What do you think?
Rate this book
You Are Never Alone: Trust in the Miracle of God's Presence and Power
When life gets difficult, is God paying attention? If I'm facing challenge after challenge, will God help? When my days become dark and stormy, does God notice? The answer in the life-giving stories in the Gospel of John is a resounding yes . In You Are Never Alone, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado reminds us that our miracle-working God sees us, cares about us, and will always come to our aid, no matter what we're up against. By tracing Jesus' miracles as told in the book of John, You Are Never Alone invites us to take a closer look at the good news John shares with each of God is never afraid to meet us in the middle of life's messes, extend a helping hand, and lift us out of our troubles. You Are Never Alone will equip you You Are Never Alone also includes thoughtful, comprehensive reflection questions designed to go along with each chapter, giving you a chance to dive even deeper into the ways that God walks with you every step of the way.
240 pages, Paperback
Published December 28, 2021
1428 people are currently reading
1563 people want to read
About the author
Max Lucado
1,201 books5,419 followersWith more than 150 million products in print and several NYT bestsellers, Max Lucado is America's bestselling inspirational author. He serves the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy. His most recent book published in August 2024 and is titled What Happens Next.
https://www.facebook.com/maxlucado/
https://twitter.com/maxlucado
https://www.instagram.com/maxlucado/
https://www.accessmore.com/pd/maxluca...
https://www.facebook.com/maxlucado/
https://twitter.com/maxlucado
https://www.instagram.com/maxlucado/
https://www.accessmore.com/pd/maxluca...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
August 28, 2021
I read through "You are Never Alone" pretty quickly, this book was an easy read by Max Lucado. The chapters were powerful but short. I have been reading Lucado books for quite some time, but in this particular book, Max opens up and shares some of his personal stories that I have never heard before and made me respect him even more from what he's gone through in his life. He is truly a great Man of God! One of the things I love about Lucado's writings is that he'll reenact a scene from the Bible that is understandable and down-to-earth , talking about the miracles of Jesus and the story of Peter's redemption from a new, fresh look. Of course, I always love the way Lucado mixes in inspirational stories from history to prove that even now, God is moving and working. We can all read this book and grab on to these pages full of new concepts, fresh insight and engaging stories! I would definitely recommend this book, especially to anyone who needs to be reminded about God's faithfulness during the lonely and bitter trials of life.
June 12, 2020
I love Max Lucado! This book is a must read for everyone feeling alone, sad and hopeless. Loved it. I liked how he used a biblical perspective to us approaching our problems and it's always amazing to get that reminder that we are not alone
June 2, 2020
First sentence: "It's just me, and I ain't much." We’d been talking for well into an hour before she said the words. We’d worked our way through two cups of machinebrewed, hospital-waiting-room coffee. Hers with sweetener, mine with powdered creamer. Small of stature she was. No makeup, hair matted. Her T-shirt was loose fitting and crumpled. I wondered if she’d slept in it.
Max Lucado's newest book is drawn from the gospel of John. Each chapter in one way or another connects to a chapter of John. I emphasize in one way or another because the focus of each chapter centers more on stories and experiences--from his own life, from his conversations with others, his observations and conclusions--than on the Word of God itself. While other books quote Scripture--moderately to even liberally--Lucado's quoting of Scripture is sparse to almost non existent. He talks about the contents of the gospel of John--it's clearly evident that he's familiar with John and that he has given it much thought--but it's more like a summary aside that supports his narrative. I definitely think he leans towards inspirational application.
I read Lucado sparingly. I prefer to read something that requires more chewing, more thought, more attention. But I love, love, love, love, love, crazy love the gospel of John. I am always up to read a book that relates/connects to John. And so I was open to reading and reviewing this.
I definitely enjoyed it. Lucado has a way with words. Like he knows he's going to be quoted a billion times and then some. Which he is. Often. He knows his audience and what they expect. I definitely found gems that were worthy of quoting.
Max Lucado's newest book is drawn from the gospel of John. Each chapter in one way or another connects to a chapter of John. I emphasize in one way or another because the focus of each chapter centers more on stories and experiences--from his own life, from his conversations with others, his observations and conclusions--than on the Word of God itself. While other books quote Scripture--moderately to even liberally--Lucado's quoting of Scripture is sparse to almost non existent. He talks about the contents of the gospel of John--it's clearly evident that he's familiar with John and that he has given it much thought--but it's more like a summary aside that supports his narrative. I definitely think he leans towards inspirational application.
I read Lucado sparingly. I prefer to read something that requires more chewing, more thought, more attention. But I love, love, love, love, love, crazy love the gospel of John. I am always up to read a book that relates/connects to John. And so I was open to reading and reviewing this.
I definitely enjoyed it. Lucado has a way with words. Like he knows he's going to be quoted a billion times and then some. Which he is. Often. He knows his audience and what they expect. I definitely found gems that were worthy of quoting.
Life happens when we believe. We find strength beyond our strength. We accomplish tasks beyond our capacity. We see solutions beyond our wisdom. Belief is not some respectful salute to a divine being. Belief happens when we place our confidence in God. It is a decision to lean entirely upon the strength of a living and loving Savior.
Each and every one of Jesus’ miracles was an act of kindness. Someone benefited. All these events stand together as one voice, calling on you to lift your eyes and open your heart to the possibility—indeed, the reality—that the greatest force in the universe is One who means you well and brings you hope.
You’re stronger than you think because God is nearer than you know.
Read the Bible from the table of contents in the front to the maps in the back, and you will not find any promise of a pain-free life on this side of death. But you will find this assurance: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Heb. 13:5 niv).
Set your compass on the polestar of God’s promise, and place one weary foot in front of the other. Jesus has spoken. Let his word do what it was intended to do: lead you home.
It is not ours to say what God will do. Our job is to believe he will do something. It simply falls to us to stand up, take up, and walk.
When we wonder if God is coming, he answers with his name: “I AM!” When we wonder if he is able, he declares, “I AM.” When we see nothing but darkness, feel nothing but doubt, and wonder if God is near or aware, the welcome answer from Jesus is this: “I AM!” Pause for a moment and let him tell you his name. Your greatest need is his presence. Yes, you want this storm to pass. Yes, you want the winds to still. But yes, yes, yes, you want to know, need to know, and must know that the great I AM is near.
When I was a fifth grader, the optometrist gave me a vision test. If God tested your spiritual vision, would you pass it? Can you see the meaning of life? Have you caught a vision for eternity? Most of all, can you see God’s great love for you? The hand you sense on your face is his. The voice you hear is his. It is not his will that we grope blindly through life. He wants us to know why we are on earth and where we are going. Our vision matters to Jesus. He will do whatever it takes to help us see how to see.
October 13, 2021
9/10 I enjoyed the style of Max Lucado’s writing. It was easy to follow, and I read one chapter a day. Each chapter is like a mini-sermon.
I think the title is a little misleading. It’s actually a book about the different miraculous signs in John’s Gospel.
I found it encouraging, and I would probably reread it at some point.
The first 60% of the book contains his writings, and then the last 40% is made up of study questions. You could read it at a book club and study each chapter or go through the questions yourself as a Bible study.
I didn’t do that. I just flicked through to see what the questions were like. There are about ten or eleven for each chapter. You could spend quite a bit of time studying, but I just wanted to read it through like a book.
I think the title is a little misleading. It’s actually a book about the different miraculous signs in John’s Gospel.
I found it encouraging, and I would probably reread it at some point.
The first 60% of the book contains his writings, and then the last 40% is made up of study questions. You could read it at a book club and study each chapter or go through the questions yourself as a Bible study.
I didn’t do that. I just flicked through to see what the questions were like. There are about ten or eleven for each chapter. You could spend quite a bit of time studying, but I just wanted to read it through like a book.
August 1, 2020
As always, I thoroughly enjoy Max’s book. This was done in a way that is so easy to read and relate to. It doesn’t feel like preaching, but talking to a friend. Lots on insight and discussion that makes you feel like he understands and knows just how you’re feeling and how to come to Jesus with it all. Recommend.
January 30, 2022
God blessed Max Lucado with a special gift of writing. I read my first book, Traveling Light over twenty years ago, and have been reading ever since. I can count on the fact that I will learn, have a sense of peace, and always feel as if we had a face to face conversation. His books are a blessing to me.
August 14, 2020
Another excellent read by Max Lucado! While I generally read Christian fiction, when I do read non-fiction, Lucado is one of my go-to authors. I've read a majority of his works and have loved them all! This one is no different and is so appropos for our time. This book follows the miracles of Jesus as outlined in the book of John and demonstrates the ways that Jesus communicated He is here for us. Using scriptures as well as stories from his own life and lives of others, Lucado has spelled out the Love of the Father in a very unique way. Even though one of the catch phrases this year has been "we're all in this together", I think I speak for many of us when I say that we've never felt more alone, in spite of that. This book is such a good resource for that and I can't recommend it enough! Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to write a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
May 18, 2021
A wonderfully uplifting book in which the author sites the relevancy of miracles from the Bible when applied to present-day and future concerns. I enjoyed the first two-thirds (139 pages), but then the book came to an unexpected conclusion; the final third contained questions for reflection on all twelve chapters. I’ve never been one for interactive books, so admittedly, I only scanned this final part.
October 1, 2020
Such a COMFORTING read during these difficult times! I'm a Max Lucado fan - and I've been enjoying his regular little uplifting Youtube videos recently. It had been a while since I've read one of his books but this one did not disappoint!
May 23, 2021
As always, Max Lucado inspires the reader through relatable stories of life and God’s presence in it all and that He will never leave us alone. I highly recommend this book!!
September 21, 2020
When picking up a Max Lucado, you are guaranteed to have relatable, real-life stories entwined with Biblical truths and “You Are Never Alone” is no exception. The timing of the release of this book feels God-ordained, it has been birthed in the midst of COVID-19 when loneliness and depression are at the highest levels in years and anxiety is everywhere. I picked it up because it’s Max and he doesn’t avoid the hard questions or the suffering.
The book is built around the gospel of John and Max unpacks belief and trust in God’s presence and provision. My anxiety has skyrocketed through this time of COVID-19 and it’s raised old hurts afresh as well as agonising doubts for my faith in God. Max reassures readers who feel as I do with paragraphs such as
“For some of you the answer is no. Your faith is sequoia strong, deep rooted, and shade giving. Others of us, however, have to work through it. We have legitimate questions concerning Christianity. We seek answers that will satisfy our quest for an honest faith. If this describes you, let me welcome you to the Society of Seekers. Let me assure you, it is permissible to have doubts.”
From “You Are Never Alone” by Max Lucado
He also shares deeply traumatic experiences from his past. I am always amazed by his courage and his candidness. I heard in his prose a reassuring “I get the pain you’re in because I’ve walked this road” and when you’re world is spinning, it instills a glimmer of hope.
One of my triggers is death and so I battled to enjoy some of the stories, even when they intended to be light-hearted, and I wanted this book to be a fix. Instead, it was the beginning of a journey I am still walking. Before writing this review, I reread segments of the book and opened my Bible to John again. I am feeling stronger than I was when I first read these passages and more able to appreciate them. This is a book designed to pull you closer to God and into His Word.
I can’t but highly recommend “You Are Never Alone”, it is moving and hopeful. It gives you a fresh stream of thought to calm an anxious mind and mostly, it says “Me too, but God is here.” It’s five out of five on the enJOYment scale.
The book is built around the gospel of John and Max unpacks belief and trust in God’s presence and provision. My anxiety has skyrocketed through this time of COVID-19 and it’s raised old hurts afresh as well as agonising doubts for my faith in God. Max reassures readers who feel as I do with paragraphs such as
“For some of you the answer is no. Your faith is sequoia strong, deep rooted, and shade giving. Others of us, however, have to work through it. We have legitimate questions concerning Christianity. We seek answers that will satisfy our quest for an honest faith. If this describes you, let me welcome you to the Society of Seekers. Let me assure you, it is permissible to have doubts.”
From “You Are Never Alone” by Max Lucado
He also shares deeply traumatic experiences from his past. I am always amazed by his courage and his candidness. I heard in his prose a reassuring “I get the pain you’re in because I’ve walked this road” and when you’re world is spinning, it instills a glimmer of hope.
One of my triggers is death and so I battled to enjoy some of the stories, even when they intended to be light-hearted, and I wanted this book to be a fix. Instead, it was the beginning of a journey I am still walking. Before writing this review, I reread segments of the book and opened my Bible to John again. I am feeling stronger than I was when I first read these passages and more able to appreciate them. This is a book designed to pull you closer to God and into His Word.
I can’t but highly recommend “You Are Never Alone”, it is moving and hopeful. It gives you a fresh stream of thought to calm an anxious mind and mostly, it says “Me too, but God is here.” It’s five out of five on the enJOYment scale.
June 10, 2020
What's In Your Basket? This is the second time I've had the honor of working with one of my childhood literary heroes as an advance reader of his new book, and the first time I've actually read the entire book before publication (in this case, roughly 3 months before). And this book is classic Lucado. Full of humor, real life stories, encouragement, ... and prooftexting. For those that don't know, "prooftexting" is the concept used quite extensively in Christian circles where you cite seemingly random Bible verses in support - "proof" - of whatever claim you're making at the time. And it is an automatic star deduction whenever I encounter it. No ifs, ands, or buts. This is my own way of waging war against the practice.
All of that noted, this particular book looks at several of the miracles as seen in the Gospel of John, which has long been my own personal favorite Gospel and book of the Bible. So much so that when I preached my own first sermon over two decades ago now, it too came from John - though not one of the stories Lucado so eloquently discusses here.
Seriously y'all, the guy is a master of the conversational style and inspirational writing. He has been for 30 years, and this book is no different there. Were it not for the prooftexting, this is a 5* book easily if you're remotely open to Christian thinking, and if you don't want to read a book that heavily references Christian thinking... why are you reading a book by one of the most well known Christian writers and pastors in America today? It even has a revelation or two that I didn't know myself and had to Google, but for those still as plugged into this community as I was long ago were likely old news at this point.
All told, a work that is very much recommended.
All of that noted, this particular book looks at several of the miracles as seen in the Gospel of John, which has long been my own personal favorite Gospel and book of the Bible. So much so that when I preached my own first sermon over two decades ago now, it too came from John - though not one of the stories Lucado so eloquently discusses here.
Seriously y'all, the guy is a master of the conversational style and inspirational writing. He has been for 30 years, and this book is no different there. Were it not for the prooftexting, this is a 5* book easily if you're remotely open to Christian thinking, and if you don't want to read a book that heavily references Christian thinking... why are you reading a book by one of the most well known Christian writers and pastors in America today? It even has a revelation or two that I didn't know myself and had to Google, but for those still as plugged into this community as I was long ago were likely old news at this point.
All told, a work that is very much recommended.
August 22, 2020
Loneliness and isolation have been common feelings lately as live through this Corona virus pandemic. However, we are never truly alone. Max Lucado talks about trusting in the miracle of God's presence and power in his latest book, You Are Never Alone. We often wonder if God cares, and if he will help us and answer our prayers. But, we can have courage because God is near and will give us strength.
This timely message from Max was filled with personal stories, connections to the Bible, and life application advice. Max is a gifted story teller, and his books always pull me in and keep my attention. I pulled this book out before going to bed in the evening to find comfort and conviction. Each chapter is short and manageable, perfect for me as a mom on the go. There are also questions for reflection in the back of the book, so this book could easily be read and discussed in a small group setting.
Some of the quotes that really stuck out to me from this book were:
"It simply falls to us to believe - to believe that Jesus is king of each and every situation. So make your specific request, and trust him to do, not what you want, but what is best.
God is..."Ever present. Not occasional or sporadic help. You'll never be put on hold or told to check back later. He's never too busy, preoccupied, or away on a prior engagement."
"Keep running the race. And as you run, be assured. A Friend is waiting for you at the finish line. When you cross it, he'll catch you in his arms. Don't be surprised if he says again what he said then: 'It is finished.' "
"Jesus is the hero here. He is the one who found Peter, called Peter, orchestrated the fish catch for Peter, built the fire for Peter, cooked breakfast for Peter, took the confession of Peter, and recommissioned Peter. If the distance between Christ and Peter consisted of a hundred steps, Jesus took ninety-nine and a half. But Peter still had to take his step."
"We are not weather vanes whipped about by the winds of fate and chance. We are the children of a mighty and good God who cares for us."
If you never read a book by Max Lucado, this would be a great one to start with. You will find hope and encouragement no matter what you are facing in life. If you have read Max Lucado's other books, you will love this one too. Pick up a copy for yourself, and for a friend too!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This timely message from Max was filled with personal stories, connections to the Bible, and life application advice. Max is a gifted story teller, and his books always pull me in and keep my attention. I pulled this book out before going to bed in the evening to find comfort and conviction. Each chapter is short and manageable, perfect for me as a mom on the go. There are also questions for reflection in the back of the book, so this book could easily be read and discussed in a small group setting.
Some of the quotes that really stuck out to me from this book were:
"It simply falls to us to believe - to believe that Jesus is king of each and every situation. So make your specific request, and trust him to do, not what you want, but what is best.
God is..."Ever present. Not occasional or sporadic help. You'll never be put on hold or told to check back later. He's never too busy, preoccupied, or away on a prior engagement."
"Keep running the race. And as you run, be assured. A Friend is waiting for you at the finish line. When you cross it, he'll catch you in his arms. Don't be surprised if he says again what he said then: 'It is finished.' "
"Jesus is the hero here. He is the one who found Peter, called Peter, orchestrated the fish catch for Peter, built the fire for Peter, cooked breakfast for Peter, took the confession of Peter, and recommissioned Peter. If the distance between Christ and Peter consisted of a hundred steps, Jesus took ninety-nine and a half. But Peter still had to take his step."
"We are not weather vanes whipped about by the winds of fate and chance. We are the children of a mighty and good God who cares for us."
If you never read a book by Max Lucado, this would be a great one to start with. You will find hope and encouragement no matter what you are facing in life. If you have read Max Lucado's other books, you will love this one too. Pick up a copy for yourself, and for a friend too!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 15, 2020
Lucado is a master communicator. Even though he has written scores of books, this is another excellent one. He gives us lessons on many of Jesus' miracles, retelling the events. He adds other stories too with some from his own life. There is an extensive section of questions for reflection so this would make a good book for personal journaling or group discussion.
Here are a couple of insights from the book that made a big impression on me. When the royal official came to Jesus to request his son be healed, he traveled from Capernaum to Cana. (John 4:46-54) That was 18 miles. When Jesus told him the son was well, he still had to go back to see it. Granted, he was met part way with good news but he still had to travel hours believing before seeing. What a lesson for someone between Cana and Capernaum, waiting to see the answer God promised.
Another insightful lesson comes from the man beside the pool, waiting 38 years for healing. Could he have done something in all those years to move him closer to the healing pool or was he satisfied in his condition? Lucado asks, “What can I do today that will take me in the direction of a better tomorrow?” (410/1631)
And one more insight. John recorded miracles not only to affirm Jesus' deity but to assure us of the presence of God and that God cares for us. “...[E]very one of Jesus' miracles was an act of kindness. Someone benefited.” (96/1631)
This is a very encouraging book. It is full of encouraging stories and lessons. I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Here are a couple of insights from the book that made a big impression on me. When the royal official came to Jesus to request his son be healed, he traveled from Capernaum to Cana. (John 4:46-54) That was 18 miles. When Jesus told him the son was well, he still had to go back to see it. Granted, he was met part way with good news but he still had to travel hours believing before seeing. What a lesson for someone between Cana and Capernaum, waiting to see the answer God promised.
Another insightful lesson comes from the man beside the pool, waiting 38 years for healing. Could he have done something in all those years to move him closer to the healing pool or was he satisfied in his condition? Lucado asks, “What can I do today that will take me in the direction of a better tomorrow?” (410/1631)
And one more insight. John recorded miracles not only to affirm Jesus' deity but to assure us of the presence of God and that God cares for us. “...[E]very one of Jesus' miracles was an act of kindness. Someone benefited.” (96/1631)
This is a very encouraging book. It is full of encouraging stories and lessons. I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
June 5, 2021
This was an enlightening and affirming book for me. Max Lucado has written many books that I have enjoyed and this one goes up near the top of that list. Max Lucado's newest book is drawn from the gospel of John. Max Lucado shares stories of his life to inspire and demonstrate God’s presence in it all and that He will never leave us alone. Using the miracles that Jesus performed, he shares his understandings and interpretations. What I loved most was the understanding that Jesus' resurrection was the ultimate miracle and because of that, "You Are Never Alone."
I did a study with a group of friends while reading this book. I also read the study guide You Are Never Alone Study Guide: Trust in the Miracle of God's Presence and Power
that accompanies this one and used the videos that go with it. It was a great way to read and enjoy this book. Each week there were sections to read and questions for discussion in a group. There was also questions, and scriptures to read throughout the week to reflect further. I definitely recommend this book and the study for further reflection.
I did a study with a group of friends while reading this book. I also read the study guide You Are Never Alone Study Guide: Trust in the Miracle of God's Presence and Power
that accompanies this one and used the videos that go with it. It was a great way to read and enjoy this book. Each week there were sections to read and questions for discussion in a group. There was also questions, and scriptures to read throughout the week to reflect further. I definitely recommend this book and the study for further reflection.
December 14, 2022
I like reading something inspirational at Christmastime and Max Lucado is a favorite. He is able to take a concept and dive into it and make it accessible. In this book, he looks at the book of John and its central themes. John tells stories not found in other parts of the gospel. He looks at the raising of Lazarus, the calming of the sea, healings, and miracle of the loaves and fishes. It is an intimate look at the miracles and the message of hope. As always, there is plenty to think about and Lucado talks to his readers as a friend. At a time of the year when not everyone is celebrating, it lets you remember what is truly important. You are never alone.
Quotes to remember:
The next time you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself of the One who is standing next to you. You aren't alone. You aren't without help. What bewilders you does not bewilder Him. Your uphill is downhill for Him. He is not stumped by your problem.
Jesus comes in the midst of the torrent. All of us will face our share of storms. No one gets through life scot-free.
God met me in the midst of the messiness of my life, and I felt fresh determination to press on and persevere. I suddenly felt extraordinary in spite of my terrible pain. That moment changed everything for me. It was my epiphany of hope. I knew deep inside that my earth suit was only temporary...Don't try to weather the storm alone. Row the boat, and bail the water, but above all bid Christ to enter your sinking craft. Believe that you are never alone...listen for the response of Jesus: I am with you in the storm.
The message of the miracles in the Miracle Worker himself. He wants you to know you are never alone. You are never without hope, help, or strength. You are stronger than you think because God is nearer than you might imagine.
Quotes to remember:
The next time you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself of the One who is standing next to you. You aren't alone. You aren't without help. What bewilders you does not bewilder Him. Your uphill is downhill for Him. He is not stumped by your problem.
Jesus comes in the midst of the torrent. All of us will face our share of storms. No one gets through life scot-free.
God met me in the midst of the messiness of my life, and I felt fresh determination to press on and persevere. I suddenly felt extraordinary in spite of my terrible pain. That moment changed everything for me. It was my epiphany of hope. I knew deep inside that my earth suit was only temporary...Don't try to weather the storm alone. Row the boat, and bail the water, but above all bid Christ to enter your sinking craft. Believe that you are never alone...listen for the response of Jesus: I am with you in the storm.
The message of the miracles in the Miracle Worker himself. He wants you to know you are never alone. You are never without hope, help, or strength. You are stronger than you think because God is nearer than you might imagine.
April 24, 2022
I’d like to say, You are Never Alone is the best Max Lucado book I have read. However, I suspect that it was God’s timing for me to read this book when I did as it spoke to me about some situations that I was facing. Nevertheless, Max is an excellent writer and uses good illustrations with practical applications to get his point across.
Max takes us through eleven of the miracles recorded in John’s Gospel and relates each one to our modern life. In the final chapter, he encourages readers to believe, which is the reason John wrote his Gospel (John 20:31).
Max is insightful as he brings fresh truth out of these old stories. He writes in a lyrical style, with a touch of humour which makes the book easy to read. The most important truth I received was the importance of believing God always has good intentions towards us. Therefore, even if we find ourselves in unpleasant situations we can trust that God is working to bring about good outcomes.
The book is quite short but does contain lengthy study questions at the end of the book which could be useful for groups.
Overall a most encouraging read.
Max takes us through eleven of the miracles recorded in John’s Gospel and relates each one to our modern life. In the final chapter, he encourages readers to believe, which is the reason John wrote his Gospel (John 20:31).
Max is insightful as he brings fresh truth out of these old stories. He writes in a lyrical style, with a touch of humour which makes the book easy to read. The most important truth I received was the importance of believing God always has good intentions towards us. Therefore, even if we find ourselves in unpleasant situations we can trust that God is working to bring about good outcomes.
The book is quite short but does contain lengthy study questions at the end of the book which could be useful for groups.
Overall a most encouraging read.
August 19, 2020
Max Lucado never fails to pull at the intricate fibers of the human soul. He is able to address the fortunate and unfortunate parts of the Christian walk with God. You will walk through the stories and miracles that Jesus performs throughout his life on Earth. Max tells his stories that help prove his points that we are not alone in this world. His stories are able to intertwine with the stories in the Gospels. The people are different, the stories are unique, a life with problems still remains the same today. He lets us know are surrounded by people going through hard times and ones that have been through the hard times to help us cope with our situations. We have a Creator who knows our every need before we can even ask it or know we need it. Our trials and troubles are not a surprise to him and we have an open line of communication with him all we have to do is take it. We all have struggled with something in this life and if you haven’t, you will. Fighting the feelings and emotions of low self-worth, loneliness, feeling lost, dejected, or anger can be debilitating. Max shows you with solid proof and history that this life is made for more than a walk in the park. Jesus came for those who are hurting and weak and that should bring you comfort that He came for you! Max Lucado finds a way to have a conversation with you without even being in the same room. His books are hard to put down and can often be read if not in one setting just a few, because he pulls you in to the story and connects with you on a deeper level. If your life is hard right now or you want to change your thought pattern, maybe you need that extra push, read this book. Take the challenge and push yourself to be who you were called to be and who He says you are, not who the world calls you or what your current situation looks like.
January 4, 2021
Max Lucado never fails. Whenever I need encouraging, uplifting, motivating-his books always come through. I love how he weaves his personal stories and stories of others with God’s word. He is real, he is humorous but he is also so insightful and can explain biblical stories and concepts in a manner that is not only appealing but understandable. This book is very relevant in the time of a pandemic in which we are largely withdrawn and isolated from others. This is even mentioned early on in his book. But no matter how lonely we may feel, how isolated we may be, God is with us. He meets us exactly where we are but loves us enough to want more from us and for us.
February 17, 2024
Always encouraging, puts a smile on your face every once in a while, and brings home the simple yet profound message of the gospel, in this case the gospel of John, this is what Max Lucado does every time. In the back are questions for reflection prepared by Andrea Lucado that look very in-depth and thought-provoking. Another treasure from one of my favorite authors with the purpose of leading people hopefully to believe in Jesus and you are never without hope.
September 23, 2020
Honestly, I would just save yourself $20 and read the gospel of John with an imagination.
The book follows a formula of “real life example”, tie it back to a bible story, wax poetic narrative surrounding the story, and then bring it back to modern day.
It’s not a bad book, but like another reviewer mention on here, I prefer books that give me something to chew on. It’s an easy read and will definitely offer encouragement which is something the world could really use right about now.
The book follows a formula of “real life example”, tie it back to a bible story, wax poetic narrative surrounding the story, and then bring it back to modern day.
It’s not a bad book, but like another reviewer mention on here, I prefer books that give me something to chew on. It’s an easy read and will definitely offer encouragement which is something the world could really use right about now.
Read
February 16, 2022Awesome read!
For me, I like to read something I can relate to, something that has the ability to make a difference in the way I think and act. This read was beautifully written and relatable, I am not perfect, I have made many mistakes and now I am not alone and God loves me just as I am. Some how and some way it comforts me to know I am still loved by Jesus .
For me, I like to read something I can relate to, something that has the ability to make a difference in the way I think and act. This read was beautifully written and relatable, I am not perfect, I have made many mistakes and now I am not alone and God loves me just as I am. Some how and some way it comforts me to know I am still loved by Jesus .
Read
August 31, 2022Muy al estilo de Lucado, usa un formato ya establecido de experiencias personales y alguna historia bíblica como hilo conductor. Estuvo ok, creo que ya leí tantos libros del autor que no encuentro nada innovador en su narrativa (quitando de lado la enseñanza bíblica) así que puede que por eso no lo haya disfrutado tanto. Gracias a la editorial y a netgalley por la copia adelantada!
February 7, 2025
I’m currently in a Bible study on John, and I enjoyed reading this in addition to my study. It wasn’t my favorite Christian genre book, but that’s just because I’ve had other books hit me really hard with what I’ve needed to hear. This might be the perfect book for someone else and what they need.
January 25, 2021
I lead a group of women in a zoom meeting to discuss one chapter a week of this book. We loved the book and the way Max Lucado wrote it with such human interest.
May 22, 2022
In the turbulence times, miracles could still happened because God never leave us. A meditation on how God still there with us, even in the pandemic or any other crisis in our life.
November 20, 2023
Comforting and encouraging.
March 24, 2024
Wonderful easy to understand book that walks through the miracles in the book of John. Read it as park of Sunday School - to was easy to follow and inspiring.
September 30, 2025
Helpful book on the wonder of Jesus as seen through his miracles. Questions on each chapter helped think through in more depth.
September 15, 2020
I've read many of Lucado's books, and I never fail to find them encouraging. This was no exception.
The author's latest book is based on the gospel of John. While each chapter focuses on Lucado's experiences and stories, each one has a connection to the book of John. I was a bit surprised that there wasn't as much Scripture in this one as there have been in some of his other books.
Lucado has the ability to take familiar stories from the bible and make it relevant to today and our daily lives.
Key themes include facing our fears and coming to terms that we are not alone. These are critical reminders, especially in the times we are currently experiencing.
Some of my favorite quotes include:
Life happens when we believe. We find strength beyond our strength. We accomplish tasks beyond our capacity. We see solutions beyond our wisdom. Belief is not some respectful salute to a divine being. Belief happens when we place our confidence in God. It is a decision to lean entirely upon the strength of a living and loving Savior.
You’re stronger than you think because God is nearer than you know.
It is not ours to say what God will do. Our job is to believe he will do something. It simply falls to us to stand up, take up, and walk.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
The author's latest book is based on the gospel of John. While each chapter focuses on Lucado's experiences and stories, each one has a connection to the book of John. I was a bit surprised that there wasn't as much Scripture in this one as there have been in some of his other books.
Lucado has the ability to take familiar stories from the bible and make it relevant to today and our daily lives.
Key themes include facing our fears and coming to terms that we are not alone. These are critical reminders, especially in the times we are currently experiencing.
Some of my favorite quotes include:
Life happens when we believe. We find strength beyond our strength. We accomplish tasks beyond our capacity. We see solutions beyond our wisdom. Belief is not some respectful salute to a divine being. Belief happens when we place our confidence in God. It is a decision to lean entirely upon the strength of a living and loving Savior.
You’re stronger than you think because God is nearer than you know.
It is not ours to say what God will do. Our job is to believe he will do something. It simply falls to us to stand up, take up, and walk.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews