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Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make A Difference
These are difficult days in our world’s history. Billions of people are poor, millions go hungry or thirsty every day. Disease claims thousands of lives daily. But you and I have been given an opportunity to make a big difference. What if we did? What if we rocked the world with hope? Infiltrated all corners with God’s love and life? We are created by a great God to do great works. He invites us to outlive our lives, not just in heaven, but here on earth. Lets live our lives in such a way that the world will be glad we did. Additional Outlive Your Life products include:
212 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
237 people are currently reading
2321 people want to read
About the author
Max Lucado
1,201 books5,417 followersWith more than 150 million products in print and several NYT bestsellers, Max Lucado is America's bestselling inspirational author. He serves the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy. His most recent book published in August 2024 and is titled What Happens Next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
May 27, 2018
Excellent look at what it truly means to serve Christ.
January 17, 2024
"Works done in God's name long outlive our earthly lives" (pg. 68). I love reading Max Lucado books and I thoroughly enjoyed "Outlive Your Life." Max Lucado's text centers around the book of Acts, where the disciples spread Christianity at a rapid pace, affecting lives and making a difference in their world. At every chapter, Lucado shares a Bible verse and a Prayer. Max shares personal stories, real-life examples, alarming statistics and Bible passages. The author talks about the impact of community, the importance of sharing Christ, the power of prayer, what to do when persecution comes, and how to break down the walls that divide. The author encourages the reader to remember the One who holds you... to not forget how big God is. Max Lucado shares his testimony about how his college roommate helped him find Christ. The author explains that there are many reasons to help people in need, but for the Christian, none is higher than this truth - that when we love those in need, we are loving Jesus. "None of us can help everyone. But all of us can help someone" (pg. 172). There is a discussion guide in the back of my book prepared by David Drury. I highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 12, 2011I have an aversion to art created solely for promotion. When I heard Lucado wrote Outlive Your Life with World Vision in mind and 100% of his royalty was being donated to projects, I lost interest in the book even before opening it. But, to not read it would break my streak–Having read every Lucado, I just had to. I’m glad I did.
This book is not about World Vision per se; it’s about living the Gospel Commission with fervor. And that excites me. Very much. Except for illustrations from World Vision’s work around the globe, the book is entirely a persuasive appeal to every Christian, every church, to get back to the model of the early Christian Church.
My opinion is that over the past several years, self-centeredness has made a slow, subtle creep into the Christian market. Under the guise of spiritual formation, today’s hot topics center on self–working on your personal relationship with God, developing a personal Bible study plan, setting personal goals for a better lifestyle. No doubt, intimacy with God is absolutely essential and is the cornerstone of a solid Christian life. But there’s something wrong when our need to get more of God has cleverly taken priority over our responsibility to give more to God.
Lucado, of course, is not tactless as I am. Couched in diplomacy and biblical examples, he urges the reader to take a long, hard look at the church in the Acts of the Apostles. He tells you why through inspiring stories. He paints an almost-like-heaven picture of a world where every Christian lives like the early church. And he calls you to imagine the what if’s–”What if we rocked the world with hope?”
Over and over again, Lucado points out how–in theory–living an active Christian life is easy. Statistically, we have the wherewithal to do this. He gives this example: There 145 million orphans in the world and 236 million professing Christians in the United States. Technically this should be an equation that equals zero orphans in the world! Something to think about, huh? Read the book; there’s so much more.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa... : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This book is not about World Vision per se; it’s about living the Gospel Commission with fervor. And that excites me. Very much. Except for illustrations from World Vision’s work around the globe, the book is entirely a persuasive appeal to every Christian, every church, to get back to the model of the early Christian Church.
My opinion is that over the past several years, self-centeredness has made a slow, subtle creep into the Christian market. Under the guise of spiritual formation, today’s hot topics center on self–working on your personal relationship with God, developing a personal Bible study plan, setting personal goals for a better lifestyle. No doubt, intimacy with God is absolutely essential and is the cornerstone of a solid Christian life. But there’s something wrong when our need to get more of God has cleverly taken priority over our responsibility to give more to God.
Lucado, of course, is not tactless as I am. Couched in diplomacy and biblical examples, he urges the reader to take a long, hard look at the church in the Acts of the Apostles. He tells you why through inspiring stories. He paints an almost-like-heaven picture of a world where every Christian lives like the early church. And he calls you to imagine the what if’s–”What if we rocked the world with hope?”
Over and over again, Lucado points out how–in theory–living an active Christian life is easy. Statistically, we have the wherewithal to do this. He gives this example: There 145 million orphans in the world and 236 million professing Christians in the United States. Technically this should be an equation that equals zero orphans in the world! Something to think about, huh? Read the book; there’s so much more.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa... : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
November 5, 2018
Max Lucado's Outlive Your Life is a home run hit with me! His modern interpretations give the book a huge impact. A short read with a great message. I would highly recommend.
August 5, 2024
This is a very eye opening book. It's amazing how much goes on around the world that we never knew, or only knew some of it. 100% of the profit from this book went to World Vision and other faith - based ministries to help the needy!! It's an important book that I really think everyone should read.
" None of us can help everyone. But all of us can help someone. And when we help them, we serve Jesus.
" Who would want to miss it chance to do that?"
As I read this book, one song kept playing in my head. It's written and sung by Keith Green. Here's some of the lyrics that perfectly describes and sums up this book. It's called, " Open Your Eyes." :
" Open your eyes to the world all around you,
Open your eyes, open your eyes
This world is more than the things that surround you.
You must arise and open your eyes.
Sometimes we're too busy to share, but Jesus wants us to care, to care.
Open your arms to the naked and shivering, open your arms, open your arms.
We need a little less taking, a whole lot more giving.
We're so safe and warm, we can open our arms.
And love a little bit stronger, and pray a little bit longer, longer.
Jesus says, when we love someone in His name, we're loving Him.
Jesus says, when we touch someone in His name, we're touching Him.
Jesus sees all men the same, so we gotta go out in His name, His name...."
Such a powerful book. Such a powerful song!! 💛🙏🕊️
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫 💫 🙏💛🕊️
" None of us can help everyone. But all of us can help someone. And when we help them, we serve Jesus.
" Who would want to miss it chance to do that?"
As I read this book, one song kept playing in my head. It's written and sung by Keith Green. Here's some of the lyrics that perfectly describes and sums up this book. It's called, " Open Your Eyes." :
" Open your eyes to the world all around you,
Open your eyes, open your eyes
This world is more than the things that surround you.
You must arise and open your eyes.
Sometimes we're too busy to share, but Jesus wants us to care, to care.
Open your arms to the naked and shivering, open your arms, open your arms.
We need a little less taking, a whole lot more giving.
We're so safe and warm, we can open our arms.
And love a little bit stronger, and pray a little bit longer, longer.
Jesus says, when we love someone in His name, we're loving Him.
Jesus says, when we touch someone in His name, we're touching Him.
Jesus sees all men the same, so we gotta go out in His name, His name...."
Such a powerful book. Such a powerful song!! 💛🙏🕊️
Enjoy and Happy Reading 💫 💫 🙏💛🕊️
October 16, 2025
A perfect description of Jude 22. Extremely convicting on loving people and living a meaningful life.
August 21, 2018
As a graduate student in social work, this book motivates me to strive to have an impact where God seated me, by being there for those who need help.
Thank you, Irina, for this wonderful book!🤗
Thank you, Irina, for this wonderful book!🤗
March 2, 2022
It's ok, there's better books
December 22, 2011
"Our common concern gave us a common song.
This was Jesus' plan all along. None of us can do what all of us can do."
"He teaches us the vocabulary of distant lands, the dialect of the discouraged neighbor, the vernacular of the lonely heart, and the idiom of the young student. God outfits His followers to cross cultures and touch hearts."
These are quotes from a challenging, transforming, and inspiring book by Max Lucado called Out Live Your Life. I know I have mentioned this book before, even before it was officially released to the public. I just gave you a snippet of my opinion then, but I am sure you could tell how much I was impressed by it. Not to mention that I have had the video trailer of it at the top of my blog for a while now.
As Max & some of his friends are currently touring the States on their Make a Difference Tour to benefit World Vision, I felt now was the time to share just a bit more about this book with you.
In Out Live Your Life, Max gets on-the-level with us and clearly guides us on why and how we need to all realize that we are each called to take up our part in the world wide Hope Revolution. We often think, "I am just one person with very little influence or ability, so what can I do?" Additionally, as I recently asked Max myself while he was visiting the Max Lucado Community, "How can I 'outlive my life' when I can barely 'live' my life? Considering constant financial struggles, work/family/health issues, busy schedules, etc..." His answer to me in that forum was,
"It is important to serve within your giftedness and realities. Analyze your strengths and passions, balance those with your prior commitments and see if you don't discover a good game plan. You may be at a stage of life where your plate is full. If so, be patient. At the right time God will slow things down and you can ramp things up."
Not only did he answer that question for me directly in the discussion that evening, but he also very thoroughly gives direction and inspiration in this book regarding the various questions and thoughts we may all have related to stepping up and Out Living Our Lives.
I challenge you today to get a copy of this book (if you haven't already), read it, and trust the Lord to guide you in knowing what your part is in this great mission we all have in life as His representatives on this earth. And...there's another part to that trust thing... remember to obey!
Trust and obey.
He will show you what to do and when. He will facilitate the means for you to do it. You must then do it.
This world needs us...this world needs YOU!
Bring His hope to all whom He places in your path. Our mission is here and now - not just that glorious day when we get to heaven!
Now, the spotlight is on you---tell me---what are you being led to do to Out Live YOUR Life?
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This was Jesus' plan all along. None of us can do what all of us can do."
"He teaches us the vocabulary of distant lands, the dialect of the discouraged neighbor, the vernacular of the lonely heart, and the idiom of the young student. God outfits His followers to cross cultures and touch hearts."
These are quotes from a challenging, transforming, and inspiring book by Max Lucado called Out Live Your Life. I know I have mentioned this book before, even before it was officially released to the public. I just gave you a snippet of my opinion then, but I am sure you could tell how much I was impressed by it. Not to mention that I have had the video trailer of it at the top of my blog for a while now.
As Max & some of his friends are currently touring the States on their Make a Difference Tour to benefit World Vision, I felt now was the time to share just a bit more about this book with you.
In Out Live Your Life, Max gets on-the-level with us and clearly guides us on why and how we need to all realize that we are each called to take up our part in the world wide Hope Revolution. We often think, "I am just one person with very little influence or ability, so what can I do?" Additionally, as I recently asked Max myself while he was visiting the Max Lucado Community, "How can I 'outlive my life' when I can barely 'live' my life? Considering constant financial struggles, work/family/health issues, busy schedules, etc..." His answer to me in that forum was,
"It is important to serve within your giftedness and realities. Analyze your strengths and passions, balance those with your prior commitments and see if you don't discover a good game plan. You may be at a stage of life where your plate is full. If so, be patient. At the right time God will slow things down and you can ramp things up."
Not only did he answer that question for me directly in the discussion that evening, but he also very thoroughly gives direction and inspiration in this book regarding the various questions and thoughts we may all have related to stepping up and Out Living Our Lives.
I challenge you today to get a copy of this book (if you haven't already), read it, and trust the Lord to guide you in knowing what your part is in this great mission we all have in life as His representatives on this earth. And...there's another part to that trust thing... remember to obey!
Trust and obey.
He will show you what to do and when. He will facilitate the means for you to do it. You must then do it.
This world needs us...this world needs YOU!
Bring His hope to all whom He places in your path. Our mission is here and now - not just that glorious day when we get to heaven!
Now, the spotlight is on you---tell me---what are you being led to do to Out Live YOUR Life?
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
March 10, 2022
3.5/5
Honestly, I didn’t think I would be convicted by this book as much as I was. It offers humbling perspective and calls us into action in a multitude of ways. Lucado calls back often to the early Church in Acts using that scriptural bases as a foundation for how we “Out Live Our Lives” by loving and serving those that are less than.
I would of liked to give this book a 4/5 but I just felt like Lucado was scratching the surface to a majority of the points he brings up and just as he gets me thinking and my heart in a place to truly empathize he ends the section. I wanted more, I wanted him to expand even further… but then again maybe he should’t of had to, maybe simple saying “Go serve and be used by God” is more than enough.
If nothing else this book has left me contemplating how I can better serve others and not have a attitude of apathy towards others strife whether self inflicted or otherwise.
Honestly, I didn’t think I would be convicted by this book as much as I was. It offers humbling perspective and calls us into action in a multitude of ways. Lucado calls back often to the early Church in Acts using that scriptural bases as a foundation for how we “Out Live Our Lives” by loving and serving those that are less than.
I would of liked to give this book a 4/5 but I just felt like Lucado was scratching the surface to a majority of the points he brings up and just as he gets me thinking and my heart in a place to truly empathize he ends the section. I wanted more, I wanted him to expand even further… but then again maybe he should’t of had to, maybe simple saying “Go serve and be used by God” is more than enough.
If nothing else this book has left me contemplating how I can better serve others and not have a attitude of apathy towards others strife whether self inflicted or otherwise.
July 11, 2022
Compré el libro hace un tiempo ya, así que se me había olvidado realmente de que iba (y además tengo la mala costumbre de no leerme el resumen de los libros) así que iba sin expectativas y he de decir que me ha asombrado para bien!!
El libro gira en torno al llamamiento que hace Jesús de servirnos los unos a los otros y, en especial, a los más pobres. Además hace mucho hincapié en la importancia de la oración y de encomendar a Dios todo aquello que hacemos.
Lucado pone varios ejemplos reales de cómo Dios ha obrado en la vida de otras personas a través de creyentes y cómo podemos ser un impacto en la vida de otros a través de pequeños y simples gestos. También recoge varios datos sobre el mundo en el que vivimos actualmente (por ejemplo, la cantidad de niños huérfanos, o el número de personas viviendo en pobreza) dando a entender que hacer algo bueno por alguien es mucho más fácil de lo que pensamos.
La manera de escribir de Max Lucado es simple, lo que hace que sea una lectura ligera y fácil de entender. El único punto negativo que le encuentro es que hay ocasiones en las que algunas “bromas” las encuentro un poco prescindibles.
El libro gira en torno al llamamiento que hace Jesús de servirnos los unos a los otros y, en especial, a los más pobres. Además hace mucho hincapié en la importancia de la oración y de encomendar a Dios todo aquello que hacemos.
Lucado pone varios ejemplos reales de cómo Dios ha obrado en la vida de otras personas a través de creyentes y cómo podemos ser un impacto en la vida de otros a través de pequeños y simples gestos. También recoge varios datos sobre el mundo en el que vivimos actualmente (por ejemplo, la cantidad de niños huérfanos, o el número de personas viviendo en pobreza) dando a entender que hacer algo bueno por alguien es mucho más fácil de lo que pensamos.
La manera de escribir de Max Lucado es simple, lo que hace que sea una lectura ligera y fácil de entender. El único punto negativo que le encuentro es que hay ocasiones en las que algunas “bromas” las encuentro un poco prescindibles.
February 21, 2021
I chose this book b/c it would fulfill two of my reading challenges, and also b/c I love to read Max Lucado. But when the book came from my library, I kept looking at the title and felt discouraged to even open it. What could I possibly have to offer anyone? I've been at home for almost a year now, and I have been sick and/or injured for too much of this year. We haven't been to church in all that time and barely see anyone, only out to the grocery store. BUT GOD! Such offers of hope and how I can still be an agent of change and make a difference in my world. I was so encouraged! And I STILL love the way Max Lucado writes. I read the whole thing in one day, but I will be inspired for a long time. The pandemic will be over soon, and life will get back to more "normal." And my opportunities for life will expand even more.
August 20, 2018
Very good and convicting. Love Lucado's easy and relatable writing.
September 6, 2022
What can one person do to show the love of Christ to others? Max Lucado offers quite a few ways in this book and how one person can make a huge difference in this depraved world.
February 2, 2020
Max Lucado never ceases to inspire me and make me reflect on what God wants me to do. Through looking at the mission of the early church in Acts, this book challenged me to find new ways to help others.
March 15, 2022
Life is not just about how we spend our time here on this earth. It is about what we do that leaves a legacy that extends long after we are gone. Max Lucado explains how our lives can outlast our lifespan.
September 12, 2010
I have been reading books by Max Lucado for years…literally my whole Christian life. Some of his book have been incredible and others have been so-so. Enter his latest book, “Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make a Difference”. There has been a lot of hype in the Christian literary world about this book, so I was excited to read it.
As the book begins, Lucado draws the reader’s attention to the massive needs of mankind around the world. Speaking of the lack of clean drinking water, hunger, disease, and all sorts of other issues in our world, Lucado grabbed me right from the start of this book. I began to get excited about seeing how each of us can make a difference in this world…something that I am quite interested in.
But a few chapters into the book, I felt like his energy took a dive. Lucado’s plan in this book was to chronicle the lives of the early disciples in the book of Acts and to extrapolate lessons learned from their lives to ours today. They had turned the world upside-down and, hence, we can learn how to do the same in our time. But unfortunately, sticking so closely to the Scriptural text and drawing lessons from some of the passages that really didn’t need a chapter in his book, caused the middle part of Lucado’s book to be an example of “Christian-Lite”.
As the book drew to a close, Lucado ramped it up again and ended with a bang…hitting home the awesome need for each of us to make a difference in our world.
Overall, I thought there were some very good chapters in this book…but some of the chapters fell a little flat. I wish Lucado would have stayed on the subject that the beginning and ending of the book seemed to espouse. The middle of the book just seemed like a loss of potential. I would still recommend this book to those who would enjoy a “lite” challenge about impacting the world around you…which for much of the American Christian church, that will definitely scratch and itch.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
As the book begins, Lucado draws the reader’s attention to the massive needs of mankind around the world. Speaking of the lack of clean drinking water, hunger, disease, and all sorts of other issues in our world, Lucado grabbed me right from the start of this book. I began to get excited about seeing how each of us can make a difference in this world…something that I am quite interested in.
But a few chapters into the book, I felt like his energy took a dive. Lucado’s plan in this book was to chronicle the lives of the early disciples in the book of Acts and to extrapolate lessons learned from their lives to ours today. They had turned the world upside-down and, hence, we can learn how to do the same in our time. But unfortunately, sticking so closely to the Scriptural text and drawing lessons from some of the passages that really didn’t need a chapter in his book, caused the middle part of Lucado’s book to be an example of “Christian-Lite”.
As the book drew to a close, Lucado ramped it up again and ended with a bang…hitting home the awesome need for each of us to make a difference in our world.
Overall, I thought there were some very good chapters in this book…but some of the chapters fell a little flat. I wish Lucado would have stayed on the subject that the beginning and ending of the book seemed to espouse. The middle of the book just seemed like a loss of potential. I would still recommend this book to those who would enjoy a “lite” challenge about impacting the world around you…which for much of the American Christian church, that will definitely scratch and itch.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 21, 2012
If you don't want your life changed, leave this book alone. If you are happy being selfish, content with focusing on your own wants, wishes, and needs, then you won't like this book. BUT...if you are looking for someone to challenge you to get out of your own way and let God perform supernatural feats through your mustard-seed size faith, this is the book for you.
This book will make you want to match up with the character examples that Max gives. People like Mother Theresa who gave up everything to love Jesus through the poor in India or the little boy who challenged his father, his pastors, and his church to give money to build clean water wells in a third-world country.
Max Lucado does what I've come to understand is quite normal for him. He mixes humor, examples from the Bible, and examples from people he knows to quite literally, hit you over the head with a baseball bat, and try to wake you up to the life that is lived outside of your own existence.
One thing I would recommend is to read it twice. The first time, just read. Let yourself smile at the picture of the man with the new ox and cry with the story of the Turkish pastor who lost his life for not recanting his belief in Jesus. Enjoy the way Mr. Lucado brings life to some of the stories from the Bible you've heard time and time again.
Then, after you've absorbed everything, go back through with the study guide provided at the back of the book and really let God teach his lessons through this book.
I think it's a book you will thoroughly enjoy and be challenged to "Outlive Your Life".
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This book will make you want to match up with the character examples that Max gives. People like Mother Theresa who gave up everything to love Jesus through the poor in India or the little boy who challenged his father, his pastors, and his church to give money to build clean water wells in a third-world country.
Max Lucado does what I've come to understand is quite normal for him. He mixes humor, examples from the Bible, and examples from people he knows to quite literally, hit you over the head with a baseball bat, and try to wake you up to the life that is lived outside of your own existence.
One thing I would recommend is to read it twice. The first time, just read. Let yourself smile at the picture of the man with the new ox and cry with the story of the Turkish pastor who lost his life for not recanting his belief in Jesus. Enjoy the way Mr. Lucado brings life to some of the stories from the Bible you've heard time and time again.
Then, after you've absorbed everything, go back through with the study guide provided at the back of the book and really let God teach his lessons through this book.
I think it's a book you will thoroughly enjoy and be challenged to "Outlive Your Life".
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 18, 2010
“Max Lucado is a master of communicating the significance of ordinary.”
With picturesque storytelling of the eternal impact of ordinary moments, Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make a Difference, Max Lucado writes to ignite action in the reader to first notice the impact and then live in the awareness of it.
Beginning with Finding Father Benjamin: A Fable, Max Lucado drives home the idea to see a man and where he lives is to view all the lives one man touches. It is a refreshing look at finding Jesus in all areas of our lives, in the hurting, in the helpless, and in the hopeful.
What follows is sixteen stories based on the characters and events of the Book of Acts. These are short chapters that retell the events of these early church. Any focus on the the early church sparks something in a true believer. I began to consider if I’d have been so bold as those of the early Church.
Though I enjoyed reading the chapters and the telling and retelling of the stories found in the book of Acts, my favorite part was the Discussion Guide. It is packed out with references and quick questions and ends with a list of ideas for application.
I would recommend this book for a new believer just discovering the wonderful life changing stories in the Bible. Max Lucado is simply a master storyteller. Among new believers, the discussion guide and idea section is sure to start many a lively conversation.
Disclaimer:
The review copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson free of charge and donated to the library of Westwood Baptist Church.
Reviewed by: Keiki Hendrix
Reviewed for: Thomas Nelson Publishing
With picturesque storytelling of the eternal impact of ordinary moments, Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make a Difference, Max Lucado writes to ignite action in the reader to first notice the impact and then live in the awareness of it.
Beginning with Finding Father Benjamin: A Fable, Max Lucado drives home the idea to see a man and where he lives is to view all the lives one man touches. It is a refreshing look at finding Jesus in all areas of our lives, in the hurting, in the helpless, and in the hopeful.
What follows is sixteen stories based on the characters and events of the Book of Acts. These are short chapters that retell the events of these early church. Any focus on the the early church sparks something in a true believer. I began to consider if I’d have been so bold as those of the early Church.
Though I enjoyed reading the chapters and the telling and retelling of the stories found in the book of Acts, my favorite part was the Discussion Guide. It is packed out with references and quick questions and ends with a list of ideas for application.
I would recommend this book for a new believer just discovering the wonderful life changing stories in the Bible. Max Lucado is simply a master storyteller. Among new believers, the discussion guide and idea section is sure to start many a lively conversation.
Disclaimer:
The review copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson free of charge and donated to the library of Westwood Baptist Church.
Reviewed by: Keiki Hendrix
Reviewed for: Thomas Nelson Publishing
January 19, 2011
I have to admit that at the beginning of this book, I wasn't too excited. I have read my share of Max Lucado books. He often has great devotional insight, but I figured I had heard it all before.
As I read, I discovered that this book was different. I got into the meat of the book, and I realized that the premise of his book was to live the gospel we preach in tangible ways. You can tell a hungry child all you want that Jesus loves you, but what will that mean to him or her without giving a hearty meal to the child in need? We tend to get so caught up in our own lives that we just don't slow down enough to put into practice what we profess to believe.
One of the messages that really touched me was when the Apostle Paul was brought up. We know that he was the chief persecutor of Christians, and then Jesus met him and changed his life forever. Lucado pointed out that even those we think are far gone and seem like they will never turn to the Lord should not be the ones that we abandon and say they will never change. We have to keep praying. In fact, as Lucado points out in another chapter, we should pray first, not last.
This would be a fantastic book use in a small group Bible study or devotional time. There is a discussion guide in the back of the book. But if you are not willing to put action behind what you are learning, you and your group would be wasting your time. One person can make a difference. If everyone on earth believed that he or she could not make a difference, nothing would ever change. He challenges us to be like Mother Theresa who, though dead, still lives on through her tremendous work with the orphans of Calcutta.
As I read, I discovered that this book was different. I got into the meat of the book, and I realized that the premise of his book was to live the gospel we preach in tangible ways. You can tell a hungry child all you want that Jesus loves you, but what will that mean to him or her without giving a hearty meal to the child in need? We tend to get so caught up in our own lives that we just don't slow down enough to put into practice what we profess to believe.
One of the messages that really touched me was when the Apostle Paul was brought up. We know that he was the chief persecutor of Christians, and then Jesus met him and changed his life forever. Lucado pointed out that even those we think are far gone and seem like they will never turn to the Lord should not be the ones that we abandon and say they will never change. We have to keep praying. In fact, as Lucado points out in another chapter, we should pray first, not last.
This would be a fantastic book use in a small group Bible study or devotional time. There is a discussion guide in the back of the book. But if you are not willing to put action behind what you are learning, you and your group would be wasting your time. One person can make a difference. If everyone on earth believed that he or she could not make a difference, nothing would ever change. He challenges us to be like Mother Theresa who, though dead, still lives on through her tremendous work with the orphans of Calcutta.
June 10, 2012
Outlive Your Life is basically a Max Lucado version of Acts with various anecdotal stories thrown in. The premise is living out your faith, being the hands and feet, putting your money where your mouth is, etc.
As always, Lucado writing is easy to read and interesting. The premise itself is good. I definitely think that we need to do a better job of serving others and reaching out to others in need.
There was something missing from this book for me, though. I can't quite put my finger on it. I usually get very emotionally drawn in by Lucado's work, but this one wasn't so much. There was a lot of focus on works and not a lot of focus on heart. While works are important, the Bible says that works without faith are dead. So while it was an okay read, it wasn't a favorite.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
As always, Lucado writing is easy to read and interesting. The premise itself is good. I definitely think that we need to do a better job of serving others and reaching out to others in need.
There was something missing from this book for me, though. I can't quite put my finger on it. I usually get very emotionally drawn in by Lucado's work, but this one wasn't so much. There was a lot of focus on works and not a lot of focus on heart. While works are important, the Bible says that works without faith are dead. So while it was an okay read, it wasn't a favorite.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
September 10, 2010
Outlive your life? What does that mean? In this book, Max Lucado, provides answers and examples to help and encourage everyone to live life to its fullest, in turn, touching the lives of others. With chapters like, “Calling Mr. Pot Roast,” and “Let God Unshell You,” it is easy to see that each person can make a difference. Actions don’t have to be out there for everyone to see, but can be simple, everyday things that encourage people as they pass along our path. God uses the simple things to get our attention, and normal, average people to accomplish his plan. Will you be one who will “Outlive Your Life?”
This book made me think of the song, “Brighten the Corner Where You Are,” and I have been happily singing that for days. It has been an encouragement to me, and I encourage everyone to pick up this book and let it make a change in your life. You should also find it useful in a book discussion group. It is especially wonderful to note that all of the author’s royalties will be donated to benefit children and families around the world.
This book made me think of the song, “Brighten the Corner Where You Are,” and I have been happily singing that for days. It has been an encouragement to me, and I encourage everyone to pick up this book and let it make a change in your life. You should also find it useful in a book discussion group. It is especially wonderful to note that all of the author’s royalties will be donated to benefit children and families around the world.
December 29, 2017
Always Challenging
Max Lucado is a favorite of mine. He writes challenging concepts in layman’s language. Appreciate this book for it points of growth.
Max Lucado is a favorite of mine. He writes challenging concepts in layman’s language. Appreciate this book for it points of growth.
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August 6, 2024Of course I’d heard the name Max Lucado before–who in Christian circles hasn’t? It wasn’t until last Christmas that I’d ever read any of his works though. My mother-in-law let me borrow from her vast book collection and told me that his books were “must reads”. She described him as taking subjects that were just out of reach and bringing them a level where they were reachable, understandable, and relatable. After reading a few of his books now I can definitely see what she means!
I found Outlive Your Life to be inspiring, challenging, and down to earth. It made me feel bad for all the times I’ve looked at other who’ve fallen on hard times and turned away in shame or distaste, and great for the times when I haven’t. It challenged my prejudices, though they might be small compared to some, and made me want to reach out instead. I love how in all his books Max takes stories from the Bible and translates them into what they would look like if they happened right now in 2010. Somehow it just brings the Bible to life and makes stories I’ve heard a hundred times since my childhood new and fresh.
I loved reading this book and would highly recommend it–it’s a definite “must read”!
A big thank you to BookSneeze for providing me with the copy of this book for my review
I found Outlive Your Life to be inspiring, challenging, and down to earth. It made me feel bad for all the times I’ve looked at other who’ve fallen on hard times and turned away in shame or distaste, and great for the times when I haven’t. It challenged my prejudices, though they might be small compared to some, and made me want to reach out instead. I love how in all his books Max takes stories from the Bible and translates them into what they would look like if they happened right now in 2010. Somehow it just brings the Bible to life and makes stories I’ve heard a hundred times since my childhood new and fresh.
I loved reading this book and would highly recommend it–it’s a definite “must read”!
A big thank you to BookSneeze for providing me with the copy of this book for my review
July 9, 2021
Overall, this was a good book. There were quite a few statements that resonated with me, however I thought the book was what I call "light and fluffy". I would have liked to have seen a bit more depth in each chapter but of course that's my opinion.
"Ours is the wealthiest generation of Christians ever."
"There is enough food on the planet to offer every person twenty five hundred calories of sustenance a day. We have enough food to feed the hungry."
God has given this generation, our generation, everything we need to alter the course of human suffering."
"May you live in such a way that your death is just the beginning of your life."
"God doesn't call the qualified. He qualifies the called."
"Slay the desire to be noticed."
"Do good things. Just don't do them to be noticed."
"No one can do everything, but everyone can do something."
"Categorizing others creates distance and gives us a convenient exit strategy for avoiding involvement."
"Ours is the wealthiest generation of Christians ever."
"There is enough food on the planet to offer every person twenty five hundred calories of sustenance a day. We have enough food to feed the hungry."
God has given this generation, our generation, everything we need to alter the course of human suffering."
"May you live in such a way that your death is just the beginning of your life."
"God doesn't call the qualified. He qualifies the called."
"Slay the desire to be noticed."
"Do good things. Just don't do them to be noticed."
"No one can do everything, but everyone can do something."
"Categorizing others creates distance and gives us a convenient exit strategy for avoiding involvement."
January 27, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. The chapters were short and were challenging and engaging. The main focus of the book is making a difference in other's lives and in local and global problems. The end of the book contained questions and practical application ideas for each chapter. One thing I didn't care for too much was the poetic liberty he took with recounting some of the Biblical stories. Also he used Mother Theresa as an example of a life that made a difference, which it is true that she impacted many people but at the end of her own life she found it empty and she was afraid at the thought of death because she missed the life that is found only in knowing Christ and putting your trust in Him. I also learned that Max Lucado was roommates with Steve Green and that Steve Green was instrumental in Max Lucado's salvation.. just thought that was an interesting fact that I did not know before. Overall, I would recommend reading this book and thought it was good.
June 6, 2023
I know! I know! 3 stars…I simply didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it either. Max Lucado’s writing is some of my favorite, but I just happened to read this book at the same time I read Tim Tebow’s Mission Possible: Go Create a Life that Counts. The books are similar in theme (making a life that counts/making a difference), and I really enjoyed Tebow’s book better of the two.
I am still a massive Lucado fan and will read anything that man writes!
“May you live in such a way that your death is just the beginning of your life” (7).
“God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called” (14).
“When we love those in need, we are loving Jesus” (168).
“We serve Christ by serving needy people” (170).
For those who want to dig a little deeper, there are Questions for Discussion as well as Ideas for Action to correlate with each chapter.
I am still a massive Lucado fan and will read anything that man writes!
“May you live in such a way that your death is just the beginning of your life” (7).
“God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called” (14).
“When we love those in need, we are loving Jesus” (168).
“We serve Christ by serving needy people” (170).
For those who want to dig a little deeper, there are Questions for Discussion as well as Ideas for Action to correlate with each chapter.
December 11, 2025
Another Max Lucado book under my belt. Woohoo! Who doesn't want to live a life of significance and see the impact of their lives ripple through time? I surely do! The author gives tips on how to do just that. The last chapter was the most eye-opening for me. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says what you do for the "least of these" you do unto me: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, housing the homeless, and so much more. By doing so, some people have unknowingly served angels in their midsts. Might also be the one thing that persuades someone to give their heart and life to the Lord Jesus. Two other books that would go along great with this one are: It's Not About Me (Max Lucado) and It's Not Too Late (Tony Evans). Please read this book.
July 13, 2023
One thing I like about this book is that it is very straight forward and you can learn a lot of wisdom from it. I like the passage from Matthew 6:3-4 "But when you give to the needy, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." People nowadays use social media to let other people know that they help someone, they use it as a tool for fame. Hopefully they will apply what Max Lucado stated in Matthew.
June 25, 2019
Inspiring and encouraging.
“The sign of the saved is their concern for those in need. Compassion does not save them ~ or us. Salvation is the work of Christ. Compassion is the consequence of salvation.”
“People are prone to pecking orders. We love the high horse.”
“As we reduce poverty and disease, we reduce war and atrocities. Healthy, happy people don’t hurt each other.”
“When we love those in need, we are loving Jesus.”
“The sign of the saved is their concern for those in need. Compassion does not save them ~ or us. Salvation is the work of Christ. Compassion is the consequence of salvation.”
“People are prone to pecking orders. We love the high horse.”
“As we reduce poverty and disease, we reduce war and atrocities. Healthy, happy people don’t hurt each other.”
“When we love those in need, we are loving Jesus.”
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