Book Review of Dr. Charles Stanley’s Latest Book

I recently experienced the blessing of reading Dr. Charles Stanley’s latest book Emotions: Confront the Lies, Conquer with Truth.  For years I have studied, taught, and preached about the ongoing battle between what we feel and what we know.  Dr. Stanley draws on a lifetime of personal study and pastoral ministry to provide an invaluable resource for understanding what the Bible teaches about the proper role of emotions in our lives.

Dr. Stanley begins the book with a look at how God has provided all that is necessary for us to triumph over our emotions rather than letting them rule our lives.  He sets forth from the beginning the importance of a relationship with Jesus Christ to winning this ongoing battle.  One cannot overcome emotions without trusting God and trusting His Son’s death on the cross for eternal life.

Dr. Stanley deals with five of the most crippling emotions we face – fear, rejection, bitterness, guilt, and despair.  He reminds us that fear is the primary emotion behind the other defeating emotions and shows with each chapter how five basic components help us realize the victory God has provided for us.  

  • Experiencing the new birth
  • Examining the thoughts that dominate our lives
  • Exchanging our thought patterns
  • Exercising the powerful privilege of prayer
  • Expecting healing to begin immediately

One very helpful element of the book was a chart at the conclusion of each chapter that contrasted the enemy’s lie and God’s truth.  A model prayer and questions for reflection followed those charts.  The charts provided a visual framework to help with the practice of exchanging thought patterns.  The questions opened my mind to practical application of the truth in my life.

To paraphrase Dr. Stanley at the close of the last chapter, our proof of success in overcoming our emotions is control them rather than having our feelings dominating us and to employ your understanding of them for the good of others and the glory of God. This book goes a long way to helping us achieve that goal.  I could not recommend a book more highly.  This one is a MUST READ.  Some of my family members can expect to get one for Christmas.