June 18, 2012
In a culture of excess, Austin pastor and author Davis (Pray Big) challenges Christians to look honestly and courageously at scriptural guidelines related to generosity, contentment, and commitment to God. More than a few passages are infused with gentle, folksy humor, and each chapter ends with a few questions to aid the reader to think about his or her relationship to material possessions, wealth, and generosity. What could be a dull, guilt-inducing narrative centered around reminding Christians to tithe is instead thoughtful and inclusive. Davis combines confessional humor, great storytelling about his trips to Nicaragua and other mission fields, and pastoral explanation of Bible passages throughout the book. Much of his advice is Christian-specific, with biblical language and clarifications about Jesus’ instructions regarding the wealth of the world versus a world in eternity. But for people of all faiths, not just Christians, Davis offers a generous gift of insight about paring down.
May 1, 2012
Speaking directly to one of the most pressing issues of our time--America's reduced income and expectations, on both national and personal scales--Davis (senior pastor, Austin Christian Fellowship; Pray Big) uses scripture and the cost-saving hints of fellow Christians to show how a model for simpler and yet more generous living already exists within the Christian tradition. A refreshing alternative to the "prosperity Gospel" tendency of much contemporary American conservative Protestantism, Davis's approach should prove instructive and helpful to the soul and the checkbook. VERDICT A guide to simpler living suitable for the Christian but free of whimsy or gimmickry, this should be required reading for many congregations and pastors as well as Christian families and couples.
Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.