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When Godly People Do Ungodly Things: Arming Yourself in the Age of Seduction
It is reported in the headlines, confessed in the pulpits, and hidden in the pews in churches around the world. The seduction of God’s people by the deceiver is a tale as old as the garden, but we are always surprised when it happens. We must realize that Satan is a lion on the prowl and we are his prey.
Beth writes with a passion fueled by the Biblical warnings of the schemes of Satan’s seductive activity and the broken-hearted concern of a teacher who receives countless letters from repentant Christians limping on the road to finding restoration. Delivering dire warnings to Christians to safeguard themselves against Satan’s attacks, Beth also reveals how you can know if someone is vulnerable. Beth writes, “We, Christ’s church, are in desperate need of developing His heart and mind in issues like these.” She fears that often God is far more merciful than the Body of Christ is with the deeply repentant and those desperate to find their way home. When Godly People Do Ungodly Things will be a guide to authentic repentance and restoration.
Beth writes with a passion fueled by the Biblical warnings of the schemes of Satan’s seductive activity and the broken-hearted concern of a teacher who receives countless letters from repentant Christians limping on the road to finding restoration. Delivering dire warnings to Christians to safeguard themselves against Satan’s attacks, Beth also reveals how you can know if someone is vulnerable. Beth writes, “We, Christ’s church, are in desperate need of developing His heart and mind in issues like these.” She fears that often God is far more merciful than the Body of Christ is with the deeply repentant and those desperate to find their way home. When Godly People Do Ungodly Things will be a guide to authentic repentance and restoration.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2002
603 people are currently reading
4291 people want to read
About the author
Beth Moore
373 books2,614 followersBeth Moore has written many best–selling books and is a dynamic teacher and a prolific Bible–study author whose public speaking engagements take her across the United States to challenge tens of thousands. Beth is focused on teaching women all over the world and is known and respected wherever she goes. She is a dedicated wife and mother of two adult daughters and lives in Houston, Texas, where she leads Living Proof Ministries and teaches an adult Sunday school class. Beth is one of the best known women in the evangelical Christian market.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
January 26, 2015
I think this book has been one of the most important books I have read to date. I strongly encourage every Christian to read "When Godly People Do Ungodly Things: Arming Yourself in the Age of Seduction". Not only would this be so helpful for someone who has fallen into sin, more importantly it will help prevent a fall to begin with. Beth Moore is a great teacher, she is kind and simple in her writing style. I am going to recommend this book to all of the ladies at our bible study and to all of my followers. I give it five stars only because I can't give it more. Appropriate for teens and up.
June 4, 2012
This book was truly an eye opener for me. I got a greater insight as to why godly people do ungodly things. This book shall stay on my desk for quick reference and reminder. This is a must read for sure.
January 1, 2021
A book anyone experiencing guilt from past sins should read.
June 25, 2012
A wonderful book every Christian should read. Rather or not you think you might have some underlying issues, we need to all realize that it can be a short fall from grace if we are not on guard!
October 18, 2014
Great book, one that I will continue to reference and will likely read again. Are you, "wholeheartedly, sincerely, and purely devoted to Christ"? Do you think that you are exempt and safe from Satan's seductions, that people who fall into these traps must not have really known and loved God? If so then think again, because it can happen to ANY believer, especially the ones who think it'll never happen to them (including those who've spent most of their lives in ministry.) I have read numerous Beth Moore books and studies and have enjoyed each one but must confess that this is my favorite, for the subject matter is of the utmost importance -- safeguarding your walk with the Lord.
Moore grabbed my attention as early as the Preface after hearing about her convictions of urgency and dedication in getting this book published. She then shares very strong, biblical advice and warnings about known and unknown vulnerabilities; how to help, and not condemn fellow brothers/sisters who have found themselves caught up in the enemy's lies; and great, great guidance on forgiveness and true healing. If you are a Christian, please read this book, you won't regret it.
Moore grabbed my attention as early as the Preface after hearing about her convictions of urgency and dedication in getting this book published. She then shares very strong, biblical advice and warnings about known and unknown vulnerabilities; how to help, and not condemn fellow brothers/sisters who have found themselves caught up in the enemy's lies; and great, great guidance on forgiveness and true healing. If you are a Christian, please read this book, you won't regret it.
August 8, 2008
This was my first Beth Moore study, and it will certainly NOT be my last. She has such a clear message and seems to connect so well with women. This study was very personal in nature. The study's purpose is to force women to examine their faith to see where there might be footholds for Satan to come in and destroy lives. It was unsettling for me to reflect so much on the past to understand the present and secure the future, but it was worthwhile in my case. I love how Beth is inspired to apply just the right scripture to a particular lesson. She is also very humble and gives all the glory back to God. I'm very much looking forward to another Beth Moore study.
February 7, 2008
I've always known that there had to be a reason why Christians all seem to do dumb things, sinful things, make mistakes and missteps. This book gives you a different outlook. It's kinda like a stop judging them and pray for them because their humans who many times fall in the same places anyone else does. Then, by the same token, she gives some candid advice on avoiding temptation.
Want to read
January 6, 2015kindle
July 6, 2018
Eye-opening!
I started reading this book to help me process a wrong done to our family. It helped me see so much about God's love and forgiveness. I was sad the book ended.
I started reading this book to help me process a wrong done to our family. It helped me see so much about God's love and forgiveness. I was sad the book ended.
March 25, 2012
This is one of the most important books I've read in the past five years. I say it fills a gap because of the way it so clearly addresses the specific topic of spiritual "seduction." The anonymous Amazon reviewer of 3/26/02 did a good job of describing what that is and is not. In contrast to the willfully disobedient or rebellious person, the seduced person may creep by almost imperceptible steps to a spiritual disaster he could not have imagined could happen to him.
Moore is compassionate without being soft. She does not excuse the sin or the sinner, but her harsher words are for those who those who are ready to throw the first, second, and third stones.
The book is very practical in terms of the risk factors for being seduced, how to arm ourselves, how to get help from God and others when we have fallen, and how to be a godly helper to someone else in the situation.
As a missionary doctor with some background in counseling and with some member care responsibilities, I can say that this book (or something else like it, which doubtless exists though I don't know what) should be essential reading for pastors, counselors, lay leaders, missionaries, and anyone else with leadership and pastoral responsibilities. Beyond that, it would be valuable reading for anyone serious about his or her spiritual life.
Moore is compassionate without being soft. She does not excuse the sin or the sinner, but her harsher words are for those who those who are ready to throw the first, second, and third stones.
The book is very practical in terms of the risk factors for being seduced, how to arm ourselves, how to get help from God and others when we have fallen, and how to be a godly helper to someone else in the situation.
As a missionary doctor with some background in counseling and with some member care responsibilities, I can say that this book (or something else like it, which doubtless exists though I don't know what) should be essential reading for pastors, counselors, lay leaders, missionaries, and anyone else with leadership and pastoral responsibilities. Beyond that, it would be valuable reading for anyone serious about his or her spiritual life.
March 20, 2021
I read this book before I learned about how often pastors abuse their position and prey on women on their staff, in counseling or in their congregations. By their covenant with God and according to laws in at least 14 states, pastors (clergy) are solely responsible for the integrity of their relationships. Beth is right about how Satan is out to destroy but she never mentions there are wolves in churches who prey, groom, brainwash, manipulate and coerce women into sexual activity. That is not an affair, that is sexual abuse. Cooperation is not always consent. I’m hoping Beth will revise this book and add this important information so that victims of these pastors will not be sin leveled and victim blamed on top of what is already devastating and traumatizing. She is also mistaken that these pastors should stay in ministry. Statistics show they rarely have only one victim. We must get wolves out of churches and help their victims heal. You can learn more at www.Notinourchurch.com. Women shouldn’t have to safeguard themselves against their pastors grooming.
June 6, 2009
Beth Moore does it again. It's a great reminder, that no matter how far you turned away from God, or what you did. God is still there waiting for you to turn back to Him. Despite all that you've done to make Him sad, He still loves you and will forgive and forget! It's something I needed. That first week is really tough when you start answering questions and seeing how you line up with the thinking of others. I was amazed at how many times I said, that is so me!
February 3, 2014
As always Beth Moore is spectacular! Laying out God's word in a no nonsense way that everyone can understand. It took me a longer time than usual to get through this book because it is not one that you read in a day...you have to read it in sections then put it down and digest the information. My favorite "A-ha" chapter was where she explains we can never be perfect, but we can be blameless. That gave me encouragement and hope, because I am sure not perfect!
May 18, 2008
Wonderful women's Bible study for a group or to do alone. Expect to be powerfully changed and enlightened. Learn how to remove the masks that satan wears and expose the places he tries to hold on to you in your life. I did it as a Bible study with 6 other women. Every single one of us was touched to the soul by the book and study. Life Changing!
Read
April 1, 2011i read this awhile back and can't remember all that it was about, but i do remember it convicting me quite a bit about how much i judge people, especially for as much as i sin. i picked up this book, arrogantly thinking it would help me counsel someone through some sin struggles and did not expect god to use it to challenge me.
June 18, 2016
The one thing Christians have the most difficult time grasping. The failures of other Christians. This is a challenging study that lays it on the line and challenges legalism and judgement of others. Every believer would benefit from this book. If they have the courage to challenge selfish beliefs, that is.
July 28, 2008
Encouraging book. I am not alone in my struggles.
June 4, 2012
I just knew you would have enjoyed this one.
February 10, 2014
This book has many things that will make you think "Aha", now why didn't I see that. I don't want to spoil it but all who have ever fallen short should read this. Great eye opener!
February 27, 2025
Amazing book! I know I’m going to continue to think about the things I learned in this book. Highly recommend!
April 8, 2019
What I needed, from a good, good Father, when I needed it.
March 15, 2022
I got this book before - I think (?) the latest hubbub about Beth Moore leaving her Baptist denomination, or being ousted, whichever way one looks at it. And I don't really want to argue the pros and cons of each side here. As one who formerly, years ago, led Beth Moore studies, I find the whole event painful and I hope she finds healing.
But knowing that event would take place after this book was written did put a different spin on reading it. I did see the "seeds" of what some Beth Moore detractors challenged her on in this book. In particular, she seems to hear from God a lot. My prior thought on it, with her older material, was that if God had truly spoken to her, I think (?) He would've said something more important than boasting on a sunset. The sunset boasts for Him itself and He doesn't need to.
I was walking and talking with a friend in the woods yesterday and we talked about this concept, but not about Beth Moore. My friend thinks God tells her things and she acts on them with amazing results. I told her that I'm more skeptical. I don't ever want to "quench the Spirit," as in the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 1:19.) I dare not go against God in that manner.
But I have bad memories of someone saying God led her to have an extra-marital affair, which the man she chased didn't even want, and she pretty well destroyed several lives over it. So the big thing for me is comparing it to what the Bible says. And as for me, myself, I do try to obey those inner promptings I think might be Him - and I think He uses them.
I told my current Bible study [not a Beth Moore one, and not one I lead] some weeks ago that one of the roles of the Holy Spirit was the inspiring of Scripture and that it was clearer than any vague nudgings that we might have. Plus, since the Holy Spirit who inspired the scriptures and the Holy Spirit within us are one and the same person, the Holy Spirit within us wouldn't contradict His Word. I remember telling a group of teens that some years ago, and they looked at me in astonishment.
I told my walking companion of yesterday that when someone says to me that God told him something, my usual response is to wait and see. If God truly said that, it will come to pass. If not, He will re-direct him. So I feel bright yellow caution tape lines all over this topic.
Now, to bring this back to the realm of Beth Moore. I'm not going to condemn her for the things she feels God told her. For all I know, He did. But she takes way more license with it than I would and I can understand why it concerns some people. She took more license with it in this book than I remembered in all the older studies I've done. God doesn't need to add to His Word. In our kids' Bible class, they learned that by being God-breathed, it is both necessary and sufficient.
The second concern others had over Beth Moore was that although she began as a women's leader, she was teaching both men and women, and some people can't reconcile that with the Bible. Yes, she addressed men in this book as well. That may be a thornier issue than the first one, and I'd recommend books with opposing views on it from each other, "Leadership is Male" and "Who Said that Women Can't Teach?" for a fuller understanding of both sides, especially if you want more logic than emotional discussion around the issue.
What concerned me more about Beth Moore on that was that 1) I've never seen a Biblical understanding from Beth Moore as to why she's made the switch, so I'm not sure whether it's defiance or whether it's misunderstanding the scripture, or whether she does have a valid rationale, and 2) When she was confronted about it, rather tactlessly, by John MacArthur, I think, she was "waiting for an apology" which never came, instead of also giving an apology and doing a self-evaluation as well. Sigh. I hurt for her, but I also hurt because of her. I don't even think I take sides on the Beth Moore issue. I refuse to.
That isn't an issue I'm going to be able to resolve in a book review.
- - - -
Now, as to this book itself. It had some tremendous helps in it from the Word of God. I hope that God Himself uses them to heal her in her new situation, divorced as it were, from her denomination. Or perhaps exiled would be a better description.
I had thought this would be an entirely different book. I had thought it would be about God healing our hearts when someone influential to us has stumbled - a pastor, leader, mentor, close friend. How do we pick up the pieces of our disillusionment and go onward in our faith with Jesus?
It was more a book about temptation, a topic that is sorely needed in the church today. She talked about things that make us vulnerable to temptation and painfully working through the issues after a downfall for our own internal strengthening, including relying completely on Jesus' work on the cross for our forgiveness.
I liked the reviewer that said that Beth Moore was "compassionate but not soft" on issues of sin and temptation. I thought that was a good description of the tone.
I liked her quotes from Charles Spurgeon's "Prayer and Spiritual Warfare," which I read a year or two ago.
I loved the way that she stepped through this passage, line by line, as to the healing of those who have gone astray. Each line because a different mini-study:
1 Samuel 12:20-25
"Do not be afraid," Samuel replied. "You have done all this evil; yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless. For the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people, because the Lord was pleased to make you his own. As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. Yet if you persist in doing evil, both you and your king will be swept away." NIV
I also thought her list of those characteristics who are vulnerable to temptation were good. (Ignorance with the Bible, spiritual passion that exceeds Biblical knowledge, lack of discernment, lack of self-discernment, exposure to or experience with false worship or depravity in the past.)
As were the lists of things that minimize our risk towards temptation. (Happy in faith, unceasing in prayer, thankful, doesn't quench the Spirit, doesn't despise instruction, exhortation, or warning, tests and proves what is good, allows God to sanctify, knows God is faithful, knows they need prayer.)
That first topic there, being happy in our faith, made her sound a little like John Piper although their personalities are so different. When we are happy in our faith, we are less likely to look elsewhere. Piper, I think, can take that to extremes, but I think the underlying principle is sound.
The second topic that Beth Moore listed, being unceasing in prayer, she brought up Brother Lawrence. That's the second time I've seen that author recommended lately. The first was by Elisabeth Elliot, martyr Jim Elliot's widow, in her recommended reading list that she gave on her radio show a long time ago. It's a book I'd like to read someday.
I loved Beth Moore's thought that the conscience is like an indicator light not a cure. Indicator lights can be faulty.
I imagine that the chapter she had on false guilt would be helpful to so many people. The lady who had this book before me underlined and marked that chapter thoroughly.
I felt slightly confused by the grammar when she nicknamed someone - any of us - who'd fallen into sin "Had," as in they'd been "had" or tricked or deceived by the devil. Those chapters took a little more deciphering, but I think I got it.
I liked the way she connected one of David's psalms to the prodigal son story: "Make me to hear joy and gladness ..." -Psalm 51:8. She compared the joy and gladness to the Father's party when the prodigal son came home, saying that it was God's joy and gladness that David wanted to hear. Somehow I hadn't connected it to David's being a prodigal or to it being God's joy and gladness before.
I got a great deal out of this book, and so I'd rate it a 4. I might even re-read it some day, which normally would make it a 5, but I can't recommend it unreservedly - first of all, to those who are opposed to Beth Moore, and secondly, to those who might be too easily swayed by the God-told-me sorts of things.
One of the other reviewers rated this book poorly because it didn't talk about the "Me, too" movement or sexual crimes propagated in churches. Beth Moore didn't intend for her book to be solely about sexual sin, and made that point several times. Even when she talked about seduction, she generally meant a mental seduction to either other belief systems or to rationalizing sin away. She didn't exclude sexual sins, though.
That reviewer took issue with Beth Moore's wanting those who had "fallen" to be restored to some area of service, even if it wasn't the same area of influence. Beth Moore had given the example of a teacher who now filled communion cups or directed parking. But we don't know if Beth Moore was thinking of such a person who had embezzled money, rather than been a sexual predator. I imagine she would say, considering some of her other works on abuse, such as "Breaking Free," that people should be kept safe from such harm, particularly children. [In fact during the 2016 election, Beth Moore had said she couldn't vote for Donald Trump because of the misogyny there.]
There are other opportunities for service, too, which don't really involve risking others - such as donating hurricane-relief items, fixing the sound system wiring, etc. I have wondered, for the worst criminal offenders, if maybe their place of service would be better off in/with one of the prison ministries. I don't know; that's not my area of experience. That's just a thought.
My thoughts on it are yes, keep the people safe, especially from predator-leaders, and if one church gets rid of them, not to send them off with good recommendations to serve elsewhere. It's even better if there's a tracking system to prevent them from applying for similar employment elsewhere.
Favorite quotes:
"One thing I believe I can say is that we usually 'hear' the warning [from others] whether or not we 'heed' it. Even though I rejected a sound word of warning at a critical time in my life, I was unable to forget it, and God used it later to keep me from being deceived even further by the enemy." I like this quote because it's a good reminder that we we do speak - gently, I hope! - into something troubling in another's life, even if it goes unheeded, God might still use it later on.
"You probably have never been in a position where you have been so forced to trust in the Sovereignty of God. You will either learn to trust Him as never before or you will be impaired for the rest of your life. Choose trust and live. Your God is in the heavens and He is all wise."
"In more public situations, you may be tempted to worry about what people are saying. You're going to have to release them and our pride entirely to the Lord. You'll even have to let go of your overwhelming desire at times to take up for yourself."
"Your pride is going to take a beating through this whole thing, but keep in mind that the sifting of our proud natures is one of God's primary divine interventions."
"Was your faith in yourself and in your ability to be good, righteous, and always wise? Or was your faith in God, who demonstrates (present tense) His own love for us in this: 'While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.' (Romans 5:8)?"
And then, on the prodigal son:
"They'd feel better if they could just take a beating like a runaway slave returned to the taskmaster. Don't you realize, Had, you've already had a beating?"
"Oh, I see. You just want to pay some kind of penance for what you've done. Ah, still too much ego. When will we get it through our heads that our penance has already been paid? It's pretty humiliating to our pitiful egos that the only way we can come home is just to stand there, receive, and let the Father party over us."
"When you're restored, if you're truly restored, you'll be free of the most seductive yoke of all - every ounce of confidence you ever had in your own flesh."
"Do you think God is going to restore you in ways that let you be proud of your hard work? Nope."
"You may conceal your infirmity, even from your dearest friend, but you will not conceal it from your worst enemy." - Charles Spurgeon in "Prayer and Spiritual Warfare"
May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through." - 1 Thessalonians 5:23
But knowing that event would take place after this book was written did put a different spin on reading it. I did see the "seeds" of what some Beth Moore detractors challenged her on in this book. In particular, she seems to hear from God a lot. My prior thought on it, with her older material, was that if God had truly spoken to her, I think (?) He would've said something more important than boasting on a sunset. The sunset boasts for Him itself and He doesn't need to.
I was walking and talking with a friend in the woods yesterday and we talked about this concept, but not about Beth Moore. My friend thinks God tells her things and she acts on them with amazing results. I told her that I'm more skeptical. I don't ever want to "quench the Spirit," as in the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 1:19.) I dare not go against God in that manner.
But I have bad memories of someone saying God led her to have an extra-marital affair, which the man she chased didn't even want, and she pretty well destroyed several lives over it. So the big thing for me is comparing it to what the Bible says. And as for me, myself, I do try to obey those inner promptings I think might be Him - and I think He uses them.
I told my current Bible study [not a Beth Moore one, and not one I lead] some weeks ago that one of the roles of the Holy Spirit was the inspiring of Scripture and that it was clearer than any vague nudgings that we might have. Plus, since the Holy Spirit who inspired the scriptures and the Holy Spirit within us are one and the same person, the Holy Spirit within us wouldn't contradict His Word. I remember telling a group of teens that some years ago, and they looked at me in astonishment.
I told my walking companion of yesterday that when someone says to me that God told him something, my usual response is to wait and see. If God truly said that, it will come to pass. If not, He will re-direct him. So I feel bright yellow caution tape lines all over this topic.
Now, to bring this back to the realm of Beth Moore. I'm not going to condemn her for the things she feels God told her. For all I know, He did. But she takes way more license with it than I would and I can understand why it concerns some people. She took more license with it in this book than I remembered in all the older studies I've done. God doesn't need to add to His Word. In our kids' Bible class, they learned that by being God-breathed, it is both necessary and sufficient.
The second concern others had over Beth Moore was that although she began as a women's leader, she was teaching both men and women, and some people can't reconcile that with the Bible. Yes, she addressed men in this book as well. That may be a thornier issue than the first one, and I'd recommend books with opposing views on it from each other, "Leadership is Male" and "Who Said that Women Can't Teach?" for a fuller understanding of both sides, especially if you want more logic than emotional discussion around the issue.
What concerned me more about Beth Moore on that was that 1) I've never seen a Biblical understanding from Beth Moore as to why she's made the switch, so I'm not sure whether it's defiance or whether it's misunderstanding the scripture, or whether she does have a valid rationale, and 2) When she was confronted about it, rather tactlessly, by John MacArthur, I think, she was "waiting for an apology" which never came, instead of also giving an apology and doing a self-evaluation as well. Sigh. I hurt for her, but I also hurt because of her. I don't even think I take sides on the Beth Moore issue. I refuse to.
That isn't an issue I'm going to be able to resolve in a book review.
- - - -
Now, as to this book itself. It had some tremendous helps in it from the Word of God. I hope that God Himself uses them to heal her in her new situation, divorced as it were, from her denomination. Or perhaps exiled would be a better description.
I had thought this would be an entirely different book. I had thought it would be about God healing our hearts when someone influential to us has stumbled - a pastor, leader, mentor, close friend. How do we pick up the pieces of our disillusionment and go onward in our faith with Jesus?
It was more a book about temptation, a topic that is sorely needed in the church today. She talked about things that make us vulnerable to temptation and painfully working through the issues after a downfall for our own internal strengthening, including relying completely on Jesus' work on the cross for our forgiveness.
I liked the reviewer that said that Beth Moore was "compassionate but not soft" on issues of sin and temptation. I thought that was a good description of the tone.
I liked her quotes from Charles Spurgeon's "Prayer and Spiritual Warfare," which I read a year or two ago.
I loved the way that she stepped through this passage, line by line, as to the healing of those who have gone astray. Each line because a different mini-study:
1 Samuel 12:20-25
"Do not be afraid," Samuel replied. "You have done all this evil; yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless. For the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people, because the Lord was pleased to make you his own. As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. Yet if you persist in doing evil, both you and your king will be swept away." NIV
I also thought her list of those characteristics who are vulnerable to temptation were good. (Ignorance with the Bible, spiritual passion that exceeds Biblical knowledge, lack of discernment, lack of self-discernment, exposure to or experience with false worship or depravity in the past.)
As were the lists of things that minimize our risk towards temptation. (Happy in faith, unceasing in prayer, thankful, doesn't quench the Spirit, doesn't despise instruction, exhortation, or warning, tests and proves what is good, allows God to sanctify, knows God is faithful, knows they need prayer.)
That first topic there, being happy in our faith, made her sound a little like John Piper although their personalities are so different. When we are happy in our faith, we are less likely to look elsewhere. Piper, I think, can take that to extremes, but I think the underlying principle is sound.
The second topic that Beth Moore listed, being unceasing in prayer, she brought up Brother Lawrence. That's the second time I've seen that author recommended lately. The first was by Elisabeth Elliot, martyr Jim Elliot's widow, in her recommended reading list that she gave on her radio show a long time ago. It's a book I'd like to read someday.
I loved Beth Moore's thought that the conscience is like an indicator light not a cure. Indicator lights can be faulty.
I imagine that the chapter she had on false guilt would be helpful to so many people. The lady who had this book before me underlined and marked that chapter thoroughly.
I felt slightly confused by the grammar when she nicknamed someone - any of us - who'd fallen into sin "Had," as in they'd been "had" or tricked or deceived by the devil. Those chapters took a little more deciphering, but I think I got it.
I liked the way she connected one of David's psalms to the prodigal son story: "Make me to hear joy and gladness ..." -Psalm 51:8. She compared the joy and gladness to the Father's party when the prodigal son came home, saying that it was God's joy and gladness that David wanted to hear. Somehow I hadn't connected it to David's being a prodigal or to it being God's joy and gladness before.
I got a great deal out of this book, and so I'd rate it a 4. I might even re-read it some day, which normally would make it a 5, but I can't recommend it unreservedly - first of all, to those who are opposed to Beth Moore, and secondly, to those who might be too easily swayed by the God-told-me sorts of things.
One of the other reviewers rated this book poorly because it didn't talk about the "Me, too" movement or sexual crimes propagated in churches. Beth Moore didn't intend for her book to be solely about sexual sin, and made that point several times. Even when she talked about seduction, she generally meant a mental seduction to either other belief systems or to rationalizing sin away. She didn't exclude sexual sins, though.
That reviewer took issue with Beth Moore's wanting those who had "fallen" to be restored to some area of service, even if it wasn't the same area of influence. Beth Moore had given the example of a teacher who now filled communion cups or directed parking. But we don't know if Beth Moore was thinking of such a person who had embezzled money, rather than been a sexual predator. I imagine she would say, considering some of her other works on abuse, such as "Breaking Free," that people should be kept safe from such harm, particularly children. [In fact during the 2016 election, Beth Moore had said she couldn't vote for Donald Trump because of the misogyny there.]
There are other opportunities for service, too, which don't really involve risking others - such as donating hurricane-relief items, fixing the sound system wiring, etc. I have wondered, for the worst criminal offenders, if maybe their place of service would be better off in/with one of the prison ministries. I don't know; that's not my area of experience. That's just a thought.
My thoughts on it are yes, keep the people safe, especially from predator-leaders, and if one church gets rid of them, not to send them off with good recommendations to serve elsewhere. It's even better if there's a tracking system to prevent them from applying for similar employment elsewhere.
Favorite quotes:
"One thing I believe I can say is that we usually 'hear' the warning [from others] whether or not we 'heed' it. Even though I rejected a sound word of warning at a critical time in my life, I was unable to forget it, and God used it later to keep me from being deceived even further by the enemy." I like this quote because it's a good reminder that we we do speak - gently, I hope! - into something troubling in another's life, even if it goes unheeded, God might still use it later on.
"You probably have never been in a position where you have been so forced to trust in the Sovereignty of God. You will either learn to trust Him as never before or you will be impaired for the rest of your life. Choose trust and live. Your God is in the heavens and He is all wise."
"In more public situations, you may be tempted to worry about what people are saying. You're going to have to release them and our pride entirely to the Lord. You'll even have to let go of your overwhelming desire at times to take up for yourself."
"Your pride is going to take a beating through this whole thing, but keep in mind that the sifting of our proud natures is one of God's primary divine interventions."
"Was your faith in yourself and in your ability to be good, righteous, and always wise? Or was your faith in God, who demonstrates (present tense) His own love for us in this: 'While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.' (Romans 5:8)?"
And then, on the prodigal son:
"They'd feel better if they could just take a beating like a runaway slave returned to the taskmaster. Don't you realize, Had, you've already had a beating?"
"Oh, I see. You just want to pay some kind of penance for what you've done. Ah, still too much ego. When will we get it through our heads that our penance has already been paid? It's pretty humiliating to our pitiful egos that the only way we can come home is just to stand there, receive, and let the Father party over us."
"When you're restored, if you're truly restored, you'll be free of the most seductive yoke of all - every ounce of confidence you ever had in your own flesh."
"Do you think God is going to restore you in ways that let you be proud of your hard work? Nope."
"You may conceal your infirmity, even from your dearest friend, but you will not conceal it from your worst enemy." - Charles Spurgeon in "Prayer and Spiritual Warfare"
May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through." - 1 Thessalonians 5:23
July 6, 2010
Going back to one of my favorite authors and Christian teachers, I picked up one of the variety of Beth Moore books that are on my To-Be-Read (TBR) list. I’ve had When Godly People Do Ungodly Things for a while, having swapped it on PaperBackSwap. There was no particular reason I read this book other than a simple curiosity and a love for Beth Moore’s biblical teachings.
Today I did the majority of my reading because I finally found a day to relax and read. Seems like the summer has kept me almost too busy to read! By the time I get into bed, I don’t get very far into a book before my eyes are shutting. So I was really grateful for the extra day off work due to the holiday so I could sit under Beth’s teaching.
When Godly People Do Ungodly Things is split into three sections: a warning to believers, a section to show us a plan against an attack from the enemy, and a section pointing the way back to God for those who have been seduced by the enemy. I believe a lot of Christians take too lightly the schemes of the enemy and believe situations and events are harmless when in fact they can be laying the very groundwork for a future attack. Beth argues the latter point in this book as she uses case studies as examples of how something in one’s past can later come up in a bigger, more dangerous way.
I’ve always enjoyed Beth’s teachings and believe she has the best of intentions to deliver God’s messages given to her. Written with a passion for God’s Word that is unparalleled by many, I can see how this book could come on too strong for those who have not read her books or studied one of her bible studies before. While reading the first section, it was easy to see how serious she took her topic. I’m grateful she did as I feel like there is a lot of valuable information and tools in this book for finding one’s way back to redemption.
Another wonderful book by Beth Moore, if you are currently struggling with sin that you can’t find your way out of, if you know somebody who is and you’d like tools on how you can help them, or if you’d like biblical guidance on how to protect and arm yourself for future attacks, I’d encourage you to pick up this book.
Today I did the majority of my reading because I finally found a day to relax and read. Seems like the summer has kept me almost too busy to read! By the time I get into bed, I don’t get very far into a book before my eyes are shutting. So I was really grateful for the extra day off work due to the holiday so I could sit under Beth’s teaching.
When Godly People Do Ungodly Things is split into three sections: a warning to believers, a section to show us a plan against an attack from the enemy, and a section pointing the way back to God for those who have been seduced by the enemy. I believe a lot of Christians take too lightly the schemes of the enemy and believe situations and events are harmless when in fact they can be laying the very groundwork for a future attack. Beth argues the latter point in this book as she uses case studies as examples of how something in one’s past can later come up in a bigger, more dangerous way.
I’ve always enjoyed Beth’s teachings and believe she has the best of intentions to deliver God’s messages given to her. Written with a passion for God’s Word that is unparalleled by many, I can see how this book could come on too strong for those who have not read her books or studied one of her bible studies before. While reading the first section, it was easy to see how serious she took her topic. I’m grateful she did as I feel like there is a lot of valuable information and tools in this book for finding one’s way back to redemption.
Another wonderful book by Beth Moore, if you are currently struggling with sin that you can’t find your way out of, if you know somebody who is and you’d like tools on how you can help them, or if you’d like biblical guidance on how to protect and arm yourself for future attacks, I’d encourage you to pick up this book.
August 25, 2012
When Godly People Do Ungodly Things is a poorly titled piece of Christian writing by Beth Moore. The title insinuates that Moore message is about everyday sin. However, her real focus is on the war Satan wages against devoted Christians. Essentially, she states that Christians who have a whole-hearted devotion to Christ will likely be attacked by Satan at some point in their Christian walk.
Once I was past my initial confusion about the what the book was really about, I was able to appreciate Moore's advice to guard ourselves against Satan by constantly putting Christ and His Word first. As a member of a strong group of Christian women who pray ceaselessly for each other, I especially appreciated Moore's advice concerning prayer, and I was able to apply some of her principles to our prayer chain.
Many reviewers have mentioned Moore's repetitive writing style in this book, and (not to be repetitive) I have to agree with them. This summer I completed her book of James study and found the writing to be much better. Since When Godly People Do Ungodly Things was written ten years ago, I have to think Moore has some writing practice under her tiny belt. Regardless of the repetitive nature of her writing, When Godly People Do Ungodly Things is worth perusing if you have a whole-hearted, pure devotion to Christ. Your eyes may be opened.
April 23, 2015
It is reported in the headlines, confessed in the pulpits, and hidden in the pews in churches around the world. The seduction of God’s people by the deceiver is a tale as old as the garden, but we are always surprised when it happens. We must realize that Satan is a lion on the prowl and we are his prey.
Beth writes with a passion fueled by the Biblical warnings of the schemes of Satan’s seductive activity and the broken-hearted concern of a teacher who receives countless letters from repentant Christians limping on the road to finding restoration. Delivering dire warnings to Christians to safeguard themselves against Satan’s attacks, Beth also reveals how you can know if someone is vulnerable. Beth writes, “We, Christ’s church, are in desperate need of developing His heart and mind in issues like these.” She fears that often God is far more merciful than the Body of Christ is with the deeply repentant and those desperate to find their way home. When Godly People Do Ungodly Things will be a guide to authentic repentance and restoration. (from Goodreads)
Beth writes with a passion fueled by the Biblical warnings of the schemes of Satan’s seductive activity and the broken-hearted concern of a teacher who receives countless letters from repentant Christians limping on the road to finding restoration. Delivering dire warnings to Christians to safeguard themselves against Satan’s attacks, Beth also reveals how you can know if someone is vulnerable. Beth writes, “We, Christ’s church, are in desperate need of developing His heart and mind in issues like these.” She fears that often God is far more merciful than the Body of Christ is with the deeply repentant and those desperate to find their way home. When Godly People Do Ungodly Things will be a guide to authentic repentance and restoration. (from Goodreads)
June 23, 2019
She is a down to earth author who really tells it as it is. This is a great book if you have been hurt by so called religious people. She is able to comfort you using the scriptures. This book was a great read after a horrible experience in my life.
November 5, 2012
This was a difficult Bible study, as all the class members seemed to be assigned "lab" as well as lecture. If we were not in the midst of trials when we began, we all had been touched by the end. This book is topical, so there are a lot of verses lifted from context. Mrs. Moore has grown significantly in her Bible study and teaching methods since the time of this study.
At the same time, it opened the way for needed, healing, grace-filled conversations about a common experience of a pastor who fell into seduction recently. Also, the lesson and lecture on sifting connected perfectly with me. This study also helped me understand a loved one's curious, wounding behavior in light of a snare and not rejection of me personally.
So... it's not my favorite Beth Moore study (Mercy Triumphs would have that place), and it was emotionally and spiritually difficult, but I'm glad I worked through it with a supportive community.
At the same time, it opened the way for needed, healing, grace-filled conversations about a common experience of a pastor who fell into seduction recently. Also, the lesson and lecture on sifting connected perfectly with me. This study also helped me understand a loved one's curious, wounding behavior in light of a snare and not rejection of me personally.
So... it's not my favorite Beth Moore study (Mercy Triumphs would have that place), and it was emotionally and spiritually difficult, but I'm glad I worked through it with a supportive community.
February 11, 2014
This is a wonderful book and points out many ways we fall into Satan's seductions. He is constantly working minute by minute, hour by hour to lure us into his web. Seduction has many forms - some we are not even aware of. Beth Moore has a wonderful way of pointing out that seduction is not always sexual but has many connotations. Our job is to be aware and put on our armor to defend Satan's lures. Satan attacks and seduces us when we are at our weakest and need God the most. Therefore, we need to be in God's Word, in church, have Christian friends and fellowship with them often to keep our minds clear of things other than Godly things. Our ladies group at my church are just starting a Bible study from this same book. It was a wonderfuly read to prepare me for the indepth study that Beth Moore does. I encourage everyone to read this book and find out what Satan is seducing you with.
January 20, 2013
Riveting quotes:
Pg 21: All along, Satan has been trying to make himself "like the Most High" (Isa. 14:4). I would not be surprised if he counterfeits God's appointment of angels to every believer by appointing demons to every believer.
pg 68: God keeps no record of wrongs, but you can bet Satan does.
pg 73: Yes, we can do something about our pasts. We can take them to Jesus! We can't forget them or ignore them. We need Him to take full authority over them where they are no longer a playground for the enemy.
pg 90: Only one reason exists why God would give Satan permission to sift a dearly loved, devoted disciple of Jesus Christ: because something needs sifting.
1 Sam.12:22- because the lord was pleased to make you his own
Pg 21: All along, Satan has been trying to make himself "like the Most High" (Isa. 14:4). I would not be surprised if he counterfeits God's appointment of angels to every believer by appointing demons to every believer.
pg 68: God keeps no record of wrongs, but you can bet Satan does.
pg 73: Yes, we can do something about our pasts. We can take them to Jesus! We can't forget them or ignore them. We need Him to take full authority over them where they are no longer a playground for the enemy.
pg 90: Only one reason exists why God would give Satan permission to sift a dearly loved, devoted disciple of Jesus Christ: because something needs sifting.
1 Sam.12:22- because the lord was pleased to make you his own
February 14, 2014
Only a sifted Peter can tell us about the one who 'goes about like a roaring lion seeking whom to devour'.
Only a 'Had' in the mould of Beth Moore can warn us of the tell-tale signs of being Had and the way out.
Only a Christ that was in all manners clothed and restrained with our flesh & weakness, yet triumphed over all the wiles of the temper can show us the Way out of being Had & offer us forgiveness as well as cleanse our conscience from the guilt of being 'Had' and sifted.
Beth Moore has offered to the Christian community a well written manual for survival in the jungle of life this side of eternity filled with roaring but most times subtle seductions.
Thanks Beth for sharing your life with me in this wonderful book. Blessed :)
Only a 'Had' in the mould of Beth Moore can warn us of the tell-tale signs of being Had and the way out.
Only a Christ that was in all manners clothed and restrained with our flesh & weakness, yet triumphed over all the wiles of the temper can show us the Way out of being Had & offer us forgiveness as well as cleanse our conscience from the guilt of being 'Had' and sifted.
Beth Moore has offered to the Christian community a well written manual for survival in the jungle of life this side of eternity filled with roaring but most times subtle seductions.
Thanks Beth for sharing your life with me in this wonderful book. Blessed :)
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