Relentless

I was excited to read this book, but ended up being quite disappointed in it. The premise of the book is great – rehashed by author after author, but great. The point is, rise above adversity, don’t give up, Christians are meant to thrive. This book makes bold claims about offering a “paradigm shift” and “new mindset,” but I found neither.

Bevere seems to be promoting something like a “prosperity gospel” (at least to my understanding of it). His “success stories” tend to be along the lines of fame and fortune as an indicator of success or accomplishment. I just can’t agree with that outlook.

The vast majority of Christian heroes are those who never achieved fame or fortune. From the early apostles to modern missionaries, many who have wholeheartedly committed themselves to God have faced hardship and struggle. This doesn’t mean that they were not “successful” or that they should have been more “relentless.” On the contrary, I think what is outstanding is their ability to be “relentless” in following God through the hardship. To put those who have achieved worldly success as his prime examples is, I think, promoting an imbalance in priorities.

Some of the book is good. It’s an encouragement to strive for more, to not “settle.” However, Bevere’s definition of success (at least what I took from this book) left me with an unpleasant aftertaste.

Disclaimer: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah through Blogging for Books - their book review program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.