Reviewed by: Kayla Landis, a professional writing student at Taylor University in Upland, IN

Introduction

Title: How Joyful People Think

Author: Jamie Rasmussen

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication Date: 2018

Format: Print book

Length: 184 pages

OVERVIEW

Pastor Jamie Rasmussen deliberates on a single verse, Philippians 4:8, in his book, How Joyful People Think. Rasmussen portrays how a Christian should focus their thoughts on the qualities examined in Philippians 4:8. The qualities mentioned in this verse are ones God ordains as essential and beneficial to the Christian faith. People’s perspectives on life can change how they react to certain situations. Thinking in the right manner is something everyone should do, and Rasmussen discusses how to accomplish that.

Rasmussen devotes a chapter to each of the eight ways of thinking that lead to a better life, such as, true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. For example, in the chapter about truth, he presents the reader with both transcendent truth and personal truth. When discussing the progress toward honorable discernment, Rasmussen provides three steps: self-control, wisdom, and steadfastness. He touches on the standard held for justice and purity. He digs to the root of what “lovely” means and how this relates to a person’s reputation. Dissecting this verse, Rasmussen assists the reader in the discovery of the right way of thinking.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 stars

Suggested Audience

Both males and females, young adult and older will enjoy this book due to its heartfelt tone, appropriate content, and insightful lessons.

Christian Impact

Based off one specific verse, this book provides the reader with an astute discussion about the right way of thinking for a Christian. Any Christian reader will find something impactful through this book, and possibly finish reading it with a little more joy.

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