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The Good Life: Seeking Purpose, Meaning, and Truth in Your Life
Sharing from his own life, as well as the stories of others, Chuck Colson exposes the counterfeits of the good life and leads readers to the only true source of meaning and purpose, Jesus Christ. But he does that in an unusual way, allowing powerful stories to illustrate how people have lived out their beliefs in ways that either satisfy or leave them empty. Colson addresses seekers—people looking for the truth. He shows through stories that the truth is knowable and that the truly good life is one that lives within the truth. Through the book, readers get to understand their own stories and find answers to their own search for meaning, purpose, and truth.
394 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
95 people are currently reading
703 people want to read
About the author
Charles W. Colson
135 books193 followersAlmost 40 years ago, Charles W. Colson was not thinking about reaching out to prison inmates or reforming the U.S. penal system. In fact, this aide to President Richard Nixon was "incapable of humanitarian thought," according to the media of the mid-1970s. Colson was known as the White House "hatchet man," a man feared by even the most powerful politicos during his four years of service to Nixon.
When news of Colson's conversion to Christianity leaked to the press in 1973, The Boston Globe reported, "If Mr. Colson can repent of his sins, there just has to be hope for everybody." Colson would agree.
In 1974 Colson entered a plea of guilty to Watergate-related charges; although not implicated in the Watergate burglary, he voluntarily pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in the Daniel Ellsberg Case. He entered Alabama's Maxwell Prison in 1974 as a new Christian and as the first member of the Nixon administration to be incarcerated for Watergate-related charges. He served seven months of a one- to three-year sentence.
After leaving prison, Colson founded Prison Fellowship Ministries in 1976, which has since become the world's largest outreach to prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families. Today, Colson remains a member of the board of Prison Fellowship Ministries.
A sought-after speaker, Colson has written more than 30 books, which collectively have sold more than 5 million copies. His autobiographical book, Born Again, was one of the nation's best-selling books of all genres in 1976. Another bestseller, co-authored by Nancy Pearcey, How Now Shall We Live, is considered one of the most important books written on the subject of Christian worldview. His most recent book, The Faith, is a powerful appeal to the Church to re-embrace the foundational truths of Christianity.
In 1991 Colson launched BreakPoint, a unique radio commentary that provides a Christian perspective on today's news and trends. BreakPoint is currently aired weekdays to more than 1,300 outlets nationwide that reach and estimated 2 million listeners.
Today Colson is focused full time on developing other Christian leaders who can influence the culture and their communities through their faith. The capstone of this effort is The Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview, an online research and training center launched in 2009 for the promotion of Christian worldview teaching. In addition to a vast library of worldview materials, the Colson Center provides online courses and serves as a catalyst for a growing movement of Christian organizations dedicated to impacting the culture. The Colson Center website also hosts Colson's popular weekly Two-Minute Warning video commentary aimed at engaging a younger generation with a biblical perspective on cultural issues.
In 2009, Colson was a principal writer of the Manhattan Declaration, which calls on Christians to defend the sanctity of human life, traditional marriage and religious freedom. Nearly half a million people have signed the Manhattan Declaration. Collaborating with other Christian ministries, BreakPoint aims to launch other ecumenical grassroots movements around moral and ethical issues of great concern.
In recognition of his work, Colson received the prestigious Templeton Prize for progress in religion in 1993, donating the $1 million prize to Prison Fellowship. Colson's other awards have included the Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation's second-highest civilian honor (2008); the Humanitarian Award from Dominos Pizza Corporation (1991); The Others Award from The Salvation Army (1990); the Outstanding Young Man of Boston from the Boston Chamber of Commerce (1960); and several honorary doctorates from various colleges and universities (1982-2000).
When news of Colson's conversion to Christianity leaked to the press in 1973, The Boston Globe reported, "If Mr. Colson can repent of his sins, there just has to be hope for everybody." Colson would agree.
In 1974 Colson entered a plea of guilty to Watergate-related charges; although not implicated in the Watergate burglary, he voluntarily pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in the Daniel Ellsberg Case. He entered Alabama's Maxwell Prison in 1974 as a new Christian and as the first member of the Nixon administration to be incarcerated for Watergate-related charges. He served seven months of a one- to three-year sentence.
After leaving prison, Colson founded Prison Fellowship Ministries in 1976, which has since become the world's largest outreach to prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families. Today, Colson remains a member of the board of Prison Fellowship Ministries.
A sought-after speaker, Colson has written more than 30 books, which collectively have sold more than 5 million copies. His autobiographical book, Born Again, was one of the nation's best-selling books of all genres in 1976. Another bestseller, co-authored by Nancy Pearcey, How Now Shall We Live, is considered one of the most important books written on the subject of Christian worldview. His most recent book, The Faith, is a powerful appeal to the Church to re-embrace the foundational truths of Christianity.
In 1991 Colson launched BreakPoint, a unique radio commentary that provides a Christian perspective on today's news and trends. BreakPoint is currently aired weekdays to more than 1,300 outlets nationwide that reach and estimated 2 million listeners.
Today Colson is focused full time on developing other Christian leaders who can influence the culture and their communities through their faith. The capstone of this effort is The Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview, an online research and training center launched in 2009 for the promotion of Christian worldview teaching. In addition to a vast library of worldview materials, the Colson Center provides online courses and serves as a catalyst for a growing movement of Christian organizations dedicated to impacting the culture. The Colson Center website also hosts Colson's popular weekly Two-Minute Warning video commentary aimed at engaging a younger generation with a biblical perspective on cultural issues.
In 2009, Colson was a principal writer of the Manhattan Declaration, which calls on Christians to defend the sanctity of human life, traditional marriage and religious freedom. Nearly half a million people have signed the Manhattan Declaration. Collaborating with other Christian ministries, BreakPoint aims to launch other ecumenical grassroots movements around moral and ethical issues of great concern.
In recognition of his work, Colson received the prestigious Templeton Prize for progress in religion in 1993, donating the $1 million prize to Prison Fellowship. Colson's other awards have included the Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation's second-highest civilian honor (2008); the Humanitarian Award from Dominos Pizza Corporation (1991); The Others Award from The Salvation Army (1990); the Outstanding Young Man of Boston from the Boston Chamber of Commerce (1960); and several honorary doctorates from various colleges and universities (1982-2000).
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March 24, 2025
WAKING UP IN A BRUTAL WORLD!
Where do we find ourselves in the world we have made, now that we are citizens of the 21st century?
Do we see our place in the world as purposeful, satisfying and full of joy?
Or do we see ourselves as an animal on a meaningless treadmill, searching for something that will satisfy its restlessness, vaguely weary of the senselessness of this nonsense they call life?
If you're either of these people, you'll find much to challenge and inspire you in these pages. For Colson’s not talking about the affluent lifestyles of the world’s elite in these pages when he talks about the Good Life.
No. He’s talking about living in a world so honestly, grittily good that it forgives - and loves - the very men and women who daily foist this Brutal Reality upon us.
Sound easy?
Charles Colson did his time in Purgatory.
He was forever typecast by the American public as Richard M. Nixon's "hatchet man.” He knew what it was to be a pariah in exile from the illusions of middle America.
But he eventually found his way out of that black hell hole - and redeemed himself in the eyes of most people - by spending the rest of his life doing the patient, thankless and humbling work of prison ministry.
I think we ALL do our time in purgatory. For some, it comes hard and relentless in their ‘Golden’ Years. For others, it comes sooner.
For me, it started in early middle age - I guess I was one of the lucky ones. And its Smoky Fire in me seems now for the most part spent...
The Dove descending breaks the air
With flame of incandescent terror
Of which the tongues declare
The one discharge from sin and error.
Who then devised the torment? Love.
Love is the unfamiliar name
Behind the hands that wove
The intolerable shirt of pain.
We only live, only suspire
Consumed by either fire or Fire.
It’s the only way to a NEW life.
A life that’s REAL.
In Colson’s well-written pages you'll find much to think about, if you’ve already set out on the path through the fire of the spirit.
Vivid contemporary illustrations from:
The ‘upper’ echelons of society, and the utter vacuity of the lifestyles of those opulently wealthy folks featured in the tabloids...
The persecution and torture of well-intentioned, good, and patient people under Mao's Red Guard, and the remarkably selfless heroism of one lone, falsely-condemned Chinese woman...
Or the spiritual triumph of an inspired group of Allied POW's on the infamous River Kwai, striving amid the horrors of wartime brutality and in spite of the squalor of their concentration camp to build a vibrantly human, sharing life among themselves!
The wide variety of stories makes for rich and heartening reading.
But the stories have one purpose...
To bring us to a place where we, too, can lead lives that are meaningful, satisfying and joyous.
***
We ALL want to live a life that’s truly ALIVE.
But we CAN’T do that if we choose to live uncritically under the incessant bombardment of media half-truths and workplace complacency.
For our Life and our Conscience will then become DEADENED.
Yes, we now live in a Dark World. But the Light ahead of us is SO real. So:
Lead, kindly Light, amidst th’encircling gloom
Lead thou me on.
The Night is dark, and I am far from Home -
Lead thou me on.
Keep thou my feet - I do not hope to see the Distant Scene -
One step enough for me.
Do yourself a favour, and read this book! It’ll give Light to your soul.
And it’ll inspire your daily life, giving new meaning to it - sub specie aeternitatis.
This was another of my FAVOURITE books in 2018 - and the only high-ranking nonfiction work in that category.
Where do we find ourselves in the world we have made, now that we are citizens of the 21st century?
Do we see our place in the world as purposeful, satisfying and full of joy?
Or do we see ourselves as an animal on a meaningless treadmill, searching for something that will satisfy its restlessness, vaguely weary of the senselessness of this nonsense they call life?
If you're either of these people, you'll find much to challenge and inspire you in these pages. For Colson’s not talking about the affluent lifestyles of the world’s elite in these pages when he talks about the Good Life.
No. He’s talking about living in a world so honestly, grittily good that it forgives - and loves - the very men and women who daily foist this Brutal Reality upon us.
Sound easy?
Charles Colson did his time in Purgatory.
He was forever typecast by the American public as Richard M. Nixon's "hatchet man.” He knew what it was to be a pariah in exile from the illusions of middle America.
But he eventually found his way out of that black hell hole - and redeemed himself in the eyes of most people - by spending the rest of his life doing the patient, thankless and humbling work of prison ministry.
I think we ALL do our time in purgatory. For some, it comes hard and relentless in their ‘Golden’ Years. For others, it comes sooner.
For me, it started in early middle age - I guess I was one of the lucky ones. And its Smoky Fire in me seems now for the most part spent...
The Dove descending breaks the air
With flame of incandescent terror
Of which the tongues declare
The one discharge from sin and error.
Who then devised the torment? Love.
Love is the unfamiliar name
Behind the hands that wove
The intolerable shirt of pain.
We only live, only suspire
Consumed by either fire or Fire.
It’s the only way to a NEW life.
A life that’s REAL.
In Colson’s well-written pages you'll find much to think about, if you’ve already set out on the path through the fire of the spirit.
Vivid contemporary illustrations from:
The ‘upper’ echelons of society, and the utter vacuity of the lifestyles of those opulently wealthy folks featured in the tabloids...
The persecution and torture of well-intentioned, good, and patient people under Mao's Red Guard, and the remarkably selfless heroism of one lone, falsely-condemned Chinese woman...
Or the spiritual triumph of an inspired group of Allied POW's on the infamous River Kwai, striving amid the horrors of wartime brutality and in spite of the squalor of their concentration camp to build a vibrantly human, sharing life among themselves!
The wide variety of stories makes for rich and heartening reading.
But the stories have one purpose...
To bring us to a place where we, too, can lead lives that are meaningful, satisfying and joyous.
***
We ALL want to live a life that’s truly ALIVE.
But we CAN’T do that if we choose to live uncritically under the incessant bombardment of media half-truths and workplace complacency.
For our Life and our Conscience will then become DEADENED.
Yes, we now live in a Dark World. But the Light ahead of us is SO real. So:
Lead, kindly Light, amidst th’encircling gloom
Lead thou me on.
The Night is dark, and I am far from Home -
Lead thou me on.
Keep thou my feet - I do not hope to see the Distant Scene -
One step enough for me.
Do yourself a favour, and read this book! It’ll give Light to your soul.
And it’ll inspire your daily life, giving new meaning to it - sub specie aeternitatis.
This was another of my FAVOURITE books in 2018 - and the only high-ranking nonfiction work in that category.
September 18, 2018
The late Charles "Chuck" Colson delivers an amazing message that the entire world needs to hear. As our planet moves away from its Creator, the outlook for the future isn't good...but, God is still in control. Whether He comes back mere minutes from now or in a thousand years, we must be ready...and live our lives in anticipation of His return. Unfortunately, society is so far gone that it seems to be a lost cause; that's what makes Mr. Colson's words here all the more important.
March 29, 2021
Argh. I'm not happy giving this two stars. Chuck Colson is one of my guys: conservative, Christian, champion of the weak, reformer of prisons.
I couldn't really buy into the premise of this book. It's a rational look at the philosophy of life, trying to coax people into the kingdom of Christ without using the prior assumptions or sectarian convictions. Tell lots of stories about all sorts of folk, extract a moral (again, nothing overtly Christian). Then at the last chapter swamp them with truth.
A few things caught my attention, though.
I couldn't really buy into the premise of this book. It's a rational look at the philosophy of life, trying to coax people into the kingdom of Christ without using the prior assumptions or sectarian convictions. Tell lots of stories about all sorts of folk, extract a moral (again, nothing overtly Christian). Then at the last chapter swamp them with truth.
A few things caught my attention, though.
Joseph Biden...challenged Bork. Usually conservatives more than modern liberals favor the argument for a natural order. But Biden, in his introductory remarks before questioning Bork, made an elegant statement as to the fundamental basis of human rights: "I believe my rights are not derived from the Constitution. My rights are not derived from any government. My rights are not derived from any majority. My rights are because I exist. They were given to me and each of my fellow citizens by our Creator, and they represent the essence of human dignity."And this exchange:
George Weigel appeared on All Things Considered...When a debate arose over the question of moral truth, both [host and guest] took the adamant position that there was no such thing. One of the women then hurled a challenge at Weigel. "Can you give me one example of an absolute moral truth that everyone would agree on?" ... "Yes. Rape is wrong."
November 2, 2021
A postmodern-day Ecclesiastes, Colon uses biographical sketches of prominent acquaintances to explore the various ways people pursue "the good life" and uses these examples to point to a life lived for God as the true good life.
April 1, 2019
This book is so helpful in setting up your area, caring for your tools, managing your time effectively, and seeing what can be done at any age.
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” - "The Good Life"
We treat people with kindness and respect, the quality of our relationships with each other. Living the good life can mean something different for everyone. As you read this book, keep an open mind and consider the reality of things.
"People don’t find the good life, they create it. And in making it up, they “invent themselves” because they define for themselves how they want to live: their values, their goals, the criteria by which their lives might be evaluated." - Charles Colson
You need give yourself approval and allow yourself to be imperfect, just be who you want to be. Not look for the approval from others. But from yourself. Our minds are extremely powerful and yet, so many people don’t know how to use them for their benefit.
An excellent book on what the Good Life is and isn't. This book is well worth the read, it really makes you think about your own life. I strongly recommend it to you.
"Improving Your Life"
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” - "The Good Life"
We treat people with kindness and respect, the quality of our relationships with each other. Living the good life can mean something different for everyone. As you read this book, keep an open mind and consider the reality of things.
"People don’t find the good life, they create it. And in making it up, they “invent themselves” because they define for themselves how they want to live: their values, their goals, the criteria by which their lives might be evaluated." - Charles Colson
You need give yourself approval and allow yourself to be imperfect, just be who you want to be. Not look for the approval from others. But from yourself. Our minds are extremely powerful and yet, so many people don’t know how to use them for their benefit.
An excellent book on what the Good Life is and isn't. This book is well worth the read, it really makes you think about your own life. I strongly recommend it to you.
"Improving Your Life"
March 28, 2012
Chuck Colson, who served time in prison for his involvement with the Watergate Scandal, is now a converted Christian man and has written over 20 books, and is involved in prison ministry.
This book is about seeking meaning and purpose in life.
Favorite Quotes:
"The people we influence in a positive way constitute the real and lasting monuments of our lives." p 157
"Providence is the Christian's answer to fate, destiny, or chance. Christians believe that God has a purpose for history and that He works this purpose out through people's lives." p 352
"If God is with us, if the steps of our lives are indeed ordered not by fate or luck but by divine Providence, then so, too, are the events of our deaths. A truly good life looks forward to a final mercy, a good death. Is there such a thing? What does death reveal about the way we have lived?" p 353
"Living the ogod life means not only living it to the fullest every moment we're alive but also facing death with equanimity and then dying well. A lot of people have this wrong. They think that you live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment you can, and then when death comes, you simply accept the hard fact. The good time is over. Life is ended. " p 356
"Death calls us to consider what this life is for, even as our longings for eternity suggest that mortal life is but a preparation for immortality. That's why a Christian's natural fear of death is mitigated; death is merely a transition point from the world in which we have been privileged to live into the promised world to come. This is why Christians face death with equanimity and in some cases even joy. " p 360
" What is the good life? What does it mean to live well? We saw that living for ourselves brings only misery. The way to live successfully is to live for others. But in doing so, you must find the truth and live it, lest you bring destruction to yourself and those you re serving. Only a life lived in service to the truth can be a good life.
We've talked together about the truth and exposed the big lie that says there is no truth, that his is a purposeless, random universe. The truth can be known; we see itin an intelligently designed universe, one that has a purpose. In fact, nature everywhere suggests her purposes, so much so that the moral order is simply complimentary to the natural, physical order. And truth is knowable from observing how these laws work, testing them, and living accordingly. Our appreciation of beauty, our emotions, and our reson powerfully suggest the existence of God and His care for us. Everything we have discovered points to the Christian worldview as the only one that 'fits' the way the world works and that fills the needs of the human heart. Everything else, as I hope I've made clear, turns out to fail in some key respect. Clearly, the postmodern generation is in the grip of a philosophical framework that makes life unlivable. Theintelligent seeker ahs good reason to reject the big lie of thepostmodern world and to find the sources of renewal offered by Christianity.
But we have to confront one last, stunning, paradoxical truth: You cannot find the good life through searching alone. You have to be found by God. In the end, all seekers discover that while they thought they were searching for God, God was searching for them. He longs for us and pursues us. That's why reason alone falls short. The sin that is in ournature corrupts our will---as well as every other faculty, including reason---and blocks us. Only God transforms the will." p 366
This book is about seeking meaning and purpose in life.
Favorite Quotes:
"The people we influence in a positive way constitute the real and lasting monuments of our lives." p 157
"Providence is the Christian's answer to fate, destiny, or chance. Christians believe that God has a purpose for history and that He works this purpose out through people's lives." p 352
"If God is with us, if the steps of our lives are indeed ordered not by fate or luck but by divine Providence, then so, too, are the events of our deaths. A truly good life looks forward to a final mercy, a good death. Is there such a thing? What does death reveal about the way we have lived?" p 353
"Living the ogod life means not only living it to the fullest every moment we're alive but also facing death with equanimity and then dying well. A lot of people have this wrong. They think that you live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment you can, and then when death comes, you simply accept the hard fact. The good time is over. Life is ended. " p 356
"Death calls us to consider what this life is for, even as our longings for eternity suggest that mortal life is but a preparation for immortality. That's why a Christian's natural fear of death is mitigated; death is merely a transition point from the world in which we have been privileged to live into the promised world to come. This is why Christians face death with equanimity and in some cases even joy. " p 360
" What is the good life? What does it mean to live well? We saw that living for ourselves brings only misery. The way to live successfully is to live for others. But in doing so, you must find the truth and live it, lest you bring destruction to yourself and those you re serving. Only a life lived in service to the truth can be a good life.
We've talked together about the truth and exposed the big lie that says there is no truth, that his is a purposeless, random universe. The truth can be known; we see itin an intelligently designed universe, one that has a purpose. In fact, nature everywhere suggests her purposes, so much so that the moral order is simply complimentary to the natural, physical order. And truth is knowable from observing how these laws work, testing them, and living accordingly. Our appreciation of beauty, our emotions, and our reson powerfully suggest the existence of God and His care for us. Everything we have discovered points to the Christian worldview as the only one that 'fits' the way the world works and that fills the needs of the human heart. Everything else, as I hope I've made clear, turns out to fail in some key respect. Clearly, the postmodern generation is in the grip of a philosophical framework that makes life unlivable. Theintelligent seeker ahs good reason to reject the big lie of thepostmodern world and to find the sources of renewal offered by Christianity.
But we have to confront one last, stunning, paradoxical truth: You cannot find the good life through searching alone. You have to be found by God. In the end, all seekers discover that while they thought they were searching for God, God was searching for them. He longs for us and pursues us. That's why reason alone falls short. The sin that is in ournature corrupts our will---as well as every other faculty, including reason---and blocks us. Only God transforms the will." p 366
June 23, 2009
Really thought provoking. A rather philosophical book but full of stories - from movies, from books, from friends, from himself which makes it an interesting, fairly easy read.
I don't think I realized before just how brilliant Chuck Colson is though. For one illustration, he is talking about a friend of his and says "we could talk about the natural order, Aristotle, Anselm's proof of God and the medieval synthesis of Aquinas." He was trying to point out how bright his friend was, but anyone who even knows what the medieval synthesis of Aquinas is ranks as brilliant in my book. (I don't pass.)
But, for all his intelligence, the book has a very humble tone and he even mentions in the intro: "The search for truth and meaning is a life long process, and if you ever think you have all the answers you can become insufferable and dangerous."
I'm going to have to keep this one out to re-read again soon.
I don't think I realized before just how brilliant Chuck Colson is though. For one illustration, he is talking about a friend of his and says "we could talk about the natural order, Aristotle, Anselm's proof of God and the medieval synthesis of Aquinas." He was trying to point out how bright his friend was, but anyone who even knows what the medieval synthesis of Aquinas is ranks as brilliant in my book. (I don't pass.)
But, for all his intelligence, the book has a very humble tone and he even mentions in the intro: "The search for truth and meaning is a life long process, and if you ever think you have all the answers you can become insufferable and dangerous."
I'm going to have to keep this one out to re-read again soon.
February 10, 2012
Chuck Colson is a great storyteller, and he makes his point clearly on where truth and meaning are to be found through the use of stories and short biographies. He uses his skills as an apologist to draw you along in a gentle but powerful way, and makes his case through real life examples and interesting illustrations. You could share this book with anyone who is a "seeker" for truth.
This book is not at all difficult and would be good for someone who may not have the time to read a more technical apologetics work.
This seems to be a summary of his earlier book, How Shall We Now Live. While that book is much more comprehensive if you don't have the time to read a book of that length, then I think The Good Life is a simpler restating of the same philosophy and worldview.
This book is not at all difficult and would be good for someone who may not have the time to read a more technical apologetics work.
This seems to be a summary of his earlier book, How Shall We Now Live. While that book is much more comprehensive if you don't have the time to read a book of that length, then I think The Good Life is a simpler restating of the same philosophy and worldview.
Read
July 28, 2011OK, this is a must read for every one from an amazing, empathic and humble servant of the Almighty. I learn more history, vocabulary, wisdom and wonder with every Colson book I read. Bless you, man! Highly recommend to Christians and non-Christians alike. This book contains the most straightforward, simple account of Watergate in Ch. 2, A Shattered Life, for those who would like to really understand what happened and Colson's real role in it.
Miss the usual very extensive index that he usually includes, though.
Miss the usual very extensive index that he usually includes, though.
March 8, 2014
This is a peculiar little book. It is partially a memoir, but also partially a book to convince doubters of the Christian worldview. Colson might try to tackle too much in this book. He covers everything from evolution to euthanasia to homosexuality to forgiveness. It's full of illustrations, which are interesting and well-written.
I went through most of the book thinking, "This is pure moralism." He finally gets around to grounding things in the gospel in the last few chapters. It's set up this way because of its intended audience, but it's still a little troubling.
I went through most of the book thinking, "This is pure moralism." He finally gets around to grounding things in the gospel in the last few chapters. It's set up this way because of its intended audience, but it's still a little troubling.
August 11, 2019
I love Chuck Colson but he's a difficult writer to read. In this book he describes his own writing style as "dense" and that is certainly true. This book is packed with long academic examples that Colson thinks illustrate points he tries to make, but his points get lost in the storytelling. There are just too few practical conclusions on how to live the good life beyond trusting Christ's grace and providence.
Some of the book is downright frustrating. Most stories involve rich or famous people that none of us will be able to relate to. Colson seems to boast of his many rich and famous friends, ignoring the stories of the people in prison that we'd rather hear. He also has too many stories about others and not enough about himself or his prison ministry; meanwhile the few stories about him in this book end up being somewhat braggadocious.
Many of his pop culture references have errors in them. Much of the book feels outdated. One of the main subjects in the book, gay-turned-straight leader Randy Thomas, actually has now turned back to the gay lifestyle (even though his own website brags of him being mentioned in Colson's book!). And as the book nears the end it seems like it can all be simplified to the sinner's prayer asking Jesus for forgiveness. Life is so much more complicated than Colson makes it sound, and he provides simplistic responses to the horrible circumstances in the stories he tells about himself and others.
While his intent is good and his heart is in the right place, this book is way too long, is awkward to read, includes too many long examples that seem simply pulled from elsewhere, and doesn't relate enough of Colson's own post-prison experiences. It should have been much better in order to have real impact. The Good Life is not a good book.
Some of the book is downright frustrating. Most stories involve rich or famous people that none of us will be able to relate to. Colson seems to boast of his many rich and famous friends, ignoring the stories of the people in prison that we'd rather hear. He also has too many stories about others and not enough about himself or his prison ministry; meanwhile the few stories about him in this book end up being somewhat braggadocious.
Many of his pop culture references have errors in them. Much of the book feels outdated. One of the main subjects in the book, gay-turned-straight leader Randy Thomas, actually has now turned back to the gay lifestyle (even though his own website brags of him being mentioned in Colson's book!). And as the book nears the end it seems like it can all be simplified to the sinner's prayer asking Jesus for forgiveness. Life is so much more complicated than Colson makes it sound, and he provides simplistic responses to the horrible circumstances in the stories he tells about himself and others.
While his intent is good and his heart is in the right place, this book is way too long, is awkward to read, includes too many long examples that seem simply pulled from elsewhere, and doesn't relate enough of Colson's own post-prison experiences. It should have been much better in order to have real impact. The Good Life is not a good book.
August 9, 2019
THE GOOD LIFE is a nice introduction to the Christian way of living, but there's little that sets it apart from similar works by other notable Christian authors.
Charles Colson's aim is to take readers on an intellectual journey, and a journey is exactly what this book feels like. If you're someone who extols pithiness and cutting to the chase, then this book isn't for you. Colson introduces each concept through a lengthy story or anecdote culled from history, cinema, or his personal experiences, and the whole thing feels very drawn out, especially since he can't even reference something as famous as PLAYBOY without pausing to explain what it is. This doesn't make it a bad book; just a book for people who prefer sipping on refreshing philosophical cocktails as opposed to downing straight shots of ice-cold ideology.
The stories he chooses are interesting, but some of them appeared in other books of his I've read. His use of movies to provide examples struck me as less effective. Something about hearing a person summarize a movie just puts me to sleep.
Still, although the book didn't have a strong impact on me, I enjoyed it well enough, and I can understand why other people might enjoy it a good deal more. If you've never considered what it truly means to live a good life, this is a great place to start.
Charles Colson's aim is to take readers on an intellectual journey, and a journey is exactly what this book feels like. If you're someone who extols pithiness and cutting to the chase, then this book isn't for you. Colson introduces each concept through a lengthy story or anecdote culled from history, cinema, or his personal experiences, and the whole thing feels very drawn out, especially since he can't even reference something as famous as PLAYBOY without pausing to explain what it is. This doesn't make it a bad book; just a book for people who prefer sipping on refreshing philosophical cocktails as opposed to downing straight shots of ice-cold ideology.
The stories he chooses are interesting, but some of them appeared in other books of his I've read. His use of movies to provide examples struck me as less effective. Something about hearing a person summarize a movie just puts me to sleep.
Still, although the book didn't have a strong impact on me, I enjoyed it well enough, and I can understand why other people might enjoy it a good deal more. If you've never considered what it truly means to live a good life, this is a great place to start.
August 28, 2018
I read this book a number of years ago and have passed it on to others, always buying new copies if I did not get my copy back from whomever received it from me. It contributed significantly to major lifestyle changes in me. While the world had been telling me all along that the Good Life was all about looking good, feeling good, and gathering the goods, I found out about the authentic Good Life and have been pursuing it ever since.
June 15, 2018
An engaging exploration of what constitutes a good life. Through several remarkable stories and careful reasoning, Colson helps the reader ask hard but essential questions about their existence. At the end, we find that only the Christian worldview can provide reliable answers to these crucial questions. A wonderful book!
September 2, 2019
First book I've read by Colson - definitely recommend! As well as being a storyteller, he is so logical and accessible. This is one to share with seekers, even if they're not seeking God per se, but simply want to learn and ask hard questions
October 8, 2019
Convicting
Colton reveals topics and issues that do condemn us all. It raises topics and situations that shame and expose guilt. He reveals the nature and character of God in a very convincing way.
Colton reveals topics and issues that do condemn us all. It raises topics and situations that shame and expose guilt. He reveals the nature and character of God in a very convincing way.
September 7, 2017
Amazing Book!
April 3, 2018
Excellent book.
January 18, 2023
There is so much packed into this book. I would highly recommend it, especially for those who have a criminal past, have spent time in jail, or are questioning life in general.
August 11, 2012
Thirty five years ago a White House cover-up shook the nation. In the midst of the national controversy were the individual lives that would never be the same. One of those lives is that of Charles Colson. After serving time in prison for releasing confidential FBI information, Colson underwent a transformation, a conversion. He told about his conversion in his popular book Born Again. More than three decades later he's telling his story again, but from a more developed perspective, in his recent book, The Good Life.
The premise of The Good Life is that a good life can be found in serving others and serving them in truth and not wasting your life satisfying just your own selfish desires. Do not serve others just to promote your own self-interest. Instead, we are challenged to serve others because of who Jesus Christ is and what He did for us on the cross at Calvary.
The Good Life isn't completely about Charles Colson. In fact, his is just one of many stories the authors share to explore the issues of purpose, meaning, and truth in this life. Reflections are offered on men who "had it all," such as L. Dennis Kozlowski (former CEO of Tyco International), as well as people who endured devastating pain and suffering, such as Nien Cheng (a women who suffered under Communist rule in China).
Some of the important points, but not all, covered in the book include: 1. We acknowledge the evil to embrace the good. 2. When people are too idle, they lack purpose. We were wired to have a purpose in life. 3. Our own personal happiness must never be the ultimate goal in our lives. 4. Living independent of others is unhealthy - we are meant for community. 5. Integrity is more important than loyalty. Get that wrong and your world collapses.
Highly recommend book to read, enjoy, and be challenged to make the most of the rest of your life for God's glory.
Received e-book for my nook for a review.
June 10, 2014
So. This was a gift from someone else, and I was a bit dubious that the perspective would be from the "other" side of the Christian theological perspective than where I am. That being said, I did enjoy the first half of the book. I was true about the perspective -- but, always trying to be open, I did enjoy many of the things Mr. Colson had to say. It does get you to think about your faith, and I did carry away a few things about it.
..but then came the second half of the book. Once the author tried to delve into "social issues," it was a 100% turn-off that had me considering stopping reading. But A) It was a gift and B) Open mind, so I plowed through. I'm not going to get into the issues...just in complete disagreement with his opinions and his theology. It would be an essay getting into why I believe what I believe, and some points I would put forth about why I think he construes the Bible and Christian theology. But ... whatever. The other complaint I would have is he references movies A LOT as examples. I'm not sure works of fiction work best as life examples, but maybe that's just me. Also, anything he would construe G-d Person v. Non-G-d person, the examples were so extreme, it just left me nonplussed about the point he was trying to make.
Certainly Mr. Colson has done a lot of good with his prison ministry (and Heaven knows I'm a Nixon-junkie), but if you are more of the fundamentalist side, then you may find this book interesting. But I thought his meandered in his thesis, tried to write a "truth-seeking book" that (as he states in the beginning) wouldn't be about Christianity specifically...then ends the book with "I think I proved why only Christianity is true and the rest are not." You don't need to lie, man, to get me to read a book. So.
I gave it two stars v. one star because I did enjoy having an open mind about the first half, and I did get something from it.
..but then came the second half of the book. Once the author tried to delve into "social issues," it was a 100% turn-off that had me considering stopping reading. But A) It was a gift and B) Open mind, so I plowed through. I'm not going to get into the issues...just in complete disagreement with his opinions and his theology. It would be an essay getting into why I believe what I believe, and some points I would put forth about why I think he construes the Bible and Christian theology. But ... whatever. The other complaint I would have is he references movies A LOT as examples. I'm not sure works of fiction work best as life examples, but maybe that's just me. Also, anything he would construe G-d Person v. Non-G-d person, the examples were so extreme, it just left me nonplussed about the point he was trying to make.
Certainly Mr. Colson has done a lot of good with his prison ministry (and Heaven knows I'm a Nixon-junkie), but if you are more of the fundamentalist side, then you may find this book interesting. But I thought his meandered in his thesis, tried to write a "truth-seeking book" that (as he states in the beginning) wouldn't be about Christianity specifically...then ends the book with "I think I proved why only Christianity is true and the rest are not." You don't need to lie, man, to get me to read a book. So.
I gave it two stars v. one star because I did enjoy having an open mind about the first half, and I did get something from it.
April 21, 2024
“Meaningless! Meaningless! Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” That’s how the Preacher begins the biblical book of Ecclesiastes, and that’s the best way to describe the pursuit of life that is grounded in anything (whether self, or money, or sex, or fame, or power, or legacy) other than joy in the Creator and the hope of fullness in him. Although I’m a rank amateur in the realm of philosophy, I can’t for the life of me understand how anyone who accepts the premises of atheism and materialism can reach any other conclusion but that of nihilism, utter despair, and absolute moral relativism. The fact is, however, that no one can consistently live that way, and those who try are hardly welcome by the society that embraces their philosophy. Colson’s book vividly illustrates the truth of Ecclesiastes 1-2 and seeks to provide an alternative that brings significance, hope, and genuine truth.
This book takes an approach very similar to the other two Colson books I’ve read, Loving God and Being the Body. The method could best be described as “don’t tell me, show me.” Combining stories from his own illustrious life experiences with those of others he has encountered along the way, Colson conveys builds his case through a series of windows into reality. The result is concrete, powerful, and readable. Through these accounts, you’ll see the brutality of human nature, the utter vanity of a life lived for self, the unspeakable beauty of sacrificial love, the transforming power of God’s grace, and the life and death importance of the truth. This is a well thought out book and because of the way it’s written never gets boring.
See my full review...
This book takes an approach very similar to the other two Colson books I’ve read, Loving God and Being the Body. The method could best be described as “don’t tell me, show me.” Combining stories from his own illustrious life experiences with those of others he has encountered along the way, Colson conveys builds his case through a series of windows into reality. The result is concrete, powerful, and readable. Through these accounts, you’ll see the brutality of human nature, the utter vanity of a life lived for self, the unspeakable beauty of sacrificial love, the transforming power of God’s grace, and the life and death importance of the truth. This is a well thought out book and because of the way it’s written never gets boring.
See my full review...
August 2, 2011
A wonderful book about what the good life is. Although it's a bit long, it covers every other worldview: arts, postmodernism, Atheism, pleasure, materialism, etc. and explains why a life lived without knowing the truth is not the good life. It talks about what the Christian principles of loving others, giving ourselves, knowing God, etc. are what leads to the good life. I enjoyed reading about real people like Jack Eckerd vs. Hugh Hefner (Playboy founder), Randy, Madalyn Murray O'Hair, Nien Cheng, and Dennis Kozlowki. If you don't have time to read the whole book, I recommend reading the chapters "Morality and the Natural Order," "Hope, Freedom, and Happiness," "Providence," and "A Good Death." A wonderful book for seekers and also a wonderful book for Christians to solidify our foundations.
Favorite Quote: "When I was sent to prison, my greatest fear was that I would never be able to do something significant in life again. Now I saw I would never have been able to do anything truly significant without prison. My fall enabled my life and my work to rise. As the Lord told the apostle Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Nothing had changed in the Roosevelt Room; yet everything was different because I had changed. Utterly. Just like Robert Sutton. Robert Sutton (an African American graduate of Prison Fellowship's InnerChange program) and I are exactly the same. Our spiritual journey are similar. The most powerful man in the world might have been praying with us, but we were ALL alike because we all stand on level ground on the foot of the cross."
Favorite Quote: "When I was sent to prison, my greatest fear was that I would never be able to do something significant in life again. Now I saw I would never have been able to do anything truly significant without prison. My fall enabled my life and my work to rise. As the Lord told the apostle Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Nothing had changed in the Roosevelt Room; yet everything was different because I had changed. Utterly. Just like Robert Sutton. Robert Sutton (an African American graduate of Prison Fellowship's InnerChange program) and I are exactly the same. Our spiritual journey are similar. The most powerful man in the world might have been praying with us, but we were ALL alike because we all stand on level ground on the foot of the cross."
May 24, 2012
Charles Colson was a major voice in support of the Christian worldview, though one of the major things I learned from his writing and radio programs was exsistance and impact of whatever your worldview is. I learned how your worldview colors how you interpret all information, and it helped me to understand the Bible's statement that people were ever seeing, but never understanding.
Along with that understanding, came the conviction to examine my own worldview and how it colored my understanding. The Good Life is, like many of Colson's works, a book about worldview. Specifically, which worldview can correctly answer the quesiton of what is a good life and how do I live it? He does this by telling several biographical stories of himself and others, exemplifying both correct and incorrect answers to that question.
It's a very good book, and I enjoyed reading it. I'm not sure who I would recommend it to, though, because I'm not able to see how people with different beliefs or convictions would read it. But I guess that's part of Colson's point as well. Towards the end of the book he says that God cannot reveal Himself unambiguously, or free will would be meaningless. We always have the option to choose not to believe.
So, is it a good book? Yes. If you are a skeptic will it change your mind? In a large part, that's up to you.
Along with that understanding, came the conviction to examine my own worldview and how it colored my understanding. The Good Life is, like many of Colson's works, a book about worldview. Specifically, which worldview can correctly answer the quesiton of what is a good life and how do I live it? He does this by telling several biographical stories of himself and others, exemplifying both correct and incorrect answers to that question.
It's a very good book, and I enjoyed reading it. I'm not sure who I would recommend it to, though, because I'm not able to see how people with different beliefs or convictions would read it. But I guess that's part of Colson's point as well. Towards the end of the book he says that God cannot reveal Himself unambiguously, or free will would be meaningless. We always have the option to choose not to believe.
So, is it a good book? Yes. If you are a skeptic will it change your mind? In a large part, that's up to you.
February 14, 2017
Compared to his deep book "How Now Shall We Live?", this is a straightforward, easy-to-understand book that tells that if we search, and accept with faith, we will realise that the truly good life is the life of God in Christ through us. Not money, pleasure, work can be told to produce the good life without God at its center. This is truly an insightful book. If you happen to find this book, buy and read this.
March 30, 2016
I have only recently discovered the works of Charles (Chuck) Colson. I knew his name and some of his nefarious deeds from Watergate but never really paid any attention to what happened to him after he went to prison. But over the last year I have been paying attention to his radio ministry (now being done by writer Eric Metaxes and John Stonestreet) and have picked up several of his books. And I have to say, so many Christian writers either get bogged down in heavy theological writing (which is fine if that's your audience) or saccharine-laced, Hallmark cards sort of sentimentality but this is what made Colson different. He writes to us. The regular person. There's a sense of decency and humanity to his writing - showcasing, really, his true conversion. This book is wide in scope but never feels like he ever loses control of what he is writing. Concise and well put together - filled with anecdotes and stories, some you know, some you have never heard before. I enjoyed it.
December 15, 2022
Finally got the time to come back to this one.
I didn't buy this book, it was a present from one of my church leaders. It came to me in a time where I was struggling with finding meaning in my life. I am in college pursuing an undergrad degree, I have enough money to live comfortably, I have friends and family. But, am I leaving a good life, one that will mean something when I die?
What an amazing reading for those who have questions about what life is about and wether there is a purpose. I am a Christian, however, there were so many questions I had that this book help me figure out, specially those regarding Creation and the validity of the Bible. If you are wondering what makes Christianity different from other religions and how people can find freedom, true joy and fulfillment by declaring Jesus as their Lord and Savior, read this book.
I recommend "The Good Life" as the beginning of anyone's search for the truth.
I didn't buy this book, it was a present from one of my church leaders. It came to me in a time where I was struggling with finding meaning in my life. I am in college pursuing an undergrad degree, I have enough money to live comfortably, I have friends and family. But, am I leaving a good life, one that will mean something when I die?
What an amazing reading for those who have questions about what life is about and wether there is a purpose. I am a Christian, however, there were so many questions I had that this book help me figure out, specially those regarding Creation and the validity of the Bible. If you are wondering what makes Christianity different from other religions and how people can find freedom, true joy and fulfillment by declaring Jesus as their Lord and Savior, read this book.
I recommend "The Good Life" as the beginning of anyone's search for the truth.
April 3, 2008
This book was excellent and one that I could share with a person who is searching for truth and meaning, but doesn't have a relationship with Jesus Christ. It reaffirmed my own faith. I liked this quote on p. 357, "There is no disparity between faith, on the one hand, and reason, or what we can discover about the natural order, on the other. Nothing in the one contradicts the other. What God reveals about Himself in the Bible enlarges the capacities of both reason and the imagination. Revelation enables our human faculties to understand truths that they cannot comprehend without the additional information that God alone can supply."
It took me awhile to get through the book, but it was well worth the effort!
It took me awhile to get through the book, but it was well worth the effort!
October 17, 2010
Good chapters covering a multitude of how people can submit to convenient beliefs if you don't know what your own beliefs are.
This is a big picture view book and I admittedly enjoy the big picture. This should be a personal book if you've chosen to read. I do not agree with the Authors chapter "we all need to be committed to being evangelists ourselves".
Spirituality is something to heal and give from your heart not a soap box. Otherwise the book is a beautiful submission of courage in the most challenging situations. So many deep feelings from people we have heard of and some we have not.
I think this book strengthened my belief on choosing a road to kindness and conviction to be a better person each day.
This is a big picture view book and I admittedly enjoy the big picture. This should be a personal book if you've chosen to read. I do not agree with the Authors chapter "we all need to be committed to being evangelists ourselves".
Spirituality is something to heal and give from your heart not a soap box. Otherwise the book is a beautiful submission of courage in the most challenging situations. So many deep feelings from people we have heard of and some we have not.
I think this book strengthened my belief on choosing a road to kindness and conviction to be a better person each day.
February 17, 2011
Colson's The Good Life was one part apologetics (the rational defense of Christianity) Think: Paul E. Little's book, "Know What/Why You Believe" and also one part a historical account of the rise and fall of Western thought and culture. Think: Francis Schaeffer's, "How Should We Then Live" Colson draws upon some of the most compelling life stories(including his own!)to illustrate and explain why we are here...Some of his key existential questions are: How do we know what's true? Where did we come from? What's the solution to a messed up world that we live in? How do I live a life of significance? Colson makes a compelling case for the good life; he explains that how we answer these questions about life determines our future
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