"LIVING WITH CONFIDENCE IN A CHAOTIC WORLD", by Dr. David Jeremiah

SUMMARY: A troubled stock market; a decimated housing industry; a paralyzed job market; world catastrophes – natural and manmade. All of these, and then some, are issues pounding the life out of people worldwide, not just in America. However, there is hope in Jesus Christ. Not the kind of fleeting hope that says, “I hope so!” Instead, it is the kind of hope that promises future and redemption. Dr. Jeremiah uses a plethora of biblical passages and principles to encourage believers that our hope absolutely must lie in none other than Jesus Christ if we are going to have any hope at all.

In ten chapters (235 pages), Dr. Jeremiah expounds upon Christ’s message of hope in a repeated C theme: Stay Calm, Stay Compassionate, Stay Constructive, Stay Challenged, Stay Connected, Stay Centered, Stay Confident, Stay Consistent, Stay Committed, Stay Convinced.

LIKES: I liked the vast biblical references and true-to-life stories Dr. Jeremiah utilized to proclaim Christ’s message of hope. Dr. Jeremiah is firmly grounded on the foundation of the gospel, and does not shy away from proclaiming the truth of – and our need for – the gospel of God. This book has the potential to be a good evangelistic gift for friends or family who have experienced significant turmoil and are in need of hope. He presents practical advice on how the reader can implement change in personal spiritual practices that would impact his/her outlook on life. And for those who are not committed to Jesus Christ, Dr. Jeremiah presents the simple plan of salvation in the “afterword” section.

DISLIKES: The book is almost too simplistic and formulaic. “Let’s see, how can we come up with cute, creative ways to encourage people with words and themes that start with the letter C?” The book has the feeling of one suggested by the publisher in order to sequel his previous hit, “What In The World Is Going On?”. Therefore, I wouldn’t be surprised to see yet another sequel hit the shelves in a couple years.

Finally, I must add that I liked the book much more than I disliked it. I don’t think any reader would be disappointed in the investment. I give it 3 ½ stars out of 5.

I am a book review blogger for Thomas Nelson publishing.