Defying Gravity: Break Free from the Culture of More

by Tom Berlin

Our possessions can create unbearable weight and affect our ability to serve and thrive. How do we defy gravity and find freedom? In this 4-week small group study and stewardship campaign, pastor and author Tom Berlin explores what is required to sustain a vibrant life, what we need versus what we want, and what we can do to avoid being pulled into the orbit of materialism.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Church

112 pages, Paperback

First published May 3, 2016

Reviews

[Jaiman Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find it absurd that there are several reviews for this short book using phrases like “not earth shattering” when the simple fact is if more people lived their lives using the principles in Defying Gravity, the world as we know it would absolutely be shattered. But what can I really expect from a society where people who identify as Christian are only nominally better at being generous than those that don’t (and everyone is terrible at it)?

[Will Waller · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh. This book, while by one of most respected Pastors in our annual conference, didn't really move me entirely. His points are simple, and the writing is easy to follow. But as far as groundbreaking or evolutionary, this book is not. You could skim through it in an hour.

[Daniel Wray · Rating 3 out of 5]

nothing theologically challenging or new but good illustrations that are helpful for ministry

[Timothy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of the book is not earth shattering. However, it has good examples of ways to overcome the inertia of stuff and wealth.

[Donny · Rating 2 out of 5]

A good reminder about a healthy philosophy of giving.

[Rachel May · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maybe you know you need to do some more thinking on the intersection of faith and money. Maybe you appreciate writing that is warm and invitational, even if the topic feels a bit heavy. Maybe you like it when Jesus-followers actually talk about what Jesus talked about: The kingdom of God. If you resonate with any of these possibilities, there is something here for you! Easy to read but plenty substantive.

[Jean Marie Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very articulate expression of stwardship

Very readable and articulate in sharing out of our abundance rather than focusing on what we don't have. God gave his all for us, how can we do less for Him?

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not earth-shattering, but helpful perspective on stewardship and the importance of being intentional to be generous.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

We read this book for adult study in church. It's a great explanation of stewardship.