessarily have to change what you do, you don’t have to be a missionary, not all missions look the same. You can be a missionary directly where you are. Now, that’s not an excuse to not witness or help where needed. You have to step out of where you are to help, push yourself to the uncomfortable limits and God will reward you. You will be happier and fulfilled helping someone else, that’s ultimately what God made us for, to help and be accountable to one another.
“When you integrate who you are with what you do, you have nowhere to run.”
“This is the time when you have to use your gifts, your talents, and your passion for all they are worth.”
“Those who are bold to embrace their callings stand back up.”
And as an aside, this is the reason I’m not particularly fond of romance as Golden writes, “A psychology professor of mine taught that syrupy romantic comedies that suggest that marriage is ‘easy’ are far more destructive to relationships than pornography.”
About the author:
“Jonathan David Golden is the founder of Land of a Thousand Hills, a multi-million dollar coffee company that provides a living wage to more than 2,500 Rwandan farmers and their families. He and his company have been featured by CNN, Fox News, Christianity Today, Relevant, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and Charisma. Learn more about Jonathan at BeYouDoGood.com.” (From the back cover of Be You. Do Good.)
(This is a public apology to my husband for my hardheadedness and refusal to move on, I’m sorry my dear…you were right, I’ll go eat my crow now.)
***** 5 Stars
Be You. Do Good.: Having the Guts to Pursue What Makes You Come Alive
by Jonathan David Golden
226 Pages
Published January 2016 by Baker Books
Genre: Christian, Inspirational, Non-fiction
ASIN: B012H105T0
*Disclaimer: This paperback copy was received from Baker Books in exchange for an honest review.
Gilt & Buckram Reviews . . . the framework that holds adventure.
July 20, 2020
The most interesting part about this book was the part that got glossed over the most: the Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee Company. This book could have been so good had it solely centered on those stories and the people there. Unfortunately, this book read more like a preachy self help book disguised as an advertisement for the preacher's business. I wish the author had gone into more detail about the people there, the others that helped make this business a reality, how to discern what is God's call (the inkling) and what isn't... the book sadly comes across as a very long humble brag.
February 12, 2016
Created to Make a Difference
“God spends the day elsewhere, but He sleeps in Rwanda.”
This may be a popular saying in that East African country, but my view of Rwanda has been shaped by 1990’s era news reports of violence, genocide, and war. Jonathan David Golden has spent a few nights in Rwanda himself, and the result of that is a multi-million dollar coffee business that promotes justice through partnering directly with Rwandan farmers to make excellent coffee — and to make a difference.
Be You. Do Good. tells the story of Jonathan’s journey from conflicted and confused to confident and called. On his way to “The Land of a Thousand Hills” (the name of his company and another nickname for Rwanda), he extracts twelve principles that shaped his missional world view:
1. Let Go of the Myths – We believe all kinds of false statements about calling and vocation that keep us mired in indecision.
2.Be Who You Are – Life is a “cosmic collaboration” in which God works through the person he created to do a great thing. Don’t put that self on the shelf.
3.Use What You Have — Take the first step, and don’t wait. Notice who is nearby to help, and live scrappy!
4.Get What You Can — Sounds pretty radical, right? Jonathan is a believer in “The Big Ask.” Tempered by the truth that it’s not about you, but about the call, this is a legitimate position: you are inviting others into God’s work.
5.Follow the Inkling — God invites us into adventure. Our experiences and gifts are custom-made to equip us for that faithful following.
6.Pursue What Makes You Come Alive — Sensitive to social injustice from the time he was a boy, Jonathan realized that his entrepreneurial spirit and his heart for ministry could make a difference in Rwanda through the production of coffee. This chemistry of passion and ability is what we all need to find.
7.Find a People to Serve — A healthy community is one in which everyone blesses and everyone is blessed in return. For Jonathan, it was a matter of not being “The Rich White Guy.” Serve and be served.
8.Growing Little by Little — The work of forgiveness, finding your calling, reaching your goals: these are all works of slow grace.
9.March Through Challenges — One foot ahead of the other requires a mundane soldiering through the hard times. Jonathan shares his “liturgy for life” which, essentially, is a daily turning of his face toward what is true.
10.Follow, Don’t Force — Forging through with one’s own agenda can be dangerous. Pause and allow the Holy Spirit to show the next step.
11.Stand Back Up — When the wheels come off our plans, the choice between give-up and stand-up is a tough one. The myth of “easy” can keep us from persevering.
12.Stay Open to New Possibilities — Open eyes to the needs around us and open hearts to hear the voice of the Spirit are essential to readiness.
Intensely practical and yet highly motivational, Be You. Do Good. is a call to gritty obedience and a faithful following that honors God’s unique gifting of the believer. When the Spirit whispers, take one brave step. Then, see what God does with your availability.
//
Interested in more details about Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee Co.? Check out the story here.
This book was provided by Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
“God spends the day elsewhere, but He sleeps in Rwanda.”
This may be a popular saying in that East African country, but my view of Rwanda has been shaped by 1990’s era news reports of violence, genocide, and war. Jonathan David Golden has spent a few nights in Rwanda himself, and the result of that is a multi-million dollar coffee business that promotes justice through partnering directly with Rwandan farmers to make excellent coffee — and to make a difference.
Be You. Do Good. tells the story of Jonathan’s journey from conflicted and confused to confident and called. On his way to “The Land of a Thousand Hills” (the name of his company and another nickname for Rwanda), he extracts twelve principles that shaped his missional world view:
1. Let Go of the Myths – We believe all kinds of false statements about calling and vocation that keep us mired in indecision.
2.Be Who You Are – Life is a “cosmic collaboration” in which God works through the person he created to do a great thing. Don’t put that self on the shelf.
3.Use What You Have — Take the first step, and don’t wait. Notice who is nearby to help, and live scrappy!
4.Get What You Can — Sounds pretty radical, right? Jonathan is a believer in “The Big Ask.” Tempered by the truth that it’s not about you, but about the call, this is a legitimate position: you are inviting others into God’s work.
5.Follow the Inkling — God invites us into adventure. Our experiences and gifts are custom-made to equip us for that faithful following.
6.Pursue What Makes You Come Alive — Sensitive to social injustice from the time he was a boy, Jonathan realized that his entrepreneurial spirit and his heart for ministry could make a difference in Rwanda through the production of coffee. This chemistry of passion and ability is what we all need to find.
7.Find a People to Serve — A healthy community is one in which everyone blesses and everyone is blessed in return. For Jonathan, it was a matter of not being “The Rich White Guy.” Serve and be served.
8.Growing Little by Little — The work of forgiveness, finding your calling, reaching your goals: these are all works of slow grace.
9.March Through Challenges — One foot ahead of the other requires a mundane soldiering through the hard times. Jonathan shares his “liturgy for life” which, essentially, is a daily turning of his face toward what is true.
10.Follow, Don’t Force — Forging through with one’s own agenda can be dangerous. Pause and allow the Holy Spirit to show the next step.
11.Stand Back Up — When the wheels come off our plans, the choice between give-up and stand-up is a tough one. The myth of “easy” can keep us from persevering.
12.Stay Open to New Possibilities — Open eyes to the needs around us and open hearts to hear the voice of the Spirit are essential to readiness.
Intensely practical and yet highly motivational, Be You. Do Good. is a call to gritty obedience and a faithful following that honors God’s unique gifting of the believer. When the Spirit whispers, take one brave step. Then, see what God does with your availability.
//
Interested in more details about Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee Co.? Check out the story here.
This book was provided by Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 19, 2016
We all want to live a meaningful life and for each of us, this will look differently. Purpose. Passion. Calling. Dreams. Every day we hear those words tossed about to the point, I wonder if we even truly "hear" them any longer.
Sure we hear those words with our ears, but with our hearts? I am not so certain.
We are each placed here on the planet earth for a reason. There is something we are to do and our lives will seem empty, until we begin to engage our hearts and do it.
"From one man he [God] made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places they should live." (Acts 17: 26, NLT)
God places each of us at the time and in the place He knows we belong and will have the most impact. He wants us to be ourselves and do good for He has positioned us, so we are able to make a difference.
In his book, Be You. Do Good., Jonathan David Golden challenges us to "have the guts to pursue what makes you come alive."
Jonathan pursued his dream and forged ahead to become the founder of Land of a Thousand Hills, a coffee company providing a living to farmers and their families living in Rwanda. He shares about himself, his dream, and the challenges he faced along the way with gripping transparency. He shares his faith, his successes, and his failures while always pointing us to God who is with us through each.
The book is more than a narrative, as each page causes one to waken to the truth that we have been created for more and to do more. We've been created to live a life that is full, abundant, and engaged as we become who God created us to be.
Our unique selves have been created to do unique things for God.
Jonathan leads us through twelve points designed to help each reader find their calling. Each point will surely lead to a deeper relationship and commitment with God. More than the twelve points, Jonathan wants each reader to discover three truths:
God calls us to himself. God desires above all else be in a relationship with us.
God calls us to be ourselves. He wants us to be who He has created us to be.
God calls us to do good. God loves this world and the people in it. He wants us to make a difference here.
This book is about pursuing what we have been created to do so that we find purpose. But to find our purpose, we must fully pursue the One who created us. Jonathan beautifully points us to pursue God more than the calling for in pursuing God, we will find our calling.
The organic nature of your calling might mean that to be faithful, you will be asked to release what may seem "good" but is not where God is leading you next. The secret to moving in sync with the One who is walking is to follow, not force." (page 163)
May we follow God, for then ...
We will be ourselves.
And we will do good.
*** I was given a copy of the book to review. It has truly been my joy, and to my own benefit, to read each word. It’s a powerful book which will impact every reader deeply.
Sure we hear those words with our ears, but with our hearts? I am not so certain.
We are each placed here on the planet earth for a reason. There is something we are to do and our lives will seem empty, until we begin to engage our hearts and do it.
"From one man he [God] made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places they should live." (Acts 17: 26, NLT)
God places each of us at the time and in the place He knows we belong and will have the most impact. He wants us to be ourselves and do good for He has positioned us, so we are able to make a difference.
In his book, Be You. Do Good., Jonathan David Golden challenges us to "have the guts to pursue what makes you come alive."
Jonathan pursued his dream and forged ahead to become the founder of Land of a Thousand Hills, a coffee company providing a living to farmers and their families living in Rwanda. He shares about himself, his dream, and the challenges he faced along the way with gripping transparency. He shares his faith, his successes, and his failures while always pointing us to God who is with us through each.
The book is more than a narrative, as each page causes one to waken to the truth that we have been created for more and to do more. We've been created to live a life that is full, abundant, and engaged as we become who God created us to be.
Our unique selves have been created to do unique things for God.
Jonathan leads us through twelve points designed to help each reader find their calling. Each point will surely lead to a deeper relationship and commitment with God. More than the twelve points, Jonathan wants each reader to discover three truths:
God calls us to himself. God desires above all else be in a relationship with us.
God calls us to be ourselves. He wants us to be who He has created us to be.
God calls us to do good. God loves this world and the people in it. He wants us to make a difference here.
This book is about pursuing what we have been created to do so that we find purpose. But to find our purpose, we must fully pursue the One who created us. Jonathan beautifully points us to pursue God more than the calling for in pursuing God, we will find our calling.
The organic nature of your calling might mean that to be faithful, you will be asked to release what may seem "good" but is not where God is leading you next. The secret to moving in sync with the One who is walking is to follow, not force." (page 163)
May we follow God, for then ...
We will be ourselves.
And we will do good.
*** I was given a copy of the book to review. It has truly been my joy, and to my own benefit, to read each word. It’s a powerful book which will impact every reader deeply.
July 10, 2018
“Be You. Do Good.” is an encouraging book; it dispels myths about one’s calling in life and helps the reader discover his purpose. Especially as a recent college grad, I found the advice useful in dispelling my fears about my future career and calling. I would recommend this to anyone graduating college or uncertain about their life’s path.
January 26, 2020
An inspirational read about following your inkling.
January 1, 2016
We are often on a continual search of what we should do with our lives. We either seek a calling or know our calling but are waiting for the right pieces to fall into place. What if you could not only know your calling, but act upon it today?
In Be You. Do Good. Jonathan David Golden dismisses the premise that we have a singular life calling and that we have to wait for everything to fall into place before acting on our calling. Each day, God is calling us to do with that day what we can.
I was part of the book launch team for this book and received an advanced copy. Golden tells his story in the book of trying to search for his calling and finally realizing that it can change during different seasons of life. Many people in his life thought he would be a pastor, but he went into the psychology field instead and helped people figure out what they enjoyed doing in life and how to pursue it. Later in life, he did become a pastor as he felt his calling change. He also started a company that brings coffee from Rwanda to America (Land of a Thousand Hills).
“If God is coauthoring our stories, we can rest assured that nothing will shipwreck the narrative.” Golden emphasizes listening to the inklings we hear each day leading us to help others or do things. Exploring those inklings and sharing them with others can help you find out what God is calling you to do each day.
“What you are being called to do right now is take one brave step.” Golden believes that God will give you what you need right when you need it and the resources may come from unexpected places – in the mail, on the Internet or through a relationship.
“Your calling is more than your role, more than your job, more than the way you earn your living. It is that for which you’re made.”
In twelve chapters, Golden explores how to find your purpose in life right now. There are three questions at the end of each chapter to let you examine how his ideas can apply to your life.
I would recommend this book to any adult as we are all trying to live our lives with a purpose.
The book’s Web site is www.beyoudogood.com.
In Be You. Do Good. Jonathan David Golden dismisses the premise that we have a singular life calling and that we have to wait for everything to fall into place before acting on our calling. Each day, God is calling us to do with that day what we can.
I was part of the book launch team for this book and received an advanced copy. Golden tells his story in the book of trying to search for his calling and finally realizing that it can change during different seasons of life. Many people in his life thought he would be a pastor, but he went into the psychology field instead and helped people figure out what they enjoyed doing in life and how to pursue it. Later in life, he did become a pastor as he felt his calling change. He also started a company that brings coffee from Rwanda to America (Land of a Thousand Hills).
“If God is coauthoring our stories, we can rest assured that nothing will shipwreck the narrative.” Golden emphasizes listening to the inklings we hear each day leading us to help others or do things. Exploring those inklings and sharing them with others can help you find out what God is calling you to do each day.
“What you are being called to do right now is take one brave step.” Golden believes that God will give you what you need right when you need it and the resources may come from unexpected places – in the mail, on the Internet or through a relationship.
“Your calling is more than your role, more than your job, more than the way you earn your living. It is that for which you’re made.”
In twelve chapters, Golden explores how to find your purpose in life right now. There are three questions at the end of each chapter to let you examine how his ideas can apply to your life.
I would recommend this book to any adult as we are all trying to live our lives with a purpose.
The book’s Web site is www.beyoudogood.com.
May 17, 2016
Golden's thoughts on pursuing what God made you to do are not new. I've read them these same thoughts in other books. What I did love was reading about the restoration and reconciliation that has gone on in Rwanda since the genocide. Land of a Thousand Hills coffee company is part of that restoration and it was encouraging to read about the work.
One of my favorite thoughts from the book...
"This systematic little by little approach is what my Rwandan friends call bahora bahora. Little by little. Bahora bahora, you grow coffee. Bahora bahora, you raise your children. Bahora bahora, you transform a community through coffee. This gradual rhythm of building over time is a stark contrast to vooba vooba. Vooba means "quickly". When evil is recognized to be present, it ought to be uprooted vooba vooba. When one asks forgiveness for committing a wrong against another, he asks vooba vooba. When a hungry child needs to be fed, she's cared for vooba vooba. But creating a marriage that stretches across decades, or establishing a reconciled community where there was once deep brokenness, requires a steadfast bahora bahora commitment to fidelity in relationship. ". - Jonathan David Golden
One of my favorite thoughts from the book...
"This systematic little by little approach is what my Rwandan friends call bahora bahora. Little by little. Bahora bahora, you grow coffee. Bahora bahora, you raise your children. Bahora bahora, you transform a community through coffee. This gradual rhythm of building over time is a stark contrast to vooba vooba. Vooba means "quickly". When evil is recognized to be present, it ought to be uprooted vooba vooba. When one asks forgiveness for committing a wrong against another, he asks vooba vooba. When a hungry child needs to be fed, she's cared for vooba vooba. But creating a marriage that stretches across decades, or establishing a reconciled community where there was once deep brokenness, requires a steadfast bahora bahora commitment to fidelity in relationship. ". - Jonathan David Golden
July 15, 2019
The author offers his testimony as a coffee company founder in Rwanda to show the goodness of following the dreams God has planted in you.
MIxed feelings. The author made the fire in my heart to come alive when speaking about following the dreams - the way I am. This is inherently interesting for this person with a couple of them bottled up for the "better possibility"! Yet, the time might be now and I might be saving them for naught.
And the examples from post war-torn Rwanda are simple beautiful.
Yet - I am missing the hint of humbleness here. And also I am missing same ratio and stability here. Well, to follow the God´s calling might seem as a craziness for the world, and I agree with simply following God here. Yet I have met a lot of irresponsible dreamers who have made their families suffer (both financially and from instability in their home life) just to selfishly follow any of their unplanned, not thought of "dreams". One should follow God - yes. But one should also pray and listen for the God´s word to know in their hearts they are truly following God and not their own wantings. And I am not saying this author does not state this - yet some significant instantaneity prevail, which might be a bit dangerous for types not prone to thinking about the consequences.
MIxed feelings. The author made the fire in my heart to come alive when speaking about following the dreams - the way I am. This is inherently interesting for this person with a couple of them bottled up for the "better possibility"! Yet, the time might be now and I might be saving them for naught.
And the examples from post war-torn Rwanda are simple beautiful.
Yet - I am missing the hint of humbleness here. And also I am missing same ratio and stability here. Well, to follow the God´s calling might seem as a craziness for the world, and I agree with simply following God here. Yet I have met a lot of irresponsible dreamers who have made their families suffer (both financially and from instability in their home life) just to selfishly follow any of their unplanned, not thought of "dreams". One should follow God - yes. But one should also pray and listen for the God´s word to know in their hearts they are truly following God and not their own wantings. And I am not saying this author does not state this - yet some significant instantaneity prevail, which might be a bit dangerous for types not prone to thinking about the consequences.
January 27, 2016
Good Reads Giveaway Award
Starting out, I assumed this was just another cheesy Christian self-help book. Follow God's plan, blah blah blah. While that is part of the message, Jonathan Golden has a great way of delivering it. Easy read with a flowing narrative of his own successes and failures, coupled with stories and quotes from others in his life, this book is a page turner. Also, unlike many other books in the genre, each chapter is concluded with a few questions for you to really ponder on your own life.
Golden uses his experiences through his various jobs and ministries to show how God has already given you what you need to live the most enjoyable and fulfilling life. While most are waiting around for some large "calling" Golden argues that your purpose is already set before if you just take stock of your life and recognize what your good at and what is needed around you. While many are waiting for their "Eureka" moment, Golden encourages to just be mindful of "inklings" and let them guide you in the right direction. This is a perfect read for anyone unsatisfied with their job and feeling unfulfilled in their life. I'll be reading this again, notebook in hand...
Starting out, I assumed this was just another cheesy Christian self-help book. Follow God's plan, blah blah blah. While that is part of the message, Jonathan Golden has a great way of delivering it. Easy read with a flowing narrative of his own successes and failures, coupled with stories and quotes from others in his life, this book is a page turner. Also, unlike many other books in the genre, each chapter is concluded with a few questions for you to really ponder on your own life.
Golden uses his experiences through his various jobs and ministries to show how God has already given you what you need to live the most enjoyable and fulfilling life. While most are waiting around for some large "calling" Golden argues that your purpose is already set before if you just take stock of your life and recognize what your good at and what is needed around you. While many are waiting for their "Eureka" moment, Golden encourages to just be mindful of "inklings" and let them guide you in the right direction. This is a perfect read for anyone unsatisfied with their job and feeling unfulfilled in their life. I'll be reading this again, notebook in hand...
March 17, 2016
Each chapter starts with and is followed by a number of stories illustrating both how the author found his life’s work and the life work of others. The stories were enjoyable to read and were full of inspiration and passion. Additionally, each chapter ends with 3 key questions that provide guidance in how to put what you’ve read into action. I really liked the questions and they always left me with a lot to think about.
To be entirely honest, I struggled to finish this book. It’s well written and enjoyable but for the subject, I was needing a more direct response. A lot of the book is taken up by stories that are fine by themselves but with it being a book to help you “pursue what makes you come alive” it often felt like it took forever to get to the point of the story. It is for this reason that I rated it down to a 3.5 star and not more.
I would recommend this book to anyone who may be looking for some direction in their search for where their life is going and want less of a direction and more examples and stories. Like I said, it was an enjoyable read but not quite my cup of tea.
To be entirely honest, I struggled to finish this book. It’s well written and enjoyable but for the subject, I was needing a more direct response. A lot of the book is taken up by stories that are fine by themselves but with it being a book to help you “pursue what makes you come alive” it often felt like it took forever to get to the point of the story. It is for this reason that I rated it down to a 3.5 star and not more.
I would recommend this book to anyone who may be looking for some direction in their search for where their life is going and want less of a direction and more examples and stories. Like I said, it was an enjoyable read but not quite my cup of tea.
October 2, 2017
This was an excellent book about finding, pursuing and believing in the calling that God has placed on your life. Jonathan's fascinating life story forms the backdrop and that combined with his years of experience as a pastor and coach lead to a host of vitally important lessons about how God works out a calling in our lives. This is an inspiring and very motivating read that is well worth your time.
Favorite Quote: "This is the way God works. He doesn't demand that we do something but rather says 'Come along, and let's see how this goes.' If we choose to not respond or we don't recognize God's voice, God doesn't become enraged with us. No, God carries on with the adventure, and when another comes along for which we're well suited, he invites again. The myth that you've been made for one thing - and that you're at grave risk of missing out on that one thing - isn't found in the pages of God's book. Rather, God's Spirit offers countless entry points to the adventure you were made to live."
Favorite Quote: "This is the way God works. He doesn't demand that we do something but rather says 'Come along, and let's see how this goes.' If we choose to not respond or we don't recognize God's voice, God doesn't become enraged with us. No, God carries on with the adventure, and when another comes along for which we're well suited, he invites again. The myth that you've been made for one thing - and that you're at grave risk of missing out on that one thing - isn't found in the pages of God's book. Rather, God's Spirit offers countless entry points to the adventure you were made to live."
May 9, 2017
Two stars is "It was ok" and three stars is "I liked it", and it was just that, ok. I didn't like the feel that it was three books blended into one. I didn't like that it was a bit too preachy. I didn't like what I assume is the attempt to reach a broad audience by all of the wishy-washy maybe's. I didn't like having some good advice separated by what felt like commercial breaks. That said, it was an ok read. It does have some good advice and for some people it may help them finally do what makes them happy. I wasn't fond of the checklists as they didn't feel appropriate for any situation I've ever felt in my life, much less trying to decide if that inkling was something I was supposed to listen to or if it would be a huge mistake. While this wasn't the book for me that doesn't mean it won't help someone else. We are all unique and very different so it may end up helping others. I received an ARC through the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2018
This book was brought up by a friend in bible study, so I thought I'd give it a try. Also habe me a chance to try my Hoopla app from the public library, so double win.
In this book, the author uses extensive examples from his coffee company to talk about finding and living out your calling from God. Now, out could be because I listened to this on audio book, rather than reading it, but it just felt like more of the story was about him, and less was written to the reader to hemp them. So it was maybe 60%-40%, or 75%-25% memoir over help?
In all, this was a good book, but I'm not sure the author achieved the purpose he set pout for. There was some good advice, thought provoking questions at the end of each chapter, and certainly lots of anecdotes to get the point across. I may take a look at the print version, too, to see what I missed.
In this book, the author uses extensive examples from his coffee company to talk about finding and living out your calling from God. Now, out could be because I listened to this on audio book, rather than reading it, but it just felt like more of the story was about him, and less was written to the reader to hemp them. So it was maybe 60%-40%, or 75%-25% memoir over help?
In all, this was a good book, but I'm not sure the author achieved the purpose he set pout for. There was some good advice, thought provoking questions at the end of each chapter, and certainly lots of anecdotes to get the point across. I may take a look at the print version, too, to see what I missed.
February 5, 2016
I won this book from the publisher, Baker Publishing Group, in a Goodreads giveaway. This book is a keeper! I had to keep a highlighter by my side as I read it. I took my time reading this book, savoring each chapter, and using information learned from this book to reflect on what makes me come alive, and where my God-given passions and talents lie. I would recommend this book to everyone, regardless of where they are in life, be it starting college, in a career, homemaking, or even retired.
April 10, 2016
A powerful challenge to pilgrimage from a life of ease and status quo to pursuit of the inklings of Holy Spirit within.
Many examples of the author's own experience and those of relevance to invite and inspirit a new way of seeing and being. Questions for each section covered noted with a pause for audio listeners. A good narration with even speed and intonation modulated for ease of listening.
Glad to find this book on hoopla as I anticipate it's full value has yet to unfold.
Many examples of the author's own experience and those of relevance to invite and inspirit a new way of seeing and being. Questions for each section covered noted with a pause for audio listeners. A good narration with even speed and intonation modulated for ease of listening.
Glad to find this book on hoopla as I anticipate it's full value has yet to unfold.
Want to read
February 9, 2016Quick, easy read with powerful insight into what it means to live into your calling as a follower of God in all aspects of life. Very practical and quotable from an author who has lived into his calling.
July 14, 2016
Really enjoyed this book. It motivated my and challenged me to get back to my calling.
April 20, 2016
Anyone wanting to change the direction that their life is going can read this as a guide.
July 21, 2016
I found it interesting & learned a bit from it although I feel it would have been more applicable earlier in my life.
November 12, 2016
Great book!
Jonathan Golden teaches us how to find our calling by sharing his life and his dreams. Truly an amazing story of perseverance!
Jonathan Golden teaches us how to find our calling by sharing his life and his dreams. Truly an amazing story of perseverance!
February 24, 2017
I really got a lot out of this book. It took me forever to read, because I did a lot of soul searching about my calling while I read it.
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