3 Words That Will Change Your Life: The Secret to Experiencing the Joy of God's Presence

by Mike Novotny

One tiny little sentence can change your life. Ready for it?

"God is here."

It may sound obvious at first, but truly understanding these three words is the key to more happiness, less boredom, more rest, less rush, more love, less drama, more peace, less fear.

A deeply satisfying life doesn't require a sabbatical, a mission trip, or a New Year's resolution. As long as God is glorious enough and near enough, you can enjoy the life that is truly life--not just the cheap substitutes we've settled for.

This book will help you move from just enjoying the good moments in life to worshiping the God who is right here, right now. This movement will exponentially increase your happiness, peace, and contentment. It will allow you to shake off the guilt and shame of sin and see yourself as God sees you. Learn how to recognize God's impact on your life and find the joy he's been waiting to give you.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Faith, Religion

190 pages, Paperback

First published January 7, 2020

About the author

Pastor Mike Novotny pours his Jesus-based joy into his ministry as a pastor at The CORE (Appleton, Wisconsin) and as the lead speaker for Time of Grace, a global media ministry that connects people to God through television, print, and digital resources. Unafraid to bring grace and truth to the toughest topics of our time, he has written numerous books, including 3 Words That Will Change Your Life, What’s Big Starts Small, Gay & God, How to Heal, and Sexpectations.

Mike lives with his wife, Kim, and their two daughters, Brooklyn and Maya; runs long distances; and plays soccer with other middle-aged men whose best days are long behind them. To find all of Pastor Mike's books, go to timeofgrace.store.

Reviews

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a book reviewer and blogger, I read scores of books on Christian living each year. Usually only a few strike me as life changing. This book is one of them. I had no idea how three words could be so life changing. GOD is here. (Yes, GOD, not god, not even God.)

Novotny shakes up what we might think it means to love GOD or follow Him. He challenges us: What if we realize how truly awe-inspiring GOD is, that His presence “makes every other blessing unnecessary for our peace, hope, and joy?” (Loc 118/2901)

GOD is the most satisfying thing for our souls, Novotny says. All the “stuff” we have will never satisfy. It is hevel (Hebrew for “mist,” from Ecclesiastes). Even the sights and sounds and pleasures we experience are given by GOD so we would think more of Him. But He is hidden and it takes practice, devotion, and effort to see GOD, glorious, exalted, and soul satisfying.

Surprisingly, pain is a gift. “Without suffering, we would never know if we loved GOD for his presence or his presents.” (1526/2901) Pain can be a powerful tool to make us think much of GOD and the glory to come. (Rom. 8:18) GOD uses the struggles of life to force us to keep searching for what can satisfy – GOD. (1029/2901)

This book is like no other I have read. Novotny points out the frustration and hopelessness of trying to find happiness apart from GOD. This book challenged me in everything I thought I understood about loving GOD. I highly recommend it. May you think much of GOD as He is the only thing that can satisfy your soul.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Hannah Uher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Will read again!

[Jim B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Disclosure: I know Mike Novotny, although I do not work for his ministry.

You probably aren't looking for or expecting the thoughts in this book. American Christians tend to judge their relationship with God by the good things that happen to them. Others (in my branch of Christianity) regard their relationship with God as a settled issue: Jesus died for us. End of story.

Mike Novotny presents the joy of God's presence in simple language - memorable and concrete expressions that help us fight our self-focused tendency to fail to see how great the Lord is because we are so enamored by what He does for us.

Have you ever read a self-help book and wondered, "Does this guy follow his own advice? And does this advice only work for people like him?" As the book unfolds, it's easy to see Mike's love and awe for the Lord. He presents it in concepts that anyone can put into practice.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really short easy read about how God's presence in our lives right now is life altering. We don't need to wait until heaven to enjoy God's presence. God is here! Pastor Navotny is really engaging in his writing. He has great analogies, and he does a nice job making the concepts he addresses concrete. He also has a great sense of humor that keeps the heavy material light and fun to read. Great read!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is filled with practical suggestions which helped me feel God's presence all around me. When faced with what could be a negative habit, or situation I try to turn it around so that I can find the positive in it and praise God. I just need to remember GOD is here!

[Dulce McKone · Rating 2 out of 5]

Handful of solid points. Very basic writing. I felt like most of the points were super watered down to seem relevant and relatable. Which just seemed silly to me. Not bad, but not my cup of tea as far as books go.

[Gary Sonnenberg]

Read this, even if you're not a Christian.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What are the three words that will change your life? GOD is here!

Pastor Novotny spends a few chapters on each of the words.
GOD - is not god, nor God, but GOD - all powerful and all loving.
Is - not was or will be.
Here - not somewhere else, but right here with his people.

Pastor Mike writes in a conversational style that is easily readable and accessible.
Simple drawings help illustrate his point.

Highly recommended.

[Conrade Yap · Rating 4 out of 5]

Is God far away? How can we experience God more intimately? All you need are three words: "God is Here." Sounds too good to be true? Perhaps, but author and pastor Mike Novotny has creatively used this phrase as a powerful catchphrase to connect us with our relationship with God. It is simple and easy to follow. Before that, he shows us some "life killers" that could derail us from properly following God. Some of these warnings include treating God like some kind of a distant "vague higher power." Some people are mystified when they think about God. In fact, many young people don't even think about God when asked about their life goals. They don't even live with any thoughts of God as they make their life decisions. Apart from thinking God as some distant irrelevant being, the other danger is to see God as some future celestial coming, which is another way of pushing away God's relevance in our lives. For if God is only God of the future and not for the present, then is He really God? Another mistake is to see God as relevant for others but not for us. This is a sad misreading. With Novotny putting to death the three erroneous "life killers," we are set to see God as Someone who is here for us now, in the present, and also in the future. God is here always. The author shares about how Ps 73 saved him and guided him to a deeper and personal relationship with God. God is bigger than any of our problems. Our biggest problem is that we don't think much of God in the first place. This needs to be corrected because it is simply not true. The Lord's Prayer is a reminder to us that we pray to a Living God who is here. Otherwise, that prayer has no meaning.


Novotny expounds "God is Here" by taking us through three expositions. He expounds this phrase first by focusing on "God." All things depend and hinges on God's existence. That is why he uses the word "this" to remind himself and us that all of life is because of this: God. He then moves on the "God is" to extend our thoughts of God from the present to the future. Just like God has been faithful in the past, He too will be faithful in the future. The trouble with many people is that they put their hopes on temporal things in this world. That is how they get anxious about many things. Some suffer from "Obsessive Comparison Disorder" when they cannot keep up with the Joneses. Other fear losing out so much that they worked themselves to exhaustion, thinking that if there is a God, that this God only helps those who help themselves. None of these things are true. Once we learn how to take our refuge in God, we have many ways to feel joyful and thankful. Novotny highlights how such an attitude would bring about joy, hope, peace, fearlessness, gratitude, selflessness, boldness, and obedience. Finally, he shows us the full "God is Here" promise that presence with God is most desirable and most meaningful. This is something many Christians miss out when they focus more on themselves and push God out.

My Thoughts
Throughout the book, Novotny tries to show us that God is more relevant to us than we may think. What he does well is dispelling the notion of God being a distant and uninterested Being. That is why he spends time pointing out the erroneous thoughts surrounding many people today. We live in a secular world and many have become more influenced by the world instead of the Word of God. Thankfully, we have authors like Novotny who try their best to help us see God's relevance in more ways than one. Plus, he does it so simply that many readers ought to be able to relate to his observations, his experiences, and his teachings. The theological word for God's presence is God's Incarnation in Christ. In Hebrew, the word "panim" means face, and when we think of being face to face with God. Not only is Novotny face to face with us in terms of helping us move toward a deeper and more personal relationship, he shows us how he practiced the presence of God.

One example was how he reacted when he received a negative email. He would close his email, and visualize God. Focusing on the grace and mercies of what Jesus had done at the cross, and how God's Word had been so faithful, he directs his focus away from the problems of this world, toward the reality of God's presence. "God is Here" makes him feel understood. It helps him realize that he is never alone. Not "feeling" His presence does not mean He is absent. In fact, taking time out to be quiet and to meditate on the Bible does more than we could ever imagine. This is no trick mind games. It is real. The author has professed it. We are encouraged to try it. Many believers past and present can attest to the reality. If we have not, give ourselves a chance. Kudus to the author for boldly sharing about the reality and relevance of God in a world that often push back against such spirituality.

Mike Novotny is a co-pastor at The CORE, is the lead speaker for the media ministry Time of Grace, and serves as the chairman of Conquerors Through Christ. Mike lives with his wife and children in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Rating: 4 stars of 5.

conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

[Clayton Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such great advice that can truly change how you see any and every situation in life, so easy to implement. But it is easy to fall into old habits, so get into a new habit: whenever you encounter a negative situation, remember: GOD is here. Whenever you want to celebrate or recognize the joy in a situation, remember: GOD is here!

[Starla Bremel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Will strengthen your faith and excitement about God. And don't miss the footnotes. They are the best! 😁

[Nathan Albright · Rating 4 out of 5]

[Note:  This book was provided free of charge by Bethany House.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.]

If someone told me that this book had been written by an adult who struggled with ADHD, I would believe them.  This book has the feel of being the work of someone who would be an entertaining dinner companion with humorous and witty conversation but not someone whose reliability and steadiness could be taken for granted.  In that light it is probably not too surprising that the author has written a book that is centered around conveying to the reader that God is here.  Filled with humorous images, including photos and endearingly incompetent drawings, this book is not a hard or an unpleasant read and the author is earnest and passionate in his approach.  It is clear that the author may be engaging in a bit of oversharing and I hope he cleared what he wrote with his close family members before publishing this book, but this book gives the reader the hope that if they are are intense and random people they too may eventually have a published book about their faith.  And that is a good hope to have.

This book is a little bit less than 200 pages and is divided into nine chapter and three parts.  The author begins with a discussion of God being here and the way that counterfeits of this idea can be faith-killers for many people (1).  After that, the first part of the book discusses God (I) with chapters that look at our biggest problem and God's bigger solution (2), moments that express God's presence and providence that the author talks about from his life and imagination (3), and a couple of unexpected ways that people can meet God (4).  The second part of the book then examines God's existence and its importance for us (II), specifically with regards to the hunger for eternity that we all have in our hearts (5), the sad symptoms that result from putting our faith in what is vapor or vanity or nothingness (6), and the joy and benefits of living in the refuge of God (7).  The third part of the book discusses God being here (III) and then looks at the way that being with God is better than anything this earth has to offer (8) as well as an exploration of what most Christians miss with regards to thinking about God's presence (9), after which the book ends with acknowledgements, notes, and information about the author.

Does this book really address the topic as successfully as the author would wish?  I have no doubt, in reading this book, that the author is wholeheartedly sincere about his belief in the importance of knowing and feeling that God is there for us even in our darkest times.  I do not know if this book would really answer the concerns of someone who was in the grips of despair in struggling with God's presence in the face of life's horrors.  For the more mundane task of getting people more excited about and to think more seriously about God's presence in our lives and in our world, I think this book does a very good job at demonstrating the way that we can take God for granted and that it is very unwise to do so.  In terms of entertainment value, this book is worth reading for the author's quirky randomness (the footnotes are a delight) alone apart from its value in serving the goals and ambitions of the author in writing encouragement to others about their security in God.  And if I am more gloomy than most who will read this book I can still appreciate the author's lighthearted and humorous approach.

[Lydia Howe · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHY I CHOOSE THIS BOOK

In my never-ending quest to be more like Jesus, learning to rest in His presence is high on my list of things I'm learning to do. This book's about The Secret to Experiencing the Joy of God's Presence so it sounded perfect. 
WHAT I THOUGHT ABOUT THIS BOOK

On the second page, the author wrote something in caps and followed that up by saying "And your inner grammar nerd was very disappointed that I left the cap locks on?" and then went on to explain why he did. That had been exactly what I'd been thinking - rather than focusing on what he was saying. And what he was saying did need to have the caps lock on when I went back and re-read it. I knew at that moment that this book was going to be a winner for me, and it was. 

This guy. He's real, hilarious, challenging, and someone who I want to learn more from. He writes a truth-filled book in a way that makes it easy to read and hard to put down. I laughed more while reading this book than I have in a long time, and that's saying a lot considering its nonfiction. 

The book has funny little sketches and an abundance (but not overabundance) of footnotes that insert a level of humor into a message that people need to hear. 

It's easy to forget the purpose of life. To get so caught up in what is going on around you, that it suddenly feels like the stuff that's happening is the reason for life. What the author points out is that everything in life should point us - as children of God - to God. That means that the good should remind us of Him because every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17) and everything bad should remind us of Him, because He works all things together for good to them that love Him and are called according to His purposes (Romans 8:28). 

The book is chocked full of practical examples and laughable examples, and nod your head in happiness examples. God is here, with us. And because of that, we don't have to be dependant on the things around us in order to dictate how we feel. That's a huge lesson I've been working on learning, especially during this quarantine. I'm not doing as well as I'd like with putting that into practical usage, but I am getting better. 

When it comes to negatives, the list for this book is short. The only things I remember sticking out to me were: 1) He says we can trash talk the devil, which I think is very unscriptural. And 2) He talks various times about drinking wine. I don't think it's wrong for some people to drink wine, but I think it needs to be talked about carefully because it can be a stumbling block to some people, and I felt like the way he was talking about it here could cause some people to stumble. 
CONCLUSION

This is one of those books that I'll be recommending, re-reading, and continuing to learn from. I realize his writing style might not be everyone's, but it is mine and I can't wait to read more of his books. 

RATING

I’m giving 3 Words that Will Change Your Life 5 out of 5 stars, it was delightful, helpful, and a shoo-ine-in for re-reading. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a copy of the book so I could tell y'all about it. 

[Marvy Herrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from Bethany House Publishers, via NetGalley. This review is my personal opinion.



I will be honest, when I start reading the book I was a bit confused. I was not sure what to expect, I say this to everyone how to have the opportunity of reading this book: Please keep reading, this book it well worth the time! Pastor Mike Novotny takes us in an eye-opening journey that no doubt it will change your life. I must say it has changed mine.

This book may seem simple, but at the same time, it has a complex theme in our Christian life. I won’t give any spoilers about the three words. Even while reading the book I was trying to figure out the three words and like he said they may seem like a normal phrase. But what a powerful phrase, I was almost about to finish reading the book I wrote these three words in a wall in my bedroom. Every time I look at it I was so joyful. Little did I know that the crisis with the COVID19 was not news, but a reality in our country and we enter in quarantine. I got a challenge and I almost freak out I was afraid, God remained me of those three words and then I remember. Yes, all that is happening is real. But God is still God, as Pastor Mike mention. All that we have and are is because of Him and even in the middle of “that” unexpected situation I need to really completely rely on God.

This book by no means is magical, but I do believe that it has the opportunity to open eyes to this powerful and forgotten truth. And finally what I love more about this book is how it has made me more aware of the reality of God’s presence in my life.

I recommend this book because I believe what it says that it can change your life. I know it has not to doubt change mine.

Truly grateful to Bethany House for the ARC of this book.

[Jessica Higgins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who knew three words in the right context could have so much meaning?

There are three words that we have likely all heard at some point in our lives. But maybe we hear them quietly, which suppresses the meaning. God is here. That is easy to glance at and read over without having any real feeling or indication that God is actually here. But if we look at it as GOD IS HERE, just by seeing it more pronounced we take more notice and can begin to seek out that GOD is, in fact, here!

The synopsis of this book had me very intrigued and the content was good. The author begins by being easily relatable to anyone who has searched out God in the past and not received a strong feeling in return. He explains that by just reading over those three powerful words, we can be missing out on a powerful relationship because God is Here and he wants to be with us. Novotny does a good job debunking some different myths/beliefs and also throws around a lot of lighthearted humor to keep the reader moving.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most of us have heard the words God is here. In the beginning of his new book author Mike Novotny tells us that "There is a sentence that can change your life." "GOD is here." In reading this book Christians will be reminded that perhaps they have become complacent in their faith and non-Christians will realize that they may need this GOD who is here. 3 Words That Will Change Your Life is both inspiring and entertaining and the author has filled its 188 pages with scripture, anecdotes, study questions, and prayer prompts that will help you grow closer to God. He even has some black and white illustrations to grab your attention!

These three words, GOD is here, remind us that we are never alone and these words can help us truly experience the joy of His presence. 3 Words That Will Change Your Life is a book that will change your perception of what a Christian life can truly be.

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing. There was no obligation to post a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for a lighthearted, uplifting book that will still challenge your faith? This is a wonderful read that had me laughing out loud several times.

Right off the bat, Mike Novotny reveals the three simple words that will change your life, and help you find encouragement. His humor is as bright as a sunny day, and we can all use a reason to laugh right now.

This book would make an excellent online small group study, especially for young adults. It will also entertain and encourage you to look at the ways God is lovingly present in your life.

I received a preview copy of 3 Words That Will Change Your Life from Bethany House.

[Nancy Larimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

#3 Words that Will Change Your Life# by Mike Novotny is a Christian Living book.The author wants to show the reader how they can experience God's presence... The book points the reader to God's presence. It is a practical and helpful book. We need to know God's presence in the difficult times in our world. The book is easy to read. The book is rich. Thank you to netgalley, the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. The opinions about this book are my own and not someone else's . I will share my review with Amazon, facebook, Goodreads, my blog, bookbub, and with the church staff. and pastors.

[Cari Borchert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this with a group of ladies from my church and can honestly say I may never be the same. On the surface, I rolled my eyes a lot at the cheesiness of the author's conversational points, but he speaks a real truth that more than once hit me square in the face. This book helped me realize that most, if not all, of what I see as problems in my life are really because I fail to see GOD for who He is. Since finishing the book a month ago, I continue to carry much of it with me, whether seeing the This! in my day to day, or imagining God with me at work or in the car, or the simple reminder that GOD is Enough. And GOD is here.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m always a bit skeptical when a book says it can change my life. But, honestly, if we truly grasped these three words: GOD is here, everything would change.
I’ve been really trying live like this is true since reading this book. GOD is here, everywhere, all of the time.
The author breaks up each word and talks about the significance of each. I also appreciated the authors humor and footnotes thrown in throughout.
This is a book I highly recommend.

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Stephanie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome!

This book is wow! That is the only way I can describe it. If you are not aware of the Presence of GOD in your life now, oh you will be when you read this book. I love the author 's style of writing, and how he uses words. There are a lot of "aha" moments in this book. He is very humorous, but at the same time, has very thought-provoking points with the humor. If you desire to live a life being so aware of GOD's presence ( there's a reason for the all caps letters), read this book and become reacquainted with the True GOD. You will not be disappointed.

[Martha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a Christian my whole life, but this book really made me dig deeper into what it means to be a Christian, but more importantly, just how amazing God is! The humor used throughout the book keeps the reading light, even when it gets deep. Pastor Mike uses Biblical truths to support his writing, but he also uses his personal experiences to make the book real and relevant. This is a book I will be re-reading, and a book I will be gifting to many friends and family!

[Kayla Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will change the way a Christian views God (in the book - GOD), their life, and everything around them. It’s jam-packed with theology, but is written in a very understandable and digestible way, with humor and even drawings sprinkled throughout the book. Each topic has so many real life examples that it would be impossible for someone to read this and not apply it to their life.

[Jenni Heins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good and highly recommend for teens and young adults. Mike Novotny does a great job of getting our focus off us and on where it NEEDS to be. I thought the Law/Gospel felt a little forced and his one paragraph telling us to take care of the planet was unnecessary.

[Julie Horton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes it's easy to take God for granted. This book really made me think about God's presence in my life. It was short, easy to read, and filled with lots of anecdotes that we can all relate to. I will reread this book again to glean even more from it.

[Katelynne Koster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book CHANGED my life. Changed my thinking of GOD. I purchased so many copies of this book to send to family members and friends. Such a well thought out read. Easy, light, and such an amazing perspective. Mike is my THIS (page 46).

[Ruth Schmeckpeper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 181-page book reminded me of my joy in Christ with a fresh perspective. I appreciated the truths based on scripture, the powerful message, and the author’s sense of humor. This is a great book for personal or small group study.

[Rocky Henriques · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes!

Three words that can definitely change your life. No question. Novotny has a style of writing that is thought-provoking and humorous at the same time. Any reader will enjoy the time spent here, and your relationship with GOD will be dramatically different.

[Ben Reichel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! I’m a pastor, like the author, and he made me rethink my own understanding of GOD. This will be a regular read for me!

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! Clear and funny. Well done.