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When I Don't Desire God summary
Brief summary
When I Don't Desire God by John Piper is a thought-provoking book that delves into the issue of spiritual apathy and provides practical guidance on how to cultivate a deep and lasting desire for God.
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When I Don't Desire God
Summary of key ideas
Struggles with Spiritual Apathy
In When I Don't Desire God by John Piper, the author delves into the issue of spiritual apathy. He begins by acknowledging that as Christians, we often find ourselves in a state of spiritual disinterest, where we struggle to desire God and His presence. Piper argues that this lack of desire for God is a serious problem, as our joy and satisfaction in Him are central to our faith.
Piper attributes this spiritual apathy to an overemphasis on self-reliance and self-satisfaction, which he terms as 'self at the center syndrome'. He suggests that this focus on self leads to a diminishing desire for God. He also acknowledges that this struggle is not unique to new believers, but is also experienced by seasoned Christians.
Seeking Joy in God
In the following sections, Piper explores the concept of Christian hedonism, a term he coined to describe the pursuit of joy in God. He argues that we are designed to seek our joy and satisfaction in God, and that this pursuit is not only permissible but also commanded by God. Piper believes that our highest calling is to find our joy in God, and that this joy is not opposed to our duty but is actually the foundation of it.
The author emphasizes that our joy in God is crucial, not only for our personal satisfaction, but also for our effectiveness in serving God and others. He illustrates this point by drawing on biblical examples of individuals who found their joy in God and were able to endure great suffering and hardship as a result.
The Fight for Joy
Piper then addresses the practical side of the issue, providing strategies for cultivating a desire for God. He advises that we should fight for joy in God, rather than passively waiting for it to appear. This fight, he suggests, involves a conscious effort to feed our minds with the word of God, engage in fervent prayer, and participate in corporate worship.
Additionally, Piper encourages us to actively battle against the things that hinder our joy in God, such as sin and worldly distractions. He also stresses the importance of cultivating a heart of gratitude, as thankfulness is a powerful weapon in the fight for joy.
Living for God's Glory
As the book nears its conclusion, Piper presents the idea that our pursuit of joy in God is not selfish, but rather, is the key to living a life that glorifies God. He asserts that when we find our joy in God, we are most satisfied, and God is most glorified in us. Therefore, our pursuit of joy in God is not only our highest duty, but also our greatest privilege.
In summary, When I Don't Desire God is a thought-provoking exploration of the issue of spiritual apathy. Piper challenges us to reorient our hearts and minds towards God, and to actively pursue our joy and satisfaction in Him. He believes that in doing so, we will not only experience personal fulfillment, but will also bring glory to God in the process.
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What is When I Don't Desire God about?
When I Don't Desire God by John Piper delves into the struggle many Christians face when their hearts are not fully devoted to God. Through biblical teachings and personal anecdotes, Piper offers guidance on how to cultivate a deep and authentic desire for God, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling spiritual life.
When I Don't Desire God Review
When I Don't Desire God (2004) delves into the struggle of finding joy in God when emotions waver. Here's why this book is a worthwhile read:
- Offers insightful perspectives on the importance of delighting in God even in disinterest, providing practical steps towards genuine joy.
- Challenges readers to reassess their approach to spiritual despondency, offering a fresh outlook on sustaining faith through difficult times.
- Its profound exploration of the human heart and spiritual fervor keeps the narrative engaging, ensuring a thought-provoking and enriching read.
Who should read When I Don't Desire God?
Individuals who struggle with finding joy and desire for God in their daily lives
Christians seeking to deepen their relationship with God and overcome spiritual dryness
Readers who are open to exploring the intersection of theology and practical application in their faith
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When I Don't Desire God FAQs
What is the main message of When I Don't Desire God?
The main message of When I Don't Desire God is finding joy in God even when not feeling it.
How long does it take to read When I Don't Desire God?
It typically takes a few hours to read When I Don't Desire God. The Blinkist summary can be read in minutes.
Is When I Don't Desire God a good book? Is it worth reading?
When I Don't Desire God is worth reading for its insights on finding joy in God amidst struggles.
Who is the author of When I Don't Desire God?
The author of When I Don't Desire God is John Piper.
What to read after When I Don't Desire God?
If you're wondering what to read next after When I Don't Desire God, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- God Is Not Great by Christopher Hitchens
- The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama
- On Being by Peter Atkins
- The Biology of Belief by Bruce H. Lipton
- Buddha’s Brain by Rick Hanson
- Choose Yourself by James Altucher
- Going Clear by Lawrence Wright
- The Power of No by James Altucher and Claudia Azula Altucher
- The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan