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Courageous: 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World
Christians face relentless attacks from an ungodly culture, a formidable adversary, and our own fallen natures. Yet we cannot afford to surrender to these very real enemies.
Just as survivalists use 10 specific strategies to overcome threatening situations, Courageous explains 10 biblical strategies for surviving--and thriving--in a world that is hostile to our faith. As A.W. Tozer said, "A scared world needs a fearless church." Courageous is a clarion call for Christians to boldly live out their faith.
If you've felt your faith is under attack, if you're struggling with the temptation to follow the crowd despite biblical teaching to the contrary, or if you're just feeling weary, the 10 strategies in Courageous will provide fresh fire and new hope.
Just as survivalists use 10 specific strategies to overcome threatening situations, Courageous explains 10 biblical strategies for surviving--and thriving--in a world that is hostile to our faith. As A.W. Tozer said, "A scared world needs a fearless church." Courageous is a clarion call for Christians to boldly live out their faith.
If you've felt your faith is under attack, if you're struggling with the temptation to follow the crowd despite biblical teaching to the contrary, or if you're just feeling weary, the 10 strategies in Courageous will provide fresh fire and new hope.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2020
74 people are currently reading
883 people want to read
About the author
Robert Jeffress
126 books83 followersDr. Robert Jeffress is senior pastor of the 16,000-member First Baptist Church, Dallas, Texas, and is a Fox News contributor. His daily radio program, Pathway to Victory, is heard on more than 1,000 stations nationwide, and his weekly television program is seen in 195 countries around the world. Jeffress has appeared on many media outlets, such as Fox & Friends, Hannity, Good Morning America, and Real Time with Bill Maher. He is the author of more than 30 books, including Not All Roads Lead to Heaven, Choosing the Extraordinary Life, 18 Minutes with Jesus, What Every Christian Should Know,and The 10. He lives in Dallas.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 8, 2020
Notes from bookclub Dec. 2020 (I liked that Jeffress gave real life examples of each point and plenty of verses and a Biblical example for each. Well thought out from a man who describes himself as a city boy and non-survivalist in the woods:)
1. Don’t Panic
David Koch, on a flight landing in L.A. when the plane caught on fire, couldn’t find his shoes, realized that if smoke was coming in from the front, there had to be a crack somewhere and pried open the galley door
Ex. Joshua – courage to lead the Israelites into the promised land in the footsteps of a great leader
2. Gain Situational Awareness
43-year-old Eric Marsh, fireman in Prescott, AZ., was lost with 17 other men in fighting a wildfire when they tried to save a town rather than head for safety
Issachar and his descendants understood not only the physical climate as farmers but were aware of their current cultural and political climate. They could discern the time, helped David be est. as king over Israel.
3. Take Inventory
1070 Apollo 13 3rd moon mission by the U.S., explosion, team in Houston gather equipment on board to save the 43 astronauts from asphyxiation
MacGyver, master of bricolage – the skill of building useful things from whatever is a hand
Our tools are the armor of God as described by Paul
4. Develop a Victor, not a Victim Mindset
Doomed ship “Endurance” trip from England to Antarctica, with captain and 27 crew members, Ernest Shackleton, 1914, left in Aug., icebound by Jan. “Optimism is true moral courage.” Saved all his men, took months of travel and endurance in the ice. “Difficulties are just things to overcome.” Example of a Biblical character who overcame: Joseph. Never had a victim mindset
5. Trust your Training
U.S. Airways flight 1649 Capt. Sully Sullenberger who guided his airplane safely in a water landing after hitting a flock of Canadian geese and on a flight with 155 passengers. He was nearing retirement.
Memorize scripture! Ex. Jesus during the temptation in the desert recited His father’s Words. The temptation of Satan was not that Jesus could perform the miracle but whether Jesus would perform the miracle instead of relying on His Father to provide for His needs. You can’t control the thoughts that come into your mind but Martin Luther said that you can control those thoughts and confront them with the truth of God’s word.
6. Bend, Don’t Break
Fisherman Salvador Alverenga left Mexico and became stranded in a storm. Survived from Nov. 2012 to Jan. 2014 afloat in his boat. “The wind doesn’t break a tree that bends.” African proverb. Handling opposition: pursue peace. Ex. Martin Luther King, Jr. Biblical character: Daniel. He chose a non-violent path. Be a winsome witness! It should not shock us when non-Christians sin. It should shock us when Christians sin. Resilience is the trait of being able to return to an original shape after being twisted or stretched. How we maintain our convictions is just as important as our convictions themselves. Isolation in our culture is not an option and not God’s will either.
7. Beware of Celebrating the Summit
Doug Hansen, who tried to climb Mount Everest and Ron Hall, the guide who waited for him at the top 2 hours later and violated his own strict turn-around time. Both died on the mountain. The goal of climbing a mountain isn’t to reach the summit, it’s to make it HOME from the summit! The danger of pride….ex. Lucifer. Pride v.s. humility. Ex. the murmuring of Miriam and Aaron against Moses. Dr. W.A. Criswell, My Humility and how I achieved It book. 150 blank pages. 😊
8. Learn from the Past
Julianne Koepcke, who survived a plane crash in Peru by remembering what her parents had taught her about the jungle – 11 days in the Amazonian rain forest. Remember the importance of history.
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Typos – Gr. our word “type” – a mark from a blow p. 187 God’s history written in the Bible is meant to make an impression on us! Biblical ex. Josiah who wanted to change the errors of his fathers. Who are our heroes? Find heroes to emulate.
9. Help Others
Brian and Stanley story from the south tower of the World Trade Center on 9/11. One saved the other and the other’s rescue saved the first! They ran down whereas the rest of the office went UP.
Jesus came to serve. Remove selfishness and conceit from your life.
Ex. Barnabas – a leader in the early church
10. Do the Next Right Thing
Vice Admiral James Stockdale, Ross Perot’s running mate in 1992, started campaign by silly question “What am I doing here?” Media and late night mocked him for that even though he had spent 8 years in a Vietnam prison after parachuting out of his jet where he became a leader among the prisoners and helped them est. standards and a routine and gave them encouragement under torture.
Esther: a profile in courage
1. Don’t Panic
David Koch, on a flight landing in L.A. when the plane caught on fire, couldn’t find his shoes, realized that if smoke was coming in from the front, there had to be a crack somewhere and pried open the galley door
Ex. Joshua – courage to lead the Israelites into the promised land in the footsteps of a great leader
2. Gain Situational Awareness
43-year-old Eric Marsh, fireman in Prescott, AZ., was lost with 17 other men in fighting a wildfire when they tried to save a town rather than head for safety
Issachar and his descendants understood not only the physical climate as farmers but were aware of their current cultural and political climate. They could discern the time, helped David be est. as king over Israel.
3. Take Inventory
1070 Apollo 13 3rd moon mission by the U.S., explosion, team in Houston gather equipment on board to save the 43 astronauts from asphyxiation
MacGyver, master of bricolage – the skill of building useful things from whatever is a hand
Our tools are the armor of God as described by Paul
4. Develop a Victor, not a Victim Mindset
Doomed ship “Endurance” trip from England to Antarctica, with captain and 27 crew members, Ernest Shackleton, 1914, left in Aug., icebound by Jan. “Optimism is true moral courage.” Saved all his men, took months of travel and endurance in the ice. “Difficulties are just things to overcome.” Example of a Biblical character who overcame: Joseph. Never had a victim mindset
5. Trust your Training
U.S. Airways flight 1649 Capt. Sully Sullenberger who guided his airplane safely in a water landing after hitting a flock of Canadian geese and on a flight with 155 passengers. He was nearing retirement.
Memorize scripture! Ex. Jesus during the temptation in the desert recited His father’s Words. The temptation of Satan was not that Jesus could perform the miracle but whether Jesus would perform the miracle instead of relying on His Father to provide for His needs. You can’t control the thoughts that come into your mind but Martin Luther said that you can control those thoughts and confront them with the truth of God’s word.
6. Bend, Don’t Break
Fisherman Salvador Alverenga left Mexico and became stranded in a storm. Survived from Nov. 2012 to Jan. 2014 afloat in his boat. “The wind doesn’t break a tree that bends.” African proverb. Handling opposition: pursue peace. Ex. Martin Luther King, Jr. Biblical character: Daniel. He chose a non-violent path. Be a winsome witness! It should not shock us when non-Christians sin. It should shock us when Christians sin. Resilience is the trait of being able to return to an original shape after being twisted or stretched. How we maintain our convictions is just as important as our convictions themselves. Isolation in our culture is not an option and not God’s will either.
7. Beware of Celebrating the Summit
Doug Hansen, who tried to climb Mount Everest and Ron Hall, the guide who waited for him at the top 2 hours later and violated his own strict turn-around time. Both died on the mountain. The goal of climbing a mountain isn’t to reach the summit, it’s to make it HOME from the summit! The danger of pride….ex. Lucifer. Pride v.s. humility. Ex. the murmuring of Miriam and Aaron against Moses. Dr. W.A. Criswell, My Humility and how I achieved It book. 150 blank pages. 😊
8. Learn from the Past
Julianne Koepcke, who survived a plane crash in Peru by remembering what her parents had taught her about the jungle – 11 days in the Amazonian rain forest. Remember the importance of history.
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Typos – Gr. our word “type” – a mark from a blow p. 187 God’s history written in the Bible is meant to make an impression on us! Biblical ex. Josiah who wanted to change the errors of his fathers. Who are our heroes? Find heroes to emulate.
9. Help Others
Brian and Stanley story from the south tower of the World Trade Center on 9/11. One saved the other and the other’s rescue saved the first! They ran down whereas the rest of the office went UP.
Jesus came to serve. Remove selfishness and conceit from your life.
Ex. Barnabas – a leader in the early church
10. Do the Next Right Thing
Vice Admiral James Stockdale, Ross Perot’s running mate in 1992, started campaign by silly question “What am I doing here?” Media and late night mocked him for that even though he had spent 8 years in a Vietnam prison after parachuting out of his jet where he became a leader among the prisoners and helped them est. standards and a routine and gave them encouragement under torture.
Esther: a profile in courage
February 23, 2020
Courageous 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World is author Dr. Robert Jeffress’s blueprint for thriving as a Christian in today’s secular society. The ten strategies are spelled out succinctly, explained brilliantly, and punctuated with modern-day and biblical examples of courage.
The courageous acts taken from both modern and biblical times make for inspiring and motivating examples. Modern-day airline captain “Sully” Sullenberger’s successful plane landing in the Hudson River and Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition heroics rival that of biblical Joseph’s triumph over slavery and betrayal and Joshua who overcame fear with faith.
The strategies in Courageous are simple concepts that build upon each other to create a Christian foundation that’s certain to withstand the pressure of daily struggles. They cover the gamut from ‘Don’t Panic’ to ‘Victor Not Victim Mindset’ to ‘Learn From The Past’. If a reader desires to up the ante on their Christian lifestyle and is willing to apply the concepts and change their current thought process, this book has the potential to be a game-changer.
How this book affected me:
When I first read the subtitle, 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World, I assumed it was overselling a claim Jeffress wouldn’t be able to deliver. But he honestly nailed it. I was inspired by each of the strategies, plus I’m a sucker for real-life inspirational stories. Needless to say, the modern-day and biblical examples of courage really pushed this book over the top for me. On the flip side, I personally opposed the author's viewpoint in a few examples, but it didn’t detract from the overall message.
Who would enjoy this book:
I’ll start by saying that the views in this book oppose homosexuality and gay marriage, as most mainstream Christian books do. Although these aren’t main topics and are mentioned only briefly as examples, let the potential reader beware. On the whole, Courageous is a powerful motivator for living out life as a Christian. It would be inspiring for anyone who’s looking to bring their Christian walk to the next level and definitely for anyone in the midst of a struggle.
Our Christian Book Reviews:
The book reviews at Finding God Among Us focus on Christian books, adult and children, fiction and nonfiction. We’re proud to be listed in the Top 50 Christian Book Bloggers !
The courageous acts taken from both modern and biblical times make for inspiring and motivating examples. Modern-day airline captain “Sully” Sullenberger’s successful plane landing in the Hudson River and Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition heroics rival that of biblical Joseph’s triumph over slavery and betrayal and Joshua who overcame fear with faith.
The strategies in Courageous are simple concepts that build upon each other to create a Christian foundation that’s certain to withstand the pressure of daily struggles. They cover the gamut from ‘Don’t Panic’ to ‘Victor Not Victim Mindset’ to ‘Learn From The Past’. If a reader desires to up the ante on their Christian lifestyle and is willing to apply the concepts and change their current thought process, this book has the potential to be a game-changer.
How this book affected me:
When I first read the subtitle, 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World, I assumed it was overselling a claim Jeffress wouldn’t be able to deliver. But he honestly nailed it. I was inspired by each of the strategies, plus I’m a sucker for real-life inspirational stories. Needless to say, the modern-day and biblical examples of courage really pushed this book over the top for me. On the flip side, I personally opposed the author's viewpoint in a few examples, but it didn’t detract from the overall message.
Who would enjoy this book:
I’ll start by saying that the views in this book oppose homosexuality and gay marriage, as most mainstream Christian books do. Although these aren’t main topics and are mentioned only briefly as examples, let the potential reader beware. On the whole, Courageous is a powerful motivator for living out life as a Christian. It would be inspiring for anyone who’s looking to bring their Christian walk to the next level and definitely for anyone in the midst of a struggle.
Our Christian Book Reviews:
The book reviews at Finding God Among Us focus on Christian books, adult and children, fiction and nonfiction. We’re proud to be listed in the Top 50 Christian Book Bloggers !
March 12, 2020
As a peculiar people God calls out from the world, Christians (authentic and bold), are called to stand strong and firm. Regardless the many dangers and threats to themselves. Robert Jeffress has written this book to help many of us who feel bombarded daily to hold even stronger to our faith. Jeffress is senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Dallas, TX. He has written countless numbers of books that have done well: Pathway to Discovery, Pathway to Victory; Second Chance, Second Act; and finally, Hearing the Master's Voice.
With this book, Courageous holds on to the promise God gives to not only the people of Israel but also to those who put their faith and trust in Him: "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid...I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:6). Paul, the apostle, tells us similarly: "Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:58).
What more can I say of a good man who has written well over the past thirty-one years to encourage and keep those who follow Christ in being firm in their faith? All I know is Courageous is one of those books that will not only empower you, but will help you with your faith as well as giving you the tools necessary to thrive under pressure. I received this book complimentary from Baker Books for a fair and honest review.
With this book, Courageous holds on to the promise God gives to not only the people of Israel but also to those who put their faith and trust in Him: "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid...I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:6). Paul, the apostle, tells us similarly: "Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:58).
What more can I say of a good man who has written well over the past thirty-one years to encourage and keep those who follow Christ in being firm in their faith? All I know is Courageous is one of those books that will not only empower you, but will help you with your faith as well as giving you the tools necessary to thrive under pressure. I received this book complimentary from Baker Books for a fair and honest review.
March 7, 2020
Christians today face relentless attacks from an ungodly culture, a formidable spiritual adversary, and our own fallen natures. Yet we cannot afford to surrender to these very real enemies. Because if we do, we fail in our mission to share the hope of Christ with the world.
Just as survivalists use strategies to overcome threatening situations, Courageous explains ten biblical strategies for surviving--and thriving--in a world that is hostile to our faith.
If you've felt your faith is under attack, if you're struggling with the temptation to follow the crowd despite biblical teaching to the contrary, or if you're just feeling weary, the ten strategies in Courageous will provide fresh fire and new hope.
My Thoughts: Dr. Jeffress has written a wonderful book for Christians to help them stand firm in their faith in such a messy mixed-up world. He gives the reader 10 very good survival tips to help them succeed; beginning with "Don't Panic". These tips give a firm foundation for the readers to put their faith. The author gives the reader the courage to have faith in this day and age and how to stand up for what they believe in. This is a wonderful read, one that all Christians should take time to read. This is great to be read alone, or maybe to pick up and read in a group study situation.
Just as survivalists use strategies to overcome threatening situations, Courageous explains ten biblical strategies for surviving--and thriving--in a world that is hostile to our faith.
If you've felt your faith is under attack, if you're struggling with the temptation to follow the crowd despite biblical teaching to the contrary, or if you're just feeling weary, the ten strategies in Courageous will provide fresh fire and new hope.
My Thoughts: Dr. Jeffress has written a wonderful book for Christians to help them stand firm in their faith in such a messy mixed-up world. He gives the reader 10 very good survival tips to help them succeed; beginning with "Don't Panic". These tips give a firm foundation for the readers to put their faith. The author gives the reader the courage to have faith in this day and age and how to stand up for what they believe in. This is a wonderful read, one that all Christians should take time to read. This is great to be read alone, or maybe to pick up and read in a group study situation.
February 12, 2020
Courageous: 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World is a Christian Living book by author Dr. Robert Jeffress. Dr. Jeffress wrote this book to help Christians survive in a hostile world. Among the author’s other works are: “Not All Roads Lead To Heaven” and “A Place Called Heaven”.
WOW! This is a mighty powerful book for the Believer. I was especially pulled in at chapter three where the author explains Salvation and the Armour we have as Christians. The plan of Salvation is written so the Believer would know how to share the gospel. And, the Armour reminds Christians what tools we have.
I recommend this book to all Believers & Seekers. It would make a great group study.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
WOW! This is a mighty powerful book for the Believer. I was especially pulled in at chapter three where the author explains Salvation and the Armour we have as Christians. The plan of Salvation is written so the Believer would know how to share the gospel. And, the Armour reminds Christians what tools we have.
I recommend this book to all Believers & Seekers. It would make a great group study.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
February 19, 2020
We live in a tough, scary world – and sometimes we need to be courageous. In the book Courageous: 10 Strategies for Thriving in a Hostile World, Dr. Robert Jeffress discusses ways to embrace challenges and find solutions when courage is hard to find.
Jeffress provides good tips on how to thrive in testing times, and he showcases uplifting stories of people who overcame difficult circumstances. Jeffress helps readers develop the mindset of a victor and not a victim, and each chapter covers a different “survival tip.” My favorite chapters was called “Help Others,” especially the section that talked about Barnabas and the Early Church. The book was very inspirational to read.
I received this book for review.
Jeffress provides good tips on how to thrive in testing times, and he showcases uplifting stories of people who overcame difficult circumstances. Jeffress helps readers develop the mindset of a victor and not a victim, and each chapter covers a different “survival tip.” My favorite chapters was called “Help Others,” especially the section that talked about Barnabas and the Early Church. The book was very inspirational to read.
I received this book for review.
August 23, 2024
I received this book on Father's Day from our church. I was familiar with the name of the author, Robert Jeffress, but had not read any of his books. I was immediately impressed by the caliber of his illustrations and how easy he was to follow. I suspect that this book, like most that come from the pens of pastors, first existed as a sermon series. I would think it would be of great benefit for church members who had heard the series to then go back and read the messages captured in these pages. The book is well written and filled with practical advice on how the average Christian can survive and thrive in this increasingly hostile world.
August 17, 2025
This is my first Jeffress, and it is up there with other pastoral books. What is striking about this one is that the chapters are taken from any a self-help book, but here they are given Christian content. In that way, they feel a bit forced to fit the Christian point - but mostly it is good, and the chapters are well written and engaging. Especially the one or two stories each chapter is built around. I may read more by the author, but I do not think, as I look at the titles of his previous 26 books(!), that there was that much juice, although probably still lots of good books. So, don't discard the author, as this book, at least, was pretty good.
June 4, 2020
The strategies that Dr. Robert Jeffress provides in his book "Courageous" are guidance for the faith-believing Christian and helpful for the non-Christian as well. In a winsome way the author pictures his thoughts with little real-life illustrations and then gives the reader the :how to" to improve his life situations. A must read!
April 25, 2020
In times like this, we all need strategies for dealing with a culture that foments hatred toward Christians. Whether you are a new believer or a lifelong disciple, Pastor Jeffress will give you Bible-based instruction and real-life examples on how to walk the walk.
April 26, 2020
Survival school for this world and the Christians who live in it!
I love hearing the stories of survival and how Dr. Jeffress applies those skills to Christians surviving this world. This was a very good read as are all of his books!
I love hearing the stories of survival and how Dr. Jeffress applies those skills to Christians surviving this world. This was a very good read as are all of his books!
April 5, 2021
This book full of inspiration and examples which encourage us in this age full of uncertainty. Indeed it's not that practical, but this book made us think of what conditions happened on us and what we already did.
February 23, 2022
The subtitle of this book says '10 strategies for thriving in a hostile world'. This book is a survival guide for believers in a hostile world. Robert Jeffress is a great storyteller and each survival strategy comes alive because of these stories. I thought it was a great and also practical read.
March 1, 2020
Good cover art. Beautifully written. This was a good read.
April 9, 2020
Dr. Jeffress gives us a book for such a time as this. He takes us on a journey through the Bible that helps us understand how to stand strong in the Lord during difficult times.
July 15, 2020
This book is a gift through getting through obstacles in life. Dr Jeffers has interviewed people in life threatening situations and discusses how they were able to survive.
July 17, 2020
Enjoyed the book
September 11, 2020
This was a thought provoking book. I was able to have to very good conversations with my Christen friends about various conflicting issues of a secular society verses a Christen one.
October 6, 2020
A good read
Dr. Jeffress it’s always fun to see on TV. He stands up for righteousness and he’s a good man. This book is helpful in the perilous times that we are not facing.
Dr. Jeffress it’s always fun to see on TV. He stands up for righteousness and he’s a good man. This book is helpful in the perilous times that we are not facing.
November 2, 2020
I liked this one. It had some good lessons and stories. I don't agree with everything he says, but there was some good food for thought here.
May 16, 2021
Excellently written, timely, and encouraging. A must read for followers of Christ in this extraordinary time in which we live.
March 14, 2022
Practical and challenging at the same time.
September 2, 2022
A well written book giving details from both a Biblical view and real life experiences concerning strategies to thrive in a corrupt culture. It was very interesting and easy to follow .
August 25, 2023
These are all things I’ve heard before in church in groups, and conferences.. The afterwordcould have been the whole book just summarizing everything.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews