BOOK REVIEW: Courageous Living by Michael Catt

Courageous Living:  Dare To Take A Stand

ISBN13: 9781433671210
# of Pages: 176
Publisher: Broadman and Holman
Label: Broadman and Holman Books
Published: 2011
Binding: Paperback / Softback Trade paperback
BISAC: RELIGION / Christian Life / Spiritual Growth 

Michael Catt, pastor and executive producer of the film COURAGEOUS, examines the courage shown by biblical characters (Abraham, Nehemiah, Ruth, Paul, etc.) to enliven our faith today.

In the new film COURAGEOUS (from the makers of Fireproof), four police officers are confident and focused when it comes to facing danger on the job. But leading their families at home in a God-honoring way? That takes courage.

Because it is important to take a faithful, fearless stand in so many areas of life, pastor and COURAGEOUS executive producer Michael Catt offers Courageous Living as a closer look at biblical themes and characters that inspired the greatly anticipated movie.

Catt brings fresh insight to"stories of people in the Bible who displayed great courage when it would have been easier to play it safe... (who) challenge me to keep moving forward. They demand that I examine my priorities and deal with anything that brings fear to my heart."

Readers will catch a new wind of bravery in the bold accounts of Abraham ("The Courage to Get Going"), Nehemiah ("The Courage to Face Criticism"), and Ruth ("The Courage to Face an Uncertain Future"). There are also growth opportunities in the stirring stories of Moses, Elijah, Joshua, Daniel, Gideon, Nehemiah, Stephen, and Paul and Timothy.

Michael Catt has served as senior pastor of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia, since 1989 and is executive producer of the popular Facing the Giants and Fireproof films that originated from the congregation. He also authored Prepare for Rain and Fireproof Your Life and is founder of the ReFRESH revival conference. Michael and his wife, Terri, have two children.

Courageous:  Official Resources

While I liked how the book was written, I couldn't help but feel this book was more geared towards men, then women, though the author concludes that it can apply to anyone who reads the book.  I was able to overcome the attitude for the most part but it was still troublesome nonetheless.

I liked how the prose sounded as you read the pages.  It was clear, concise and easy to understand and allowed a natural flow to the overall readability of the book.  I liked all the historical aspects that were included and thought they were well placed throughout the pages.

There are plenty of biblical references to back up the author's thoughts, many of them fitting for the discussion being shared.  I loved the encouragement to stand up and be accounted for in the eyes of God and think this should be read by many who have questions or concerns.

I would give Courageous Living a four out of five stars.  While I enjoyed how the book read, I was put off by the "geared for male" orientation that was shared throughout.  However, it is a decent read with much to share and would be a great addition to bible study groups.

I received a product to review from the above company or their PR Agency. Opinions expressed in this post are strictly my own - I was not influenced in any way. I received no monetary compensation for this post.