Living the Extraordinary Life: Nine Principles to Discover It

Charles F. Stanley
Nelson Books (2005)
ISBN 0785266119
Reviewed by Kim Peterson for Reader Views (1/06)

Charles Stanley defines the extraordinary life as one “…sustained by an inner peace and joy in the good times as well as the bad.” (xiii) He invites the reader to live such a life by beckoning him or her back to the basics of faith placing confidence in an unchanging God.

Stanley elaborates on nine biblical principles that lay the foundation for believers to experience true fulfillment:

  • Surrender completely to God and abide in Christ;
  • Receive GodŐs grace which redeems and transforms;
  • Develop a passion to know God as Father;
  • Trust God and acquire giant faith;
  • Obey God and experience joy and His blessings;
  • Wait for GodŐs will and timing;
  • Be refined by God;
  • Pray and put on the armor of God; and
  • Gain wisdom by regarding the Bible as the source book of life.

Each reader will probably find a few chapters that speak to areas of life that seem more pertinent. For me, chapter three “True Effectiveness Comes through Intimacy with God,” reminded me of the role of God as my father. He prefers to be close to me like a parent – knowing me, communicating with me, loving me unconditionally, meeting my needs, guiding me. I found comfort in chapter six, “Knowing God’s Will is Worth the Wait” as I ponder the next steps in my career and seek God’s direction.

Readers will perceive Stanley’s personable style as easy to read and understand. He illustrates each chapter with thought-provoking examples. Then he elaborates on each principle with a story from the Bible emphasizing the main points from what the key people experienced.

Each chapter abounds with additional biblical references and concludes with suggested Bible readings. The included prayers are well crafted and the journal questions allow deeper application of the principles. Readers are invited to visit www.charlesstanleyinstitute.com for more in-depth study.

Stanley’s book offers hope to those longing for inner peace in a fast- paced and uncertain world. Adults and teens seeking an extraordinary life can benefit from his nine principles.

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