A typical great reading and learning experience from Max Lucado.

I am never disappointed with a Max Lucado book. Some times his thoughts are mine that I am unable to voice.

Each of our testimonies is unique and our God-story always carries that personal touch. We all can share with others the story of what God did for ME. But at the core, no matter what God has done, no matter where He found you or where He's taken you, your story is about grace. It's true for all of us.

All of our stories at their bottom line are about grace. None of us, after all, deserve one half-second's notice from a God so holy, and yet He humbled Himself for us, came here for us, died for us. It is surely "much more than we deserve."

Maybe because this grace is so universal, we often overlook it, forget it, stop being thankful for it, recognize it in name but not in deep-down life-changing everyday reality. We slip into self-condemnation and falter into works-based faith, propelling ourselves into performance and busyness and standards we can't ever meet.

So, an inspirational book on grace may be a healthy reminder for all of us, and Max Lucado's book on Grace is pure "Max." He's an artist with words, painting inspirational chapters, each one a quick and simple read that stirs the soul. It's not a theological treatise. It doesn't really claim to be. It's more like sitting at the feet of a storyteller while he embellishes on a single theme.

The study guide that accompanies the book serves as a tool for individuals who want to dig deeper or for group study. While the book itself mostly revolves around stories (Biblical and otherwise), the study guide walks through Scripture.

If you're a fan of Max Lucado's style or if you're in need of some inspiration or if you've recognized in your own life the habit of forgetting grace rather than embracing it, this book may be just the refresher your spirit needs.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Grace has been defined in many ways. Grace has been called the prayer you pray before a meal. Grace has been given to many people as a name whether its their first or last name. When it comes to grace, many Christians have different ideas. Some believe grace is given those who follow the rule while others believe grace is unmerited meaning it is something we cannot earn.

Best-selling author Max Lucado, takes a stab at the grace of God in his latest book, Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine.

One thing about reviewing a book by Lucado is where to begin. In this book he has different verses and sayings just before you turn the page and get a quote from the chapter you are about to read and then you get to the chapter. Lucado has a great number of stories that drives his point to his readers.

Now Lucado is a great writer. He is a great story teller. He loves Jesus, loves his wife and loves the church. This book does talk about the grace of God, but in a simple way that I am afraid it waters down the grace of God. There are lot of things he does say in the book that I agree with. For example, Lucado talks about Joseph and how he did not give into temptation with Potiphar's wife. Lucado writes that God's kindness stirred Joseph's holiness. He goes on to say:

God's grace does the same in us. "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age" (Titus 2:11-12, NIV). A robust grace this is, that both convicts and comforts! Let it convict you. If you ever catch yourself thinking, I can do whatever I want because God will forgive me, then grave is not happening to you. Selfishness, perhaps. Arrogance, for sure. But grace? No. Grace creates a resolve to do good, not permission to do bad.

This book is well written, the tradition of Max Lucado, but it is not a theological book.

There are so many great books out there on the topic of "grace" that I was skeptical if another book was needed. I've read many books on the subject of grace -- from Philip Yancy's classic What's So Amazing about Grace? to several others, including Andy Stanley's The Grace of God.

But Max Lucado's book on grace is not just "another book on grace"..... It's Max Lucado, who brings his own thoughts, writing style and especially stories to the publishing world. For that reason, this book is worth reading and I think most will enjoy it, plus the subject of "grace" -- though so simple in many concept, is incredibly difficult to truly fathom in practical terms.

If you love Max Lucado, you'll love this book and if you are wanting to understand grace better, you'll also enjoy this book.

I received a copy from Booksneeze and wasn't required to write a positive review.