What do you think?
Rate this book
Sacred Pace: Four Steps to Hearing God and Aligning Yourself With His Will
How do we hear from God and discern His will when it’s time to make big decisions? Terry Looper shares a four-step process for doing just that - a process he has learned and refined over thirty years as a Christian entrepreneur and founder of a multi-billion dollar company. At just thirty-six years old, Terry Looper was a successful Christian businessman who thought he had it all—until managing all he had led to a devastating burnout. Wealthy beyond his wildest dreams but miserable beyond belief, Terry experienced a radical transformation when he discovered how to align himself with God’s will in the years following his crash and burn. Sacred Pace is a four-step process that helps Christians in all walks of life learn how to Sacred Pace is not another example of name-it-and-claim-it materialism in disguise. Instead, it walks Christians through the sometimes-painful process of “dying to self” in their decisions, both big and small, so that they desire God’s will more than their own.
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 26, 2019
174 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 15, 2021
1-consult your friend Jesus
2-gather the facts
3-watch for circumstances
4-get neutral
The BEST book I've read so far about making decisions and following God's will. It is filled with advice that's spiritual and also practical. . . Yes, it's possible for those two to go hand in hand! No fleece laying or spin the bottle type of exhortations, just Biblical common sense here.
2-gather the facts
3-watch for circumstances
4-get neutral
The BEST book I've read so far about making decisions and following God's will. It is filled with advice that's spiritual and also practical. . . Yes, it's possible for those two to go hand in hand! No fleece laying or spin the bottle type of exhortations, just Biblical common sense here.
July 26, 2019
This was the right book at the right time for me and I'm very grateful for it. I can relate to Looper's realization that many times the demand of corporate life is completely at odds with what God calls us to be in a Christian life. Much like Looper earlier in his life, I've been a hard-working, overachieving, people pleaser with blinders on too often that put me out of sync with my family (and possibly God's preferred direction). But I also have known many times the undeniable peace that comes in seeking and following God's direction and not your own. Looper presents a refreshing take - and easy read - from his experiences and trials that guides his business principles today. It is great to know there are business leaders like Looper out there and I hope this serves as a powerful call to actions for all Christians in business leadership positions.
February 1, 2023
Highly recommend - the best way to hit the reset button biblically when going from burnout to discovering peace and purpose. Looper’s four step approach to discern God’s will is relatable and clear. There is an accompanying study guide available online that I also recommend completely for a deeper dive.
December 8, 2022
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Being in a transitional stage in life, it gave me a good framework to seek God and practical ways to listen to his guidance with what I should allow back into my schedule. It was practical and had real life examples.
July 15, 2020
I heard about this book while listening to the Focus on the Family podcast when they had the author, Terry Looper, on as a guest specifically to talk about his book and to relate his traumatic life experience that caused him to slow down and reevaluate his priorities in life. This is one of the best Christian leadership books I have ever read, especially in terms of giving you real life advice that is practical and can be immediately put into practice. The four steps that Mr. Looper puts forward are easy to remember, are based in scripture, and don't require a lot of mental effort or serious discipline.
The author relates how he has been a successful businessman in the oil industry in Texas for his entire adult life. He has always been a driven individual and works very hard to succeed. In fact, at a point in his life around middle age he has a moment where he burns himself out so badly that his mind literally freezes and he finds himself unable to think or concentrate on anything. He is mostly incapacitated and is forced by his body and mind to slow down. The author does not go into detail about the physical symptoms or causes of his burnout, but it is clearly very real and very scary.
This breakdown is the catalyst for the author's reevaluation of his life's purpose. He changes his work habits and intentionally spends more quality time with his family, where he truly stops and pays attention to each of them, gaining back their love and trust.
The four steps are as follows: 1) Consult your Friend Jesus; 2) Gather the facts; 3) Watch for circumstances; 4) Get neutral. The author also puts forward 3 core truths: 1) God knows best; 2) God sees the future and I can't; 3) God loves me and everyone around me more than I ever could.
The author reminds us of the friend we have in Jesus and the comforter (the Holy Spirit) that we can rely upon in times of great decisions of impact. The relationship of David to God is used as an example, in how full David's love for God was and how God rewarded David. Gathering facts and watching for circumstances (i.e. "little things" that reinforce or detract from alternatives you are facing) are practical steps and backed up in the book with specific actions you can take. The 4th step to "get neutral" is really the core premise of the book. I find it the hardest step to heed. Basically the author encourages the reader facing a tough decision or choice to get to a quiet place inside his/her spirit, where he/she can truly listen for God's voice to direct a decision. I myself have never heard God's voice directly, despite praying in earnest. However, the author does acknowledge that God doesn't always speak immediately or very clearly to us. This reminds me of something my father used to tell me - "God gave you a brain for a reason. Use it." - when I was faced with a tough decision and not feeling God's hand to direct me.
Overall, I really identified with this book in terms of checking your driving ambition and reevaluating your purpose and true calling in life. I would have liked to have heard more about the business side of the author's life: specific business strategies he employed that helped to make him successful, or specific strategies he used to close deals or win clients. At times I found the author difficult to identify with when he is talking about how much money he is making and the big deals he is closing. It made me think, "how hard can it be when you have millions of dollars in the bank to fall back on?" However, this book is not about money that much. It is more about taming our pride and personal ambitions to be the best at any cost, and instead being still and listening for the voice and direction of God in our lives.
I think this verse from Romans 12:2 that the author quotes really sums up this book: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- his good, pleasing, and perfect will."
The author relates how he has been a successful businessman in the oil industry in Texas for his entire adult life. He has always been a driven individual and works very hard to succeed. In fact, at a point in his life around middle age he has a moment where he burns himself out so badly that his mind literally freezes and he finds himself unable to think or concentrate on anything. He is mostly incapacitated and is forced by his body and mind to slow down. The author does not go into detail about the physical symptoms or causes of his burnout, but it is clearly very real and very scary.
This breakdown is the catalyst for the author's reevaluation of his life's purpose. He changes his work habits and intentionally spends more quality time with his family, where he truly stops and pays attention to each of them, gaining back their love and trust.
The four steps are as follows: 1) Consult your Friend Jesus; 2) Gather the facts; 3) Watch for circumstances; 4) Get neutral. The author also puts forward 3 core truths: 1) God knows best; 2) God sees the future and I can't; 3) God loves me and everyone around me more than I ever could.
The author reminds us of the friend we have in Jesus and the comforter (the Holy Spirit) that we can rely upon in times of great decisions of impact. The relationship of David to God is used as an example, in how full David's love for God was and how God rewarded David. Gathering facts and watching for circumstances (i.e. "little things" that reinforce or detract from alternatives you are facing) are practical steps and backed up in the book with specific actions you can take. The 4th step to "get neutral" is really the core premise of the book. I find it the hardest step to heed. Basically the author encourages the reader facing a tough decision or choice to get to a quiet place inside his/her spirit, where he/she can truly listen for God's voice to direct a decision. I myself have never heard God's voice directly, despite praying in earnest. However, the author does acknowledge that God doesn't always speak immediately or very clearly to us. This reminds me of something my father used to tell me - "God gave you a brain for a reason. Use it." - when I was faced with a tough decision and not feeling God's hand to direct me.
Overall, I really identified with this book in terms of checking your driving ambition and reevaluating your purpose and true calling in life. I would have liked to have heard more about the business side of the author's life: specific business strategies he employed that helped to make him successful, or specific strategies he used to close deals or win clients. At times I found the author difficult to identify with when he is talking about how much money he is making and the big deals he is closing. It made me think, "how hard can it be when you have millions of dollars in the bank to fall back on?" However, this book is not about money that much. It is more about taming our pride and personal ambitions to be the best at any cost, and instead being still and listening for the voice and direction of God in our lives.
I think this verse from Romans 12:2 that the author quotes really sums up this book: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- his good, pleasing, and perfect will."
July 8, 2020
It may not be an instant classic, nor all that fluently written (not sure the co-writer really did their job all that well) but this is five stars because of the teaching. This book picks up on already well understood principles of guidance, then both takes them deeper and metamorphosises them into faith lifestyle. Merely summing up the four steps of 1. Talking with Jesus, 2. Gather the facts, 3. Watch for circumstances, 4. Get a peace (actually it is 'get neutral' in order to get a peace); doesn't do them full justice. Really the key idea is in the book title - that we do all this in pace with God. Instead of being driven by our own agenda's and expediency (which is basically sin!) then instead if we learn to move with God at His pace we get our true best outcomes.
Terry Looper has had outstanding success in business life and although there are far too many books usually written by 'successful pastors' (in the sense of growing a big church which is not necessarily what Kingdom success looks like at all), this book does not come across as just another 'look what I've learned on the way up'. Rather it seems much more about what he had to unlearn to move from worldly paths of getting ahead (while burning bridges and self), in order to let God lead. Looper already had his record of worldly success complete with pseudo Christian wrapping before his true conversion to make Jesus his Lord. While others in such circumstances might go onto a career change, as indeed Looper contemplated, he stayed on course with entrepreneurial endeavours, but made them healthier and truly Godly.
In essence this book has profound lessons to teach about true Godliness and is well worth the read.
Terry Looper has had outstanding success in business life and although there are far too many books usually written by 'successful pastors' (in the sense of growing a big church which is not necessarily what Kingdom success looks like at all), this book does not come across as just another 'look what I've learned on the way up'. Rather it seems much more about what he had to unlearn to move from worldly paths of getting ahead (while burning bridges and self), in order to let God lead. Looper already had his record of worldly success complete with pseudo Christian wrapping before his true conversion to make Jesus his Lord. While others in such circumstances might go onto a career change, as indeed Looper contemplated, he stayed on course with entrepreneurial endeavours, but made them healthier and truly Godly.
In essence this book has profound lessons to teach about true Godliness and is well worth the read.
January 24, 2022
Terry Looper seems like an incredible man that has learned some vital lessons in his life with which he shares in this book.
The lessons and instructions, while applicable, seem to put God in a box and isn’t correct theology. I understand that’s not the purpose of this book, but it does make it just another self-help book no different than those that line the shelves at Barnes N Noble.
My biggest hang up, is that Terry requires peace to felt before making any decision, and says that it is God’s approval that distributes this feeling of peace signaling a time to move forward.
If peace from God was required for people to move forward on a decision then we wouldn’t have Christianity to begin with. Jesus certainly didn’t feel peaceful going to the cross - no, he was in anguish. Most Biblical characters were in turmoil when told to move by God, so Terry’s instruction is no more than a kind-hearted self help book.
The lessons and instructions, while applicable, seem to put God in a box and isn’t correct theology. I understand that’s not the purpose of this book, but it does make it just another self-help book no different than those that line the shelves at Barnes N Noble.
My biggest hang up, is that Terry requires peace to felt before making any decision, and says that it is God’s approval that distributes this feeling of peace signaling a time to move forward.
If peace from God was required for people to move forward on a decision then we wouldn’t have Christianity to begin with. Jesus certainly didn’t feel peaceful going to the cross - no, he was in anguish. Most Biblical characters were in turmoil when told to move by God, so Terry’s instruction is no more than a kind-hearted self help book.
August 13, 2024
How can you “get neutral” and be ok with God’s will for your life, no matter what he chooses? I struggle with taking the time to sit with a proposition before I make a decision, and even if I do take the time to “pray” about my decision, I generally have already decided in my head what I want to do.
This book addresses these types of things. Looper tells his story and how he’s seen the Lord slow Looper’s life down from a frantic, hectic work pace to no more than 40 hours a week.
I was first going to say that this book is really good for anybody who is about to go into the work force or anybody who currently is in the work force, but this book isn’t just about making decisions revolving around work. It’s about how trusting the Lord by being diligent through prayer can be almost unbelievably rewarding! I loved this book and am glad my parents’ friend recommended it to me.
This book addresses these types of things. Looper tells his story and how he’s seen the Lord slow Looper’s life down from a frantic, hectic work pace to no more than 40 hours a week.
I was first going to say that this book is really good for anybody who is about to go into the work force or anybody who currently is in the work force, but this book isn’t just about making decisions revolving around work. It’s about how trusting the Lord by being diligent through prayer can be almost unbelievably rewarding! I loved this book and am glad my parents’ friend recommended it to me.
June 7, 2024
Well written book (not self help) that conveys the author’s tried and true method’s for making substantial decisions in life and written from a Christian worldview. The author provided a level of personal transparency that was authentic and impactful . At times, the author’s substantial wealth and “lifestyle” decisions (buying or selling companies, properties and possessions) were a bit distracting from the focus. Being a business owner myself helped me relate a bit. But I wonder if the average person of average means and not a business owner might find it even more distracting or un-relatable. That said, I would encourage anyone to read this because much of the content can be useful, practical and applicable to anyone regardless of profession, achievement or personal wealth.
August 13, 2024
When I say this book is so powerful and practical I really do mean it! This isn’t written for simply explaining the Lord’s character, but it dives into how to use what we know about who the Lord is to allow him to drive our decision making processes! It is also refreshing to have a business man write a book like this, not necessarily someone who works in a church or vocational ministry context.
Truly eye-opening. I often struggle with devotionals or books along the lines of this lacking in biblically sound practical advice and next steps, this book was full of those. Kind of just wanted to highlight the entire thing- and I already know I am going to mentally reference it for the rest of my life.
Please ask me to borrow this! I mean it please do!!!!
Truly eye-opening. I often struggle with devotionals or books along the lines of this lacking in biblically sound practical advice and next steps, this book was full of those. Kind of just wanted to highlight the entire thing- and I already know I am going to mentally reference it for the rest of my life.
Please ask me to borrow this! I mean it please do!!!!
May 26, 2020
I loved this book. Very straightforward and applicable, but you feel Terry’s authenticity. We are constantly rushing to move forward and make decisions as quickly as possible. If we truly believe in God and his goodness though, we need to give him the power to make and influence our decisions. Slowing ourselves down through obedience and prayer, we can get our own emotions and desires out of the way, and allow God to guide us to the right choice. Terry breaks this lesson down very clearly through his own story, and then shows how to apply it in many different phases of life. This book will seriously affect the way I live my life.
March 19, 2019
The principles in this book are life-changing. It's worth the book just to see Looper's 4 step process --- that isn't really steps but principles to lead you discover God's will in big decisions. His concept of "getting neutral" is life-altering. Also, slowing down. The guy started a company and committed to only work 40 hours a week. What?!
But, it's not just an invitation to change our pace, it's an invitation to be loved by God. Enjoy.
Great for leaders - especially business women and men. I so appreciated Looper's vulnerability and his personal commitment to self-awareness and growth.
But, it's not just an invitation to change our pace, it's an invitation to be loved by God. Enjoy.
Great for leaders - especially business women and men. I so appreciated Looper's vulnerability and his personal commitment to self-awareness and growth.
January 16, 2021
I really wish I could go back and re-review some other books I’ve read because this one tops most! Terry Looper offers biblical, practical advice about what following Jesus looks like in our everyday lives. This will be a book on my shelf for years to come and one of the first I offer to a struggling believer and to someone struggling to make a decision based on God’s will for their life.
Ultimately I’d like to meet Terry and learn more about his experience and practice!
Ultimately I’d like to meet Terry and learn more about his experience and practice!
February 27, 2019
Terry shares a clear outline for practicing prayerful, spirit led decision making that anyone can follow if you are willing to invest the time. In a culture where we fill our lives with busyness that so often leads us to rush ahead, Sacred Pace was a refreshing guide to slowing down, making wise decisions, and replacing the hurried pace that leads to burnout with one that cares for the soul.
March 8, 2020
Definitely one of the better books about finding the will of God... mostly because it lays out 4 key steps to do so:
1) Consult your friend Jesus
2) Gather the facts
3) Look at the circumstances
4) Get in neutral
Many great stories accompany the author’s process of finding God’s will for his life in this book and, he provides an exciting journey with him through that.
1) Consult your friend Jesus
2) Gather the facts
3) Look at the circumstances
4) Get in neutral
Many great stories accompany the author’s process of finding God’s will for his life in this book and, he provides an exciting journey with him through that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2023
Challenged me to slow down and seek peace. The entrepreneur/business specific thoughts toward the second half were helpful. As far as the book overall, due to the wealth of the author, the examples given for financial and purpose decisions, such as buying a beach house or not, felt disconnected from a reality that most people experience.
March 14, 2019
The author has done a good job documenting the steps he takes toward staying in alignment with God. For me at least, there is nothing new here. But then again, I haven't documented my process, and am pretty sure the author does it much better! Good book for anyone interested in the topic.
April 30, 2024
Great insights for thinking differently about decision making.
If you're struggling with how to make Godly decisions in your life, Terry's approach might just help you move forward in creating your own framework.
If you're struggling with how to make Godly decisions in your life, Terry's approach might just help you move forward in creating your own framework.
January 6, 2020
Highly recommend.
February 11, 2020
Wow. Really what I needed to hear. Staying and getting neutral. Great exercise.
February 23, 2020
Great faith-based advice. Wisdom for living!
July 28, 2021
This book is so important! Title says it all
February 4, 2022
Some books come along at just the right time. This one did. Thank you Terry Looper!
June 21, 2022
Good book for sure! Helpful reminders of God’s care and sovereignty, and that it is genuinely better to wait on the Lord and “get neutral” as we keep in step with Him.
February 4, 2023
Great provinces, good book. Really insightful and helpful. Worth reading, but found it a bit boring towards the end. That said, the wisdom and insights about decision making are exceptional.
February 5, 2023
Awesome book. I really enjoyed the lessons and wisdom provided herein.
February 11, 2023
Inspiring read. Love Terry Looper's heart of faith, his encouragement and lessons on seeking God's divine purpose and guidance in our decision making.
July 13, 2023
One of the best books I've ever read.
November 7, 2023
enjoyable but still felt a bit vague, would have enjoyed more real life examples
January 27, 2024
One thing I found amazing is how grounded Terry is. He is an example of how using the resources God gave you leads to abundance in all aspects. This was one of my favorite reads in 2023.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews