Average Joe: God's Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men

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Average Joe: God's Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men

3.5 of 5 stars 3.50 · rating details · 24 ratings · 11 reviews

“What is happening to my life?”

Have you ever honestly asked yourself that question? As young boys, we dreamed of being pilots, firefighters, doctors, and cowboys. Now we’re older, with a wonderful wife and kids, as well as a mortgage, a minivan, and a fulfilling but not-so-glamorous job. What happened? All the dreams that once inspired us have evaporated into traffic jams,...more

ebook, 192 pages

Published April 5th 2011 by Multnomah Books (first published March 29th 2011)

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Jul 31, 2011 Mike rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-read-in-2011

I'd like to thank Blogging for Books for the opportunity to read and review "Average Joe", by Troy Meeder. Meeder takes the reader on a journey through literary experience of just how God uses the what may be called the run of the mill man, to further His Will. As the reader first opens this book, they will find themselves engrossed in how the author begins his story of what each of us thinks about how our lives should develop and grow, only to find that God has a purpose for each and every one...more I'd like to thank Blogging for Books for the opportunity to read and review "Average Joe", by Troy Meeder. Meeder takes the reader on a journey through literary experience of just how God uses the what may be called the run of the mill man, to further His Will. As the reader first opens this book, they will find themselves engrossed in how the author begins his story of what each of us thinks about how our lives should develop and grow, only to find that God has a purpose for each and every one of us.
As Meeder states in Chapter One, "God seems to have a special fondness for average Joes. Before they accomplished extraordinary deeds, normal guys like Gideon, David, Peter and Paul, went about their farming, sheep herding, fishing and tent making. Even Jesus, our Redeemer, Healer, and coming King, started out using a hammer and saw in a carpenter's shop."
Not every "Average Joe", will reach a notoriety of champion or recognition of note, but as Meeders explains, God is in control and He knows what He wants from each and every one of us. We need to be listening, so that we will know what His plan for us is.
Follow Meeder's story as he takes you through the hurdles in his life. You will not be disappointed at the outcome. What comes to my mind is the quote, "The Meek shall inherit the Earth." I can only say that the average Joe's of the earth represent the meek.
Here is an excerpt from Chapter Ten, entitled 'The Test.' - The Responsible Husband - The marriage relationship between a husband and wife is an earthly image of the church and Christ. Ephesians 5:32 says, "This is a great mystery, but marriage is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one." Within the context of marriage, no failure in a relationship is one-sided. It takes two. However, I strongly believe that the health of a marriage is directly related to the spiritual health and leadership of the husband, the 'pastor', of the home. When things go south, more often than not, it is because we husbands have failed to embrace our role in the manner God intended."
Thank you Troy for the above statement. Sometimes as husbands we forget our responsibilities.
This book also has a study guide at the end for further contemplation and reflection. Thank you again Troy Meeder for providing such an insightful book, and Thank You again to Blogging for Books for providing me the opportunity of reading such a wonderful book. This book can be added to any Christian Library and it also provides the tools for every man to serve God and his family.(less)

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Feb 27, 2013 Michael Boling rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

As an author, former youth pastor and now head of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch, Troy Meeder has a lifetime of experience in what it means to be someone with a title as well as what he aptly describes as an Average Joe, a title which forms the basis for this book. Despite being written for the average layman, this book nevertheless contains salient perspectives on the necessity to not be distracted by the pursuit of a title. Meeder reminds his reader of an important scriptural truth, namely that God...more As an author, former youth pastor and now head of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch, Troy Meeder has a lifetime of experience in what it means to be someone with a title as well as what he aptly describes as an Average Joe, a title which forms the basis for this book. Despite being written for the average layman, this book nevertheless contains salient perspectives on the necessity to not be distracted by the pursuit of a title. Meeder reminds his reader of an important scriptural truth, namely that God is not impressed with titles or positions but rather a humble and contrite spirit.

Meeder's comments throughout his book that God uses the Average Joe to accomplish great things is in keeping with passages such as James 5:17 which states "Elijah was a human being, even as we are." Far too often believers overlook the amazing fact God sought out the Average Joe. Perhaps the disciples are a prime example of this principle. Peter was certainly not a man of means or superior academic acumen yet when Jesus called him Peter dropped everything and followed after Jesus. Does this mean believers should not pursue higher education, become pastors or make a name for oneself in the public arena? Certainly not! What this does mean is found in Meeder's salient comment "peace, contentment, and honor are to be found in the simple."

The story that was most interesting in this book was the story of how Meeder's experience as a youth pastor at a growing church in Oregon. After many long hours and hard work, the youth ministry Meeder headed began to flourish. He had all the makings of what appeared to be a long career in ministry ahead of him. The corner office, the secretary, the name on the door, the title of pastor on the stationary - these were all signs of "making it." All was not as it appeared as soon he was informed his tenure as youth pastor had come to an end. The next stop on the job market was landscaping which is the domain of the blue-collar Average Joe. Such stories carry with them the reality that many men face. Men often seek purpose in climbing the corporate ladder or obtaining a certain reputation in the community, among friends, or even in their local church. More often than not their perception of themselves as being an Average Joe is viewed negatively.

Meeder reminds us we are the clay in the hands of an Almighty Potter. If we are merely willing to let ourselves be shaped into the man he desires us to be, then he can use us to accomplish great things for the kingdom of God. Great things do not have to simply reside in an accomplishment that is recognized on a national level. Conversely, even in the seemingly mundane activities of life, a man who is truly open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in their life will be used by God. This is especially true for men who are husbands and/or fathers. Meeder aptly reminds us that "You and I are the men God has placed as a covering over our family and others." This certainly puts a new perspective on the title Average Joe.

Another important aspect of the Christian walk Meeder addresses is the need for men to reject compromise. When men view themselves as not having an important role or not having influence on others because they are simply the Average Joe, the temptation to compromise rears its ugly head. Meeder admonishes men "The Bible is very clear about what belongs on the throne of our heart: His name is Jesus." If Christ is not the focal point of our lives, the temptation to stray will become all the more attractive often resulting in devastating consequences.

Average Joe closes with a very poignant statement, one which all men should grasp on to tightly. Meeder notes "The Word of God is quite clear in that, by following Jesus, we may lose friends, comfort, family, even our life. However, a life sold out for Jesus is the very best life we can have." Someone whose life is completely focused on serving God will soon find they are no longer just an Average Joe; they are a child of God.
Troy Meeder's effort is a great read with an important message for men who are feeling as if they are not measuring up to their the status they see other men obtaining. Meeder artfully weaves in stories and biblical principles to make it clear serving God is not about status but about living every day in obedience and service to God in order that he may use us to further the purposes of his kingdom. As an Average Joe, I recommend this book to all the other Average Joe's out there. Remember, Elijah was a man just like us!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." (less)

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Nov 17, 2012 Owen rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I feel bad giving this a low rating because the publisher sent it to me. But honestly, there is nothing special in here. The author describes an average Joe as being a hard working, ordinary, man of God. He sees this in most of the men he knows. Which, could be true, i don't know. I did tell myself to put aside religious perspective before reading it. I hate to say it, but this book is kind of boring. I was waiting for him to say something interesting, but it didn't happen. He brings in men he h...more

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Dec 22, 2011 Brenten Gilbert rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviews-brb-waterbrook, faith, non-fiction

I finished this book a while ago and I just haven’t gotten around to reviewing it. Sometimes I like to let books simmer in my subconscious and develop into more complete thoughts, deeper insights, and practical solutions. Sometimes – as in this case – they don’t. In fact, Average Joe all but disappeared from my thoughts shortly after finishing. It’s not that it’s a boring book or a “bad” book, but it’s definitely a lightweight approach to a pretty heavy topic.

It seems that the topic of embracing...more

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Dec 08, 2011 Todd Pylant rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: men-s-ministry

God chooses ordinary, faithful men to do His most important work.

In a sentence, that is the thesis of Troy Meeder's book, Average Joe. Meeder wants the John Does and John Deers of the world to stop feeling and living "average" and to step into their extraordinary calling. Meeder uses a story telling style to illustrate his point, introducing the reader to "average Joe's" that he has met along the journey of his life. Along the way, he sprinkles the stories of these average men with a few biblica...more God chooses ordinary, faithful men to do His most important work.

In a sentence, that is the thesis of Troy Meeder's book, Average Joe. Meeder wants the John Does and John Deers of the world to stop feeling and living "average" and to step into their extraordinary calling. Meeder uses a story telling style to illustrate his point, introducing the reader to "average Joe's" that he has met along the journey of his life. Along the way, he sprinkles the stories of these average men with a few biblical analogies, but the bulk of the book relies on pointing out the significance of the average day of ordinary men.

Unfortunately, I don't think the book fulfills the promise made to the reader. With a subtitle like "God's extraordinary calling to ordinary men" and with a thesis of God doing His most important work through ordinary men, I came to the book hoping to get a glimpse of the incredible work of God on display through the lives of ordinary people. While Meeder did a good job of illustrating the importance of the daily contributions of ordinary men, I think he failed to demonstrate the extraordinary work of God through the average Joe's. It seemed more like an encouragement to work harder instead of a guide to see God's hand at work in our ordinary lives.

Like many books for men, the manly occupations like cowboys and soldiers are on display, as well as the required emphasis on fishing and adventure sports like flying a plane. Is this really the definition of average? What about the men who work in a cubicle, or who drive a truck, or who sell insurance? By highlighting the high flying adventure of an airplane pilot in the mountains of Colorado, ordinary guys like myself just feel all the more ordinary.

My biggest critique of the book is the failure of Meeder to open our eyes to the extraordinary work of God through ordinary people. Instead of focussing on the great sacrifice of a soldier, I was looking to see examples of God's grace flowing through the average Joe's as a testimony to His power and strength in earthen vessels. I was left more impressed with the average Joe's than I was with an above average God.

All that said, many other readers will find Average Joe to be an encouraging devotional read. It is light on biblical truth, using Bible stories to illustrate the stories of average men instead of mining the deep truths of God's Word, but it is motivational and encouraging. The study guide in the back contains good discussion questions, but I would think a men's group leader is going to have to go else where to find the spiritual meat to serve his small group.

Disclosure: I was given a free copy by the publisher, Waterbrook Multnomah, as part of their "Bloggers for Books" program. However, I was not required to give a positive review.(less)

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May 20, 2011 Dan Cooley rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Average Joe – really average

I picked up this book while looking for a new study for our church men’s group. The reviews seemed to say that it was a real page-turner, but needed more Biblical content. That would work well for us, as supplementing Biblical material is easier than making an average book interesting to a group of guys. But the reviews were wrong.

What we look for in our guys group is a book that is clear, blunt, fun to read, Biblically in-your-face, and exciting. To me, this book see...more

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Jun 10, 2011 Paul rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

“Average Joe” by Troy Meeder

“What is happening to my life? Have you ever honestly asked yourself that question? As young boys, we dreamed of being pilots, firefighters, doctors, and cowboys. Now we’re older, with a wonderful wife and kids, as well as a mortgage, a minivan…” This is the back cover of Mr. Meeder’s new book, “Average Joe God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men.”

As an “Average Joe” myself I started reading this short book without much expectation, however I was quickly surpris...more “Average Joe” by Troy Meeder

“What is happening to my life? Have you ever honestly asked yourself that question? As young boys, we dreamed of being pilots, firefighters, doctors, and cowboys. Now we’re older, with a wonderful wife and kids, as well as a mortgage, a minivan…” This is the back cover of Mr. Meeder’s new book, “Average Joe God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men.”

As an “Average Joe” myself I started reading this short book without much expectation, however I was quickly surprised with the very practical and timely book on how God views ordinary men. This is a short book with only 148 pages of very easily read material. This book also includes an eight session study guide that helps one begin to dig deeper into the topics addressed.

In “Average Joe” Troy Meeder carefully weaves personal stories of himself, family, or friends, in the different chapters, and then weaves in the history of Biblical characters as well. Each chapter is then topped off with some practical questions, or insights into the different topics he discusses.

One of the strengths of this book was the fact that Troy didn’t hold back the punches, and was very personal in the book sharing his own struggles and victories through Christ. For someone who has never heard of Troy Meeder before, this book was an introduction to a man who I would love to get to know, and the kind of guy most of us would love to have as a friend.

Another strength of this book was that Christ was the primary focus of almost every chapter. The only chapter that I didn’t feel this was the case on was Chapter 6, however, all in all Troy focused indeed on Christ, and had a great statement where he said, “I beg you please don’t waste your time reading this or any other book if it is replacing time in the Book.” I think when an author is willing to put the focus where it belongs the book rises in worth and value.

I gladly rank this book a 5. I think any man who reads this book would greatly benefit from the wisdom imparted through the stories, and the applications that Troy shares. This would be a great book for Men ministries, or even for a couple of guys to go through together.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Jul 01, 2011 April rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: christian-living-practical-life-men

AVERAGE JOE: GOD'S EXRAORDINARY CALLING TO ORDINARY MEN by Troy Meeder is a christian living/practical life/men and a must for all spiritual believers.It is well worth the read. Any male would desires to further his knowledge his faith,and be a true hero,should and must read Average Joe. It will enlighten not only your faith,soul,but also your heart. This book should be in anyone's library.This book was received as a gift from Publisher. Details can be found at WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing an...more

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Jun 30, 2011 Michael Brown rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The average Joe. What in the world can God do with him? Have you ever asked that question? Have you ever felt average? I know I have, and a lot of us ask that question because we always seem to find someone better looking, smarter, faster, stronger and even more Godly.

If that hits a nerve, Troy Meeder has written a book just for us called Average Joe: God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men. Now, I have to admit that I’d seen this book around, but it was not screaming at me to pick it off th...more The average Joe. What in the world can God do with him? Have you ever asked that question? Have you ever felt average? I know I have, and a lot of us ask that question because we always seem to find someone better looking, smarter, faster, stronger and even more Godly.

If that hits a nerve, Troy Meeder has written a book just for us called Average Joe: God’s Extraordinary Calling to Ordinary Men. Now, I have to admit that I’d seen this book around, but it was not screaming at me to pick it off the shelf or download it to my Kindle. Well, a fellow Third Option Man asked me to check it out and see what I thought. So glad I did.

The main goal of this book is to help realign our vision of who and what we are in order to get it in line with who God has made us to be. He wants us to be men of integrity, men of honor, men of character, and men of simple faith. Throughout this book, Meeder uses the stories of other “Average Joes” to illustrate how God uses ordinary men to change the world. The stories that are told show God’s faithfulness, but are not always the most flattering to the men. But that’s okay; we all stumble and fall.

Some of the topics Troy covers are: friendships, being mentored as well as mentoring another, marriage, and getting into the Word or, as he calls it, “The Playbook.” Most of the stories revolve around the outdoors, which is totally understandable as Troy and his wife Kim run the Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch. Throughout all Meeder’s adventures we see how God has used each event to shape and mold him into the man he is today.

The only issue I had with the book is that, at times, Troy would repeat part of a story. Once, I thought I had accidentally returned to a page I had just read.

I read this book by myself, but I believe the power of this book will be seen when it is used in a small group setting. It could be extremely beneficial for a group of guys to use chapters of the book to “prime the pump” for the study guide in the back. The questions can help build authentic friendships and help us deal with the baggage we might be carrying.

From Third Option Men(less)

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Aug 29, 2012 Toby rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This was a good (not excellent) devotional on what it means to be an ordinary guy in the Christian context. I don't think it really went far enough in showing how there is a God-given role for men and masculinity, despite all the 'bad press' we've been getting lately. Also, he tends to focus mostly on the football-loving, blue collar, hunting type of man. I myself am a white-collar man who doesn't like football and has never really been hunting, so I take a bit of issue with how much time he spe...more

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Aug 19, 2011 Benjamin rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: men, christianity, living

This book was definitely average. A few of the chapters were strong, but many were simply stories with a little life/Bible lesson tossed in. Now maybe that's because I identified with a few chapters & didn't so much with the others. There's nothing bad or wrong about this book really, I just wouldn't recommend it. Go read Proverbs. :-) The strongest & best part of the book was simply the idea that just being faithful to our calling, however in-glamorous it is, is what it really means to...more

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Shelves: christian

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