Renovation of the Heart in Daily Practice

I'm so glad that I decided to buy this book along with a copy of Renovation of the Heart. While RotH is a great book on it's own terms and really changed my views on spiritual formation, there wasn't a ton of practical advice or exercises in it. This companion book has been crucial for me. It is not a book you just read, the benefit comes from actually doing the recommended experiments. Some of these are quite simple but many of them require some really deep work. I've discovered new insights about myself and some harsh realities and I'm only halfway through the book. This is something to slowly work through. I also appreciate the retreat ideas in the back of the book.

This is a very good study devotional. It is very practical. I will use it on a daily basis over and over. This is not something you will just work through once. It gives you inspiration to strive for everyday.

It's the way of our world, it seems, to never admit our ignorance, but I don't mind telling you that I'm not nearly smart enough for Dallas Willard. I read The Divine Conspiracy several years ago and thought it was great, but, frankly, much of his writing and thinking is over my head. That's why I love what NavPress did in creating Renovation of the Heart in Daily Practice. I read this book over the course of a few weeks, but I'll go back and use it as a daily devotional. That's its gift. Short chapters by Willard that end with brief comments and "experiments" written by Jan Johnson. With this format, I can take the time to think through and digest and internalize Willard's wonderful insights on how we go about conforming ourselves as followers of Jesus. This book might never leave my nightstand.

Willard's book is practical information, sound Christian theology, along with exercises that help those who want a deeper spiritual journey, but are frustrated with poor results from their attempts to renovate the heart through their own strength and will. Willard's book helps us understand where we allow our personal strength fails to produce the needed results and that we must allow Christ to empower us to move beyond what our human strength can produce. Nelson Knight

Jan Johnson acts as the tour guide as she uses Willard's "Renovation of the Heart" to transport us on a soul searching journey. I have personally been touched as I meditate on the thought provoking devotionals. A must have for those who find Willard a compelling read.

I was becoming dispondent and disillusioned with church. Not sure what this life in Christ was all about. Why as Christians today we are seemingly powerless and so far away from the authority and manifestations that the Word of God promises. I felt close to giving up then I found this book. From page one the tears flowed as I drank from the cup of revelation that the pages offered. I am eternally grateful. I want to meet the authors please!