Great Book, Great Author, Great Timing!

I seem to be creating an Adam Hamilton’s theme but I am finally getting around to writing about his book Enough, Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity. I couldn’t write about it right away because I wanted my wife to read it first. We both loved the book. It is not that it was the first book ever written on the subject, it is just the Hamilton has a great way of speaking simply and clearly about complex issues. He also has a way, in his preaching and writing, of convicting without offending. The role of a prophetic preacher is often to point out where we have gone astray. The problem is that we, being human, shrink back and stop listening or reading when someone really hits the nail on the head. I think that part of Hamilton’s success is about his uncanny ability to speak the truth in love.

We are living in uncertain time economically. Uncertain times can cause us to reflect upon our focus and priorities and this is what the book is all about. Hamilton is too grounded to simplify this into saying “just give ten percent to the church and everything will be okay.” This is about changing our relationship with money by focusing on our relationship with God. This is about making changes in the way we live that better reflect who we are.

The text is full of scripture references and there is something different about how Hamilton references the Bible. These are not just “proof texts” that mention money. They are texts that point out our need to refocus on God, our need to see that our brokenness and emptiness will never be cured by buying, owning and possessing. We are led to find our peace and contentment in God and be free to live life in simplicity and to share generously. The book is spiritual based, but when you get right down to it, it is practical. If you want to begin to change your lifestyle and relationship with stuff and money, Hamilton gives you “Five Steps for Simplifying Your Life.”

I don’t usually even get close to unconditionally recommending a book but you really ought to read this book. Whether you are living with the fear of economic uncertainty and need some wisdom or even if you seem to have that all together and just need guidance about how you might help someone you love, give this book a read. It won’t take a whole lot of your time or your money. It is about 100 pages and you can pick it up for under 10 bucks.

Peace,

Will