Habits of Grace by David Mathis

Habits of Grace by David Mathis ISBN-13: 9781433550478 Hardcover: 240 pages Publisher: Crossway Books Released: Feb. 29, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Three seemingly unremarkable principles shape and strengthen the Christian life: listening to God through Bible reading, speaking to him in prayer, and joining together with his people as the church. Though seemingly normal and routine, the everyday "habits of grace" we cultivate give us access to these God-designed channels through which his love and power flow--including the greatest joy of all: knowing and enjoying Jesus.

A complementary study guide for individual and group study is also available.


My Review:
Habits of Grace covers the basic habits for spiritual growth and is mainly intended for young adults and new Christians. The intent is to help people understand and do these basic practices even if you have a busy schedule. The author quoted Scripture to support his statements and remained Christ-focused throughout. The ultimate point was not to accomplish a spiritual discipline but to know God more and enjoy Him.

The three basic habits are reading the Bible, praying, and fellowship with other Christians. The first part talked about studying the Bible, pondering what you've read, letting it affect your life, and memorizing key verses. The second part talked about the purpose of prayer, praying in private and in a group, journaling, fasting, and taking time for solitude to pursue Christ (with quiet times or retreats). The third section talked about biblical fellowship, corporate worship, listening to preaching, baptism, the Lord's Supper, listening to others, and accepting rebukes. At the end, he also talked about how we use our time and money.

Overall, I think he accomplished his aim with this book, and I'd recommend it to new Christians or to Christians who have never learned these basics.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.