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I Am Number 8: Overlooked and Undervalued, but Not Forgotten by God
If God can take David -- the invisible eighth son of a forgotten family -- and turn him into a king, just imagine what magnificent plans He has for redeeming your life.David was born a number 8 -- a hidden gem, often overlooked and undervalued by everyone except for God. For David, being a number 8 seemed like a curse until the day God transformed him from the unknown eighth son of Jesse into the much-honored king of Israel. When God sends out an invitation to greatness, His directions don't always make sense to us. You may feel like the most invisible, broken number 8 out there, but God sees your hidden value and is growing you for better things. David didn't know it, but his time as a simple shepherd with a dull future did not go unnoticed by God. In David's darkest moments, he was cultivating the kind of gifts, wisdom, and leadership he would need to become a king. Even when you're an underdog in the eyes of the world, God is working behind the scenes to develop you into a king or queen.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2017
248 people are currently reading
1224 people want to read
About the author
John W. Gray III
4 books82 followersJOHN GRAY is the associate pastor of America's largest church, Lakewood Church, in Houston, Texas. He preaches at Lakewood's midweek service, where attendance has quadrupled in the last several years. He is also a featured keynote speaker, emcee, and comedian for "Acquire the Fire" youth rallies held in arenas all over the U.S. He resides in Houston with his wife and their children.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
August 27, 2017
you know, if the cynical 20-something me could somehow transport to 2017 and watch his 30 something less-cynical self listen to Joel Osteen's junior pastor while completing sundry tasks such as dishes and folding laundry, he'd probably puke in disgust. and drunkenness. but, hey, that's where i am today. don't get me wrong, i'm not exactly Ned Flanders, but i have come to realize that pessimism and cynicism are really just a cop-out. i used to never look honestly at my own personal baggage, but would quickly criticize the institutions and individuals around me that i found to be lacking in merit - merit that i myself couldn't muster. that is just moral laziness.
John W. Gray III explores interesting themes of overcoming self doubt, abuse at the hands of others as well understanding our purpose and how to achieve God's will. He also intertwines the biblical account of David with an autobiographical twist. this audio book made doing the laundry a much more pleasurable experience. to some it may come across as light, pseudo self help disguised as Christian gobbledegook. perhaps my 20 something self would have felt that way. i found that Mr. Gray offered positive words and a way of relating one'situation to that of an often misunderstood individual from tales of old. it also left me a better person afterwards.
John W. Gray III explores interesting themes of overcoming self doubt, abuse at the hands of others as well understanding our purpose and how to achieve God's will. He also intertwines the biblical account of David with an autobiographical twist. this audio book made doing the laundry a much more pleasurable experience. to some it may come across as light, pseudo self help disguised as Christian gobbledegook. perhaps my 20 something self would have felt that way. i found that Mr. Gray offered positive words and a way of relating one'situation to that of an often misunderstood individual from tales of old. it also left me a better person afterwards.
October 6, 2018
I finished reading I Am Number 8 by John Gray today. I haven't posted a book review in a while, but felt this one was so good, I had to post one! I don't recall the last time I read a book that made me have to put the book down in order to process what I had just read. In so many ways I felt as if Pastor Gray was talking about and to me.
If you have ever felt overlooked and undervalued, then this book is for you. If you've felt different from your peers because of the call God has placed in your life, then this book is for you. If you have been called to a higher standard and struggle to understand the purpose why, then this book is for you.
Pastor Gray stays true to biblical principles by using the example of King David's life to show how we can be overlooked, the last thought of, and working in a menial task, but still be chosen by God to do great and mighty tasks. He uncovers the struggles we face by answering the call of God, and examples of how to handle various "giants" that come our way.
If you are a "Number 8" go get this book immediately!
If you have ever felt overlooked and undervalued, then this book is for you. If you've felt different from your peers because of the call God has placed in your life, then this book is for you. If you have been called to a higher standard and struggle to understand the purpose why, then this book is for you.
Pastor Gray stays true to biblical principles by using the example of King David's life to show how we can be overlooked, the last thought of, and working in a menial task, but still be chosen by God to do great and mighty tasks. He uncovers the struggles we face by answering the call of God, and examples of how to handle various "giants" that come our way.
If you are a "Number 8" go get this book immediately!
April 22, 2017
I like Gray's idea. David was son number eight. He was a nobody out in the fields when his brothers were being inspected for a potential anointing as king. Nonetheless, David was chosen by God, transformed, and played a big part in God's story.
Gray's book is for those of us who feel like we are nobody. Hang in there, Gray encourages. Just like with David, God is training us and cultivating leadership and ministry skills. We might feel hidden away but Gray says that is for a purpose. We are not hiding from but are being hidden for a future, being kept for something to come.
Gray shares his own story as an example of this principle. He combines it with lessons from David's life. We learn about fighting giants, worship, and how we don't always get it right. Gray provides good encouragement for when we fill like we don't fit in or that we are just sitting on the sidelines. He has some good teaching on how to have the strength to carry on.
There is one area where I think Gray projected his own life experience on to David. Gray's father was absent. He says of David, “I believe that everything in David's life, good and bad, can be traced to his relationship with his father.” (113) That is a bit much, I think.
This book is good encouragement for those of us who don't think much of ourselves. We might feel we are just unknown and ordinary people who could never be used by God in an extraordinary way. But then, so was David.
“Anonymity is the cloak God uses to develop, foster, prune, and then ultimately produce greatness.” (23)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Gray's book is for those of us who feel like we are nobody. Hang in there, Gray encourages. Just like with David, God is training us and cultivating leadership and ministry skills. We might feel hidden away but Gray says that is for a purpose. We are not hiding from but are being hidden for a future, being kept for something to come.
Gray shares his own story as an example of this principle. He combines it with lessons from David's life. We learn about fighting giants, worship, and how we don't always get it right. Gray provides good encouragement for when we fill like we don't fit in or that we are just sitting on the sidelines. He has some good teaching on how to have the strength to carry on.
There is one area where I think Gray projected his own life experience on to David. Gray's father was absent. He says of David, “I believe that everything in David's life, good and bad, can be traced to his relationship with his father.” (113) That is a bit much, I think.
This book is good encouragement for those of us who don't think much of ourselves. We might feel we are just unknown and ordinary people who could never be used by God in an extraordinary way. But then, so was David.
“Anonymity is the cloak God uses to develop, foster, prune, and then ultimately produce greatness.” (23)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
October 13, 2017
This book spoke to my soul. it reflected things I have felt, thought, and experienced my whole life. God has been revealing that the traits I have, the warrior spirit He placed in me is done with intentionality and this book came at a time of dramatic confirmation in my life. Thank you John Gray for making something for the warrior believers. the world offers so many memes that touch on the carnal nature of this spiritual gifts but it's nothing that reflects God's heart for his warriors. This book is a mirror and a reminder to those with a warrior spirit who are also seeking the Lord's heart. We can't help but passionately pursue God when we try, and this book is a tool for the war chest.
August 9, 2017
Great Book!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This book is content rich and thought provoking. I love the way John Gray shared his testimony and life. No mAtter where you are on journey there is something you can take from this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This book is content rich and thought provoking. I love the way John Gray shared his testimony and life. No mAtter where you are on journey there is something you can take from this book.
March 30, 2019
John Gray reaches into the Old Testament and brings forth a living-breathing King David by creatively giving the Biblical iconic figure an "origin story." Gray does this using Scripture (not surprising) and Jewish Lore sacred to authentic Jewish believers (perhaps surprising). He ties every forgotten dream and all your overlooked angst into identifying with King David's rags-to-riches story in which God exalts the humble (David) and opposes the proud (King Saul). Truly, the meek inherits the earth (a kingdom).
The best take-away for me is God's anointing oil will find you in your humblest condition. God's oil, favor, Grace will come to you even while you're stuck keeping the sheep, overlooked, while your seven brothers are rubbing shoulders in your father's house with the prophet Samuel.
Although the author causes you to identify with the King David story by calling the reader a number eight, not every reader will become a messianic king mentioned in Scripture. Not every reader will obtain a success story. But the book reveals that what God has for you will come to you no matter what and can transform your life no matter who or what opposes that anointed summons of the prophetic blessings in your life.
The best take-away for me is God's anointing oil will find you in your humblest condition. God's oil, favor, Grace will come to you even while you're stuck keeping the sheep, overlooked, while your seven brothers are rubbing shoulders in your father's house with the prophet Samuel.
Although the author causes you to identify with the King David story by calling the reader a number eight, not every reader will become a messianic king mentioned in Scripture. Not every reader will obtain a success story. But the book reveals that what God has for you will come to you no matter what and can transform your life no matter who or what opposes that anointed summons of the prophetic blessings in your life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2017
I Am Number 8 by John Gray is an interesting read for those who feel they are overlooked and undervalued in life.
I have to be completely honest. This book isn’t bad, but it wasn’t my cup of tea. I definitely had specific expectations when I picked up the book and many of them were not met.
By no means is this the fault of the author or a critique on the content of the book. My biggest issue was with regards to my personal preference more than anything else. I prefer more principles and fewer stories. This book is more geared toward sharing stories and experiences than presenting the principle that were derived as a result.
My preference is for more time and attention to be spent explaining and exploring the principles and using experiences and stories as examples, rather than the focal point. This once again has more to do with my personal preference than the author not delivering.
With that said, this is a book that I am sure many readers will find value in and I recommend checking it out to see if it resonates with you more than it did with me.
I have to be completely honest. This book isn’t bad, but it wasn’t my cup of tea. I definitely had specific expectations when I picked up the book and many of them were not met.
By no means is this the fault of the author or a critique on the content of the book. My biggest issue was with regards to my personal preference more than anything else. I prefer more principles and fewer stories. This book is more geared toward sharing stories and experiences than presenting the principle that were derived as a result.
My preference is for more time and attention to be spent explaining and exploring the principles and using experiences and stories as examples, rather than the focal point. This once again has more to do with my personal preference than the author not delivering.
With that said, this is a book that I am sure many readers will find value in and I recommend checking it out to see if it resonates with you more than it did with me.
January 21, 2022
This is my first favorite of the year. Some things brought up that I had forgotten about & knew that God had brought people in my life to be what I needed at that point in life. Even what I needed now. I may not remember exactly what each person said to impart wisdom into my life over the years but I'm sure it's still there & pops up as needed. Even if I don't remember who said it. Some I do remember. Because God put them in my path, it made my life that much better. Even if they were only meant to be in my life for just that season of life. Other things in the book were confirmation of what I've thought & Him letting me know I'm on the right path in my journey. I slip, I fall, I make a ton of mistakes but I am grateful for his mercy & grace. On this path to healing & forgiveness, this book was read exactly when it was needed. As usual, it took time for me to get it done because of distractions & not always wanting to read or listen to audio books.
June 22, 2017
Great Read
I enjoyed this book and found it to be right in season with the whispers of my soul. What took 17 years to write and publish, lines right up with my season of reawakening where I've sensed God's whispers calling me David. Thank God for this book! As I walk by faith to a place I only hear...I needed the bread crumbs. This book was soo on time...there is a part in the book that talks about Pastor Gray and a Megafest experience that confirmed my current almost exact present day experience in my faith walk and Megafest this year! (laughing) This a great read for those of us that know we are remnant folks and those wondering what that even is. Read this book and allow Pastor Gray to awaken you to what, who and how powerful it is to realize and walk in the knowledge that...."I AM #8!"
I enjoyed this book and found it to be right in season with the whispers of my soul. What took 17 years to write and publish, lines right up with my season of reawakening where I've sensed God's whispers calling me David. Thank God for this book! As I walk by faith to a place I only hear...I needed the bread crumbs. This book was soo on time...there is a part in the book that talks about Pastor Gray and a Megafest experience that confirmed my current almost exact present day experience in my faith walk and Megafest this year! (laughing) This a great read for those of us that know we are remnant folks and those wondering what that even is. Read this book and allow Pastor Gray to awaken you to what, who and how powerful it is to realize and walk in the knowledge that...."I AM #8!"
April 12, 2018
Finally! A Name for Who I Am
“I am Number 8” spoke directly to my spirit. Throughout the book, I found myself laughing, crying and rejoicing at Pastor Gray’s personal experiences; many of which I could relate to.
My favorite biblical stories are that of King David and his son, Solomon, so to have had the opportunity to analyze King David’s life alongside Pastor Gray’s spiritual journey really hit home with me and allowed me to finally put into words what I’d been struggling to identify my entire life; that I too am a number 8.
I plan to share this book with my family and friends!
-Nichole T. from Richmond, VA
“I am Number 8” spoke directly to my spirit. Throughout the book, I found myself laughing, crying and rejoicing at Pastor Gray’s personal experiences; many of which I could relate to.
My favorite biblical stories are that of King David and his son, Solomon, so to have had the opportunity to analyze King David’s life alongside Pastor Gray’s spiritual journey really hit home with me and allowed me to finally put into words what I’d been struggling to identify my entire life; that I too am a number 8.
I plan to share this book with my family and friends!
-Nichole T. from Richmond, VA
May 22, 2017
So many truths in this book. I borrowed it from the library, but I'm going to go buy a copy so I can revisit this one.
P xvii-"fear doesn't change God's plan for us." and "...you are not expected to be perfect, but simply to love God and live in your purpose."
P21 - "...the moments in life where we feel most isolated can cause us to feel like God has forgotten us. But the repetition and isolation are actually developing our sensitivity to God's voice and giving us strength to stand on our own when it's time to lead."
"A broken heart is easily tuned to the frequency of God'
P xvii-"fear doesn't change God's plan for us." and "...you are not expected to be perfect, but simply to love God and live in your purpose."
P21 - "...the moments in life where we feel most isolated can cause us to feel like God has forgotten us. But the repetition and isolation are actually developing our sensitivity to God's voice and giving us strength to stand on our own when it's time to lead."
"A broken heart is easily tuned to the frequency of God'
September 19, 2017
Author John Gray, comedian and associate pastor at Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church, studied the life of the Biblical David: the overlooked 8th son tending the sheep, the one who was laughed at when he stood up to the giant, the one annointed to be king but not yet in power. We know him as the king, but we don't always remember the long years of preparation he went through. John Gray sees a lot of himself in David's life, and he thinks that you will too. Things aren't happening soon enough for you? Be patient, because you have NOT been forgotten by God.
February 9, 2018
Enlightening, encouraging, and empowering read.
As I listened to John's explanation of what it means to be a number 8, I felt that he was talking to me. Although he never mentions the Meyers-Briggs personality test, this seems to align well with the personality type of INFJ (introverted intuitive feeling judging; aka counselor/judge personality type). This is my type... and I believe that I am also a no. 8.
From reading, I gained some important new insights that are helping me think a bit differently about myself. I really needed this.
As I listened to John's explanation of what it means to be a number 8, I felt that he was talking to me. Although he never mentions the Meyers-Briggs personality test, this seems to align well with the personality type of INFJ (introverted intuitive feeling judging; aka counselor/judge personality type). This is my type... and I believe that I am also a no. 8.
From reading, I gained some important new insights that are helping me think a bit differently about myself. I really needed this.
March 23, 2018
Pastor John Gray is phenomenal. I've never heard him preach prior to buying the book. I listened to the audiobook. It's narrated by the author and is hilarious, exciting, inspiring, and more. I cried as he shared a bit of his testimony, I laughed at moments and could totally relate. This book is a reinvigoration for anyone. John Gray simply puts the truth of God and His Word, his experiences wrapped together in a nice bow. I enjoyed the book very much! I am a Number 8, find out if you are too.
May 28, 2020
I don't recall the last time I read a book that made me have to put the book down in order to process what I had just read. In so many ways I felt as if Pastor Gray was talking about and to me. If you have ever felt overlooked and undervalued, then this book is for you. If you've felt different from your peers because of the call God has placed in your life, then this book is for you. If you have been called to a higher standard and struggle to understand the purpose why then this book is for you.
August 31, 2017
I am number 8 from beginning to end will open your eyes to many questions you pose regarding what you are purposed to do. When questions arise as to why you faced certain tests or trials occurred this book will lead you to answers. Pastor Gray breaks down how David was thrust into various situations that should or could have caused his demise, but in the end everything worked together for his good and aligned with the purpose God placed on his life.
February 4, 2018
The book was good though it wasn't what I expected from Pastor John Gray. I loved the story of David and how he used to express some of us who feel stuck and often times overlooked in ministry. I could see where John was going by sharing bits of his life's story. Overall I would have liked to have read a more endepth teaching beings that he took so much time in preparing and writing this book. I couldn't determine if it a memoir or something else. I do look forward to more books from him.
May 23, 2018
This book may have been 17 years in writing, but it is exactly on time, as the Lord always is. Being a number 8 is not about being a number, it is a beautiful reminder of God’s calling on my life to remain faithful, to trust his sovereignty, and believe I was never set aside... but I am set apart 🙌🏼
I will be applying these principles and soul searching questions often. I’m so thankful for this inspiring book - it has reminded me of what belonging truly means.
I will be applying these principles and soul searching questions often. I’m so thankful for this inspiring book - it has reminded me of what belonging truly means.
June 23, 2018
I have been a fan/follower of John Gray since I saw him the few times at Lakewood when I lived in Houston. Watching him preach I was hooked so, of course I had to read the book. I will say that I believed there were dull moments throughout the book and sometimes it felt repetitive. However, the message behind it all was good with some key things to remember for self encouragement and empowerment. My real review score is a 3.75. For those who are truly struggling to overcome a something that has you questioning your self worth, then please read. There are also reflection questions after each chapter which is truly enjoyable.
April 14, 2021
Excellent Read!!!
Just because you’re not the first one chosen doesn’t mean you are not important. This book encourages you to move beyond rejection and believe in yourself. John Gray tells how God thrust him forward and gave him the courage to answer God’s call. This book encourages you to believe that the same can happen to you. #8 are diamonds in the rough. #8 can turn into #1!
Just because you’re not the first one chosen doesn’t mean you are not important. This book encourages you to move beyond rejection and believe in yourself. John Gray tells how God thrust him forward and gave him the courage to answer God’s call. This book encourages you to believe that the same can happen to you. #8 are diamonds in the rough. #8 can turn into #1!
June 14, 2017
I am a number 8
This book ministered to me totally. Your story mirrors my own in terms of internal challlenges. It is refreshing and encouraging to see what God has done with your life and to truly understand that my pain has purpose. Keep on keeping on my brother from another mother. I love you and appreciate your ministry. Be blessed.
This book ministered to me totally. Your story mirrors my own in terms of internal challlenges. It is refreshing and encouraging to see what God has done with your life and to truly understand that my pain has purpose. Keep on keeping on my brother from another mother. I love you and appreciate your ministry. Be blessed.
August 2, 2017
I read this book because of the person of John Gray and hearing this message about "Number 8s" at Elevation Church, whenever they had their big conference. His words are always anointed and getting to know a little bit more about his history at everything he went through was encouraging. I really appreciate him and the words he spoke over my life.
May 19, 2018
Great book....
I enjoy your book!! I truly loved your mom's story. I want a serving faithful heart like hers....to be able to smile,laugh jump for joy in the worse times days of my life trusting that God knows what's up and that he gots it all under control, without fear or doubts in My Heart just simply trust him like your momma did!!!! Blessings my brother great book!!!!
I enjoy your book!! I truly loved your mom's story. I want a serving faithful heart like hers....to be able to smile,laugh jump for joy in the worse times days of my life trusting that God knows what's up and that he gots it all under control, without fear or doubts in My Heart just simply trust him like your momma did!!!! Blessings my brother great book!!!!
December 31, 2018
Powerful
This book spoke to me. I feel like I am on a mission, and don't understand why I cannot let it go. Some days, I feel blessed by this road I'm on and sometimes I wonder if I truly am crazy and how I got here. So, thank you, John Gray for giving me some sense to this journey
This book spoke to me. I feel like I am on a mission, and don't understand why I cannot let it go. Some days, I feel blessed by this road I'm on and sometimes I wonder if I truly am crazy and how I got here. So, thank you, John Gray for giving me some sense to this journey
August 22, 2023
This is a very encouraging and uplifting book. The author does a good job of providing Biblical references for his commentary and advice. Although I think books like this are great for planting seeds in our lives, they are not a substitution for studying the Bible ourselves. I was pleased that the author reinforced that.
June 4, 2017
A beautifully written testimonial memoir. Pastor Gray brilliantly uses the art of parallelism with the story of King David with his own kingship discovery to encourage readers that "there is a king in you" too!
June 26, 2017
Insightful
A must read book if you have ever felt like you never fit in. Like you have been hidden in the corner your entire life. Like no one knows who you are or cares who you are. God does and he has a plan for you!
A must read book if you have ever felt like you never fit in. Like you have been hidden in the corner your entire life. Like no one knows who you are or cares who you are. God does and he has a plan for you!
October 8, 2017
A must read book for all those who feel misunderstood in life or do not know their purpose
This book could have been written just for me. It explained my life and circumstances in a manner that made me feel the presence of God and the purpose that God has for my life. John Gray has a way of connecting with his audience that can only come from God's anointing!
This book could have been written just for me. It explained my life and circumstances in a manner that made me feel the presence of God and the purpose that God has for my life. John Gray has a way of connecting with his audience that can only come from God's anointing!
January 29, 2018
It was a pretty good book. You can tell he is a young writer, but has great things to say. Take heart, you aren't overlooked by God. I'd read it if you are looking for some encouragement with your walk with God.
February 7, 2018
LOVED everything about this book. The insight on the life of David was so eye opening. I love he he related it to times now and wrote on how David was in the field to be groomed for what greatness God had for him next and we each have our own field. Must read book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews