66 Love Letters, written by Dr. Larry Crabb, is “presented as a dialogue between one man and God.” (dust jacket summary) Dr. Crabb writes in a conversational tone about what God wants each of us to learn from the Bible. He begins with Genesis, telling God what he got from reading that book. Then he asks God to show him what He wants us to learn from these words written so long ago. Each chapter of 66 Love Letters is written this way with Dr. Larry Crabb asking and seeking God and God answering him with truths from the Word.
When I first started reading this book I was unsure about the whole format. I wasn’t sure I liked the way it was written or the frankness with which Dr. Larry Crabb sometimes “spoke” to God. But, as I began to read each chapter carefully (and I mean carefully, there was so much to learn). I realized a bit more of Dr. Crabb’s life story. Just bits and pieces, nothing majorly revealing, but enough to show me that this was a man who was being absolutely honest and open with his God. He didn’t hold anything back. His desire to love God more and grow to be more like Jesus shined through in each chapter.
It took me many months to read this book, a couple more months than I had thought, actually. There was so much to learn, so much to ponder.
You will be irresistibly drawn to My love and able to give it to others when you discover in you own experience that the love I have planted in your heart can never be destroyed by rejection, betrayal, criticism, or any other form of unlove you receive. True love reveals itself as the strongest of all passions when your impulse to hate those who hurt you is fully felt (pg 141).
I have underlined and marked up this book. So many parts jumped out at me, grabbed me, made me stop and think, deeply.
Dr. Crabb suggests that you read each book of the Bible along with each corresponding chapter in his book, taking a week or two for each book of the Bible. Since I was reviewing this book for Thomas Nelson, I wasn’t able to do this. But, I am going to read this book again taking the time to read the books of the Bible along with the chapters this time.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who desires to dig deeper into the Bible. It will open you heart and eyes to God’s Word.
*This book was given to me by Thomas Nelson Publishers to review.
First, how did you get a gig reviewing books. How cool is that?!
ReplyDeleteSEcond, great write up. I like the way you wrote about how you initially felt and how that changed.
Well written
This sounds exactly like something I need to read right now! Thank you for the review!
ReplyDeleteJenn, this sounds great! I might have to get that one. I loved the quote that you put in your post. It speaks to me right where I am at. The teachings we have just listened to, it was so big, the Father's love for us. And when we really get a picture of how much He loves us that rejection or accusation won't destroy us and we will be able to give that love so freely.
ReplyDeleteThanks