Sacred Thirst

Craig Barnes has experience coupled with a willingness to allow the Holy Spirit to lead his life. The benefit is the readers. This book has insight and reality that will hit home with those who have been around the kingdom of heaven on earth for a while. The book is a "keeper." You will want to refer to it from time to time.

I'm sure there are Christians out there, who like me, look for relevance and inspiration in their religious study. Craig Barnes is by far the most effective preacher I've seen, and his writings communicate the meanings of scripture in ways that seem to transcend the English language. For me, this book, "Hustling God," and "When God Interrupts" have been instrumental in getting through tough times. Some of the other (5 star) reviewers have said it better than I can. While some of his earlier writings are a bit more "intellectual," I cannot recommend his books enough.

This book tells the hard truth about our thirst, and how it cannot be satisfied by anything or anyone but Jesus, the living water. The author writes as a pastor who clearly understands the human soul and its insatiable thirst for God.I was hooked after the first few pages that tells the moving story of a little boy giving the eulogy at his mother's funeral. Afterwards, as silence filled the sanctuary and everyone's heart, the pastor-author walked to his pulpit wondering what words could respond to such pathos. This marvelous book is his response to that question, and to my own longing for a word from the Savior. Barnes speaks God's Word in ways that are both tender and prophetic. His writing style is fresh and engaging.The chapter "It's Not About You" is particularly helpful and freeing, as it turns the focus away from the self, even the hurting self, and toward the work of a gracious God.

No book gives you the answers to life's questions. Barnes begins to help you focus on both the questions and where to find the answers. People are searching and Barnes not only help you determine how you are searching but how to find what you are really looking for. If you can take the time to read and think about the issues, you may find a new direction for yourself and your church.