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Loving My Actual Neighbor: 7 Practices to Treasure the People Right in Front of You
As Christians, we know we are called to love our neighbor. We may even grasp that "neighbor" encompasses more than just the people living next door or down the street. But what we too often don't know is how to begin. How do we love our neighbor? Where do we start? What does this look like in our increasingly isolated world?
Following practices outlined in the first chapter of 2 Peter, Alexandra Kuykendall lays out the framework for where to begin. From practicing humility to listening with understanding to being generous in our relationships, Loving My Actual Neighbor offers practical, start-now steps readers can take to love their neighbors. With her approachable, friendly tone and down-to-earth advice, Kuykendall has carved out for herself a place in the hearts of readers, who will be thrilled to extend her commonsense approach into this sphere of their lives.
Following practices outlined in the first chapter of 2 Peter, Alexandra Kuykendall lays out the framework for where to begin. From practicing humility to listening with understanding to being generous in our relationships, Loving My Actual Neighbor offers practical, start-now steps readers can take to love their neighbors. With her approachable, friendly tone and down-to-earth advice, Kuykendall has carved out for herself a place in the hearts of readers, who will be thrilled to extend her commonsense approach into this sphere of their lives.
5 pages, Audiobook
Published April 2, 2019
47 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
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June 12, 2019
In this latest installment of her Loving My Actual ______ series, Kuykendall ponders on the question: In an increasingly socially isolating world, how does one go about showing love for one's neighbor. Her use of the word "neighbor", she clarifies, isn't limited to one's literal next door neighbor, but really anyone we come in close proximity to throughout the course of our lives.
The inspiration for this newest book came to Alexandra through her realization that she knew little to nothing of the woman living across the street from her for several years --- even though they had spoken briefly a number of times. Alexandra knew they had common ground between them, both being mothers of young children, but for the life of her, she could never remember her neighbor's name! Kuykendall compiles stories of not only her own journey to be a better neighbor, but also those of her friends and acquaintances who'd had a similar epiphany and also put themselves on a path toward change.
Considering all these accounts she gathers together, Kuykendall comes up with a seven step plan on how to better appreciate our fellow humans. Using biblical text, primarily pulling from 2 Peter, Kuykendall's system brings it all back to the basics of just being a good-hearted human being. She encourages readers to pursue strong, nurturing relationships with others on a foundation of humility, empathy, and, ideally, unconditional generosity. Each chapter closes on prompts for reflection: "Scripture to Digest" (relevant bible passage to think on); "Questions for Reflection"; "Practicing the Practice", which offers Pay It Forward type ideas to engage with others, making extra effort to speak to the lonely or isolated, etc; and "A Call To Saturday Living", a sort of meditative prayer focusing on how to best implement the themes of that chapter.
Once you have that foundation down, Kuykendall branches out into more specific suggestions of bonding with your neighbor:
* Re: Conversations: Use open-ended questions, followed by clarification questions to show you are truly listening to the speaker, as well as follow-up questions for a later meet-up, to show you've been thinking of them. She points out: you never know when you might be the one person who bothered to check in on them when they needed it most! She also reminds readers to be prepared for an honest response to your questions and be empathetic enough to hear the person out! Additionally, take non-verbal cues into consideration (body language, facial expressions) and consider the setting of the conversation. Is the subject matter something that requires privacy? Is the setting generally hospitable?
* Cultural Filters: When interacting with others, consider specifics of the situation that may make their reaction different from what you might expect. Are they in mourning? Otherwise suffered a trauma? Are there cultural differences to take into account --- something that seems fine to you but might be considered offensive to them?
* Disputes: how to best give or receive forgiveness
* Food / Humor: useful in diffusing difficult situations
* Teamwork: tips on how to successfully partner with neighbors on projects
At the end of the book, Kuykendall offers a supplement, several pages long, entitled "More Ways To Connect With Your Neighbor". Within are a few different segments: "Additional Ideas for Practicing the Practice", "10 Ways to Connect with Families Throughout the Year" "10 Ways to Love Your Homebound Neighbor", and "10 Reasons to Have a Block Party".
When taking all this information in, Kuykendall frequently reminds her readers, practice makes perfect. This is not meant to be a one and done process, but an entire reboot in one's social interaction, intended to be carried out (hopefully) for the rest of your days. One of the portions I found most helpful was questions to ask when checking your motives for doing something:
* Am I investing in the outcome or the process?
* Am I expecting something in return?
* What am I willing to give up in order to love my neighbors well?
* Would I do it anonymously?
* Will there be unintended consequences?
My honest response to this book, having read the previous two? This was my least favorite of the bunch. I got a lot out of the first two, and while there were still some good tips in this third one, and while I love that Kuykendall terms herself a "kitchen anthropologist", this third offering in the series had a few areas I found disturbingly problematic, given the theme of the work.
Yes, it has helpful pointers, but largely the message is one of common sense human decency. I don't know if she ran short on ideas and had to hit word count, but like many a self-help book out there, she establishes a few key points early on and then pretty much just repackages those ideas in numerous different ways throughout the following chapters.
Beyond the repetitive nature of the text, there was an underlying element to this book that just SCREAMED privilege and bias. She swears she's not a judgmental person, yet some of her actions involving those of a lower income bracket than her family would (at least in part) indicate otherwise. There's even a line where she says (verbatim),"I have relationships with people who live in poverty." Wow. Okay. Way to put yourself out there?
Then there's the weird and frequent focus on the race of her various neighbors, usually closing with a pat on the back for herself for interacting with a minority without making it too awkward. In fact, there's a healthy dose of quiet humble brag throughout the whole book. But at least she does acknowledge that she does see needing to consistently work on her prideful nature.
It's a worthwhile topic for discussion --- being better people to our fellow man --- and Kuykendall brings up fair suggestions.... but really, it's stuff we should know anyway, if we've been raised right. Sadly, now, my once happy opinion of her work has been somewhat tainted over the privileged, disconnected tone that came through this latest work.
FTC Disclaimer: Baker Books kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
The inspiration for this newest book came to Alexandra through her realization that she knew little to nothing of the woman living across the street from her for several years --- even though they had spoken briefly a number of times. Alexandra knew they had common ground between them, both being mothers of young children, but for the life of her, she could never remember her neighbor's name! Kuykendall compiles stories of not only her own journey to be a better neighbor, but also those of her friends and acquaintances who'd had a similar epiphany and also put themselves on a path toward change.
Considering all these accounts she gathers together, Kuykendall comes up with a seven step plan on how to better appreciate our fellow humans. Using biblical text, primarily pulling from 2 Peter, Kuykendall's system brings it all back to the basics of just being a good-hearted human being. She encourages readers to pursue strong, nurturing relationships with others on a foundation of humility, empathy, and, ideally, unconditional generosity. Each chapter closes on prompts for reflection: "Scripture to Digest" (relevant bible passage to think on); "Questions for Reflection"; "Practicing the Practice", which offers Pay It Forward type ideas to engage with others, making extra effort to speak to the lonely or isolated, etc; and "A Call To Saturday Living", a sort of meditative prayer focusing on how to best implement the themes of that chapter.
Once you have that foundation down, Kuykendall branches out into more specific suggestions of bonding with your neighbor:
* Re: Conversations: Use open-ended questions, followed by clarification questions to show you are truly listening to the speaker, as well as follow-up questions for a later meet-up, to show you've been thinking of them. She points out: you never know when you might be the one person who bothered to check in on them when they needed it most! She also reminds readers to be prepared for an honest response to your questions and be empathetic enough to hear the person out! Additionally, take non-verbal cues into consideration (body language, facial expressions) and consider the setting of the conversation. Is the subject matter something that requires privacy? Is the setting generally hospitable?
* Cultural Filters: When interacting with others, consider specifics of the situation that may make their reaction different from what you might expect. Are they in mourning? Otherwise suffered a trauma? Are there cultural differences to take into account --- something that seems fine to you but might be considered offensive to them?
* Disputes: how to best give or receive forgiveness
* Food / Humor: useful in diffusing difficult situations
* Teamwork: tips on how to successfully partner with neighbors on projects
At the end of the book, Kuykendall offers a supplement, several pages long, entitled "More Ways To Connect With Your Neighbor". Within are a few different segments: "Additional Ideas for Practicing the Practice", "10 Ways to Connect with Families Throughout the Year" "10 Ways to Love Your Homebound Neighbor", and "10 Reasons to Have a Block Party".
When taking all this information in, Kuykendall frequently reminds her readers, practice makes perfect. This is not meant to be a one and done process, but an entire reboot in one's social interaction, intended to be carried out (hopefully) for the rest of your days. One of the portions I found most helpful was questions to ask when checking your motives for doing something:
* Am I investing in the outcome or the process?
* Am I expecting something in return?
* What am I willing to give up in order to love my neighbors well?
* Would I do it anonymously?
* Will there be unintended consequences?
My honest response to this book, having read the previous two? This was my least favorite of the bunch. I got a lot out of the first two, and while there were still some good tips in this third one, and while I love that Kuykendall terms herself a "kitchen anthropologist", this third offering in the series had a few areas I found disturbingly problematic, given the theme of the work.
Yes, it has helpful pointers, but largely the message is one of common sense human decency. I don't know if she ran short on ideas and had to hit word count, but like many a self-help book out there, she establishes a few key points early on and then pretty much just repackages those ideas in numerous different ways throughout the following chapters.
Beyond the repetitive nature of the text, there was an underlying element to this book that just SCREAMED privilege and bias. She swears she's not a judgmental person, yet some of her actions involving those of a lower income bracket than her family would (at least in part) indicate otherwise. There's even a line where she says (verbatim),"I have relationships with people who live in poverty." Wow. Okay. Way to put yourself out there?
Then there's the weird and frequent focus on the race of her various neighbors, usually closing with a pat on the back for herself for interacting with a minority without making it too awkward. In fact, there's a healthy dose of quiet humble brag throughout the whole book. But at least she does acknowledge that she does see needing to consistently work on her prideful nature.
It's a worthwhile topic for discussion --- being better people to our fellow man --- and Kuykendall brings up fair suggestions.... but really, it's stuff we should know anyway, if we've been raised right. Sadly, now, my once happy opinion of her work has been somewhat tainted over the privileged, disconnected tone that came through this latest work.
FTC Disclaimer: Baker Books kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
May 9, 2022
This book can be wonderfully summed up in one of the concluding paragraphs;
"My brothers and sisters, the world is eager, desperate, for the love of Christ demonstrated through us. We are not arriving to save our neighbors but to demonstrate His love with open hands and hearts, so that they may know what we profess to believe: they are created in God's image, seen by him, and loved by him. Let us exercise that glorious free will and choose to express to our neighbors to the best of our imperfect, human-constrained abilities how high and wide and deep is the love of Christ."
"My brothers and sisters, the world is eager, desperate, for the love of Christ demonstrated through us. We are not arriving to save our neighbors but to demonstrate His love with open hands and hearts, so that they may know what we profess to believe: they are created in God's image, seen by him, and loved by him. Let us exercise that glorious free will and choose to express to our neighbors to the best of our imperfect, human-constrained abilities how high and wide and deep is the love of Christ."
July 22, 2021
Jesus followers, oh that this is how we would be known! Not for our politics, our judgement, what we are against, but instead if we were known for how we love those people that God puts in our lives. This book beautifully resets that framework and gives thoughtful, almost basic ideas, that are so needed, especially in our world right now. I found myself saying 'yes, yes!' so often as I read and craving a world where people who follow Jesus love this well.
January 15, 2019
I received this book as an ARC from Baker Books in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
There are a lot of members of our community that are in high demand of new Christian books and when I heard about Loving My Actual Neighbor I had to jump at the chance to read it. Alexandra Kuykendall did her research and compiled a well-thought description on what it means to love thy neighbor. The stories expressed throughout the books I believe our patrons can easily relate to because we deal with these situations everyday. Our patrons will be so touched and inspired by this book that it will circulate very well.
We will consider adding this title to our Christian Non-Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
There are a lot of members of our community that are in high demand of new Christian books and when I heard about Loving My Actual Neighbor I had to jump at the chance to read it. Alexandra Kuykendall did her research and compiled a well-thought description on what it means to love thy neighbor. The stories expressed throughout the books I believe our patrons can easily relate to because we deal with these situations everyday. Our patrons will be so touched and inspired by this book that it will circulate very well.
We will consider adding this title to our Christian Non-Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
November 24, 2020
Very practical and inspiring book. Great read.
September 18, 2019
Who is my neighbor? Have we gotten so caught up in our digital, global world that we've forgotten how to notice and connect with the people within arms reach?
Author Alexandra Kuykendall fills this book with practical tips and personal examples of how to listen to, connect with, and serve those within arms reach. Think of your actual next door neighbor, the other mom's in you play group, the people who surround you in church, the cashier at the grocery store, etc.
I listened to this book on audio, and I really wish I had a physical copy of the questions at the end of each question. Alexandra prompts readers to consider the practical application of the book's concepts with prompts like, "Go on social media with the intention of asking questions about people's posts." There is a Four-Week Challenge to Love Your Neighbors on her website, so maybe I'll grab that.
Overall, this book did not hold my attention quite as well as other hospitality books I've read, but I don't think it's technically a book about hospitality. There were also some areas where the scriptural interpretation was a little more imaginative than I am fully comfortable with. Overall, it's definitely a solid read with some good calls-to-action and practical advice for implementation.
Books on Similar Topics
Just Open the Door (one of my personal favorites)
The Gospel Comes with a House Key
Author Alexandra Kuykendall fills this book with practical tips and personal examples of how to listen to, connect with, and serve those within arms reach. Think of your actual next door neighbor, the other mom's in you play group, the people who surround you in church, the cashier at the grocery store, etc.
I listened to this book on audio, and I really wish I had a physical copy of the questions at the end of each question. Alexandra prompts readers to consider the practical application of the book's concepts with prompts like, "Go on social media with the intention of asking questions about people's posts." There is a Four-Week Challenge to Love Your Neighbors on her website, so maybe I'll grab that.
Overall, this book did not hold my attention quite as well as other hospitality books I've read, but I don't think it's technically a book about hospitality. There were also some areas where the scriptural interpretation was a little more imaginative than I am fully comfortable with. Overall, it's definitely a solid read with some good calls-to-action and practical advice for implementation.
Books on Similar Topics
Just Open the Door (one of my personal favorites)
The Gospel Comes with a House Key
May 5, 2019
"Our neighbors -- the people right in front o us -- are not those we choose, but those we can choose to treasure." (p 21)
Back-to-basics advice that hits home in the hustle and bustle and technological detachment of the 21st century. At the same time it's both commonsense practicality and a refreshing approach to the modern-day dilemma of not just loving our neighbors, but knowing who they are.
The author uses a mix of stories, ideas and practical tips to challenge readers to embrace the concept of loving our neighbors. I'm not a huge non-fiction reader but I loved the concept of this book and the very approachable way the author has laid it all out. Seven practices = seven chapters -- 1) Holding a posture of humility 2) Asking questions to learn 3) Being quiet to listen 4) Standing in the awkward 5) Accepting what is 6) Lightening up 7) Giving freely -- and each chapter includes personal reflection points at the end with questions, challenges and a scripture. The questions are great conversation starters so I think this book would be a perfect selection for group discussions.
Love the phrase "hope-bearers' which is what the author is inviting readers to become -- demonstrating the hope Christ can bring to a broken world.
"So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love, but well." (Phil 1:9)
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
Back-to-basics advice that hits home in the hustle and bustle and technological detachment of the 21st century. At the same time it's both commonsense practicality and a refreshing approach to the modern-day dilemma of not just loving our neighbors, but knowing who they are.
The author uses a mix of stories, ideas and practical tips to challenge readers to embrace the concept of loving our neighbors. I'm not a huge non-fiction reader but I loved the concept of this book and the very approachable way the author has laid it all out. Seven practices = seven chapters -- 1) Holding a posture of humility 2) Asking questions to learn 3) Being quiet to listen 4) Standing in the awkward 5) Accepting what is 6) Lightening up 7) Giving freely -- and each chapter includes personal reflection points at the end with questions, challenges and a scripture. The questions are great conversation starters so I think this book would be a perfect selection for group discussions.
Love the phrase "hope-bearers' which is what the author is inviting readers to become -- demonstrating the hope Christ can bring to a broken world.
"So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love, but well." (Phil 1:9)
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
June 21, 2019
Alexandra Kuykendall’s newest book, Loving My Actual Neighbor, is a timely reminder to act on one of Jesus’ greatest commandments. The author lays the framework in seven practices that enable us to do this: 1) Holding a posture of humility 2) Asking questions to learn 3) Being quiet to listen 4) Standing in the awkward 5) Accepting what is 6) Lightening up 7) Giving freely. Each practice is explained in its own chapter and several practical suggestions for each are given under “Practicing the Practice”. Kuykendall fittingly proclaims, “It seems in this time of tension and isolation, we the church, the Jesus people, are perfectly positioned to offer the countercultural way of love. Not because it makes us feel better about who we are, but rather because it can be quite uncomfortable. Not because it frees us from awkward positions or conversations, but just the opposite—it makes us live out what we claim to believe about God and his creation. We claim to follow Jesus, and he is clear on what that means. Above all else, we are to love God and our neighbors.”
September 5, 2019
A lot of good ideas, helpful to be reminded of the importance of being a good neighbor.
June 21, 2022
Showing up. Getting vulnerable. Giving freely. Listening well. Just reminders of how to live in community with the people in your community. How to get out of your own bubble to care for those around you.
July 16, 2023
Not a bad starting point if you've never considered ways to interact with the humans who are in proximity to you, but none of this was new info for me. I began skimming quite a bit halfway through. To me, a lot of this is common sense stuff. Maybe it isn't for others. If anything, the book is a good reminder to take the focus off yourself and put it on those around you. My personal issue with it is that the author and her husband are involved in ministry work on a daily basis, so a number of examples drew from their experiences. Not that that's a bad thing, it's just, they get a lot of practice. Most people will find they have to be much more intentional about loving their neighbors.
January 10, 2023
Great tips on loving your neighbors and showing God’s love for all of us. I can’t wait to implement some of these!
February 7, 2024
Great tools for loving your neighbor
August 31, 2021
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it a lot. Filled with practical guidance and wisdom on how and following from a powerful "why should we love our neighbours"
That said, I think reading the book in print would be a better medium for this kind of book, easier to take notes and copy ideas down rather than have to try and time stamp it and check back later.
That said, I think reading the book in print would be a better medium for this kind of book, easier to take notes and copy ideas down rather than have to try and time stamp it and check back later.
June 8, 2019
'Treasure' can be a great synonym for 'love'
There are several words in the Greek New Testament that get translated into English as ‘love’. I confuse them often, as probably many other people do also. When this book first came available for review, I decided to pass on it. The cover didn’t jump out and grab my attention, the author, Alexandra Kuykendall, wasn’t familiar to me, and some of the things I read about her other books made me think that this was a book better suited to a female audience, and besides, with a title like Loving My Actual Neighbor (Baker Books, 2019), I expected 150 or so pages of someone trying to tell me who my neighbor is. And I already get that.
But I was looking for something to read, a book to take with me on vacation, a book which could be left in a hotel room, airport, or a seat pocket and perhaps the loss wouldn’t be noticed. So, I took a second look, and what caught my eye was the Subtitle: 7 Practices to Treasure the People Right in Front of You.
This wasn’t going to be an attempt to convince me that I needed to love the unlovable, the unwashed, the people that don’t look, talk, dress, or cook like me. Rather it was going to be practical advice on how to love my neighbor—whoever that might be. And then I began to look at the word ‘treasure’. What a great synonym for ‘love’. It’s not a sexual attraction, not just a friendship, or a familial affection, this is about valuing a person for what he is, rather than who. And what he or she is just happens to be a human being created in the image of God. And in the early pages, the author suggests that her chapters are based on 2 Peter 1:5-9. I got where she was going, but it was a bit of a stretch for me to get there.
Kuykendall goes beyond telling us to practice the golden rule, and actually does offer some advice on how to put into practice some of those principles that many of us have learned since childhood. Things like staying humble and being a good conversationalist (listening skills, and asking questions to learn more about the other person). Being willing to stick it out even when you are obviously out of your comfort zone, and realizing that there are things you can’t change, so make the best of them. Being able to give freely—without expecting anything in return. And my favorite: lighten up—don’t take yourself so darn seriously.
There are also some additional useful tools to be found at the end of the book.
This is not the type of book that I usually read, I’m still not a fan of the cover, and yeah, a female audience might like this book more than I did, but, still, I’m glad I reconsidered and took the time to read it. I’ll probably pass the book on to a friend, or donate it rather than make it a permanent part of my library.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher as a participant in their blogger’s program. I was not required to write a positive review, rather an honest one, based on my opinion of and experience with the book.
4/5
There are several words in the Greek New Testament that get translated into English as ‘love’. I confuse them often, as probably many other people do also. When this book first came available for review, I decided to pass on it. The cover didn’t jump out and grab my attention, the author, Alexandra Kuykendall, wasn’t familiar to me, and some of the things I read about her other books made me think that this was a book better suited to a female audience, and besides, with a title like Loving My Actual Neighbor (Baker Books, 2019), I expected 150 or so pages of someone trying to tell me who my neighbor is. And I already get that.
But I was looking for something to read, a book to take with me on vacation, a book which could be left in a hotel room, airport, or a seat pocket and perhaps the loss wouldn’t be noticed. So, I took a second look, and what caught my eye was the Subtitle: 7 Practices to Treasure the People Right in Front of You.
This wasn’t going to be an attempt to convince me that I needed to love the unlovable, the unwashed, the people that don’t look, talk, dress, or cook like me. Rather it was going to be practical advice on how to love my neighbor—whoever that might be. And then I began to look at the word ‘treasure’. What a great synonym for ‘love’. It’s not a sexual attraction, not just a friendship, or a familial affection, this is about valuing a person for what he is, rather than who. And what he or she is just happens to be a human being created in the image of God. And in the early pages, the author suggests that her chapters are based on 2 Peter 1:5-9. I got where she was going, but it was a bit of a stretch for me to get there.
Kuykendall goes beyond telling us to practice the golden rule, and actually does offer some advice on how to put into practice some of those principles that many of us have learned since childhood. Things like staying humble and being a good conversationalist (listening skills, and asking questions to learn more about the other person). Being willing to stick it out even when you are obviously out of your comfort zone, and realizing that there are things you can’t change, so make the best of them. Being able to give freely—without expecting anything in return. And my favorite: lighten up—don’t take yourself so darn seriously.
There are also some additional useful tools to be found at the end of the book.
This is not the type of book that I usually read, I’m still not a fan of the cover, and yeah, a female audience might like this book more than I did, but, still, I’m glad I reconsidered and took the time to read it. I’ll probably pass the book on to a friend, or donate it rather than make it a permanent part of my library.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher as a participant in their blogger’s program. I was not required to write a positive review, rather an honest one, based on my opinion of and experience with the book.
4/5
April 16, 2019
This newly released book Loving My Actual Neighbor ~ 7 Practices to Treasure the People Right in Front of You by Alexandra Kuykendall has a much-needed message for all of us. This was such a wonderful and helpful read for me. We know as Christians that we are called to love others, but sometimes this can be a struggle. How and what should we do to show love to others? Yes, this book focuses on loving our neighbors and your neighborhood, but the word neighbor is much more than that, it is also anyone that is around you or you come into contact with. So your family, the clerk at the store, a new person sitting next to at church, your co-worker, etc… This book covers this and so much more! Me being more of a shy introvert type, struggle in these areas sometimes. Her chapters about awkwardness, listening, and communicating with others, especially those we don’t relate to easily and difficult people was so helpful! Each chapter ends with some bullet points to put into practice, questions to reflect upon, and Scripture to meditate on. She also provides a wonderful section in the back of the book of ways to connect, communicate, and how to reach out to others around you in your everyday living. I look forward to using some of her suggestions in the areas we serve in currently and in new opportunities that the Lord provides us!!
These are 7 chapters and these focus on ways to care for our neighbors by:
Holding a posture of humility
Asking questions to learn
Being quiet to listen
Standing in the awkward
Accepting what is
Lightening up
Giving freely
This is important to remember as we start: “As we begin this journey together of exploring how to love our neighbors well, may we remember that God’s grace is covering it all. We are imperfect people stumbling through life, trying to love other imperfect people. If we are getting more honest in relationships, there will be moments that will be difficult. Things won’t go as we picture they will. The mess will seep out and we will miss opportunities that come up. We will likely say things we regret, and we will face feelings and ideas that make us uncomfortable. But we will also experience life as God intended with more depth as we interact with those right in front of us on a more intentional level.”
These are 7 chapters and these focus on ways to care for our neighbors by:
Holding a posture of humility
Asking questions to learn
Being quiet to listen
Standing in the awkward
Accepting what is
Lightening up
Giving freely
This is important to remember as we start: “As we begin this journey together of exploring how to love our neighbors well, may we remember that God’s grace is covering it all. We are imperfect people stumbling through life, trying to love other imperfect people. If we are getting more honest in relationships, there will be moments that will be difficult. Things won’t go as we picture they will. The mess will seep out and we will miss opportunities that come up. We will likely say things we regret, and we will face feelings and ideas that make us uncomfortable. But we will also experience life as God intended with more depth as we interact with those right in front of us on a more intentional level.”
July 6, 2019
Great practical book about being a good neighbor in humility and a position of respect for all people. It felt practical without being formulaic (you must do x,y, and z in order to love your neighbor). Struck a good balance.
April 15, 2019
Having recently finished another book on the same subject (which I wasn't especially drawn to), I was curious to read
Loving My Actual Neighbor: 7 Practices to Treasure the People Right in Front of You
by Alexandra Kuykendall, an author, podcast co-host, and speaker. Kuykendall organizes her book around seven practices (taken loosely from 2 Peter 1:5-7): holding a posture of humility, asking questions to learn, being quiet to listen, standing in the awkward, accepting what is, lightening up, and giving freely. Each chapter concludes with thoughtful questions and application ideas, beneficial for personal reflection as well as group conversation. There are also several lists at the back of the book of practical ideas for engaging with one's neighbors, such as "Ten Ways to Love Your Homebound Neighbors."
Kuykendall is an honest, engaging writer and I was pleased to find Loving My Actual Neighbor a clearly articulated, down-to-earth, realistic, and practical discussion of the important, and sometimes complicated, call to love our neighbors (defined in this book as those in physical proximity to us) and what that looks like in today's cultural, political, and religious context. Similar to the previous book I read, I was challenged to think about (but not overthink) how to love my neighbors well, but not as specifically in terms of serving them and "missional living," but more so in recognizing their worth and dignity as people made in God's image (as I am) who are not assignments but potential friends. Though it is a brief book, Kuykendall covers a lot of ground, from pointing out the difference between empathizing with someone's feelings and endorsing their actions or behavior to encouraging parties just for the fun of it (because Christians are sometimes too serious!), and while some content overlaps among chapters and some wasn't really novel (for instance, discussions on nonverbal communication), overall I still appreciated Loving My Actual Neighbor and would recommend it to anyone who lives next door to someone. (As a side note, I also would consider this book a good companion, in a general sense, to Messy Grace .)
Disclaimer: This book was received for free from Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my honest review. Note as with all reviews and references, I do not necessarily agree with (or am even aware of) any or all of the beliefs, views, etc. of the author; please read my disclaimer here.
Kuykendall is an honest, engaging writer and I was pleased to find Loving My Actual Neighbor a clearly articulated, down-to-earth, realistic, and practical discussion of the important, and sometimes complicated, call to love our neighbors (defined in this book as those in physical proximity to us) and what that looks like in today's cultural, political, and religious context. Similar to the previous book I read, I was challenged to think about (but not overthink) how to love my neighbors well, but not as specifically in terms of serving them and "missional living," but more so in recognizing their worth and dignity as people made in God's image (as I am) who are not assignments but potential friends. Though it is a brief book, Kuykendall covers a lot of ground, from pointing out the difference between empathizing with someone's feelings and endorsing their actions or behavior to encouraging parties just for the fun of it (because Christians are sometimes too serious!), and while some content overlaps among chapters and some wasn't really novel (for instance, discussions on nonverbal communication), overall I still appreciated Loving My Actual Neighbor and would recommend it to anyone who lives next door to someone. (As a side note, I also would consider this book a good companion, in a general sense, to Messy Grace .)
Disclaimer: This book was received for free from Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my honest review. Note as with all reviews and references, I do not necessarily agree with (or am even aware of) any or all of the beliefs, views, etc. of the author; please read my disclaimer here.
February 26, 2019
*I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Author Alexandra Kuykendall asks a seemingly simple question in her fourth book, Loving My Actual Neighbor: how, exactly, do we love our neighbor? It seems simple, but in an increasingly isolated and online world, it is anything but.
When Jesus named the second greatest commandment to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:38), the common interpretation is that He wasn’t talking about just our literal neighbors, but every person who is in some way in close proximity to us: our family, friends, co-workers, community members, and, yes, our literal neighbors. Kuykendall takes this commandment to heart and emphasizes geographical neighbors, examining what loving our actual neighbor means in the context of our own lives and offering practical tips on where to get started.
I especially loved chapter 4, “Standing in the Awkward,” which acknowledges the elephant in the room that sometimes talking to people you don’t usually talk to is going to be awkward and weird. This awkwardness often stems from fear, fear that we won’t be accepted, that we’ll put ourselves out on a limb and end up falling on our faces. It’s an idea Kuykendall acknowledges even in the introduction, and that is woven throughout:
“Despite these self-focused hang-ups, I know it’s not all about me. That’s the idea behind loving our neighbors, right? That we move past our agenda, comfort, and convenience and toward love.”
The end of the book includes a section on some very practical ways to actually start loving our neighbors, including “Ten Ways to Connect with Families Throughout the Year,” “Ten Ways to Love Your Homebound Neighbors,” and “Ten Reasons to Have a Block (or Street or Building) Party.”
If I had one complaint about the book, it was that it was too short! I wanted to read more. Kuykendall’s writing style is very engaging, and I would have loved to see her go a little more in depth with some of her ideas. But, this was, after all, supposed to be a practical guide to loving our neighbor, so maybe was not the place for a theological treatise.
This book challenged me to examine the human connections in my own life in the context of Jesus’ love, which is what it set out to do and what I was hoping for when I began reading.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Loving My Actual Neighbor by Alexandra Kuykendall is out April 2.
Author Alexandra Kuykendall asks a seemingly simple question in her fourth book, Loving My Actual Neighbor: how, exactly, do we love our neighbor? It seems simple, but in an increasingly isolated and online world, it is anything but.
When Jesus named the second greatest commandment to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:38), the common interpretation is that He wasn’t talking about just our literal neighbors, but every person who is in some way in close proximity to us: our family, friends, co-workers, community members, and, yes, our literal neighbors. Kuykendall takes this commandment to heart and emphasizes geographical neighbors, examining what loving our actual neighbor means in the context of our own lives and offering practical tips on where to get started.
I especially loved chapter 4, “Standing in the Awkward,” which acknowledges the elephant in the room that sometimes talking to people you don’t usually talk to is going to be awkward and weird. This awkwardness often stems from fear, fear that we won’t be accepted, that we’ll put ourselves out on a limb and end up falling on our faces. It’s an idea Kuykendall acknowledges even in the introduction, and that is woven throughout:
“Despite these self-focused hang-ups, I know it’s not all about me. That’s the idea behind loving our neighbors, right? That we move past our agenda, comfort, and convenience and toward love.”
The end of the book includes a section on some very practical ways to actually start loving our neighbors, including “Ten Ways to Connect with Families Throughout the Year,” “Ten Ways to Love Your Homebound Neighbors,” and “Ten Reasons to Have a Block (or Street or Building) Party.”
If I had one complaint about the book, it was that it was too short! I wanted to read more. Kuykendall’s writing style is very engaging, and I would have loved to see her go a little more in depth with some of her ideas. But, this was, after all, supposed to be a practical guide to loving our neighbor, so maybe was not the place for a theological treatise.
This book challenged me to examine the human connections in my own life in the context of Jesus’ love, which is what it set out to do and what I was hoping for when I began reading.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Loving My Actual Neighbor by Alexandra Kuykendall is out April 2.
July 25, 2019
*I received Loving My Actual Neighbor from Baker Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
When I saw that Alexandra Kuykendall had written another book, I knew I HAD to pick it up. Loving My Actual Life was life changing for me. I even have some friends doing a book club using it because of my recommendation. So, when I saw that Loving my Actual Neighbor: 7 Practices to Treasure People Right in Front of You was available, I knew I needed to read it too.
In a world where most of our interaction is done through media channels and online engagement- neighborly communication has majorly diminished over the years. Alexandra Kuykendall wants to change that. She gives us practical steps to become a better neighbor. To our actual neighbors, those in our community, church, and people we see in our day to day lives.
Sometimes that looks like listening. Shutting our mouths and letting others bring their burdens to us. Listening to better understand where they’ve been, who they are.
…”what most of us want is to be understood. To be understood we must be heard. For us to be heard, the person we are talking to must be quiet.”
She also reminds us that sometimes being a good neighbor may feel awkward. That trying new things can make us uncomfortable.
“The more we put ourselves in new, even uncomfortable, situations, the more likely we are to be okay with that feeling. We are then more willing to step into a new and different experience, expecting the familiar awkward.”
As I get older I’ve really been focusing on trying to be a better friend. Especially to those people that I see often. The actual people that live on my street. The families I’ve met at church, the couples in my small group. These are the people that make up our communities and by being a better neighbor to them, we are making where we live a better place!
My favorite part about the book is that at the end she actually includes lists of things we can do to be a better neighbor. Ways to connect with our neighbors. How we can be helpful to our home-bound neighbor. And excuses we can make to get together with those who live around us- I’m mulling over the idea of a block party as we speak, thanks to her advice.
When I saw that Alexandra Kuykendall had written another book, I knew I HAD to pick it up. Loving My Actual Life was life changing for me. I even have some friends doing a book club using it because of my recommendation. So, when I saw that Loving my Actual Neighbor: 7 Practices to Treasure People Right in Front of You was available, I knew I needed to read it too.
In a world where most of our interaction is done through media channels and online engagement- neighborly communication has majorly diminished over the years. Alexandra Kuykendall wants to change that. She gives us practical steps to become a better neighbor. To our actual neighbors, those in our community, church, and people we see in our day to day lives.
Sometimes that looks like listening. Shutting our mouths and letting others bring their burdens to us. Listening to better understand where they’ve been, who they are.
…”what most of us want is to be understood. To be understood we must be heard. For us to be heard, the person we are talking to must be quiet.”
She also reminds us that sometimes being a good neighbor may feel awkward. That trying new things can make us uncomfortable.
“The more we put ourselves in new, even uncomfortable, situations, the more likely we are to be okay with that feeling. We are then more willing to step into a new and different experience, expecting the familiar awkward.”
As I get older I’ve really been focusing on trying to be a better friend. Especially to those people that I see often. The actual people that live on my street. The families I’ve met at church, the couples in my small group. These are the people that make up our communities and by being a better neighbor to them, we are making where we live a better place!
My favorite part about the book is that at the end she actually includes lists of things we can do to be a better neighbor. Ways to connect with our neighbors. How we can be helpful to our home-bound neighbor. And excuses we can make to get together with those who live around us- I’m mulling over the idea of a block party as we speak, thanks to her advice.
May 17, 2019
Honestly, I have a strong interest in books on community. As an introverted geek I love being involved in community but tend to rock the awkward person in the corner or frazzled mom look over coherent person.
In Loving My Actual Neighbor Kuykundell presents 7 practices to help people learn how to embrace the community they naturally encounter in their everyday lives and there's even a chapter that specifically addresses being awkward (talk about a book that speaks to my heart.)
When I read Kuykendall in the past, I did struggle to find her central message amid her storied, train-of-thought writing style. Here, Kuykendall takes a far more direct approach to her topic presenting one chapter on each of her practices followed by some practical application appendices to start brainstorming application when you're finished reading. I was surprised and impressed by these changes as I could still see the central heart Kuykendall's style within a more readable structure.
Overall, I was really impressed with the practicality and ease of application of Kuykendall's book. I, honestly wish this was available when I was in college as she takes concepts such as active listening and makes them accessible. There's nothing overly groundbreaking in these pages as far as information goes. Common sense reigns here with topics such as humility, quietness, giving, or lightening up.
But it's in this common sense and structurally conversational tone that Kuykendall finds her strength. Community should flow out of the natural and sometimes awkward encounters in our lives, there isn't usually a lot of time for complexities in the everyday and this book reflects the everyday reality it's meant to find its life in.
4.5 out of 5 stars
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."
In Loving My Actual Neighbor Kuykundell presents 7 practices to help people learn how to embrace the community they naturally encounter in their everyday lives and there's even a chapter that specifically addresses being awkward (talk about a book that speaks to my heart.)
When I read Kuykendall in the past, I did struggle to find her central message amid her storied, train-of-thought writing style. Here, Kuykendall takes a far more direct approach to her topic presenting one chapter on each of her practices followed by some practical application appendices to start brainstorming application when you're finished reading. I was surprised and impressed by these changes as I could still see the central heart Kuykendall's style within a more readable structure.
Overall, I was really impressed with the practicality and ease of application of Kuykendall's book. I, honestly wish this was available when I was in college as she takes concepts such as active listening and makes them accessible. There's nothing overly groundbreaking in these pages as far as information goes. Common sense reigns here with topics such as humility, quietness, giving, or lightening up.
But it's in this common sense and structurally conversational tone that Kuykendall finds her strength. Community should flow out of the natural and sometimes awkward encounters in our lives, there isn't usually a lot of time for complexities in the everyday and this book reflects the everyday reality it's meant to find its life in.
4.5 out of 5 stars
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."
June 6, 2019
My Reflections: I chose this particular book because as a family we felt that our neighbourhood was specifically chosen for us to live in, it was actually pretty clear from the start that God wanted us here.
We live in a quirky little back road community with vibrant neighbours and strong community presence. Our family is young while most of my neighbours are retired and enjoying a different life stage. We are homeschoolers so I wanted the kids to be involved in the neighbourhood, I wanted them to pray for each and every one of the people on our street. So we embarked on our prayer walk project, which in turn moved onto our prayer drive. We would pray silently for each and every neighbour along our road, each time we drove by or walked by their homes. We have continued this off and on for the entire 7 years we have lived on this street. I believe God hears our prayers and will bless each and every one of the people who we have lifted up to him.
This book is a practical and concise introductory plan on how to pray and minister to your neighbours. I loved how real and easy to follow this book was to read. This book starts with a thought-provoking introduction and moves onto well laid out chapters on practical ways to engage and foster meaningful neighbourly relationships. I particularly enjoyed how the segments were a real and not fluffy and airy fairy. Yep, you may not get along or seem to make much of a difference in your neighbour's spiritual walk, but you never know what God is doing on the inside!
He asks us to be faithful in our walk and I believe this is one area where we can do just that. So if you are looking for ways to be impactful with the people God has nestled you between, here's your chance to get real!
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
We live in a quirky little back road community with vibrant neighbours and strong community presence. Our family is young while most of my neighbours are retired and enjoying a different life stage. We are homeschoolers so I wanted the kids to be involved in the neighbourhood, I wanted them to pray for each and every one of the people on our street. So we embarked on our prayer walk project, which in turn moved onto our prayer drive. We would pray silently for each and every neighbour along our road, each time we drove by or walked by their homes. We have continued this off and on for the entire 7 years we have lived on this street. I believe God hears our prayers and will bless each and every one of the people who we have lifted up to him.
This book is a practical and concise introductory plan on how to pray and minister to your neighbours. I loved how real and easy to follow this book was to read. This book starts with a thought-provoking introduction and moves onto well laid out chapters on practical ways to engage and foster meaningful neighbourly relationships. I particularly enjoyed how the segments were a real and not fluffy and airy fairy. Yep, you may not get along or seem to make much of a difference in your neighbour's spiritual walk, but you never know what God is doing on the inside!
He asks us to be faithful in our walk and I believe this is one area where we can do just that. So if you are looking for ways to be impactful with the people God has nestled you between, here's your chance to get real!
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
May 21, 2019
Influenced by the principles outlined in 1 Peter 2, Loving My Actual Neighbor offers the reader practical and encouraging ways to work towards achieving our common goals. This involves: Humbling ourselves before our neighbor, Asking questions about our neighbor to gain insight into their life, Quieting our voice in order to observe & listen, Stepping into awkward situations, conversations, or silence, Accepting the truth and the reality of your relationship with your neighbor, Lightening up (the mood, situation, burden, etc), and Freely giving away our time, talent and treasure.
As a self-proclaimed extroverted introvert, I found this book both insightful and personally challenging. The author herself claims to be an introvert so learning about some of the ways she loves on her neighbors deeply encourages me to go outside of my comfort zone.
This was my first experience reading (or listening to) anything from Alexandra Kuykendall so I can’t really compare this book to her previous publications. Regardless, I absolutely loved her writing style, authentic voice, and vulnerability. She had me nodding along while jotting down notes on how I can be both a better neighbor while loving my actual neighbors.
Loving My Actual Neighbor is a book everyone can relate to and learn something from. The theme of this book is so needed right now in this world. If you are looking for change and inspired to put in some work to impact your sphere of influence, I highly recommend adding Loving My Actual Neighbor to your must-read book list.
* I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
As a self-proclaimed extroverted introvert, I found this book both insightful and personally challenging. The author herself claims to be an introvert so learning about some of the ways she loves on her neighbors deeply encourages me to go outside of my comfort zone.
This was my first experience reading (or listening to) anything from Alexandra Kuykendall so I can’t really compare this book to her previous publications. Regardless, I absolutely loved her writing style, authentic voice, and vulnerability. She had me nodding along while jotting down notes on how I can be both a better neighbor while loving my actual neighbors.
Loving My Actual Neighbor is a book everyone can relate to and learn something from. The theme of this book is so needed right now in this world. If you are looking for change and inspired to put in some work to impact your sphere of influence, I highly recommend adding Loving My Actual Neighbor to your must-read book list.
* I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
April 19, 2019
I often think of ways of how I can show God’s loving care, compassion and mercy towards others. With Alexandra Kuykendall’s Loving My Actual Neighbor, she puts forth seven things she considers worth looking at in dealing with our neighbors. Those things she looks at within the pages of this book are holding a posture of humility, asking questions to learn, being quiet to listen, standing in those times of awkwardness, accepting what is, lightening up, and giving freely.
While I applaud her efforts in raising a standard God holds dear for all of us as His children as well as ambassadors, there are times I feel she’s a bit heavy. Don’t get me wrong, I can be heavy myself with talking about how to go about doing things God’s way, so don’t think I’m putting Kuykendall down on this point. I just mean she gets in-depth on what she’s talking about.
Overall, I find I like the book. I would say that in the interest of can this be a best-seller? Perhaps it is. After reading it, from my view, I don’t hold it in that same sense, but that’s just my opinion. As I said, Kuykendall has a lot going for her with her points and it moves the book forward in the message she’s sending: we, as God’s children, ought to show the utmost love and respect for others. It is also in this I say all of this to show I care deeply about that same message she offers in this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Books for a fair and objective review.
While I applaud her efforts in raising a standard God holds dear for all of us as His children as well as ambassadors, there are times I feel she’s a bit heavy. Don’t get me wrong, I can be heavy myself with talking about how to go about doing things God’s way, so don’t think I’m putting Kuykendall down on this point. I just mean she gets in-depth on what she’s talking about.
Overall, I find I like the book. I would say that in the interest of can this be a best-seller? Perhaps it is. After reading it, from my view, I don’t hold it in that same sense, but that’s just my opinion. As I said, Kuykendall has a lot going for her with her points and it moves the book forward in the message she’s sending: we, as God’s children, ought to show the utmost love and respect for others. It is also in this I say all of this to show I care deeply about that same message she offers in this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Books for a fair and objective review.
April 2, 2019
If you are looking for a practical, Scriptural devotional for your private study time, this is it. If you are looking for a practical, Scriptural study for your small group, this is it. (This book is geared more for women, and possibly couples.) The morning that I finished this book, I knew that I would begin rereading it the following morning. There was just too many great ideas to take in on the first read through.
Kuykendall's words are both encouraging and convicting. She describes circumstances which I now see as loving my neighbor that I would not have thought of in that way because they occur naturally without great effort or sacrifice. She also describes circumstances that challenge and motivate me to be more intentional. While Kuykendall's life as a young mother in an urban neighborhood is much different from mine as a retired grandmother in a small town, her content relates well in both situations, and is easily generalized to many more.
I am grateful to have received a copy of Loving My Actual Neighbor from Baker Books via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.
Kuykendall's words are both encouraging and convicting. She describes circumstances which I now see as loving my neighbor that I would not have thought of in that way because they occur naturally without great effort or sacrifice. She also describes circumstances that challenge and motivate me to be more intentional. While Kuykendall's life as a young mother in an urban neighborhood is much different from mine as a retired grandmother in a small town, her content relates well in both situations, and is easily generalized to many more.
I am grateful to have received a copy of Loving My Actual Neighbor from Baker Books via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.
June 11, 2019
It's not always easy to love our neighbors, but the Bible lets us know that loving other people is essential. We love because God loved us first. Alexandra Kuykendall uses this book to highlight seven different practices for showing love to those that are around us. These practices include humility, asking questions, listening, embracing the awkward, acceptance, lightening up, and giving freely. We can all learn something from this book about how to improve our habits and treatment of other people.
This book is very eye-opening and helpful. Reading about the author's real life experiences is inspiring and she is very admirable. She helps the reader to see their neighbor in a different light. A neighbor doesn't necessarily have to live next door to us. It could be a friend from church, a parent from school, or someone we see at the grocery store. It is so important to connect with others in order to glorify God and spread his Word as he intended. I really liked the tips that were offered in this book such as dealing with conflict and how to engage and connect with our neighbors. I took away a lot of great information from this read and I am thankful to the author and BakerBooks for the chance to read and review this book!
This book is very eye-opening and helpful. Reading about the author's real life experiences is inspiring and she is very admirable. She helps the reader to see their neighbor in a different light. A neighbor doesn't necessarily have to live next door to us. It could be a friend from church, a parent from school, or someone we see at the grocery store. It is so important to connect with others in order to glorify God and spread his Word as he intended. I really liked the tips that were offered in this book such as dealing with conflict and how to engage and connect with our neighbors. I took away a lot of great information from this read and I am thankful to the author and BakerBooks for the chance to read and review this book!
April 10, 2019
My favorite kind of soul-improvement books are those that offer fresh insights into familiar issues. The sort that provides a new lens through which to really see solutions which have always been right there. Alexandra Kuykendall’s Loving My Actual Neighbor : 7 Practices to Treasure the People Right in Front of You does exactly this, using 2 Peter 1 as a unique roadmap to personal and spiritual growth.
Because I am and always will be a story girl, the surest way to connect with my heart and soul is through storytelling. Alex does this aplenty, offering chiefly her own stories in which she makes herself vulnerable as she gives unvarnished glimpses into her own journey toward loving her actual neighbors.
Its friendly tone and succinct chapters make Loving My Actual Neighbor a quick read, easily consumed in two weeks or less. It also contains plenty of outside-the-box thinking; Alex is especially good that way. If you’re like me and want to love your neighbors better but aren’t quite sure where or how to begin, let this book show you the way.
Thanks to Baker Books for providing me this book free of charge. All opinions are mine.
Because I am and always will be a story girl, the surest way to connect with my heart and soul is through storytelling. Alex does this aplenty, offering chiefly her own stories in which she makes herself vulnerable as she gives unvarnished glimpses into her own journey toward loving her actual neighbors.
Its friendly tone and succinct chapters make Loving My Actual Neighbor a quick read, easily consumed in two weeks or less. It also contains plenty of outside-the-box thinking; Alex is especially good that way. If you’re like me and want to love your neighbors better but aren’t quite sure where or how to begin, let this book show you the way.
Thanks to Baker Books for providing me this book free of charge. All opinions are mine.
April 5, 2019
"The love of Christ demonstrated though us"
Loving My Actual Neighbor is a how-to guide for those who are stuck in the comfort of their own home and in need of an awakening. It outlines seven easy steps to build a community and get the most out of our relationships with those close to us. Alex takes heart to God's instructions of "loving our neighbor as ourselves" with humorous anecdotes and heartwarming stories (my favorite is Frank, read the book to find out why). The part I liked the best about the book were the sections at the end of each chapter that included a call to action, reflection, and practice; not only are there examples but practical applications for the reader to use. Do not wait to get this book! We need a kinder and more loving world and this book is the perfect instruction manual.
Loving My Actual Neighbor is a how-to guide for those who are stuck in the comfort of their own home and in need of an awakening. It outlines seven easy steps to build a community and get the most out of our relationships with those close to us. Alex takes heart to God's instructions of "loving our neighbor as ourselves" with humorous anecdotes and heartwarming stories (my favorite is Frank, read the book to find out why). The part I liked the best about the book were the sections at the end of each chapter that included a call to action, reflection, and practice; not only are there examples but practical applications for the reader to use. Do not wait to get this book! We need a kinder and more loving world and this book is the perfect instruction manual.
April 10, 2019
Goodreads needs half-stars. This book is a 3.5 for me.
Oh I had such great high hopes for this book. I loved her Christmas book and was so excited to be on her advanced read team!
This just kinda fell flat for me. It's not written in the same style as her Christmas book, which I think is a lot of the problem. She had a lot of great stories, but they were so detailed, almost too detailed to hold my interest for long. Also the chapters were so long and had a lot of information in them.
The good is that I found a lot of her ideas to be really great and helpful in trying to create a relationship with my neighbors. I also loved the last part of the book with all the lists and suggestions for different aspects of your life.
So I definitely think people should read this, but know it will probably be slow and take time.
Oh I had such great high hopes for this book. I loved her Christmas book and was so excited to be on her advanced read team!
This just kinda fell flat for me. It's not written in the same style as her Christmas book, which I think is a lot of the problem. She had a lot of great stories, but they were so detailed, almost too detailed to hold my interest for long. Also the chapters were so long and had a lot of information in them.
The good is that I found a lot of her ideas to be really great and helpful in trying to create a relationship with my neighbors. I also loved the last part of the book with all the lists and suggestions for different aspects of your life.
So I definitely think people should read this, but know it will probably be slow and take time.
April 28, 2019
Author Alexandra Kuykendall asks a question in her fourth book, Loving My Actual Neighbor: how, do we love our neighbor? This is a question that the Bible talks about, yet believers are not sure how to put into practice on a practical level. It is something that I have struggled with and am thankful that Alexandra addresses in her book. She shows believers how we are to take Matthew 22:38 and live it out.
The book includes sections on very practical ways to start loving your neighbors including “Ten Ways to Connect with Families Throughout the Year, Ten Ways to Love Your Homebound Neighbors, and Ten Reasons to Have a Block Party.” I love the ideas that are presented in each of these sections and they are super relatable.
This book is a very practical resource and will challenge the reader to step out in faith to love your neighbors.
The book includes sections on very practical ways to start loving your neighbors including “Ten Ways to Connect with Families Throughout the Year, Ten Ways to Love Your Homebound Neighbors, and Ten Reasons to Have a Block Party.” I love the ideas that are presented in each of these sections and they are super relatable.
This book is a very practical resource and will challenge the reader to step out in faith to love your neighbors.
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