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Embracing Obscurity: Becoming Nothing in Light of God’s Everything
No matter how famous someone might be, the fact most of the other seven billion people on Earth wouldn’t know him or her from the next person. Add this reality to one’s shrinking recognizability among the multiple billions down through history, and the worldly emphasis on standing out really falls flat. We’re all in this obscurity thing together.
Ironically, the trouble with me and you and the rest of humanity is not a lack of self-confidence but that we have far too much self-importance. To live and die unnoticed would seem a grave injustice to many. It’s all too easy to think we’re somebody if our portfolio is strong, there are a few letters after our name, or we’re well-known at work, church, or school.
As pride creeps in, we are tempted to want recognition,more admiration,more influence,more….more, more.Few have ever given thought to wanting less. That’s why we need Embracing Obscurity.
Putting the premise into immediate action, an established Christian author electing to remain anonymous writes about living and dying in simplicity, contending that true success, as modeled by Jesus, starts with humility, service, sacrifice, and surrender. Such a life involves mystery and banks on the hope that today is just a dress rehearsal for eternity.
When we stop imitating the world and instead choose to embrace obscurity, real life — chock full of significance, purpose, and renewed passion — begins.
Ironically, the trouble with me and you and the rest of humanity is not a lack of self-confidence but that we have far too much self-importance. To live and die unnoticed would seem a grave injustice to many. It’s all too easy to think we’re somebody if our portfolio is strong, there are a few letters after our name, or we’re well-known at work, church, or school.
As pride creeps in, we are tempted to want recognition,more admiration,more influence,more….more, more.Few have ever given thought to wanting less. That’s why we need Embracing Obscurity.
Putting the premise into immediate action, an established Christian author electing to remain anonymous writes about living and dying in simplicity, contending that true success, as modeled by Jesus, starts with humility, service, sacrifice, and surrender. Such a life involves mystery and banks on the hope that today is just a dress rehearsal for eternity.
When we stop imitating the world and instead choose to embrace obscurity, real life — chock full of significance, purpose, and renewed passion — begins.
166 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2012
83 people are currently reading
776 people want to read
About the author
Anonymous
791k books3,364 followersBooks can be attributed to "Anonymous" for several reasons:
* They are officially published under that name
* They are traditional stories not attributed to a specific author
* They are religious texts not generally attributed to a specific author
Books whose authorship is merely uncertain should be attributed to Unknown.
See also: Anonymous
* They are officially published under that name
* They are traditional stories not attributed to a specific author
* They are religious texts not generally attributed to a specific author
Books whose authorship is merely uncertain should be attributed to Unknown.
See also: Anonymous
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
November 29, 2014
Good message, too long.
I abandoned this book. Unfortunately, as is the case with many Christian Living books, this book takes a particular message and bests it into oblivion with an abundance of words. The message isn't bad. Put simply, the book says that the world isn't all about you, and it's actually all about God, so you should stop worrying about your achievements, the number of likes on your Facebook status or the number of people who heart or retweet your Twitter posts. Find your significance in God, and not in your own endeavors. The end.
In sum? Tl;dr.
I abandoned this book. Unfortunately, as is the case with many Christian Living books, this book takes a particular message and bests it into oblivion with an abundance of words. The message isn't bad. Put simply, the book says that the world isn't all about you, and it's actually all about God, so you should stop worrying about your achievements, the number of likes on your Facebook status or the number of people who heart or retweet your Twitter posts. Find your significance in God, and not in your own endeavors. The end.
In sum? Tl;dr.
March 21, 2025
Highly recommend this short book, especially if you struggle with feeling overlooked or forgotten in this life. I've read several books on those topics recently, all of which were moderately encouraging. But none of them got to the root of the problem like this did: that we all want to be somebody special. We want to be seen, and heard, and acknowledged, and even applauded by those around us. And yet God generally calls each of us to be 'nobodies' to the world.
Each chapter centered on some unpleasant aspect of life that we should choose to embrace, building each case with Scripture and examples from Christ's life on this earth. I found a lot to chew on throughout the whole book, but especially the chapters about embracing servanthood and embracing suffering. The questions at the end of each chapter were helpful for further reflection.
And yes, the author really does remain anonymous... and after reading the book, you can understand why he finds such delight in that choice.
"Living for an audience of One is at the heart of embracing obscurity."
Each chapter centered on some unpleasant aspect of life that we should choose to embrace, building each case with Scripture and examples from Christ's life on this earth. I found a lot to chew on throughout the whole book, but especially the chapters about embracing servanthood and embracing suffering. The questions at the end of each chapter were helpful for further reflection.
And yes, the author really does remain anonymous... and after reading the book, you can understand why he finds such delight in that choice.
"Living for an audience of One is at the heart of embracing obscurity."
August 2, 2024
A solid reminder of the importance of humility and how much the modern view of success has seeped into Christian spheres. A pretty convicting and challenging book; definitely worth reading
April 29, 2025
Read with my dgroup girls & we LOVED it ! A clearly countercultural book that caused me to think about embracing obscurity in a different way, convincing me that this is the only correct route for us -> “becoming nothing in light of Gods everything”
Counters our desire to be known, appreciated, praised, etc by reminding us of our position/significance as Christ’s & comparatively to Him. Reminds that ALL we are is received from Him, so we have none to boast in but Him. Reminds that Jesus set the example for us in embracing obscurity & we are to adopt that attitude. Reminds that we don’t have to seek approval from man, we’ve been given God’s in salvation through His Son.
Have a billion highlights, but here are some words that I have been thinking through :
<3 You would be someone, just for being His…
The visibility of our part stops being such a big deal, as the reality of being on the cast at all sinks in.
💭 ‘He that suffereth most hath most to give.’ Through suffering we are enabled to love, give, support, stand by, encourage, and empathize with our neighbors in ways we were never able to before.
🥗 The only way to avoid taking pride in what we have, then, is to have a healthy, God-centered, stewardship-minded view of all material stuff in the first place. It's pretty simple, really. How can I take pride in something that isn't mine to begin with?
🫂 Embracing God's formula for success frees us to really live-to try, fail, get up, and try again-because we know that "failing" in the world's eyes will never let God down. How could it? We were never holding Him up. Quite the opposite- He'll continue holding us up, whether or not we ever make headlines, change the world, or get our big “break."
👯♀️ Serve Him by serving others. Meet others' needs out of the overflow He has given us, through our words, compassion, hospitality, wealth, courtesy, and all the menial tasks that get opportunity when people live in proximity to one another.
⁉️ “For [His] thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not [His] ways" (Isa. 55:8). Even if we never know God's reasoning, we can trust that He is acting in His best interest and ours when He causes the curtain to close on even our best efforts.
🚶🏽♀️ To "walk worthy" of it means that my life should make sense in light of it. Not in light of the world but in light of the gospel. Does it?
Counters our desire to be known, appreciated, praised, etc by reminding us of our position/significance as Christ’s & comparatively to Him. Reminds that ALL we are is received from Him, so we have none to boast in but Him. Reminds that Jesus set the example for us in embracing obscurity & we are to adopt that attitude. Reminds that we don’t have to seek approval from man, we’ve been given God’s in salvation through His Son.
Have a billion highlights, but here are some words that I have been thinking through :
<3 You would be someone, just for being His…
The visibility of our part stops being such a big deal, as the reality of being on the cast at all sinks in.
💭 ‘He that suffereth most hath most to give.’ Through suffering we are enabled to love, give, support, stand by, encourage, and empathize with our neighbors in ways we were never able to before.
🥗 The only way to avoid taking pride in what we have, then, is to have a healthy, God-centered, stewardship-minded view of all material stuff in the first place. It's pretty simple, really. How can I take pride in something that isn't mine to begin with?
🫂 Embracing God's formula for success frees us to really live-to try, fail, get up, and try again-because we know that "failing" in the world's eyes will never let God down. How could it? We were never holding Him up. Quite the opposite- He'll continue holding us up, whether or not we ever make headlines, change the world, or get our big “break."
👯♀️ Serve Him by serving others. Meet others' needs out of the overflow He has given us, through our words, compassion, hospitality, wealth, courtesy, and all the menial tasks that get opportunity when people live in proximity to one another.
⁉️ “For [His] thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not [His] ways" (Isa. 55:8). Even if we never know God's reasoning, we can trust that He is acting in His best interest and ours when He causes the curtain to close on even our best efforts.
🚶🏽♀️ To "walk worthy" of it means that my life should make sense in light of it. Not in light of the world but in light of the gospel. Does it?
December 26, 2021
This book was a beautiful, biblical, punch in the face. I absolutely loved it. Strong rec from me.
January 22, 2025
Immediate contender for my book of the year. For those of us who are ambitious, called, and have some measure of talent, this anonymous author knows you. He’s read your journal. He knows your heart. And he aims Scripture like an arrow at all the ugly, pride-infested places of your heart. Incredibly convicting, moving, and helpful.
April 9, 2024
Everyone should read this at least once
April 20, 2024
Wish I could give it a 6 star
September 25, 2012
I received an advanced reader copy of this book. The book’s marketer found me through my book review blog. I was sent a copy before it was made available to the public. I am proud that as a reviewer I received this book before anyone else.
The above statement makes me exactly the type of person who needs to read this book. It is about overcoming our pride problem. We all have one and this book will help you see that and hopefully overcome it by “Embracing Obscurity.”
The author confronts us with the reality that we are “just 1 in 7 billion.” By embracing obscurity the author means being content with being relatively unknown so that Christ can be made more known. Our time on earth will come and go but eternity is forever and it is for eternity we should live.
The key to obscurity’s embrace is finding our significance in Christ. When we find our significance in Christ “we are freed from our vanity and can instead fulfill God’s purposes for us” (p. 66). “To get to the place where we can truly embrace our obscurity, we’ll have to sacrifice our dreams of worldly success and instead take on this humble disposition…the disposition of Christ” (p. 85).
The author provides a very helpful contrast between Christ’s disposition of humility versus Satan’s disposition of pride (pp. 50-51). Modeling Jesus Christ is only way to embrace obscurity.
He warns of falling for “The Joseph Principle.” This is the dangerous misconception that
“If I am suffering in obscurity today, God must be preparing me for something greater, better, or more prominent later in life” (p. 116). “We comfort ourselves with this kind of self-talk because it’s far more soothing than the thought of suffering for the sole purpose of God’s glory or –heaven forbid- having to embrace obscurity indefinitely” (p. 118). We are prone to interpret the “all things for good” in Romans 8:28 to mean worldly success. “What if your good is soley to make His name great?” (p. 119).
Be forewarned, embracing obscurity will make you look crazy in the eyes of the world. “If our lifestyle doesn’t even raise the eyebrows of the world, what does that say about our devotion to the gospel?” (p. 129). For Christians to die to self, to put others first, to serve in obscurity is very mysterious to the rest of humanity.
“So how about us? Are we living mysteriously? Are our lives marked by service, sacrifice, love for others, abandonment of self, dependency on God, or genuine passion to see the lost saved? Or are we more preoccupied with the things of the world? A cool car or job? A retirement account? A higher education or some humanitarian work? Maybe even some noble things done but for the wrong reasons? Do any decisions in our lives seem mysterious to those around us? Without mystery we have to wonder whether we have embraced the ways of the Father or imitated the world” (p. 134).
This is a thought-provoking book. It caused me some severe introspection. As Christ followers, it asks us to consider if every opportunity for advancement should be undertaken, even those where there are no scriptures violated. I “humbly” give it my recommendation.
This book was provided by the publisher for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
The above statement makes me exactly the type of person who needs to read this book. It is about overcoming our pride problem. We all have one and this book will help you see that and hopefully overcome it by “Embracing Obscurity.”
The author confronts us with the reality that we are “just 1 in 7 billion.” By embracing obscurity the author means being content with being relatively unknown so that Christ can be made more known. Our time on earth will come and go but eternity is forever and it is for eternity we should live.
The key to obscurity’s embrace is finding our significance in Christ. When we find our significance in Christ “we are freed from our vanity and can instead fulfill God’s purposes for us” (p. 66). “To get to the place where we can truly embrace our obscurity, we’ll have to sacrifice our dreams of worldly success and instead take on this humble disposition…the disposition of Christ” (p. 85).
The author provides a very helpful contrast between Christ’s disposition of humility versus Satan’s disposition of pride (pp. 50-51). Modeling Jesus Christ is only way to embrace obscurity.
He warns of falling for “The Joseph Principle.” This is the dangerous misconception that
“If I am suffering in obscurity today, God must be preparing me for something greater, better, or more prominent later in life” (p. 116). “We comfort ourselves with this kind of self-talk because it’s far more soothing than the thought of suffering for the sole purpose of God’s glory or –heaven forbid- having to embrace obscurity indefinitely” (p. 118). We are prone to interpret the “all things for good” in Romans 8:28 to mean worldly success. “What if your good is soley to make His name great?” (p. 119).
Be forewarned, embracing obscurity will make you look crazy in the eyes of the world. “If our lifestyle doesn’t even raise the eyebrows of the world, what does that say about our devotion to the gospel?” (p. 129). For Christians to die to self, to put others first, to serve in obscurity is very mysterious to the rest of humanity.
“So how about us? Are we living mysteriously? Are our lives marked by service, sacrifice, love for others, abandonment of self, dependency on God, or genuine passion to see the lost saved? Or are we more preoccupied with the things of the world? A cool car or job? A retirement account? A higher education or some humanitarian work? Maybe even some noble things done but for the wrong reasons? Do any decisions in our lives seem mysterious to those around us? Without mystery we have to wonder whether we have embraced the ways of the Father or imitated the world” (p. 134).
This is a thought-provoking book. It caused me some severe introspection. As Christ followers, it asks us to consider if every opportunity for advancement should be undertaken, even those where there are no scriptures violated. I “humbly” give it my recommendation.
This book was provided by the publisher for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
September 20, 2012
First, yes you read that right, the book is by Anonymous.
"Choosing to reaming anonymous is not some ploy or gimmick to generate book sales.......I can only answer that I've come to realize embracing obscurity is not about wiping ourselves from existence but rather, voluntarily becoming nothing in the light of everything God is and has promised us. Why? So we can bring Him greater glory. It's about making Him, not ourselves, look good."
On my advance reading copy, some of the back cover reads (and I'm paraphrasing);
"You're nearly one in seven billion. One life, lived in relative obscurity. Are you okay with that? Most of us aren't. To live and die unnoticed by most of humanity seems a grave injustice, doesn't it? When it comes down to it, we don't want to be a nobody.Why else would we spend so much time trying to get ahead and gain admiration. To make a mark of something-anything.
Each of us needs a reminder that we're relatively unknown in the grand scheme of history. The good news is that unimportance is surprisingly good for the soul.
That's why you won't find my name anywhere on this book. I'm not trying to build a platform, raise a bunch of followers or seek any credit. I am letting myself fade into the background so that His glory can shine and His message can be heard.
Embracing Obscurity is a call to stop imitating the world's formula for success, and instead follow a different model; That of our Humble King. "
This book is a very easy and read I really enjoyed it. I really can't explain the book any better than above.
It was an interesting book and one that did make me think. This would be a great book to help you examine your own motives and see if your priorities need to be tweaked.. Also at the end of each chapter there are great discussion questions, which would make it a great group read.
I would advise everyone read this book, we're apart of a "look at me culture!" And it's very easy to get caught up in it, especially if you're "popular".
I won this book through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
"Choosing to reaming anonymous is not some ploy or gimmick to generate book sales.......I can only answer that I've come to realize embracing obscurity is not about wiping ourselves from existence but rather, voluntarily becoming nothing in the light of everything God is and has promised us. Why? So we can bring Him greater glory. It's about making Him, not ourselves, look good."
On my advance reading copy, some of the back cover reads (and I'm paraphrasing);
"You're nearly one in seven billion. One life, lived in relative obscurity. Are you okay with that? Most of us aren't. To live and die unnoticed by most of humanity seems a grave injustice, doesn't it? When it comes down to it, we don't want to be a nobody.Why else would we spend so much time trying to get ahead and gain admiration. To make a mark of something-anything.
Each of us needs a reminder that we're relatively unknown in the grand scheme of history. The good news is that unimportance is surprisingly good for the soul.
That's why you won't find my name anywhere on this book. I'm not trying to build a platform, raise a bunch of followers or seek any credit. I am letting myself fade into the background so that His glory can shine and His message can be heard.
Embracing Obscurity is a call to stop imitating the world's formula for success, and instead follow a different model; That of our Humble King. "
This book is a very easy and read I really enjoyed it. I really can't explain the book any better than above.
It was an interesting book and one that did make me think. This would be a great book to help you examine your own motives and see if your priorities need to be tweaked.. Also at the end of each chapter there are great discussion questions, which would make it a great group read.
I would advise everyone read this book, we're apart of a "look at me culture!" And it's very easy to get caught up in it, especially if you're "popular".
I won this book through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
July 28, 2012
This book is very unique as 1) it has yet to be released and 2) it was written by an anonymous author. I had a friend go to a conference with her husband and they received two advance copies of this book. Since she knows that I am an avid reader, she asked if I wanted to read this book with her and meet once a week to discuss it.
The entire point of this book is that we are nothing in light of our glorious God. It talks about our pride, our need for entitlement, and our need for recognition and reward (even if we are doing something related to our faith). It really opened my eyes and my heart to do more for the glory of God, without needing or expecting any kind of recognition.
The author is anonymous, although my friend and I have a good idea of the author's identity. However, I admire how he/she chose to remain anonymous, considering the topic of this book.
The book comes out in October 2012, and I highly recommend that you run out and purchase this book and take it to heart!
The entire point of this book is that we are nothing in light of our glorious God. It talks about our pride, our need for entitlement, and our need for recognition and reward (even if we are doing something related to our faith). It really opened my eyes and my heart to do more for the glory of God, without needing or expecting any kind of recognition.
The author is anonymous, although my friend and I have a good idea of the author's identity. However, I admire how he/she chose to remain anonymous, considering the topic of this book.
The book comes out in October 2012, and I highly recommend that you run out and purchase this book and take it to heart!
June 15, 2019
Dedication:
"To my Humble King, who has ever taught by example. And to all those, who like me, have clamored long enough."
Clamor is such a good word for the sounds of our hearts when we actually listen to our hang ups, which the anonymous author of this book is faithful and gentle to point out. Our demand for our own recognition and praise is discordant, loud and sounds nothing like our King.
This book prods in the self-centered sins we hold dear, and the hang ups that keep us from following Christ with abandon. There is no place for demanding recognition when we actually take time to look up at the God who deserves all recognition and praise. And then asks us to be better, not by mustering ourselves up to be better, faster, stronger next time, but simply by walking in step with the One who already is.
Do we embrace or just tolerate obscurity, servanthood, suffering or mystery in God's plan?
"To my Humble King, who has ever taught by example. And to all those, who like me, have clamored long enough."
Clamor is such a good word for the sounds of our hearts when we actually listen to our hang ups, which the anonymous author of this book is faithful and gentle to point out. Our demand for our own recognition and praise is discordant, loud and sounds nothing like our King.
This book prods in the self-centered sins we hold dear, and the hang ups that keep us from following Christ with abandon. There is no place for demanding recognition when we actually take time to look up at the God who deserves all recognition and praise. And then asks us to be better, not by mustering ourselves up to be better, faster, stronger next time, but simply by walking in step with the One who already is.
Do we embrace or just tolerate obscurity, servanthood, suffering or mystery in God's plan?
October 28, 2013
This is one of those books I definitely read at the right time. Ironically, I started the book thinking I had a good grasp of living in obscurity. With every word I read, I winced. Ouch! My pride!
This book recalibrated my understanding of pride and obscurity. I love that it deals with the opposite as well - what do we do when we do find ourselves in the spotlight for a season?
I read it as I'm mentally preparing for some major life changes, some which will redefine my identity and others which will likely thrust me into obscurity and anonymity. Who am I now? Who am I then?
This book gives a great Biblical perspective on how God uses obscurity, and gave me lots of food for thought. It's not a concept I will too quickly stop thinking about.
This book recalibrated my understanding of pride and obscurity. I love that it deals with the opposite as well - what do we do when we do find ourselves in the spotlight for a season?
I read it as I'm mentally preparing for some major life changes, some which will redefine my identity and others which will likely thrust me into obscurity and anonymity. Who am I now? Who am I then?
This book gives a great Biblical perspective on how God uses obscurity, and gave me lots of food for thought. It's not a concept I will too quickly stop thinking about.
April 18, 2022
Second time thru and I'm wondering if I learned anything at all the first time thru. So good. Would use this with new disciples time and again.
______________________________________________
It gets better as the book progresses. Chapters 8 and 9 are fantastic. Highlights everywhere. Very practical for Christians at any point in their walk. It is not about us.
______________________________________________
It gets better as the book progresses. Chapters 8 and 9 are fantastic. Highlights everywhere. Very practical for Christians at any point in their walk. It is not about us.
February 14, 2017
I will pick up again. Need to be reminded that this walk is not about me.
August 4, 2024
4⭐️
Must read, I need to sit down and read it again more thoroughly! But before you read it know that things in your life will have to change, you can't exit this book and think the same!
Must read, I need to sit down and read it again more thoroughly! But before you read it know that things in your life will have to change, you can't exit this book and think the same!
August 12, 2024
What I liked about this book:
I was compelled to read this book after thinking, "Who would write a book about obscurity! I bet his name is blasted on the cover!" Imagine my suprise (and chagrin), to find that the author had put anonymous on the cover. For this reason I decided to read the book. I liked it. I believe there is much to gain from an understanding of what the author is trying to convey. Pride is so deep rooted that if you think it doesn't apply to you, that's when it probably does the most. I liked his focus on Jesus' example, the myriad references to Phillipians 2, and the motivation of heavenly rewards.
What I didn't like about this book:
This book probably deserved 5 stars, but as a former reformed thinker, I think this book hit those theological aspects a little too hard. "Do I really need to be reformed to take the aspects this author was trying to convey?" Reformed theology always smacks to me of heavy handedness in a God who only does things for himself. If the author was set on heavily appealing to reformed theology, I would've liked some reminders like, "Remember, God's glory is your best" or something like that. I thought to myself, "this guy needs to read some Piper", before the last chapter where we brought up the famous, "God is most glorified in us when we are satisfied in him". So, I appreciated that but he could've tried to write this from a less reformed perspective. I have no intention of discrediting or debating those presuppositions, only explaining how I felt reading them.
All in all a good book and very timely for me and for our culture writ large.
I was compelled to read this book after thinking, "Who would write a book about obscurity! I bet his name is blasted on the cover!" Imagine my suprise (and chagrin), to find that the author had put anonymous on the cover. For this reason I decided to read the book. I liked it. I believe there is much to gain from an understanding of what the author is trying to convey. Pride is so deep rooted that if you think it doesn't apply to you, that's when it probably does the most. I liked his focus on Jesus' example, the myriad references to Phillipians 2, and the motivation of heavenly rewards.
What I didn't like about this book:
This book probably deserved 5 stars, but as a former reformed thinker, I think this book hit those theological aspects a little too hard. "Do I really need to be reformed to take the aspects this author was trying to convey?" Reformed theology always smacks to me of heavy handedness in a God who only does things for himself. If the author was set on heavily appealing to reformed theology, I would've liked some reminders like, "Remember, God's glory is your best" or something like that. I thought to myself, "this guy needs to read some Piper", before the last chapter where we brought up the famous, "God is most glorified in us when we are satisfied in him". So, I appreciated that but he could've tried to write this from a less reformed perspective. I have no intention of discrediting or debating those presuppositions, only explaining how I felt reading them.
All in all a good book and very timely for me and for our culture writ large.
February 24, 2025
I’m gonna be in recovery from this book for a long time
Reading this felt like doing 1 million burpees at a spiritual gym with a coach who just will not let up. But I know the coach has my best interests at heart. But I just want to stop. Because it totally sucks. But you can’t because it’s the best book - someone really telling me what I needed to hear.
Recommended reading for sure. could make a good group book study
Reading this felt like doing 1 million burpees at a spiritual gym with a coach who just will not let up. But I know the coach has my best interests at heart. But I just want to stop. Because it totally sucks. But you can’t because it’s the best book - someone really telling me what I needed to hear.
Recommended reading for sure. could make a good group book study
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2020
This book has been so helpful in my process of learning about obscurity. The author, who embraces obscurity by not giving their name, does an excellent job of using relatable language, hypothetical and true stories, and most importantly, scripture. It is both convicting and hopeful. I highly recommend this book.
September 17, 2021
Great topic, but it was either too long or not meaty enough.
April 28, 2024
Very convicting lol but still full of hope!
November 10, 2024
I thought this was written in a way that really convicted the heart. I especially enjoyed the chapters on “Jospeh Syndrome” and “Saul Syndrome.”
September 17, 2013
I won a copy through the Goodreads' Firstreads program.
Rarely does a book come across unclaimed by the author. I greatly appreciate this with spiritual works embracing the topic of becoming humble. Although this isn't something to read again and again - it is thought-provoking the first time around.
Embracing Obscurity deals with motives. Matthew 6 advises against practicing righteousness in public, for it will be our only reward. I believe this is the key behind the anonymous author's writing.
"The trouble with you and me and the rest of humanity is not that we lack self-confidence (as we're told by the world), but that we have far too much self-importance."- p.12 Embracing Obscurity: Becoming Nothing in Light of God's Everything.
This quote and many others ring true. I found there are many ways we seek glory here on Earth, and what a conscious effort it takes not to do so. If you think you struggle with this as well, purchase this book. If you don't think you struggle with this? Definitely purchase this book. :) Happy reading.
Rarely does a book come across unclaimed by the author. I greatly appreciate this with spiritual works embracing the topic of becoming humble. Although this isn't something to read again and again - it is thought-provoking the first time around.
Embracing Obscurity deals with motives. Matthew 6 advises against practicing righteousness in public, for it will be our only reward. I believe this is the key behind the anonymous author's writing.
"The trouble with you and me and the rest of humanity is not that we lack self-confidence (as we're told by the world), but that we have far too much self-importance."- p.12 Embracing Obscurity: Becoming Nothing in Light of God's Everything.
This quote and many others ring true. I found there are many ways we seek glory here on Earth, and what a conscious effort it takes not to do so. If you think you struggle with this as well, purchase this book. If you don't think you struggle with this? Definitely purchase this book. :) Happy reading.
October 4, 2012
This was a really great devotional and a helpful book for me to read. I really liked it. It was easy to read and I could agree with most everything the unknown author had to say. I think this message needed to be said and I do try to comply with most of his suggestions. That being said Im not sure everyone will. I am not rich my any means and I am just a homemaker and blogger in no danger of becoming famous or even well known. The thing is I do try to keep humble and though I could go for for the blogging gold and use some of the resources available to me I would much rather remain small potato's blog wise and just commit to doing honest reviews. This book would be really good for a person of wealth to read who would like to learn from Anonymous how to travel a more humble path. I personally am about as Obscure as I can be but I still was able to really enjoy the book and gain some insights from it.
January 22, 2013
"As you read these words [Phil. 2:5-10], marvel at the majesty and splendor of a God who would create innumerable species with a word, a God who knows trillions of stars by name yet would choose to become "relatively unknown" for your sake and mine." Anonymous - Embracing Obscurity
More than your average book on humility, the author actually practices what he preaches by remaining anonymous! Some of the material was very thought-provoking, some maybe a little contrived. He gives multiple hypothetical scenarios to draw the mind toward practical application. In some ways this is good, but there were so many of them, it's actually easy to start to lose focus of the author's original point. Even still, the author succinctly cuts each member of the human race right down to size, and then encourages readers toward true humility, which is found by embracing the character qualities of the epitome of humility, Jesus Christ.
More than your average book on humility, the author actually practices what he preaches by remaining anonymous! Some of the material was very thought-provoking, some maybe a little contrived. He gives multiple hypothetical scenarios to draw the mind toward practical application. In some ways this is good, but there were so many of them, it's actually easy to start to lose focus of the author's original point. Even still, the author succinctly cuts each member of the human race right down to size, and then encourages readers toward true humility, which is found by embracing the character qualities of the epitome of humility, Jesus Christ.
November 10, 2016
I loved the concept of this book. I think it's a great message, not only for our society today, but for myself. Even those who don't want recognition often seem to want to be rewarded in some way in this life. This book encourages us to make much of Christ, because He is worthy of all praise.
I feel like the book could have been less than half as long, though. And it's not even close to being a long book! While it started off great, somewhere in the middle of the book, I lost interest because of its repetitive nature and sometimes unnecessary stories. I still finished it, because it was good enough that I was curious if the author would add any other support from Scripture, but I felt like this is one of those books where the title and subtitle pretty much says it all.
I feel like the book could have been less than half as long, though. And it's not even close to being a long book! While it started off great, somewhere in the middle of the book, I lost interest because of its repetitive nature and sometimes unnecessary stories. I still finished it, because it was good enough that I was curious if the author would add any other support from Scripture, but I felt like this is one of those books where the title and subtitle pretty much says it all.
May 29, 2014
Either I'm not an overly proud person, or I just think I'm not, but either way this book didn't do a lot for me. I tried really hard to relate to the examples in it, but just kept coming up with "I really don't feel that way."
Still, it does have something good to offer for those who are caught up in the need for instant fame that seems to pervade our society (based on all the reality shows out there).
Does commenting on a public site like this constitute a need for attention? Hmmm. Might have to re-read this book sometime.
Still, it does have something good to offer for those who are caught up in the need for instant fame that seems to pervade our society (based on all the reality shows out there).
Does commenting on a public site like this constitute a need for attention? Hmmm. Might have to re-read this book sometime.
June 3, 2015
A counter-cultural look at significance from a Biblical perspective that is well researched and lived out by the anonymous author. Each chapter includes strong Scriptural references/ passages and discussion questions. Highly recommended for individual or group study.
January 17, 2023
As I write this review, I’m having a hard time expressing just how helpful this little book has been to me.
I think, especially in our affluent society, we are groomed at an early age to clamor for the world’s version of “success.” Successful people, we are told, get good grades in school, are leaders and athletes, graduate college with honors, get successful jobs, make lots of money, have 2.5 kids and a white picket fence, and are loved by everyone who knows them. That’s the “American dream,” right?
But is that how God would have us live? The American dream mentality fosters pride in those who accomplish it. Then the rest of us try to console ourselves by touting our meager virtues to everyone we know so that we can feel good about ourselves, too.
Think about it: in your heart of hearts, what do you honestly hope that people think about you? That you’re a great mom? You’re thoughtful? A great teacher? Funny? Intelligent? Giving? Athletic? Think about that for a moment. When your name comes up in conversation, what do you hope will be said about you?
We all want to be valued. We want people to see value in us and affirm our wonderful qualities. We sometimes even convince ourselves that those are good things – that we are somehow being good representatives of Christ if we have a good reputation for {place your idol of choice here}.
The problem, of course, is that this focuses solely on us and not on the person we’re here to make famous: Christ. In the words of the anonymous author:
Embracing obscurity is about being content with being “relatively unknown” so that Christ can be made more known. Temporarily going hungry so that many more may be filled.
Christ brought the Father glory by becoming nothing (Phil. 2:5-11). If He is our example in everything, it follows that we also will glorify our God when we embrace an obscurity of heart for His sake and for the sake of others.
There are so many facets of our lives touched by this simple principle, and I think the author touches on all of them. I have underlined and starred and “Amen-ed” more in this book than I think I have in any other book – and that’s saying something! This is a book that I think I will need to re-read often to remind myself of its truths.
THE VERDICT: I highly recommend this book for any believer.
I think, especially in our affluent society, we are groomed at an early age to clamor for the world’s version of “success.” Successful people, we are told, get good grades in school, are leaders and athletes, graduate college with honors, get successful jobs, make lots of money, have 2.5 kids and a white picket fence, and are loved by everyone who knows them. That’s the “American dream,” right?
But is that how God would have us live? The American dream mentality fosters pride in those who accomplish it. Then the rest of us try to console ourselves by touting our meager virtues to everyone we know so that we can feel good about ourselves, too.
Think about it: in your heart of hearts, what do you honestly hope that people think about you? That you’re a great mom? You’re thoughtful? A great teacher? Funny? Intelligent? Giving? Athletic? Think about that for a moment. When your name comes up in conversation, what do you hope will be said about you?
We all want to be valued. We want people to see value in us and affirm our wonderful qualities. We sometimes even convince ourselves that those are good things – that we are somehow being good representatives of Christ if we have a good reputation for {place your idol of choice here}.
The problem, of course, is that this focuses solely on us and not on the person we’re here to make famous: Christ. In the words of the anonymous author:
Embracing obscurity is about being content with being “relatively unknown” so that Christ can be made more known. Temporarily going hungry so that many more may be filled.
Christ brought the Father glory by becoming nothing (Phil. 2:5-11). If He is our example in everything, it follows that we also will glorify our God when we embrace an obscurity of heart for His sake and for the sake of others.
There are so many facets of our lives touched by this simple principle, and I think the author touches on all of them. I have underlined and starred and “Amen-ed” more in this book than I think I have in any other book – and that’s saying something! This is a book that I think I will need to re-read often to remind myself of its truths.
THE VERDICT: I highly recommend this book for any believer.
May 28, 2018
I had a hard time finishing this book. The concept was interesting, but it seems to just go on and on and on, sharing concepts that all seemed similar to me. I liked some of the aspects, but to me it negates all of the amazing things people accomplished for God who weren’t in obscurity. God has a large track record with plucking people from obscurity and pushing them into the spotlight for his glory, with people like Moses, Esther, and King David being amazing examples. I also don’t believe that if you are in a job that depresses you day in and day out that God would wish you to live your whole life in that depressing job, as the author would suggest in the chapter on suffering. If you are unhappy, it is ok to dream and seek out something that would glorify God and bring you joy. For example, I am a media major, but spent years working at an apartment complex. While I don’t begrudge the time I spent working with the people, and definitely picked up skills, and touched people’s lives, I was miserable. I eventually took the leap of faith to jump out there and use my major, and now I do photography, social media, and the website for a church, and get to impact thousands more lives for Christ, and do something that makes me feel alive inside. It is extremely important to keep God at the focus and attribute every success to Him and Him alone, but that doesn’t mean we should run from that success. That’s my humble two cents :)
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