Good application of the biblical prophet Jeremiah to modern Christian life and living. Now quit studying and actually do something based on what you studied! ( )

I would give this a 7 if possible. Truly enjoyable insights from Jeremiah. One of the most enjoyable Peterson books I've read and may use it for a sermon series. Takes various happenings in Jeremiah and explains why they are important for us. Very fine book. ( )

The subtitle is clue enough to the uniqueness of this book. "Life at its best" is not a phrase one would normally associate with Jeremiah, the so-called "weeping prophet." Nor are the terms "success" or "fame" or "prosperity" words that come readily to mind.

Which, I think, points to Peterson's more subtle point: perhaps our American definition of the "good life" isn't so good. Or spiritually healthy. Or even biblical. By most objective measures, we would say Jeremiah "failed." But that's only true if success is a "what" (an object you achieve) rather than the "who" you become on life's journey.

This book presents a pretty effective antidote to the Osteen-esque drivel that turns the Gospel into some sleek "10 days to a new you" self-improvement program. Life with God is characterized by increasing challenge (going from footraces to horse races) which requires increasing faith/fulness and leads to the wondrous experience of ever-increasing grace. And in the oddest of ways, even though Jeremiah does not "survive" (martyred finally by the last enclave of rebellious Judeans in Egypt), his life with God DOES thrive and flourish and issues forth in a prophetic book that is literally unmatched in its raw power.

Peterson has a done a great service for the Weeping Prophet and for contemporary Christians. He reminds us again that the only way to be our BEST selves is to be fully God's...without reservation or remorse. If life has led you down an unexpected by-way, I would encourage you to pick up this text and consider the ways in which God is graciously calling you through your trial to live the world's greatest adventure-a life of trusting and following God. ( )