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Does God Really Like Me?: Discovering the God Who Wants to Be With Us
"I guess I believe that God loves me. But does he like me?"
We all know what it's like to feel overlooked, disconnected, and ashamed. We might believe in God's love in the abstract, but we often live our lives without experiencing it in any deep or lasting way. Pastors Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw understand this―indeed, they've felt it themselves. In this warm, engaging book, they explain from the story of Scripture that God not only likes us and wants to be with us, he also wants to work through us to bless the whole world. Filled with personal stories and simple, clear teaching from the Bible, Does God Really Like Me? applies the good news of the gospel to the shame and disconnection that we all experience in our everyday lives. God wants to be with us―we belong in his presence. And from that place of belonging, we can bless the whole world with the message of God's love.
We all know what it's like to feel overlooked, disconnected, and ashamed. We might believe in God's love in the abstract, but we often live our lives without experiencing it in any deep or lasting way. Pastors Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw understand this―indeed, they've felt it themselves. In this warm, engaging book, they explain from the story of Scripture that God not only likes us and wants to be with us, he also wants to work through us to bless the whole world. Filled with personal stories and simple, clear teaching from the Bible, Does God Really Like Me? applies the good news of the gospel to the shame and disconnection that we all experience in our everyday lives. God wants to be with us―we belong in his presence. And from that place of belonging, we can bless the whole world with the message of God's love.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 21, 2020
47 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
January 21, 2020
I was blessed to receive an advanced reader copy and be apart of the launch team for this wonderfully written book.
As someone who grew up knowing God “loved me” but often found myself confused about what that looked liked, I found this book to be very helpful.
The way scripture is used brings clarity and alignment to the history of Gods love and strong desire to be with his people. It validated a lot of beliefs I have about bringing God’s kingdom to earth, while exposing me to new concepts and perspectives. I ended this book feeling confident in who I am, my place in the “family business” and my relationship with God.
No matter where you are in your faith journey, this book and the reflection along the way will bring growth.
As someone who grew up knowing God “loved me” but often found myself confused about what that looked liked, I found this book to be very helpful.
The way scripture is used brings clarity and alignment to the history of Gods love and strong desire to be with his people. It validated a lot of beliefs I have about bringing God’s kingdom to earth, while exposing me to new concepts and perspectives. I ended this book feeling confident in who I am, my place in the “family business” and my relationship with God.
No matter where you are in your faith journey, this book and the reflection along the way will bring growth.
January 18, 2020
This book will speak to anyone who thinks of God mainly as a ticked-off judge, or who fears that God prefers to punish people rather than forgive them, or who wonders if God only loves them because that’s his job.
Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw have put together a persuasive, clear demonstration that God’s goal in history has always been to be with us, and that God really does desire our presence. In fact, without directly saying so, this book presents a profoundly appealing and completely Biblical reframing of the gospel. It’s a very approachable, engaging, and practical book.
Each chapter ends with an exercise to put the truths into practice. This might sound dry, but several of the exercises moved me to tears.
Overall, a wonderful book which I will definitely be recommending to friends. It would also be great as a small group study.
Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw have put together a persuasive, clear demonstration that God’s goal in history has always been to be with us, and that God really does desire our presence. In fact, without directly saying so, this book presents a profoundly appealing and completely Biblical reframing of the gospel. It’s a very approachable, engaging, and practical book.
Each chapter ends with an exercise to put the truths into practice. This might sound dry, but several of the exercises moved me to tears.
Overall, a wonderful book which I will definitely be recommending to friends. It would also be great as a small group study.
January 1, 2020
Having been blessed with God's gift of allowing me to be on the book release team for this title, I know my life has been forever changed. While reading, I couldn't put this down, as there was much needed healing contained in the e-book as I worked my way thru. Speaking only from my experience, just a couple of years prior, my relationship with Our Heavenly Father was damaged, on critical life support, and being honest, almost severed entirely by my walking away a time .. or two.
He came after me, thru various ways, forgiving, healing, and loving me as His daughter. Couldn't see that then, but this book, certainly assisted in my convalescence of my faith. Everyone will receive from God thru this book. Blessed and thankful for and by the experience.
He came after me, thru various ways, forgiving, healing, and loving me as His daughter. Couldn't see that then, but this book, certainly assisted in my convalescence of my faith. Everyone will receive from God thru this book. Blessed and thankful for and by the experience.
June 11, 2020
This book was gifted to me, and I was immediately drawn to it by the title. I know God is supposed to love me because He died for me, but does He like me all the time? Surely He is displeased by my behavior at times and feels disappointed by my choices and is just plain disgusted!! This is where my mind can go if left unchecked because this is the level humans operate on with each other.
The Holsclaws state their purpose for the book at the beginning: “We wrote this book for two reasons. First, you belong in God’s presence (God with us). Second, you have a place within God’s purposes (God through us). In other words, God is always glad to be with you and wants nothing more than to draw you closer to his family. And from this place God invites you into the family business, the business of blessing the world. We will see that both of these produce joy in us, a joy matched only by God’s joy in us.”
The authors skillfully take us from Genesis to Revelation revealing God’s love and purpose for our lives. They weave in helpful illustrations of their own lives to introduce and develop their points. And yes, you do come away with the idea that God does like you and wants to be with you!!
The Holsclaws state their purpose for the book at the beginning: “We wrote this book for two reasons. First, you belong in God’s presence (God with us). Second, you have a place within God’s purposes (God through us). In other words, God is always glad to be with you and wants nothing more than to draw you closer to his family. And from this place God invites you into the family business, the business of blessing the world. We will see that both of these produce joy in us, a joy matched only by God’s joy in us.”
The authors skillfully take us from Genesis to Revelation revealing God’s love and purpose for our lives. They weave in helpful illustrations of their own lives to introduce and develop their points. And yes, you do come away with the idea that God does like you and wants to be with you!!
January 21, 2020
It was the title, “Does God Really Like Me?” that grabbed me and threw me into reading this book. I thought it was a great question as we know that God loves us, I mean, he has to, right? He’s God! But to like us? To want to be with us? That’s a whole new level of thinking about how God feels about us. So is it true? Does God really delight in us and desire to bless us with his presence? The answer is YES! And this is the GOSPEL!!!
There is great theology in this book (of which I am a fan), but it was my heart that was touched more than my mind. Questions of my soul were addressed: Where can I go to be loved for who I am? Does anyone want me? Do I have any significance? Is God mad at me? Is he disappointed in me? It is these questions and more in which the story of God, told in this book, spoke healing.
Geoff and Cyd Hosclow ask a question near the beginning of the book that I feel speaks to what they desire to accomplish in the hearts and lives of their readers: “What would feel different if you believed God made you to be with him and that you are welcome in his presence all the time—not because of anything you’ve done, not because you say the right words or act the right way, but because you are made in his image and you belong in his presence?” (p. 37)
I heartily recommend this book. It is the gospel. It’s what we and the people around us need to hear. Enjoy!!!
There is great theology in this book (of which I am a fan), but it was my heart that was touched more than my mind. Questions of my soul were addressed: Where can I go to be loved for who I am? Does anyone want me? Do I have any significance? Is God mad at me? Is he disappointed in me? It is these questions and more in which the story of God, told in this book, spoke healing.
Geoff and Cyd Hosclow ask a question near the beginning of the book that I feel speaks to what they desire to accomplish in the hearts and lives of their readers: “What would feel different if you believed God made you to be with him and that you are welcome in his presence all the time—not because of anything you’ve done, not because you say the right words or act the right way, but because you are made in his image and you belong in his presence?” (p. 37)
I heartily recommend this book. It is the gospel. It’s what we and the people around us need to hear. Enjoy!!!
January 22, 2020
The book proposes that God wants to be with us. The authors point out that it is literally the meaning of Jesus’s name - Immanuel, “God with us.” They go on to make the wild claim that not only does he want to be with humankind, God also wants to work through us.
“Humanity belongs in God’s presence (God with us). Humanity is gathered up into God’s purposes for the world (God through us).”
A deeply scriptural read and yet, easily understood with vulnerable stories from the authors’ lives. Co-author Cyd’s Spiritual Director occupation is obvious and comforting as each chapter closes with a practice, a reflection question, and for the music lovers, a song.
If you’ve ever asked,
Does God see me?
Is God angry with me?
Or one that not many people say out loud, Is God disgusted with me?
(And, who hasn’t)
Buy this book.
“Humanity belongs in God’s presence (God with us). Humanity is gathered up into God’s purposes for the world (God through us).”
A deeply scriptural read and yet, easily understood with vulnerable stories from the authors’ lives. Co-author Cyd’s Spiritual Director occupation is obvious and comforting as each chapter closes with a practice, a reflection question, and for the music lovers, a song.
If you’ve ever asked,
Does God see me?
Is God angry with me?
Or one that not many people say out loud, Is God disgusted with me?
(And, who hasn’t)
Buy this book.
January 23, 2020
In this new book, Cyd and Geoff, unpack one of the greatest treasures found in Scripture. The idea that God has always and still does want to be with me, and you! They systematically walk through this beautiful truth from Genesis to Revelation. It is a fun and easy read but packed with profound scholarship and really good writing. Why do you need this book? In my experience as a pastor, many of us including myself, struggle to have the correct story about God in our heads and hearts. Cyd and Geoff help us to unravel false narratives and reorient us around the truth that God Really Does Like Me!
- Joshua Pickett
- Joshua Pickett
January 18, 2020
It’s a question I’ve wrestled with before, though perhaps have not been bold enough to verbalize: “Does God really like me? … I know He died to save me from sin, but I keep messing up and I’ll never meet His standard of perfection. He’s probably disappointed with how I’ve taken grace for granted.”
As they explore the answer to the title question, Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw invite the reader in to a richer perspective of God and His love for the people He created. Beyond being saved from sin or able to get into heaven one day, they describe how God has saved us for life, now, and invited us to partner with Him in reconciling the world to Himself.
Adam and Eve’s relationship with God was broken by shame, falsely believing that God did not want to be with them. But God is always glad to be with us, and in His presence is fullness of joy. This is the gospel which the Holsclaws illuminate with relatable stories and practical guidance for training your heart to know God’s love.
As they explore the answer to the title question, Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw invite the reader in to a richer perspective of God and His love for the people He created. Beyond being saved from sin or able to get into heaven one day, they describe how God has saved us for life, now, and invited us to partner with Him in reconciling the world to Himself.
Adam and Eve’s relationship with God was broken by shame, falsely believing that God did not want to be with them. But God is always glad to be with us, and in His presence is fullness of joy. This is the gospel which the Holsclaws illuminate with relatable stories and practical guidance for training your heart to know God’s love.
January 21, 2020
I love the blend of personal story telling and explaination of Scripture this book offers. I so appreciate the way Cyd & Geoff brought the narrative of Scripture to life, explaining specific passages in a way I have not heard before (even as a long time Christian with a Bachelor's in Bible) and expanded my understanding of God's presence through the Old Testament cutlure and traditions. While I've not really been one to consciously ask the question "Does God Really Like Me?", the book has definitely awakened my understanding of God's gladdness to be with me. It's deepened my sense of God's presence with me.
January 21, 2020
This book is a tool to dig down to the foundation of your faith. Do you know whats down there? Doubt? Shame? Are you prepared to let God pour truth and love into the cracks and rebuild your faith from the ground up?
Whether you've wrestled with conflicting verses that describe God's posture toward humanity or have picked up assumptions about God from traumatic experiences, the rich theology and beautiful storytelling in this book offers a gentle journey to help you face your own conception of God and take in the healing truth of God's absolute nearness and delight. And, of course, the joy is in the journey.
Whether you've wrestled with conflicting verses that describe God's posture toward humanity or have picked up assumptions about God from traumatic experiences, the rich theology and beautiful storytelling in this book offers a gentle journey to help you face your own conception of God and take in the healing truth of God's absolute nearness and delight. And, of course, the joy is in the journey.
January 22, 2020
Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw lay out the gospel in a comprehensive and understandable way. Using scripture throughout to share the loving and accepting heart of God and how humanity fits into God’s story. I really liked some of the ways they explained these familiar Christian concepts in new and insightful ways. I particularly appreciated the practices they included at the end of each chapter that gave opportunity to pray about and think through the content of the chapter.
January 20, 2020
I really appreciated the opportunity to be on the book launch team for this book. Geoff and Cyd did such an amazing job with this book. One thing that I really appreciated from the intro of the book was, "when we trust that God wants to be with us, we learn to live as if we belong with God, as if we're really wanted by God" (3). I really appreciated their use of practices at the end of each chapter as well. It helped make the book more applicable in my life. Also, the reflections were helpful as well. I highly recommend this book and am so happy that I was able to be on the launch team.
Read
January 20, 2020I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review of the book. I love it. I related with so much that the authors talked about! It also gave me some different perspectives to help me through current and future things I may be going through/will go through. We can easily go on the pity party and feel like God is punishing us for something. That isn't who God is though. We can't believe those lies. He not only likes us. He LOVES us, no matter what. Great read! Buy this book!
January 21, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book! It resonated with me so much. I have had many of the thoughts they take is through in the book. This is a most read for anyone who has ever doubted God’s love for you.
January 16, 2020
If you ever wondered if God really lIkes you then this is the book for you! Cyd and Geoff dig into scripture and show you a new way to look at it. Their writing is beautifully done and easy to understand. Instead of the normal doom and gloom way to look at scripture, they have shown how to see joy and love instead! I think this book is needed in this day and age when a lot of people are turning away from the church. Every chapter is paired with an activity and a worship song to listen too that wrapped up the chapter nicely. I really enjoyed pairing this book with my bible study each day and was really grateful to get to read it and be on the launch team. I definitely recommend this book!
January 21, 2020
As an adoptive parent, I related so much to the language of attachment, the foundation of joy, and the role of shame that plays into all of our relationships, including our relationship with God. Very insightful book that so many can glean from!
December 14, 2024
If someone questions whether God likes or loves them, this is a helpful read. In each chapter, the authors have one topic, one biblical text they relate to that topic, and helpful practices you can to do to address that question or issue and to grow.
January 15, 2020
This book is really different... in a good way. I'm not sure what I expected, but what I got was a strong case for why God likes me. Cyd and Geoff did this through stories - especially about their own family; and through simple, clear exegesis of the Bible. It was an easy book to read. And the message came through on every page. God doesn't just love me, he really does like me, and you.
I recommend this book for anyone who has ever wondered how God really feels about them. Once you read it, you will want to recommend it to other people around you. It is that kind of book.
I recommend this book for anyone who has ever wondered how God really feels about them. Once you read it, you will want to recommend it to other people around you. It is that kind of book.
January 10, 2020
This book was an interesting read. I found that the authors have answered the question that the title asks in a unique way. While I, being a seminary graduate, found the book not breaking new ground with scripture, it does bring to light all of the answers to the question, does God really like me?
If you struggle with knowing the answer to the question i suggest that you read this book. The answer to your questions clearly is stated in the Bible, but the authors have conveniently answered the question in this book allowing you to wrestle with the answer while spending time with God in directed ways and listening to songs that tie in perfectly with the chapters.
If you struggle with knowing the answer to the question i suggest that you read this book. The answer to your questions clearly is stated in the Bible, but the authors have conveniently answered the question in this book allowing you to wrestle with the answer while spending time with God in directed ways and listening to songs that tie in perfectly with the chapters.
January 8, 2020
“We all long for the love of a Father and the trust of a King.” What a beautiful way to encapsulate the yearnings of our heart. Each human is uniquely crafted to experience joy- someone’s delight in being with us. Cyd and Geoff do an excellent job of providing a biblical and experiential basis for a God who likes us and wants to be with us. This book is a taste of what the kingdom can be here on Earth as we wait for our King to return.
February 24, 2020
Does God Really Like Me?
The authors, wife and husband pastoral team, write from personal experience and educational and career backgrounds (she: spiritual formation and SAHM, pastor; he: seminary professor and pastor), sharing why it is that, even though we know God loves us, we’re not always sure if God *likes* us.
The question driving this book is, indeed, Does God Really Like Me? Cyd and Geoff look at the narrative development of scripture and the character of God to answer this question. The recurring themes they hone in on are: God desires to dwell with us (presence [glory]) so that we can live the life he has for us (purpose). These two themes, presence and purpose, culminate in Jesus, who is God with us (presence) for the blessing of the world (purpose).
Does God’s presence and his purpose for us reveal to us whether or not he actually like us?
Find out the answer in Does God Really Like Me?
Along the way, Cyd draws from her background of spiritual formation and offers spiritual exercises that can be utilized to draw closer to God, as well as reflection questions that could be used personally or in a small, intimate group, and musical selections to help focus your mind on the truths shared throughout the book.
The authors, wife and husband pastoral team, write from personal experience and educational and career backgrounds (she: spiritual formation and SAHM, pastor; he: seminary professor and pastor), sharing why it is that, even though we know God loves us, we’re not always sure if God *likes* us.
The question driving this book is, indeed, Does God Really Like Me? Cyd and Geoff look at the narrative development of scripture and the character of God to answer this question. The recurring themes they hone in on are: God desires to dwell with us (presence [glory]) so that we can live the life he has for us (purpose). These two themes, presence and purpose, culminate in Jesus, who is God with us (presence) for the blessing of the world (purpose).
Does God’s presence and his purpose for us reveal to us whether or not he actually like us?
Find out the answer in Does God Really Like Me?
Along the way, Cyd draws from her background of spiritual formation and offers spiritual exercises that can be utilized to draw closer to God, as well as reflection questions that could be used personally or in a small, intimate group, and musical selections to help focus your mind on the truths shared throughout the book.
February 9, 2020
I am so grateful the Holsclaw's have birthed this beautiful book into the world. Both as a pastor who walks with people through their anxieties about the title question and a person who has grappled with the question personally for many years, Does God Really Like Me? is a theologically rich, yet deeply pastoral and practical book that I will recommend for years to come.
December 20, 2019
We've all read a lot of books about God. And yet we still often feel he's theoretical and distant. This is an invitation into something else. The Holsclaws approach this work with an understanding of whole person learning. The negative things we've learned about life through our relationships, senses, emotions and bodies have been real. And we've understood them as ways we've learned about God. We'll have to welcome those parts of ourselves into the healing of those painful experiences. And find God again. So through story, invitation into exploration and music they welcome us into a new way to welcome Him. May the healing begin!
December 24, 2019
A great read! We all have moments when we have doubts or questions about our faith. The Holsclaws have done a great job of patching those chinks in our faith through personal testimony that touched my heart and soul!
December 22, 2019
I recommended this book for anyone.
March 14, 2020
I think that the subtitle says a lot about this book. It is a walk through the story of the scriptures, showing how throughout history, God has been revealing himself as Immanuel. If God goes through such lengths to be with us, then surely he must want to be with us, and therefore he must like us.
This isn't just a heady study for Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw. They do an awesome job of tying in real stories of personal struggles from their years of pastoring to demonstrate their points throughout.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who struggles with the question in the title, or who just wants a fresh look at the overarching story of the scriptures from a fresh perspective.
This isn't just a heady study for Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw. They do an awesome job of tying in real stories of personal struggles from their years of pastoring to demonstrate their points throughout.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who struggles with the question in the title, or who just wants a fresh look at the overarching story of the scriptures from a fresh perspective.
April 17, 2022
Review title: Excellent book exploring God’s tender love for each of us
Does God Really Like Me? is a lovely and encouraging book, grounded in the Gospel, about God’s incredible love for us and his desire to be with us. I love how this book is founded in Scripture, especially the Gospel, and that the end of each chapter includes a practice activity, reflection, song, and illustration. The book was written by a husband-and-wife team, the format would lend well to a book club, and is suitable for high school ages and older.
The book is divided into an introduction with one chapter and four parts (God’s Idols, God’s House, God’s Body, and God’s Movement) which each have 4 chapters. The book is a fairly easy 200-page read and is encouraging without glossing over difficult realities. The authors encourage contemplation, reflection, and steps forward rather than offering pat answers or simplistic solutions.
Part One: God’s Idols, includes chapters “Where is Home?”, “Do I Belong Here?”, “Does My Work Matter?”, and “Does God Really Like Me?”. I adore the beautiful imagery and reflection on how all of creation is God’s temple, God’s home, where he desires to live with his children, his family. We were made to be in his presence and to reflect him as his images. God really does like us and we matter to him.
Part Two: God’s House, has chapters “Why Do I Have to Wait?”, “Is God Angry with Me”, “Is God Disappointed with Me?”, and “Is God Done with Me?”. These chapters touch on wondering, waiting, life changes, failures, God’s holiness, and his family business. I appreciate how the authors always bring the discussion back to a place of joy and connecting with God.
Part Three: God’s Body, contains chapters “Is God Disgusted with Me?”, “Am I Wanted?”, “Is This All There Is to Life?”, and “Is This the Death of Me?”. The authors share their struggles with sin and shame and the flesh and remind us the battle is not against flesh and blood. We are reminded that we are wanted and have a place in God’s family. We have significance and a special identity as image-bearers. The authors present a clear salvation message based on Romans and invite readers to follow Jesus and join in his kingdom activities here on earth.
Part Four: God’s Movement, comprises chapters “Will I Ever Learn?”, “Will I Ever Find Peace?”, “Did I Really Sign Up for This?”, and “Can I Go Home Now?”. This section continues from the invitation in the previous section to call readers to move beyond the hindrances and failures of the past and chose to move forward with forgiveness. There’s a focus on access to the Father, peace, and belonging. I love the example of an outpost for God’s kingdom on earth. The authors point out how Chinatown in San Francisco is like a mini-Hong Kong in the US and how we should be like a mini-Heaven on earth. The book ends with a joyful outlook toward the future when heaven and earth will once again be united and we will be with God face to face.
I highly recommend this book for pretty much everyone to read. It’s filled with encouragement and reminders of God’s love for us and his longing to be with us. This book could be especially beneficial to someone struggling with loneliness, discouragement, suffering, or regret. From pages 181-182 “We are the house of God, his temple on earth, filled with his presence by his Spirit. We are a people of peace because Jesus broke down all the walls and restored our humanity. Remember, to be human means we are the images, the idols, of God. In Jesus we are restored to our rightful position in God’s presence. We don’t have to wonder about our place. Not only do we belong in God’s presence but God is overjoyed that we have been restored! He has always wanted us to be with him. He enjoys being with us. We don’t have to wonder if God really likes us. We can be sure! He loves us so much that he lets us introduce him to the world. As God’s image (idol) in God’s temple (his people, the church), you are the tangible presence of God. And not just you but the entire church. The church is where heaven comes to earth, where everyone has access to the presence of God. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is the fullness of joy.”
Does God Really Like Me? is a lovely and encouraging book, grounded in the Gospel, about God’s incredible love for us and his desire to be with us. I love how this book is founded in Scripture, especially the Gospel, and that the end of each chapter includes a practice activity, reflection, song, and illustration. The book was written by a husband-and-wife team, the format would lend well to a book club, and is suitable for high school ages and older.
The book is divided into an introduction with one chapter and four parts (God’s Idols, God’s House, God’s Body, and God’s Movement) which each have 4 chapters. The book is a fairly easy 200-page read and is encouraging without glossing over difficult realities. The authors encourage contemplation, reflection, and steps forward rather than offering pat answers or simplistic solutions.
Part One: God’s Idols, includes chapters “Where is Home?”, “Do I Belong Here?”, “Does My Work Matter?”, and “Does God Really Like Me?”. I adore the beautiful imagery and reflection on how all of creation is God’s temple, God’s home, where he desires to live with his children, his family. We were made to be in his presence and to reflect him as his images. God really does like us and we matter to him.
Part Two: God’s House, has chapters “Why Do I Have to Wait?”, “Is God Angry with Me”, “Is God Disappointed with Me?”, and “Is God Done with Me?”. These chapters touch on wondering, waiting, life changes, failures, God’s holiness, and his family business. I appreciate how the authors always bring the discussion back to a place of joy and connecting with God.
Part Three: God’s Body, contains chapters “Is God Disgusted with Me?”, “Am I Wanted?”, “Is This All There Is to Life?”, and “Is This the Death of Me?”. The authors share their struggles with sin and shame and the flesh and remind us the battle is not against flesh and blood. We are reminded that we are wanted and have a place in God’s family. We have significance and a special identity as image-bearers. The authors present a clear salvation message based on Romans and invite readers to follow Jesus and join in his kingdom activities here on earth.
Part Four: God’s Movement, comprises chapters “Will I Ever Learn?”, “Will I Ever Find Peace?”, “Did I Really Sign Up for This?”, and “Can I Go Home Now?”. This section continues from the invitation in the previous section to call readers to move beyond the hindrances and failures of the past and chose to move forward with forgiveness. There’s a focus on access to the Father, peace, and belonging. I love the example of an outpost for God’s kingdom on earth. The authors point out how Chinatown in San Francisco is like a mini-Hong Kong in the US and how we should be like a mini-Heaven on earth. The book ends with a joyful outlook toward the future when heaven and earth will once again be united and we will be with God face to face.
I highly recommend this book for pretty much everyone to read. It’s filled with encouragement and reminders of God’s love for us and his longing to be with us. This book could be especially beneficial to someone struggling with loneliness, discouragement, suffering, or regret. From pages 181-182 “We are the house of God, his temple on earth, filled with his presence by his Spirit. We are a people of peace because Jesus broke down all the walls and restored our humanity. Remember, to be human means we are the images, the idols, of God. In Jesus we are restored to our rightful position in God’s presence. We don’t have to wonder about our place. Not only do we belong in God’s presence but God is overjoyed that we have been restored! He has always wanted us to be with him. He enjoys being with us. We don’t have to wonder if God really likes us. We can be sure! He loves us so much that he lets us introduce him to the world. As God’s image (idol) in God’s temple (his people, the church), you are the tangible presence of God. And not just you but the entire church. The church is where heaven comes to earth, where everyone has access to the presence of God. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is the fullness of joy.”
January 21, 2020
I have to be honest and say that I struggled in the beginning with reading and liking this book. I even stopped reading it for a few days and then picked it back up. When I restarted I had to go slow to really grasp what the authors were trying to say and pay attention to their definition and examples of words and concepts (for example how they define joy throughout the book). As I worked through the book it became easier to read and evident that this book not about me (if I am likeable to God) but about God pursuing people and wanting a relationship with them as illustrated in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. The authors start in the Garden of Eden with God creating man and go through to Revelation with His people in heaven with Him. It is about God taking joy in our relationship with Him and using us for His purposes to grow His Kingdom and bring glory to God through our lives.
The book has an introduction and then is divided into four parts. Each part explores a connection of God with humanity; such as Part 1 looks at the big picture of God's work with humanity (how the book is broken down is explained in the introduction.) The end of each chapter has questions/activity for Practice, Reflection, and a song listed. An diagram is included after the chapters to illustrate a concept of the chapter. Interwoven through this story are personal stories from th he authors to illustrate certain points.
The authors present the gospel in this book and show that God finds joy in a relationship with us. Does God Really Like Me? is well written example of God's character and love/purpose for humanity (His creation). It shows that God doesn't just tolerate us or like us because He has to or for who we are or what we do but He finds joy in a relationship with us and wants us to help build His Kingdom.
I recommend this book for everyone but especially for people struggling with who God is and does God really care about them. If you have a hard time getting into it just go slow, re-read, ponder, pray and research if needed (as I had to look up some root words and Bible verses while reading). Pick up a copy of Does God Really Like Me? to discover who God is and seek a relationship with Him. I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The book has an introduction and then is divided into four parts. Each part explores a connection of God with humanity; such as Part 1 looks at the big picture of God's work with humanity (how the book is broken down is explained in the introduction.) The end of each chapter has questions/activity for Practice, Reflection, and a song listed. An diagram is included after the chapters to illustrate a concept of the chapter. Interwoven through this story are personal stories from th he authors to illustrate certain points.
The authors present the gospel in this book and show that God finds joy in a relationship with us. Does God Really Like Me? is well written example of God's character and love/purpose for humanity (His creation). It shows that God doesn't just tolerate us or like us because He has to or for who we are or what we do but He finds joy in a relationship with us and wants us to help build His Kingdom.
I recommend this book for everyone but especially for people struggling with who God is and does God really care about them. If you have a hard time getting into it just go slow, re-read, ponder, pray and research if needed (as I had to look up some root words and Bible verses while reading). Pick up a copy of Does God Really Like Me? to discover who God is and seek a relationship with Him. I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 21, 2020
Have you asked yourself if God "likes" you?
Pastors Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw want to underline with their book "Does God Really Like Me. Discovering the God Who Wants to be with Us", published by InterVarsity Press, that God does not only love us, a fact that many Christians don't question, but that he also likes us. After treating the topic of joy the book is divided into four main parts: 1) God's Idols, 2) God's Body, 3) God's House and 4) God's Movement, each one containing four chapters which are introduced with a question such as "Where is Home?", "Is God Angry with Me?", "Is This All There Is to Life?", and "Can I Go Home Now?", The authors start out in Genesis and arrive at the fact that we are ministers of reconciliation because "God never stopped longing for reconciliation. God never gave up on the work of bringing blessing." They finish with the longing for the home that is still in the future.
One of my favorite quotes is from the last chapter of the book: "Being known by God is a reason for peace, not fear. It’s cause for joy, not shame. Being known by God is to be loved. And it means that God, indeed, likes you. He doesn’t only love you because he has to. He doesn’t just put up with you or tolerate you because he promised he would. He actually wants to be with you. He’s always wanted to be with you. He delights in you as someone who uniquely images him and his longing for the world. He saved you for this joy.
I appreciate the book because it is practical based on the fact that Cyd and Geoff included stories, struggles, and experiences from their own life, linked to the topics discussed. Every chapter closes with three components: "Practice" (e.g., Finding Your Joy Place, Receiving the Father's Pleasure, or Breath Meditation), "Reflection", and a suggestion for a "Song" that deals with the topic discussed. Even the graphics included in the book inspire reflection. The authors have also included notes that help to verify their statements and can be a help for further research. I highly recommend the book for reading alone, for a Bible study group, or as a present for family members and friends.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through Apricot Services free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#DoesGodReallyLikeMe #IVPress #InterVarsityPress #ApricotServices
Pastors Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw want to underline with their book "Does God Really Like Me. Discovering the God Who Wants to be with Us", published by InterVarsity Press, that God does not only love us, a fact that many Christians don't question, but that he also likes us. After treating the topic of joy the book is divided into four main parts: 1) God's Idols, 2) God's Body, 3) God's House and 4) God's Movement, each one containing four chapters which are introduced with a question such as "Where is Home?", "Is God Angry with Me?", "Is This All There Is to Life?", and "Can I Go Home Now?", The authors start out in Genesis and arrive at the fact that we are ministers of reconciliation because "God never stopped longing for reconciliation. God never gave up on the work of bringing blessing." They finish with the longing for the home that is still in the future.
One of my favorite quotes is from the last chapter of the book: "Being known by God is a reason for peace, not fear. It’s cause for joy, not shame. Being known by God is to be loved. And it means that God, indeed, likes you. He doesn’t only love you because he has to. He doesn’t just put up with you or tolerate you because he promised he would. He actually wants to be with you. He’s always wanted to be with you. He delights in you as someone who uniquely images him and his longing for the world. He saved you for this joy.
I appreciate the book because it is practical based on the fact that Cyd and Geoff included stories, struggles, and experiences from their own life, linked to the topics discussed. Every chapter closes with three components: "Practice" (e.g., Finding Your Joy Place, Receiving the Father's Pleasure, or Breath Meditation), "Reflection", and a suggestion for a "Song" that deals with the topic discussed. Even the graphics included in the book inspire reflection. The authors have also included notes that help to verify their statements and can be a help for further research. I highly recommend the book for reading alone, for a Bible study group, or as a present for family members and friends.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through Apricot Services free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#DoesGodReallyLikeMe #IVPress #InterVarsityPress #ApricotServices
January 31, 2020
This is a book that approaches a very important topic. We are taught about the love of God and how Jesus loved the world and God loves us all. But a deeper and much more intimate and pressing question is whether that same God even likes us. This book works at an answer.
Geoff and Cyd Holsclaw address this thoroughly from a very theological and pastoral perspective that is helpful. There are excellent questions included for reflection and thought provoking questions that will stop you in your tracks.
This book would be excellent in a variety of settings; study groups, youth groups, retreats, even as the basis for a sermon series. I have been recommending this a great deal in my church.
Read this book. Reflect on it and know that God does indeed like you. God delights in you.
Geoff and Cyd Holsclaw address this thoroughly from a very theological and pastoral perspective that is helpful. There are excellent questions included for reflection and thought provoking questions that will stop you in your tracks.
This book would be excellent in a variety of settings; study groups, youth groups, retreats, even as the basis for a sermon series. I have been recommending this a great deal in my church.
Read this book. Reflect on it and know that God does indeed like you. God delights in you.
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