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How Happiness Happens- Finding Lasting Joy in a World of Comparison, Disappointment, and Unmet Expectations Hardcover
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First published September 17, 2019
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About the author
Max Lucado
1,195 books5,393 followersWith more than 150 million products in print and several NYT bestsellers, Max Lucado is America's bestselling inspirational author. He serves the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy. His most recent book published in August 2024 and is titled What Happens Next.
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March 6, 2024
This was an easy 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating from me!! I absolutely loved it!!!
How many of you are really happy? Raise your hand.. it's ok, no one's looking and it's not a test.
I mean that deep down feeling of absolute joy and happiness. Hands still raised? If yes, congratulations 🎉! You won't need to read this book, however all I ask is that you be honest with yourself. I don't need to know your answers. Only you do.
We're living in a very dark world. There's wars going on, kidnappings, protests, persecutions happening and the list goes on. Now, examine your own life. Just so you know, I did as I read this book. I took a deep look at my life and asked myself, " Am I really a happy person?" Take a minute and think about your life. Maybe you are truly happy and your life is going great. Maybe you didn't get the promotion from work that you were expecting. Maybe you lost your job. Or a family member or friend just passed away. Perhaps your car broke down and you can't afford to get it fixed. Possibly, you are in the hospital ( I hope not!) This world has a way of crashing down on your at the worst possible times. How can we expect to be happy? Well, in this book, Max Lucacdo tells you how to be happy! To be clear, this book is NOT " A CURE - ALL " for your all your problems. It gives you ways to cope with your problems.
There's over 50 " one anothers," in the Bible. Max chose to write about 10 of them. In his easy Texan, laid back and funny way, he discusses them in every day stories that we can all relate to. Here's the list:
1. Encourage one another ( 1 Thess. 5:11)
2. Bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2 )
3. Regard one another as more important ( Phil.2:4)
4. Greet one another ( Rom.16:16)
5. Pray for one another (James 5:16
6. Serve one another ( Gal. 5:13)
7. Accept one another ( rom.15:7)
8. Admonish one another ( Col 3:16)
9. Forgive one another ( Eph. 4:32)
10. Love one another (1 John 3:12)
Easy enough list to follow... right? There's 2 ways to read this book. 1. You could read it in a day or two on the surface level. 2. I advise that you read it and take your time...let the lessons in this book sink deep into your heart and wash over filling yourself with joy! That's what I did. It's not easy to look at yourself because it's easier to point the finger at someone else.
Now for my honest answer... I'm going through a lot of hardships right now but because of my belief and faith in Jesus, my Lord and Savior, I am able to find joy and happiness deep in my heart and life! I have a very supportive family and friends... I'm very fortunate that way! 🕊️ I don't have any answers as to how these hardships are going to work out or how much more I will suffer. Jesus does!! That's enough for me! I am a happy person because I can take joy in the smallest things in life and I am challenging myself to work on the list of " one anothers" listed above.
I listened to the audiobook and at the end is an amazing interview with Ben Holland ( the narrator) and Max Lucacdo. I also borrowed the library book...both are fantastic and very helpful!! Max said " That happiness is found when you give it away" I find that to be true! Highly recommended!!!
Wishing you all the joy and happiness! 💜✝️😄🙏
How many of you are really happy? Raise your hand.. it's ok, no one's looking and it's not a test.
I mean that deep down feeling of absolute joy and happiness. Hands still raised? If yes, congratulations 🎉! You won't need to read this book, however all I ask is that you be honest with yourself. I don't need to know your answers. Only you do.
We're living in a very dark world. There's wars going on, kidnappings, protests, persecutions happening and the list goes on. Now, examine your own life. Just so you know, I did as I read this book. I took a deep look at my life and asked myself, " Am I really a happy person?" Take a minute and think about your life. Maybe you are truly happy and your life is going great. Maybe you didn't get the promotion from work that you were expecting. Maybe you lost your job. Or a family member or friend just passed away. Perhaps your car broke down and you can't afford to get it fixed. Possibly, you are in the hospital ( I hope not!) This world has a way of crashing down on your at the worst possible times. How can we expect to be happy? Well, in this book, Max Lucacdo tells you how to be happy! To be clear, this book is NOT " A CURE - ALL " for your all your problems. It gives you ways to cope with your problems.
There's over 50 " one anothers," in the Bible. Max chose to write about 10 of them. In his easy Texan, laid back and funny way, he discusses them in every day stories that we can all relate to. Here's the list:
1. Encourage one another ( 1 Thess. 5:11)
2. Bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2 )
3. Regard one another as more important ( Phil.2:4)
4. Greet one another ( Rom.16:16)
5. Pray for one another (James 5:16
6. Serve one another ( Gal. 5:13)
7. Accept one another ( rom.15:7)
8. Admonish one another ( Col 3:16)
9. Forgive one another ( Eph. 4:32)
10. Love one another (1 John 3:12)
Easy enough list to follow... right? There's 2 ways to read this book. 1. You could read it in a day or two on the surface level. 2. I advise that you read it and take your time...let the lessons in this book sink deep into your heart and wash over filling yourself with joy! That's what I did. It's not easy to look at yourself because it's easier to point the finger at someone else.
Now for my honest answer... I'm going through a lot of hardships right now but because of my belief and faith in Jesus, my Lord and Savior, I am able to find joy and happiness deep in my heart and life! I have a very supportive family and friends... I'm very fortunate that way! 🕊️ I don't have any answers as to how these hardships are going to work out or how much more I will suffer. Jesus does!! That's enough for me! I am a happy person because I can take joy in the smallest things in life and I am challenging myself to work on the list of " one anothers" listed above.
I listened to the audiobook and at the end is an amazing interview with Ben Holland ( the narrator) and Max Lucacdo. I also borrowed the library book...both are fantastic and very helpful!! Max said " That happiness is found when you give it away" I find that to be true! Highly recommended!!!
Wishing you all the joy and happiness! 💜✝️😄🙏
July 21, 2019
As a woman of JOY, I study any and everything I can get my hands on that is #joy related. The fact that this book is by Max Lucado is an added bonus. 😊
As a woman of #joy, I attempt to practice much of what Max talks about. Confession: I get incredibly discouraged when the people I encourage act as if it means nothing to them. I know that's not the point. It's just how I feel.
I need to encourage others regardless of what happens, of the response of the person or persons. Max's book is a great reminder of that. I simply need to stay the course. I know what God says. That is my guidebook. My authority. The only "response" I need. Right?
Of course, right.
I can't wait to read the rest of the book and complete the Bible Study. I was given an advance copy of the book (5 chapters) to review. Thank you. 😊
#JOYismyjam
As a woman of #joy, I attempt to practice much of what Max talks about. Confession: I get incredibly discouraged when the people I encourage act as if it means nothing to them. I know that's not the point. It's just how I feel.
I need to encourage others regardless of what happens, of the response of the person or persons. Max's book is a great reminder of that. I simply need to stay the course. I know what God says. That is my guidebook. My authority. The only "response" I need. Right?
Of course, right.
I can't wait to read the rest of the book and complete the Bible Study. I was given an advance copy of the book (5 chapters) to review. Thank you. 😊
#JOYismyjam
October 29, 2020
I always love reading books by Max Lucado. It always makes me HAPPY. Lucado goes through the 10 practical principles for making happiness happen like 1. encouraging one another, 2. bear with one another, 3. regard one another as more important, and so on. This author offers suggestions and tools on every day choices that can lead to our overall happiness and uses his own personal stories as well as Biblical accounts to match up his sound guidance. He even offers questions for reflection at the end of the book and a list of ecnouraging scriptures. I think this is a great simple yet inspiration read for anyone looking to add a little HAPPINESS back into their life!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Are you ready to enter the unexpected door to joy? 🥹 standing at the entryway is Jesus of Nazareth is waiting to welcome you 🤗
In this awe inspiring book Max has included 10 practical principles for making happiness happen:
1. Encourage one another
2. Bear with one another
3. Regard one another as more important
4. Greet one another
5. Pray for one another
6. Serve one another
7. Accept one another
8. Admonish one another
9. Forgive one another
10. Love one another
He takes each of these points and expands on them; a chapter for each number…
In a world where everyone needs a cheerleader…be one! ‘Give the gift that God loves to give: the gift of encouragement.’ 🤲🏼
Want to make someone happy? ‘serve them, greet someone, give up your seat, listen to someone’s story, pen a letter, give your time, your counsel, and your heart’ ❤️
Max has such a special way with words, I don’t know how he does it but no matter which book of his I pick up I am totally engrossed and it always makes me think by seeing a different view of the world. He explains issues on such a personal level and never ceases to include wonderful metaphors as well as stories about his own family to explain things as clearly as possible. Furthermore, he has an incredible talent at interweaving biblical stories with scientific journals and his own personal experiences leading to a very well rounded view of the topic at hand.
In a world where happiness and joy are often hard to find or when found are sort lived, Max gives us some really do-able and simple solutions to find a more grounded and long-lasting life of happiness, not just for ourselves but for those around us also. We learn that happiness doesn’t happen by fixing people or changing situations around us by by accepting people and trusting God to care for them and putting our lives in his caring hands 🤲🏼
I have finished the read part of this book however, I will now take my time to slowly and thoughtfully answer the questions created and listed at the end of this book. I can’t wait to dive into them…there’s nothing I love more than going deep into God’s Word.
Bless you all, my dear friends. I hope you all know how special and unique you are. You are truly loved 🥰❤️ let this love birth great joy for each of us is “beloved by heaven”.
Are you ready to enter the unexpected door to joy? 🥹 standing at the entryway is Jesus of Nazareth is waiting to welcome you 🤗
In this awe inspiring book Max has included 10 practical principles for making happiness happen:
1. Encourage one another
2. Bear with one another
3. Regard one another as more important
4. Greet one another
5. Pray for one another
6. Serve one another
7. Accept one another
8. Admonish one another
9. Forgive one another
10. Love one another
He takes each of these points and expands on them; a chapter for each number…
In a world where everyone needs a cheerleader…be one! ‘Give the gift that God loves to give: the gift of encouragement.’ 🤲🏼
Want to make someone happy? ‘serve them, greet someone, give up your seat, listen to someone’s story, pen a letter, give your time, your counsel, and your heart’ ❤️
Max has such a special way with words, I don’t know how he does it but no matter which book of his I pick up I am totally engrossed and it always makes me think by seeing a different view of the world. He explains issues on such a personal level and never ceases to include wonderful metaphors as well as stories about his own family to explain things as clearly as possible. Furthermore, he has an incredible talent at interweaving biblical stories with scientific journals and his own personal experiences leading to a very well rounded view of the topic at hand.
In a world where happiness and joy are often hard to find or when found are sort lived, Max gives us some really do-able and simple solutions to find a more grounded and long-lasting life of happiness, not just for ourselves but for those around us also. We learn that happiness doesn’t happen by fixing people or changing situations around us by by accepting people and trusting God to care for them and putting our lives in his caring hands 🤲🏼
I have finished the read part of this book however, I will now take my time to slowly and thoughtfully answer the questions created and listed at the end of this book. I can’t wait to dive into them…there’s nothing I love more than going deep into God’s Word.
Bless you all, my dear friends. I hope you all know how special and unique you are. You are truly loved 🥰❤️ let this love birth great joy for each of us is “beloved by heaven”.
July 23, 2019
** “Happiness happens when we give it away.” **
In this age of depression, self-centeredness, anxiety and self-promotion, we often find it hard to find true happiness. In Max Lucado’s latest book, “How Happiness Happens,” he shares ways to attain happiness in our life.
In his typical fashion, using simple, biblical explanations and common, relatable situations, Lucado reminds us the key to happiness is seeing beyond ourselves. Using both what the Bible teaches as well as what research affirms, he encourages us to learn how to love one another and that the greatest joys come from helping others.
Quoting scripture, he offers many practical principles, including the “one another” principles for making happiness happen.
Other areas he covers within the first five chapters, the portion I was given to review, include encouragement; overcoming pet peeves with patience and bearing with one another; overcoming self-promotion by learning to focus on others and rejoice with those who rejoice; and the importance of greeting one another.
He shows us the act of greeting each other shows respect and is an unselfish act. “A greeting in its purest sense is a gesture of goodwill,” Lucado writes. And he reminds us that when we greet others with love and compassion, we are greeting Jesus.
Due out Sept. 17, “How Happiness Happens” is a delightfully refreshing book that eases the reader onto the path toward happiness.
And we all know the world could use more of that! I know I can't wait to read the rest of the book!
Five stars out of five.
The author and his publisher, Thomas Nelson, provided a complimentary copy of the book’s first five chapters for my honest, unbiased review.
In this age of depression, self-centeredness, anxiety and self-promotion, we often find it hard to find true happiness. In Max Lucado’s latest book, “How Happiness Happens,” he shares ways to attain happiness in our life.
In his typical fashion, using simple, biblical explanations and common, relatable situations, Lucado reminds us the key to happiness is seeing beyond ourselves. Using both what the Bible teaches as well as what research affirms, he encourages us to learn how to love one another and that the greatest joys come from helping others.
Quoting scripture, he offers many practical principles, including the “one another” principles for making happiness happen.
Other areas he covers within the first five chapters, the portion I was given to review, include encouragement; overcoming pet peeves with patience and bearing with one another; overcoming self-promotion by learning to focus on others and rejoice with those who rejoice; and the importance of greeting one another.
He shows us the act of greeting each other shows respect and is an unselfish act. “A greeting in its purest sense is a gesture of goodwill,” Lucado writes. And he reminds us that when we greet others with love and compassion, we are greeting Jesus.
Due out Sept. 17, “How Happiness Happens” is a delightfully refreshing book that eases the reader onto the path toward happiness.
And we all know the world could use more of that! I know I can't wait to read the rest of the book!
Five stars out of five.
The author and his publisher, Thomas Nelson, provided a complimentary copy of the book’s first five chapters for my honest, unbiased review.
Currently reading
July 23, 2019I just read the first 5 chapters of this new book as I am on the launch team. This book is amazing and so easy to read. A must for everyone no matter what stage of your life journey you are on. I love Max Lucado and his easy to understand books. I can't to read the rest of the book. I am so glad I preordered this book.
October 29, 2019
My depression has been bad this month, a lot going on, but mostly my health woes making life difficult to live, so this book came at a good time for me. This book reminded me that happiness happens when you give it away to others. This book was a great reminder to make those around you happy, and then you will be happy too. Little things such as always be the employee who says good morning no matters how poor you may be feeling.
There was this challenge at the end of the book:
Make someone happy
It's more blessed to give then to receive (Acts 20:35)
It is better to forgive then hold a grudge
better to build up then tear down
better to include then to exclude
better to seek to understand than disagree
better to love than hate
Who can you help today? Which person can I encourage today? Who needs a little sunshine?
There was this challenge at the end of the book:
Make someone happy
It's more blessed to give then to receive (Acts 20:35)
It is better to forgive then hold a grudge
better to build up then tear down
better to include then to exclude
better to seek to understand than disagree
better to love than hate
Who can you help today? Which person can I encourage today? Who needs a little sunshine?
July 24, 2019
Max Lucado doesn't disappoint with this book. It's written in his friendly, down to earth style. You can almost picture him sitting next to you talking. He uses the Bible as well as personal experiences to show the reader how to have more happiness. Each chapter is devoted to a different step that you can put into practice. None are hard to do, they just require a small shift in your thinking.
The basic premise is that happiness happens when we give it away. One small thing can make somebody's day brighter. I was able to read the first five chapters and I can't wait to read the rest.I've preordered the book.. In the meantime I can put what I've read into practice and spread a little bit of happiness.
The basic premise is that happiness happens when we give it away. One small thing can make somebody's day brighter. I was able to read the first five chapters and I can't wait to read the rest.I've preordered the book.. In the meantime I can put what I've read into practice and spread a little bit of happiness.
May 14, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It's tied in a lot of things I've been learning over the last few years. "Happiness is less an emotion and more of a decision." Happiness is found by giving it away and not by trying to take it.
One line really stuck with me. "People have a way of becoming what you encourage them to be. Not what you nag them to be." I know that is true for me. I respond better to encouragement than to criticism. It has made me rethink how I am dealing with others. Am I providing an encouraging environment?
One line really stuck with me. "People have a way of becoming what you encourage them to be. Not what you nag them to be." I know that is true for me. I respond better to encouragement than to criticism. It has made me rethink how I am dealing with others. Am I providing an encouraging environment?
September 25, 2025
Max Lucado’s writing brings me joy.
October 18, 2019
Everyone wants to be happy. Happy people are healthier and are more effective leaders. (5) But only about a third of Americans say they are happy. (5)
What makes a person happy? It's not money. It's giving, Lucado says. It's helping others. He explores the ten “one another” statements in the New Testament as practical ways to happiness.
Encourage one another
Bear with one another
Regard one another as more important
Greet one another
Pray for one another
Serve one another
Accept one another
Admonish one another
Forgive one another
Love one another
Lucado is a master communicator. He can tell a story and he tells lots of them in this book. Some are from the Bible while others are from his own experiences. His humor adds interest too. His writing is not deep and the short chapters make for good daily reading.
Lucado gives readers a challenge. “Set out to alter the joy level of a hundred people over the next forty days.” (166) Lucado notes he did it, finding it harder than he thought but more rewarding than he could have imagined.
There is a good section at the back of the book containing Questions for Reflection. The book could be used as a devotion or a small group study.
What makes a person happy? It's not money. It's giving, Lucado says. It's helping others. He explores the ten “one another” statements in the New Testament as practical ways to happiness.
Encourage one another
Bear with one another
Regard one another as more important
Greet one another
Pray for one another
Serve one another
Accept one another
Admonish one another
Forgive one another
Love one another
Lucado is a master communicator. He can tell a story and he tells lots of them in this book. Some are from the Bible while others are from his own experiences. His humor adds interest too. His writing is not deep and the short chapters make for good daily reading.
Lucado gives readers a challenge. “Set out to alter the joy level of a hundred people over the next forty days.” (166) Lucado notes he did it, finding it harder than he thought but more rewarding than he could have imagined.
There is a good section at the back of the book containing Questions for Reflection. The book could be used as a devotion or a small group study.
May 29, 2019
Max Lucado has a gift for writing books that combine biblical wisdom, true stories, and humor. This makes them practical, readable and relatable to today's life style. The basic premise of this book is simple and familiar: if you wish to be happy (or more accurately for Christians, joyful) you have to put others first. There is no promise, neither from God in His Word nor from the world, that we will always be happy. But there is joy in abundance through Jesus. This book is divided into sections that are each based on scripture, and in the back are discussion or thought-provoking questions for each chapter. I found these to be well-done. Finally is a challenge from Max. I recommend this book for those who want to find a way to look outside themselves and find the true joy we can expect.
I received a free copy of this book from Amazon Vine in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from Amazon Vine in exchange for my honest review.
February 16, 2020
Max Lucado takes several “one another” passages in the Bible and talks about how practicing these can up the happiness quotient in your life. It is filled with lots of illustrations and helpful one-liners like “People have a way of becoming what you encourage them to be . . . not what you nag them to be.”
I found it to be on the “light” side and a bit cheesy at times but there are some helpful thoughts nonetheless. The reading of this book happened to coincide with my study of I and II Thessalonians where Paul does a lot of encouraging of the persecuted believers. I found many of Lucado’s insights easily applicable.
I learned about this book on Amazon while researching some other books on the topic of happiness.
I found it to be on the “light” side and a bit cheesy at times but there are some helpful thoughts nonetheless. The reading of this book happened to coincide with my study of I and II Thessalonians where Paul does a lot of encouraging of the persecuted believers. I found many of Lucado’s insights easily applicable.
I learned about this book on Amazon while researching some other books on the topic of happiness.
February 8, 2020
I have been blessed to be a part of an advance reading of the first chapters and they have definitely caught my attention. I've struggled with recapturing my joy after my life took some major upheavals over the past few years. I LOVE this book and look forward to finding my "happy place" again. My favorite quote so far is "Happiness happens when you give". Max is an amazing author and really touches peoples' hearts and lives with his writing. I can't wait for my pre-ordered copy to arrive so I can read the entire book and let my happiness happen.
February 3, 2020
Excellent audiobook that explains that happiness happens when you share it with others. This was my first Max Lucado book, but not my last!
May 22, 2023
I enjoyed the practicality of this book and the premise that "happiness happens most when you give it away". Each chapter of the book focuses on a specific "one another" command from Scripture and often provides scientific evidence for how following those commands brings happiness to the follower.
My main critique is that the book seems to imply that following these commands WILL lead to happiness. However, Scripture itself does not guarantee happiness to followers of Jesus. And the context of these "one another" commands are generally not about having joy or happiness. I wish there had been a spot in the book making that distinction.
I personally spent a long time thinking that following God's commands made happiness a guarantee and have been greatly disappointed to discover that is not a promise. I am all for the goal of the book helping people to discover happiness in following God's design for how we should relate to each other! But I want people to be clear on what God truly promises His people and what is just a cultural construct of American Christianity.
My main critique is that the book seems to imply that following these commands WILL lead to happiness. However, Scripture itself does not guarantee happiness to followers of Jesus. And the context of these "one another" commands are generally not about having joy or happiness. I wish there had been a spot in the book making that distinction.
I personally spent a long time thinking that following God's commands made happiness a guarantee and have been greatly disappointed to discover that is not a promise. I am all for the goal of the book helping people to discover happiness in following God's design for how we should relate to each other! But I want people to be clear on what God truly promises His people and what is just a cultural construct of American Christianity.
August 22, 2019
Solid Pointers, Regardless of Philosophy. This is a partial review based on the first 5 chapters of this text being provided by the publisher.
Here, one of the icons of my childhood, Max Lucado, takes on the topic "how can I be happy?". And regardless of your particular belief system, he makes some really great points. Yes, the man has been a preacher most of my life if not longer. His first book was published when I was just 6 yrs old and learning to read, and his style really hasn't changed in all that time. And honestly, that is one of the things that makes him so great. His style is very conversational and quite funny, and that makes any of his books - this one certainly included - very easy reads.
And yet, it is exactly that approach that gets him 4 stars here. Why? Because I *need* to see the back half of the book to see exactly where between 3 and 5 stars this text will ultimately land. With what he has laid out in the beginning of this book, combined with the titles for the back half that I don't yet have access to, this book could go anywhere from mind blowing to just run of the mill Lucado (which, again, is still great - particularly in regards to how easy it is to read his books). Based on what I know of him from reading his books for literally most of the time I've had the ability to read and of his situation from having grown up in the same types of circles he has lived in throughout my life, I *expect* Lucado to play it a bit safe in that back half. He likely isn't going to say anything that will get too many people too angry either direction. What he likely says will be theologically orthodox, but verbally kind - that is pretty much Lucado in a nutshell. But man, if he does the unexpected and actually takes some bold-for-his-age-and-position stances... it could be revolutionary.
A pessimist will find several faults here, chief among them the continued use of proof texting, and likely hit that 3* ranking.
An optimist is going to see how readable this text is and how refreshing its message is and likely hit it with the 5*.
This realist could agree with both of them and really needs more information to make a more sound judgement, so the 4* feels like the right option at least for now.
Excellent work, and it truly is an honor to be able to ARC a book from one of my childhood literary heroes.
Here, one of the icons of my childhood, Max Lucado, takes on the topic "how can I be happy?". And regardless of your particular belief system, he makes some really great points. Yes, the man has been a preacher most of my life if not longer. His first book was published when I was just 6 yrs old and learning to read, and his style really hasn't changed in all that time. And honestly, that is one of the things that makes him so great. His style is very conversational and quite funny, and that makes any of his books - this one certainly included - very easy reads.
And yet, it is exactly that approach that gets him 4 stars here. Why? Because I *need* to see the back half of the book to see exactly where between 3 and 5 stars this text will ultimately land. With what he has laid out in the beginning of this book, combined with the titles for the back half that I don't yet have access to, this book could go anywhere from mind blowing to just run of the mill Lucado (which, again, is still great - particularly in regards to how easy it is to read his books). Based on what I know of him from reading his books for literally most of the time I've had the ability to read and of his situation from having grown up in the same types of circles he has lived in throughout my life, I *expect* Lucado to play it a bit safe in that back half. He likely isn't going to say anything that will get too many people too angry either direction. What he likely says will be theologically orthodox, but verbally kind - that is pretty much Lucado in a nutshell. But man, if he does the unexpected and actually takes some bold-for-his-age-and-position stances... it could be revolutionary.
A pessimist will find several faults here, chief among them the continued use of proof texting, and likely hit that 3* ranking.
An optimist is going to see how readable this text is and how refreshing its message is and likely hit it with the 5*.
This realist could agree with both of them and really needs more information to make a more sound judgement, so the 4* feels like the right option at least for now.
Excellent work, and it truly is an honor to be able to ARC a book from one of my childhood literary heroes.
September 4, 2019
I just finished reading the first 5 chapters of this book and I cannot wait to read the rest! I have already preordered the book and am so excited for it to get here. I am a new fan of Max Lucado and wasn’t sure what to expect. As someone who has recently dealt with a lot of darkness and painful life experiences this book offers a breath of hope. I loved reading about different ways to look at small things and still see happiness. I enjoyed the references to biblical passages and bible stories as this is not a genre I have followed much in the past. I can’t wait to see what the rest of this book has to say because we can all use a little happiness in our lives.
September 16, 2019
I have been struggling a little lately - burned out, little down, tired of the same old things. This book did not necessarily tell me anything I didn’t know but Lucado has a way of putting stories, Scripture, and reminders together so clearly that my eyes are opened. I’m not committing to 100 people, but I am committing to put these things into practice with people. Just taking myself from the center already has me feeling better.
January 9, 2023
I love his writing and how practical it is to apply this in our daily life! I loved the challenge in the end of the book! Happiness is a choice! Highly recommend this book especially when we live in a social media world!
August 17, 2023
What a great book and great reminder. — “The three things Americans would most like to hear, ‘I love you,’ ‘I forgive you,’ and ‘Supper’s ready.’ Those three phrases summarize the message of Jesus. He came with love, grace, and a dinner invitation.”
January 8, 2023
Good stuff - love me some Lucado
July 20, 2019
Just read the first 5 chapters and have loved it. Waiting for the book to come out in September.
March 31, 2021
Want to know the secret of happiness? Give it away. Part feeling and part decision - happiness happens when you give it away. Just that Simple & Just that Hard. Give happiness away and you cannot help but return it to yourself. xo
March 23, 2022
A succinct & clear reminder that our worth, and therefore our happiness, don't have to be subject to our flawed subjectivity! Appreciate that Lucado doesn't distinguish between happiness & joy- we can have both abundantly. Encouraging, edifying & easy to read.
October 15, 2019
This book relies too much on religious text and not enough actual science. Find some biblical scripture and back it up with a random study and act like that makes it true.
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July 1, 2023I’m not going to rate this because I was definitely not the target audience for the contents in this book, but it was fun to listen to my first Spanish audiobook & am excited to try more!
July 23, 2019
This book is so incredibly appealing. I was lucky enough to be apart of the launch team for this book and was given the opportunity to read the first 5 chapters and I was so captivated by it. I read the first 5 chapters in just over an hour (which I haven't done in a long time). The chapters were so easy to read and flowed so well. I love that scripture was brought into it and that the ways in which we find happiness were really related to Jesus and the actions that he brought to us.
These actions are so easily forgotten in the world we live in, but such simple and effective ways to really bring happiness back into our lives. I love that I could relate to every chapter and that I really felt moved by each point that Max Lucado made. I thought about all the situations in which I was letting things get in the way of my happiness and the incredible ways that I could change that while not only bringing happiness to others but to myself.
I used to be very good at lifting others up and just being happy, but somewhere along the line I got side tracked. I was pulled into how "good" it felt to vent and to complain about something. Until recently it no longer did feel good and I realized I was becoming this extremely negative person. I have done a lot this past year to really build up more happiness and get back to that bubbly, care free person I once was. The book sounded interesting from the get go, but I wasn't 100% sure what to expect when I started reading.
But, this morning when I started reading, I found that the book brought me a lot of joy. I was able to relate the joy to my faith and to really think about the person that I want to be and that person is a happy one. I want to lift others up, I want to encourage my family and friends and strangers too and really give them something to smile about. I don't just want to boast self-promotion (which I feel so many of us get lost in because of social media). I want to be joyful, not to show off how joyful I am but to really bring joy to others.
I am very excited to pre-order and continue reading this book when it releases and I absolutely recommend this book to others who are looking to really be happy by doing and spreading joy.
These actions are so easily forgotten in the world we live in, but such simple and effective ways to really bring happiness back into our lives. I love that I could relate to every chapter and that I really felt moved by each point that Max Lucado made. I thought about all the situations in which I was letting things get in the way of my happiness and the incredible ways that I could change that while not only bringing happiness to others but to myself.
I used to be very good at lifting others up and just being happy, but somewhere along the line I got side tracked. I was pulled into how "good" it felt to vent and to complain about something. Until recently it no longer did feel good and I realized I was becoming this extremely negative person. I have done a lot this past year to really build up more happiness and get back to that bubbly, care free person I once was. The book sounded interesting from the get go, but I wasn't 100% sure what to expect when I started reading.
But, this morning when I started reading, I found that the book brought me a lot of joy. I was able to relate the joy to my faith and to really think about the person that I want to be and that person is a happy one. I want to lift others up, I want to encourage my family and friends and strangers too and really give them something to smile about. I don't just want to boast self-promotion (which I feel so many of us get lost in because of social media). I want to be joyful, not to show off how joyful I am but to really bring joy to others.
I am very excited to pre-order and continue reading this book when it releases and I absolutely recommend this book to others who are looking to really be happy by doing and spreading joy.
July 21, 2019
Would you say that you are a happy person? What makes you happy? According to Max Lucado in his latest book, How Happiness Happens, “only one- third of Americans surveyed said they were happy. In the nine- year history of the Harris Poll Survey of American Happiness, the highest index was 35 percent. This means a cloud of perpetual grayness overshadows two out of three people.” In America, the land of opportunity, there are so many who are unhappy. Why is that, and how can we make happiness happen?
Max Lucado explains that we are all seeking happiness, but many are seeking it the wrong way. People often look to things such as material possessions or affirmation on social media to make them feel happy and worthy. Instead, we should be looking at how we could bless others. “The words of Jesus are spot- on: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 22:35). Because when you do, it has a boomerang effect. Happiness happens when we give it away.” I will be honest. I’m just as selfish as the next person. I try to make myself happy with retail therapy sometimes, look for those likes on social media, and see how many views I have on this blog. But that temporary high does not bring true happiness, while blessing a neighbor changes my life and theirs.
Another recommendation that Lucado gives to make happiness happen is to “give the gift that God loves to give: the gift of encouragement”. Send a card, send an e-mail, greet someone with a smile and words of kindness, and really listen to others. It’s so easy to do, but not often our first step when trying to seek happiness.
How Happiness Happens is a guide book encouraging one to seek God and bless others in order to truly find happiness. I would recommend this book to anyone, and I am excited for the book to release in September!
I received a preview of this book (the first five chapters) from the publisher in return for an honest review.
Max Lucado explains that we are all seeking happiness, but many are seeking it the wrong way. People often look to things such as material possessions or affirmation on social media to make them feel happy and worthy. Instead, we should be looking at how we could bless others. “The words of Jesus are spot- on: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 22:35). Because when you do, it has a boomerang effect. Happiness happens when we give it away.” I will be honest. I’m just as selfish as the next person. I try to make myself happy with retail therapy sometimes, look for those likes on social media, and see how many views I have on this blog. But that temporary high does not bring true happiness, while blessing a neighbor changes my life and theirs.
Another recommendation that Lucado gives to make happiness happen is to “give the gift that God loves to give: the gift of encouragement”. Send a card, send an e-mail, greet someone with a smile and words of kindness, and really listen to others. It’s so easy to do, but not often our first step when trying to seek happiness.
How Happiness Happens is a guide book encouraging one to seek God and bless others in order to truly find happiness. I would recommend this book to anyone, and I am excited for the book to release in September!
I received a preview of this book (the first five chapters) from the publisher in return for an honest review.
October 24, 2021
Wow!! What a great book!
The more I read by Max Lucado, the more I am fining him to be a great author!
I picked up this book on a whim in a Christian bookstore near me, expecting it to be something different than it was. Not going to lie, I have been dealing with some homesickness and circumstantial depression this past year, so when I saw the title "How Happiness Happens,"I picked it up expecting a book on how to be happy again, or something of the like. But the message surprised me.
How does happiness happen? Serving others. Loving others. How do we love others? First, let ourselves be loved by God and once that happens, God's love will overflow in us and give us grace to love others and bring some sunshine and joy into their lives.
Max Lucado talks about different ways that we can change our outlook on life. Instead of being annoyed at someone for instance, Max counsels us to reroute our thinking. He talks about several things that we allow...yes, allow...to steal our joy and how to deal with them from a Godly perspective. He gives stories of people, some make us laugh, some make us smile with joy, others make us really stop and think.
I also love Max Lucado's writing style. Such a warm and friendly style makes me feel comforted as I read. You can almost hear the smile in his voice and the joy of the Lord as he writes. I think I'm going to take the happiness challenge he writes about in this book and see what happens next!
The more I read by Max Lucado, the more I am fining him to be a great author!
I picked up this book on a whim in a Christian bookstore near me, expecting it to be something different than it was. Not going to lie, I have been dealing with some homesickness and circumstantial depression this past year, so when I saw the title "How Happiness Happens,"I picked it up expecting a book on how to be happy again, or something of the like. But the message surprised me.
How does happiness happen? Serving others. Loving others. How do we love others? First, let ourselves be loved by God and once that happens, God's love will overflow in us and give us grace to love others and bring some sunshine and joy into their lives.
Max Lucado talks about different ways that we can change our outlook on life. Instead of being annoyed at someone for instance, Max counsels us to reroute our thinking. He talks about several things that we allow...yes, allow...to steal our joy and how to deal with them from a Godly perspective. He gives stories of people, some make us laugh, some make us smile with joy, others make us really stop and think.
I also love Max Lucado's writing style. Such a warm and friendly style makes me feel comforted as I read. You can almost hear the smile in his voice and the joy of the Lord as he writes. I think I'm going to take the happiness challenge he writes about in this book and see what happens next!
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