Bold Love

I saw Dan Allender speak at one of Willow Creek Church's conferences in 2005. God has gifted him well - Dan is an excellent teacher. I love his style, so I bought this book. I bought this book months before I started reading it. I had prayed for help in loving people - something I was struggling with. I bought it because of a few of the things it says on the cover - "Know the difference between loving an evil person, a fool, and a normal sinner; How to love an abusive person without opening yourself up to more damage." I experienced this as one of those books I would want to take my time with, drink in slowly - one of those books that would teach wisdom as well as point out areas in my own life on which I needed to work. Be warned, Dan doesn't pull his punches - truth, as any good discipline, does not always feel good. This book will convict you where you need it. Dan writes/speaks with an honesty, humility, beauty and passion that I haven't experienced in many other books of this type. He speaks from experience, with a wisdom that can only be gained from that school of hard knocks, as well as a passion to share the truth and beauty of the Gospel. The book is everything I hoped it would be.

I read this book probably 7 or 8 years ago and still find myself going back to the principles taught therein. It has shaped the way I relate to myself and others (currently it is helping me relate lovingly to my 12 year old foster son who has major behavior issues). And I still recommend it and use its priciples when talking to friends who are going through major life problems (divorce, marital infidelity, rebellious kids, etc.). The fact that I incorporated this book's teaching into my life makes it stand out from most books, which I read, enjoy, and then forget. This is a great book and worth the time and effort to read. As others have mentioned, the first part of the book is tough sledding, but it's necessary preparation for the rest of the book.

Most of the first 100 pages were very slow plowing with some difficulty in accepting certain parts of the premise and groundwork. They turn out to be helpful in establishing those precepts for the last 200 plus pages which were pure pith and wore out a highlighter. This is not a be-all, end-all resolution. It is, however, a vital portion of any Christians toolbox. Knowing the enemy and approaches to deal with various aspects are essential tools. Not a fill-in-the-blank recipe, but a thought provoking knowledge base to allow God to use the talents He has given you for you to be more effective in doing battle with the enemy.NOT for those who want to stay on milk!