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Reduce Me to Love: Unlocking the Secret to Lasting Joy
#1 New York Times bestselling author Joyce Meyer points out, "You can't give away something you don't have!"
Many people who are trying to walk in God's love are doing so in their own strength, but they can't demonstrate God's love because they never stop to receive it themselves. Because God is love, loving and being loved is what makes life worth living. Once you learn how to truly accept God's unconditional love for you and walk in love like Jesus did, you will discover the sweet peace, deep joy, and unfailing strength that come with being willing to say, "REDUCE ME TO LOVE!"
Many people who are trying to walk in God's love are doing so in their own strength, but they can't demonstrate God's love because they never stop to receive it themselves. Because God is love, loving and being loved is what makes life worth living. Once you learn how to truly accept God's unconditional love for you and walk in love like Jesus did, you will discover the sweet peace, deep joy, and unfailing strength that come with being willing to say, "REDUCE ME TO LOVE!"
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2000
79 people are currently reading
745 people want to read
About the author
Joyce Meyer
1,563 books3,881 followersJoyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A New York Times bestselling author, Joyce’s books have helped millions of people find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Through Joyce Meyer Ministries, Joyce teaches on a number of topics with a particular focus on how the Word of God applies to our everyday lives. Her candid communication style allows her to share openly and practically about her experiences so others can apply what she has learned to their lives.
Joyce’s programs, Enjoying Everyday Life and Everyday Answers with Joyce Meyer, can be seen around the world through television, radio, and the Internet. Joyce has authored more than 100 books, which have been translated into more than 100 languages and over 65 million of her books have been distributed worldwide. She teaches in cities across America as well as internationally. Joyce Meyer Ministries has offices in nine countries.
Joyce’s passion to help hurting people is foundational to the vision of Hand of Hope, the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Hand of Hope provides worldwide humanitarian outreaches such as feeding programs, medical care, orphanages, disaster response, human trafficking intervention and rehabilitation, and much more – always sharing the love and Gospel of Christ.
Her latest book, LIVING A LIFE YOU LOVE, releases Spring 2018.
Hachette Book Group has sold over 30 million copies of Joyce Meyer's books.
Joyce’s programs, Enjoying Everyday Life and Everyday Answers with Joyce Meyer, can be seen around the world through television, radio, and the Internet. Joyce has authored more than 100 books, which have been translated into more than 100 languages and over 65 million of her books have been distributed worldwide. She teaches in cities across America as well as internationally. Joyce Meyer Ministries has offices in nine countries.
Joyce’s passion to help hurting people is foundational to the vision of Hand of Hope, the missions arm of Joyce Meyer Ministries. Hand of Hope provides worldwide humanitarian outreaches such as feeding programs, medical care, orphanages, disaster response, human trafficking intervention and rehabilitation, and much more – always sharing the love and Gospel of Christ.
Her latest book, LIVING A LIFE YOU LOVE, releases Spring 2018.
Hachette Book Group has sold over 30 million copies of Joyce Meyer's books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 22, 2009
I have never read any book that unlocked total meaning to me of what God's love is. I learned from this book that the word "love" is too often thrown around casually and the true meaning of love is missed. Love is not a feeling but an action word. I have to choose to show love regardless of how I feel. Futhermore, showing love is not based upon the behavior or character of another individual. It is my choice to show love because I understand the love that Christ showed toward me when He allowed Himself to suffer and be crucified for me.
August 22, 2017
The book is short, easy to read, and contains lots of nice things, but still fails to grab your attention and make any impact. The Bible verses are all from the Amplified Bible. This surprised me. When deriving biblical truths, I expect the Bible that is used to be one that is closer to the original text, either a dynamic version or a literal (word for word) translation. There was also a good amount of proof texting; i.e. listing bible verses and then making some kind of claim or explanation. Bible verses should be understood in their context.
The book is weak on God’s love for humanity. It is mentioned, but doing little, non-costly gestures of love gets preference. Also, missing is how to deal with life, when life gets really messy. The author seem to think we can, by being loving, ensure a good life, but that is neither reality, nor biblical.
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February 26, 2008What an outstanding book! Joyce Meyers has such an awesome way of putting everything in plain english that is so understandable. This book really taught my to start my own love walk and that LOVE is what God wants all of us to do even with the people we don't want to love. I can't wait to see the changes that occur in my life because of the way I am going to use love to deal with everyone.
Great read!!!
Great read!!!
Read
August 5, 2016Can I just say WOW, I mean I'm glad I bought this book every minute with it has been ... Enlightening... I never knew Love could be used as a spiritual WARFARE until yesterday, didn't understand that Martyr is different from service, she uses critical life examples that not only boggle the mind, but help you to relate to whatever she is explaining, she has opened me to more ways to loving and healing better. Thank God I Got This Book cos its Worth every penny
May 11, 2013
I find this, one of the most important books ever written on the subject of God's Love. Joyce Meyer, through her own personal experience, explains practically and simply why love is the most excellent way and the most important thing in life. This is a must read for anyone who cares to live as God intended.
October 24, 2008
I love Joyce Meyer. Her teaching style is so down to earth and easy to relate to. This is one I need to read again and again to remind me what it really means to walk in the love of Christ.
July 7, 2015
I read this book way back about 2007 and thoroughly loved it. You know how you find a book and you read it and you know for sure it has affected your world view or improved your capacity to be a certain way within your subconscious mind? Two books only have done this for me: Reduce Me To Love and The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren ("True Spirituality" by Francis Schaeffer changed my life spiritually; but I spent early mornings literally pacing my parents' living room and dining room trying to digest the spiritual truths I had never heard in my church but which I realized were the key to victorious Christian living). I simply could not put Reduce Me To Love down until I finished the book. Great book by Joyce Meyer that totally challenges you to dare to choose to always walk in love in so far as all of your relationships are concerned. I am totally surprised this book is not more popular than it seems to be. If you are a Christian and want to read a book that in my opinion packs a Holy Spirit punch at empowering you to walk in love (if you truly desire to do so), read this book.
Truths that Create or Enhance Loving Relationships: The Christian Perspective
Truths that Create or Enhance Loving Relationships: The Christian Perspective
September 5, 2011
Another awesome book by Joyce Meyers! A powerful message about the power of love and the meaning of love, seen through the eyes of God's word. She shares her life experiences about love, and how she wrongly applied it for years in her marriage and family. She shares, that through loving our selves as Godly people,knowing the Love God shared with us, we learn God's gift of Love and are able to share it with others.
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February 14, 2008it opened my eyes about the real meaning of love and taught me how to show love to people without seeking nothing in return, very helpful for those who are introverted and don't know how to express their love to others
April 9, 2008
This little book takes me to a different level in understanding
God's love and man's love. it was on sale 60% off. I thought its light reading because of the size. Don't judge...! Its rather dynamic.
God's love and man's love. it was on sale 60% off. I thought its light reading because of the size. Don't judge...! Its rather dynamic.
April 3, 2012
What a great read! I liked this book so much. It was introduced to me by a friend. It has taught me how to walk in love. How to love like Jesus. How to be reduced to love. Its my prayer that God reduces me to love. Watch out people of earth, I'm gonna love you like you've never been loved.......x
May 28, 2012
I like Joyce, she has a realness about her that is appealing. She shares what God has worked with her on and discusses it in a personal way that helps me relate. There were several sections that spoke to me and broadened the way I want to love others.
October 22, 2012
I highly recommend this book of Joyce Meyer. There are times when life gets complicated and the answer resides in these pages. If you don't believe me check it out for yourself. I guarantee you won't be disappointed you did.
February 17, 2014
This book is a goldmine on how to live out your love walk. I will definitely be picking this one up again. The principles it holds must constantly be at the forefront of our minds. Another Holy Spirit inspired writing from J. Meyers!!!
March 27, 2010
Another must read! I will keep to read when I need to love others more than me!
February 18, 2011
This was the first book I had read by Joyce Meyer. I enjoyed it. I think we all have to step back from time to time and remember that we were put on earth to witness to others and share GOD's love.
August 13, 2016
One of my all-time favorite books. I read the book, then turned right back to the first page and read it again. It taught me a lot about walking in love...even when you don't feel like it.
September 16, 2012
One of my favorites! Putting to practice what is taught in Reduce Me to Love is a challenge but I am working on it.
July 13, 2013
Possibly my second favorite Joyce book. Her teachings on Love are the ones I enjoy the most.
June 12, 2014
A great book..reminds people of how to help each other and not be judgemental..
April 18, 2020
A lot of people really like this author. She puts me off.
April 14, 2008
As far as Christian writers go, I like her. She's like your own little personal cheerleader. Amen?
May 7, 2024
I can attest to the fact that loving people is easier on paper than in real life. This book teaches that when we ask God to help us love others, we are asking for a collection of attributes and qualities that characterize who He is. After God consistently nudged me towards building Agape love and sincerity towards others, my steps were directed towards reading this book.
Joyce walks her readers through 13 chapters explaining 1st Corinthians 13 and how we can practically display each attribute as believers. To love is to be kind in words, material goods, thoughts, and in our ability to adapt and adjust to others (endurance). It is seen through how we display patience and longsuffering, how we pray for others to be blessed rather than leaving room for envy, in our humility down to our manners, and through acts of selflessness, forgiveness, and showing preference for others.
Each chapter struck a chord in my heart so much that I would consider reading this piece a second time. Amongst these many qualities, I have chosen to share three that have renewed my understanding.
The first is that love starts from our thought process. What we think of others matters, and we must think good thoughts about whoever we come across at all times. Kindness is not just an external act but an inner mindset. God expects us to think the best of others. This also involves magnifying their strengths in our minds rather than their weaknesses.
Secondly, love is not rude. I have come to understand that good manners are not just a moral responsibility but also a way of expressing love to others. We should be well-mannered towards everyone.
Lastly, love honors others. I used to believe that people should be praised and valued based on their achievements and status. However, this book has taught me that honoring people by showing preference for them is an act of love and should be demonstrated in simple things.
I have found this read very practical and helpful in my love walk. It is my prayer that I am graced with heaven's help to put these words into practice in my everyday life until love exudes from every fiber of my being.
Joyce walks her readers through 13 chapters explaining 1st Corinthians 13 and how we can practically display each attribute as believers. To love is to be kind in words, material goods, thoughts, and in our ability to adapt and adjust to others (endurance). It is seen through how we display patience and longsuffering, how we pray for others to be blessed rather than leaving room for envy, in our humility down to our manners, and through acts of selflessness, forgiveness, and showing preference for others.
Each chapter struck a chord in my heart so much that I would consider reading this piece a second time. Amongst these many qualities, I have chosen to share three that have renewed my understanding.
The first is that love starts from our thought process. What we think of others matters, and we must think good thoughts about whoever we come across at all times. Kindness is not just an external act but an inner mindset. God expects us to think the best of others. This also involves magnifying their strengths in our minds rather than their weaknesses.
Secondly, love is not rude. I have come to understand that good manners are not just a moral responsibility but also a way of expressing love to others. We should be well-mannered towards everyone.
Lastly, love honors others. I used to believe that people should be praised and valued based on their achievements and status. However, this book has taught me that honoring people by showing preference for them is an act of love and should be demonstrated in simple things.
I have found this read very practical and helpful in my love walk. It is my prayer that I am graced with heaven's help to put these words into practice in my everyday life until love exudes from every fiber of my being.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2018
Reduce Me to Love is for anyone who wants to strengthen their love walk in Christ. Joyce Meyer shares practical tips on how to do that with relevant examples from her own life. From 1 Corinthians 13 and other scriptures she defines love, the many facets of love, and the different ways we can express it (through our words, material goods, and thoughts). She makes the crucial point that we cannot give out what we do not have so we first need to receive love from God (Love Himself) before we can give it out to others. Love, she says, is liberating and once we embrace it, we overcome fear and are able to give the gift of freedom to others. Love sets us free and enables us to release other people into all that God created them to be. Joyce's prayer is that we may all come to a point where we pray to our Father to reduce us to love.
January 30, 2025
I found this book in the sale shelf in my local library. It was definitely worth it.
Though it was written in 2000 and has a few dated references here and there, they don’t affect the point of this book.
I appreciated Joyce Meyer’s honesty about how she used to behave and live her life angry. It reinforced my own path of recovering from strict mom syndrome as my kids were growing and helps me to know I am on the right path now.
This is not a book just for moms though. It is a quick and helpful read for anyone who needs to remember that as long as we are keeping God in the forefront of our lives and how we treat others, then we are living well.
Though it was written in 2000 and has a few dated references here and there, they don’t affect the point of this book.
I appreciated Joyce Meyer’s honesty about how she used to behave and live her life angry. It reinforced my own path of recovering from strict mom syndrome as my kids were growing and helps me to know I am on the right path now.
This is not a book just for moms though. It is a quick and helpful read for anyone who needs to remember that as long as we are keeping God in the forefront of our lives and how we treat others, then we are living well.
April 18, 2025
So much to learn from this one! So practical. Loving with your thoughts. Cannot love in action if your thoughts are not aligned. This is gold. Trusting God with the outcomes when it looks like all your loving is earning you evil or negativity. Clearly she has practiced these things.
I loved the tip to watch someone who operates in love and watch the fruit of their lives. It's a little hard to find but there are some. So much joy and peace in their lives but also material blessings and wisdom
Must read this one again and again
I loved the tip to watch someone who operates in love and watch the fruit of their lives. It's a little hard to find but there are some. So much joy and peace in their lives but also material blessings and wisdom
Must read this one again and again
February 13, 2020
Who says love is hard to find?
Have you tried loving your self genuinely and not selfishly while showing others this same love even when they don't treat us the same?
I would leave us with something worth thinking about, a #FoodForThought "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs"
Have you tried loving your self genuinely and not selfishly while showing others this same love even when they don't treat us the same?
I would leave us with something worth thinking about, a #FoodForThought "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs"
February 1, 2022
Good book on putting people needs first with the motive of pleasing God. It gives suggestions about how to let the unconditional love from God flow through us to keep the body of Christ strong. Break down different ways to love such as words, thoughts, prayers, etc.
March 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. Unfortunately, there was a section about praying and loving to change a gay man back to being straight and that didn’t sit well with me. This is an older book so I can only hope she no longer writes of such things.
March 9, 2024
Sách viết dưới góc nhìn của 1 "con chiên ngoan đạo" nên đối với mình góc nhìn hơi hẹp. Nếu bạn nào không theo đạo (như mình) hoặc tin vào Phật giáo thì khuyến khích mọi người đọc cuốn "Giận" của thiền sư Thích Nhất Hạnh sẽ bao quát hơn, sâu sắc hơn và hay hơn rất nhiều.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews