C.J. Mahaneys latest book, Humility: True Greatness, is an amazing challenge to believers to think seriously about how much weight God has placed on humility. The challenge of this book springboards from Isaiah 66:2, This is the one whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word. As the title hints at, Mahaney has put together a concise and practical book that calls us to seek humility, which is how God defines true greatness.
The author has a clear, yet personable writing style and Humility is a prime example. He tackles such topics as defining biblical humility (Humility is honestly assessing ourselves in light of Gods holiness and our sinfulness. p. 22) and pride (Pride is when sinful human beings aspire to the status and position of God and refuse to acknowledge their dependence upon Him. p. 31).
Mahaney also does a wonderful job giving practical encouragements of how to foster humility in our daily lives: through prayer, acting in grace toward others, and opening oneself up for correction. There is even a checklist summary of practical things we can do to strive after humility at the end of the book.
Of course, a lot more could have been written, but an exhaustive manifesto on humility does not seem to be Mahaneys ambition. Rather, this excellent book is a crisp, if not humble, approach to a hugely important topic in the life of a Christ-follower.
All in all, Mahaney has hit another home run. I cant imagine any believer not being challenge by this convicting and gracious book. He has such an accessible style that many readers will be able to devour Humility in one sitting. I would recommend that you go at a slower pace and let these powerful challenges transform your life. In fact, Ive already bought several copies that I have been doling out to my coworkers. Thanks C.J. please keep books like this coming! Todd Burgett, Christian Book Previews.com
