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How Joyful People Think: 8 Ways of Thinking That Lead to a Better Life
Two people can face the same type of adversity and have two vastly different reactions, even when they have the same background and worldview. What makes the difference when one person responds with joy and the other responds with bitterness? Perspective--the way they think about things. Right thinking matters and, thankfully, it's something we can all learn to employ.
In this insightful unpacking of Philippians 4:8, pastor Jamie Rasmussen shows readers how to focus their thoughts and attention on the things in life that God has declared will make a meaningful impact on both a person's outlook and experience. It's the kind of thinking that has the power to change us, pointing us away from self-pity, anger, and resentment and toward contentment and personal peace, which helps us get the most out of life.
Anyone who yearns to live a life characterized by joy no matter what the circumstance will benefit from this thoughtful, practical, and inspiring book.
In this insightful unpacking of Philippians 4:8, pastor Jamie Rasmussen shows readers how to focus their thoughts and attention on the things in life that God has declared will make a meaningful impact on both a person's outlook and experience. It's the kind of thinking that has the power to change us, pointing us away from self-pity, anger, and resentment and toward contentment and personal peace, which helps us get the most out of life.
Anyone who yearns to live a life characterized by joy no matter what the circumstance will benefit from this thoughtful, practical, and inspiring book.
192 pages, Paperback
Published July 31, 2018
37 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
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August 6, 2018How Joyful People Think is an eye opening read that shares personal stories of how each person reacts differently when faced with adversity. A book that shares scripture, heartfelt stories and reflection that is sure to make you take a step back and look at things differently.
June 27, 2019
I purchased this book from Amazon to read with my friend Kayla. All opinions are my own. 🌟🌟🌟🌟 How Joyful People Think by Jamie Rasmussen. Kayla and I have read many, many Bible studies and Devotions together. Some if them only skim the surface of feelings and some reach into our core and pull things out we never thought of. This one took a different approach for me. I wasn't one that gets you all fired up. It wasn't one that tears the emotion from you and makes you cry. This one was about perception centered on one Bible verse. Phillipians 4:8 Not the kind of perception that makes you think the glass is half empty or half full but the kind of perception that is laid out word for word in The Bible. The way we were created to think. Whatever is honorable. The power of a "biblical whatever." Whatever is just. Whatever is pure. Whatever is lovely. Whatever is commendable. If there is any excellence. If there is anything worthy of praise. Imagine 8 topics that can lead you to a better way to problem solve, a more positive way of thinking and ultimately a joyful life. Not because the situation or problem has changed but because in 8 simple steps you can adjust the way you approach and perceive the problem at hand. Review also posted on Instagram @borenbooks, Library Thing, Amazon, Twitter @jason_stacie, Goodreads/StacieBoren, and my blog at readsbystacie.com
August 26, 2018
How we think makes a difference. There is a way to think right and this book is about developing it. Rasmussen filters our thought processes through Philippians 4:8. Learning to think the way God wants us to think is how we have peace. (Phil. 4:9)
I was struck by his exploration of semnotes, “honorable” or “dignified.” There is much more indicated by this word when one looks at its historical and biblical use. It describes “a steady person who is known for his thoughtful reflection and well-reasoned, grace-filled responses to life's difficult situations.” (718/2430) This is a person who is not easily rattled and one who thinks well before reacting. Rasmussen shares his strategy for working on this in his own life, providing practical steps.
With the same attention to the deep meaning of words, Rasmussen takes us through all of Philippians 4:8 and God's top eight ways of thinking. There were a couple of surprises, such as linking “lovely” to where we find pleasure and the identification of legitimate pleasure. Another surprise was the fall back nature of praise, something we can do when nothing else is working.
I recommend this book to Christians who desire to know how to think the way God wants. It reads well. You'll find a very good exposition of Phil. 4:8 and practical suggestions for developing right thinking.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I was struck by his exploration of semnotes, “honorable” or “dignified.” There is much more indicated by this word when one looks at its historical and biblical use. It describes “a steady person who is known for his thoughtful reflection and well-reasoned, grace-filled responses to life's difficult situations.” (718/2430) This is a person who is not easily rattled and one who thinks well before reacting. Rasmussen shares his strategy for working on this in his own life, providing practical steps.
With the same attention to the deep meaning of words, Rasmussen takes us through all of Philippians 4:8 and God's top eight ways of thinking. There were a couple of surprises, such as linking “lovely” to where we find pleasure and the identification of legitimate pleasure. Another surprise was the fall back nature of praise, something we can do when nothing else is working.
I recommend this book to Christians who desire to know how to think the way God wants. It reads well. You'll find a very good exposition of Phil. 4:8 and practical suggestions for developing right thinking.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
August 20, 2018
Review coming soon.
August 16, 2018
We learn to attach the emotion of joy to temporal things like success and possessions. In this book, Jamie provides insight into Philippians 4:8 to help us go beyond the status quo of this world, to THINK joyfully. A thoughtful, practical book about lasting joy in the middle of real life.
April 16, 2020
Not to be compared with Joel Osteen's positive thinking crap, this book offers objective and personal opportunities to find, experience, and cling to that which is good. Could almost double as marriage counseling material. If you get this joy stuff right, a lot of life, including marriage, will prosper.
January 14, 2020
I really struggled to keep interested in this book.
August 15, 2018
Great book explains the spiritual DNA of a joyful person, despite questionable terminology
In his new book, “How Joyful People Think: 8 Ways of Thinking That Lead to a Better Life,” Jamie Rasmussen explains the spiritual fruit of a joyful person (how and why they think that way), using Philippians 4:8 as a biblical blueprint.
Published by Baker Books, this 192-page book unpacks the eight traits found in Philippians 4:8: Whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent and praiseworthy. Rasmussen illustrates that a joyful person is generally someone with right thinking.
Whether they are naturally jovial or choose to be, this person has decided to think according to the Word of God. No matter what circumstances they find themselves in, they have already made up their minds to be joyful. It is now a part of their spiritual DNA and mindset.
However, as good as Rasmussen’s book is in showing us how joyful people think, I had several qualms with the text and his explanations concerning joyful people.
First, his use of the term “transcendent truth” (on page 42, for example). It’s a New Age term often thrown around by Eastern mystics that is subjective, depending how the person views truth.
The other qualm I had was with his use of the phrase “little Christs” (page 93), where he cites C.S. Lewis using the phrase. The truth is, it sounds too Kenneth Copeland-ish, where (he claims we are “little gods”). The phrase should not be used when describing any Christian, let alone a joyful one. We are to become Christ-like, which is far different than becoming “little Christs.”
Lastly, in Chapter 6 (Christian Hedonists), Rasmussen said as Christians, we should pursue pleasure, which is also biblically inaccurate (i.e., Luke 8:14, Hebrews 11:25). We are to pursue what pleases God and His pleasure, not our pleasure.
When David said in Psalm 16:11 (NKJV): “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore,” he was referring to seeking of knowing God. It is not to be a self-seeking pleasure, although I don’t think that’s what Rasmussen meant. But that’s the first impression I had when I first read the text.
Overall, Rasmussen’s book is actually a pretty good read that analyzes how joyful people think – despite the text being peppered with Calvinist references and questionable terminology.
I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through the Baker Books Bloggers Program. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. © 2018 by Doug S., M.A.
In his new book, “How Joyful People Think: 8 Ways of Thinking That Lead to a Better Life,” Jamie Rasmussen explains the spiritual fruit of a joyful person (how and why they think that way), using Philippians 4:8 as a biblical blueprint.
Published by Baker Books, this 192-page book unpacks the eight traits found in Philippians 4:8: Whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent and praiseworthy. Rasmussen illustrates that a joyful person is generally someone with right thinking.
Whether they are naturally jovial or choose to be, this person has decided to think according to the Word of God. No matter what circumstances they find themselves in, they have already made up their minds to be joyful. It is now a part of their spiritual DNA and mindset.
However, as good as Rasmussen’s book is in showing us how joyful people think, I had several qualms with the text and his explanations concerning joyful people.
First, his use of the term “transcendent truth” (on page 42, for example). It’s a New Age term often thrown around by Eastern mystics that is subjective, depending how the person views truth.
The other qualm I had was with his use of the phrase “little Christs” (page 93), where he cites C.S. Lewis using the phrase. The truth is, it sounds too Kenneth Copeland-ish, where (he claims we are “little gods”). The phrase should not be used when describing any Christian, let alone a joyful one. We are to become Christ-like, which is far different than becoming “little Christs.”
Lastly, in Chapter 6 (Christian Hedonists), Rasmussen said as Christians, we should pursue pleasure, which is also biblically inaccurate (i.e., Luke 8:14, Hebrews 11:25). We are to pursue what pleases God and His pleasure, not our pleasure.
When David said in Psalm 16:11 (NKJV): “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore,” he was referring to seeking of knowing God. It is not to be a self-seeking pleasure, although I don’t think that’s what Rasmussen meant. But that’s the first impression I had when I first read the text.
Overall, Rasmussen’s book is actually a pretty good read that analyzes how joyful people think – despite the text being peppered with Calvinist references and questionable terminology.
I gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through the Baker Books Bloggers Program. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. © 2018 by Doug S., M.A.
August 15, 2018
Full disclosure...I had the honor of being involved with this book from an early stage. When I first heard the messages that served as the source material for How Joyful People Think (long before it was a book), I was challenged to engage my thinking in a new, transformational way. Then, as Jamie took that original content and transformed it into this book, I was fortunate to re-engage with the content multiple times. The byproducts of encountering this book's message in this way were a bigger view of God, a better understanding of his goodness, and overall, a more joyful outlook on life and day-to-day circumstances.
The strength of HJPT, in my opinion, is that it takes a Bible verse that is familiar to many, and does a deep dive that draws out fresh, meaningful insight and provides solid ways to apply to daily life that make substantive differences (especially over time, as these changes accrue). Jamie manages to accomplish this while communicating in en engagingly relatable way that causes you to feel encouraged, empowered, and enlightened as you go.
HJPT offers a unique forest/tree dynamic that is missing in many other books from this genre. Each chapter's focus is compelling and instructive, and yet contributes to a beautiful mosaic of the entire book's content that stimulates an expansive appreciation of the largeness and largesse of God that is impossible to exaggerate and still entirely biblical. Overall, a careful reading (and even multiple re-reading) of How Joyful People Think draws you nearer to the Author of true joy and more deeply into an authentic relationship with him...which reliably produces true joy and consequently shapes both your insight and your outlook!
The strength of HJPT, in my opinion, is that it takes a Bible verse that is familiar to many, and does a deep dive that draws out fresh, meaningful insight and provides solid ways to apply to daily life that make substantive differences (especially over time, as these changes accrue). Jamie manages to accomplish this while communicating in en engagingly relatable way that causes you to feel encouraged, empowered, and enlightened as you go.
HJPT offers a unique forest/tree dynamic that is missing in many other books from this genre. Each chapter's focus is compelling and instructive, and yet contributes to a beautiful mosaic of the entire book's content that stimulates an expansive appreciation of the largeness and largesse of God that is impossible to exaggerate and still entirely biblical. Overall, a careful reading (and even multiple re-reading) of How Joyful People Think draws you nearer to the Author of true joy and more deeply into an authentic relationship with him...which reliably produces true joy and consequently shapes both your insight and your outlook!
August 22, 2018
Review:
Jamie Rasmussen believes perspective is the basis of peace and joy. Basing his conclusion on Philippians 4:8, he says, “God offers a way for us to experience counterfactual thinking in our own lives.” [Counterfactual thinking is “the ability to think differently about a circumstance than the facts would appear to dictate.”] But he adds, “We must learn to live life from the vantage point of God’s declared mindset. Doing so involves his prescribed way of thinking… God’s way of giving us peace – real peace – is through our having the right kind of perspective” (Jamie Rasmussen, How Joyful People Think: 8 Ways of Thinking That Lead to a Better Life, Baker Books, 2018, pp. 20, 22, 24).
He describes learning to think God’s way through the lens of Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Each of those eight ways of thinking become a chapter in the book. His research is solid. His explanation of the Greek meaning of each word is helpful. And his basic premise is valid. However, in a couple chapters, his analysis seems to be structured a bit thin. The book title is also misleading. It feels like an advertising gimmick, and I actually bought the book because of the concept of “Joyful People.” But the text he uses in Philippians 4:8-9 talk about the God of peace who will be with you if you think in this pattern. Joy is only mentioned occasionally in the book. I expect that “How Peaceful People Think” wouldn’t have sold the book.
Still, as a detailed exegetical commentary on Philippians 4:8 the book has merit.
4 stars M.L. Codman-Wilson, Ph.D., 8/22/2018
Jamie Rasmussen believes perspective is the basis of peace and joy. Basing his conclusion on Philippians 4:8, he says, “God offers a way for us to experience counterfactual thinking in our own lives.” [Counterfactual thinking is “the ability to think differently about a circumstance than the facts would appear to dictate.”] But he adds, “We must learn to live life from the vantage point of God’s declared mindset. Doing so involves his prescribed way of thinking… God’s way of giving us peace – real peace – is through our having the right kind of perspective” (Jamie Rasmussen, How Joyful People Think: 8 Ways of Thinking That Lead to a Better Life, Baker Books, 2018, pp. 20, 22, 24).
He describes learning to think God’s way through the lens of Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Each of those eight ways of thinking become a chapter in the book. His research is solid. His explanation of the Greek meaning of each word is helpful. And his basic premise is valid. However, in a couple chapters, his analysis seems to be structured a bit thin. The book title is also misleading. It feels like an advertising gimmick, and I actually bought the book because of the concept of “Joyful People.” But the text he uses in Philippians 4:8-9 talk about the God of peace who will be with you if you think in this pattern. Joy is only mentioned occasionally in the book. I expect that “How Peaceful People Think” wouldn’t have sold the book.
Still, as a detailed exegetical commentary on Philippians 4:8 the book has merit.
4 stars M.L. Codman-Wilson, Ph.D., 8/22/2018
August 9, 2018
In How Joyful People Think (Baker, 2018), pastor Jamie Rasmussen explores eight elements of right thinking derived from Philippians 4:8Open in Logos Bible Software (if available), which reads "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is anything of excellence, if there is anything that is worthy of praise, think about these things" (ESV). Rasmussen suggests that in this passage, Paul has given us a path to joy in the way that we think.
There were several things I appreciated about Rasumssen's book. First, as a pastor, there is assuredly a pastoral heart behind his writing. He desires his readers to not only understand this verse, but to take it within themselves, to have it become a part of who they are and how they live. Second, in the case of the eight traits, he explores the original Greek words, including their usage and meaning. I particularly appreciated his exploration of the word "whatever," whose meaning has morphed even in the last 60 years. The author desires that his readers understand authorial intent. Third, like me, Rasmussen has been influenced by our friend Larry Crabb, so the relational nature of these traits comes through loud and clear.
On the whole, I would happily recommend this book. We need books that explore and try to understand what the Bible is actually saying and to live in that reality.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
There were several things I appreciated about Rasumssen's book. First, as a pastor, there is assuredly a pastoral heart behind his writing. He desires his readers to not only understand this verse, but to take it within themselves, to have it become a part of who they are and how they live. Second, in the case of the eight traits, he explores the original Greek words, including their usage and meaning. I particularly appreciated his exploration of the word "whatever," whose meaning has morphed even in the last 60 years. The author desires that his readers understand authorial intent. Third, like me, Rasmussen has been influenced by our friend Larry Crabb, so the relational nature of these traits comes through loud and clear.
On the whole, I would happily recommend this book. We need books that explore and try to understand what the Bible is actually saying and to live in that reality.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
January 15, 2019
This book was a great read. It was an interesting take on a part of scripture that I’ve read and overlooked many times. I thought that this book did a great job of approaching how people who are joyful look at life. It does a good job of telling you to have a glass half full mentality without coming out and saying “stop looking at life like a glass half empty.”
My biggest disappointment with this book was its “connect ability” to non-Christians. I was hoping to be able to recommend this book to people who have a poor outlook on life or a sense of hopelessness, but I think there would be a disconnect if didn’t have an existing commitment to Christ.
Overall I’d still recommend this book to read, especially if you’re a Christian who just can’t seem to find the joy that we all know and feel we should have. But because it lacks that connection for someone who doesn’t already know Christ I feel that I have to give it 3 out of 5 stars.
My biggest disappointment with this book was its “connect ability” to non-Christians. I was hoping to be able to recommend this book to people who have a poor outlook on life or a sense of hopelessness, but I think there would be a disconnect if didn’t have an existing commitment to Christ.
Overall I’d still recommend this book to read, especially if you’re a Christian who just can’t seem to find the joy that we all know and feel we should have. But because it lacks that connection for someone who doesn’t already know Christ I feel that I have to give it 3 out of 5 stars.
August 12, 2018
We know the importance of focusing our thoughts so we are better able to face the challenges of life. Right thinking makes all the difference in the way we will react when difficulties hit.
In his book, How Joyful People Think, Pastor Jamie Rasmussen explains how to focus our thoughts using Philippians 4:8 as the foundation, as he continues to unpack the eight aspects of correct thinking.
I found this book challenging in the best of ways. Life is going to unfold and I will be unable to control the circumstances. But I can be in control of how I think and this will lead to a joy filled life.
“With a renewed perspective comes a renewed focus.”
~Pastor Jamie Rasmussen
** I was provided a copy of this book by Baker Books Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
In his book, How Joyful People Think, Pastor Jamie Rasmussen explains how to focus our thoughts using Philippians 4:8 as the foundation, as he continues to unpack the eight aspects of correct thinking.
I found this book challenging in the best of ways. Life is going to unfold and I will be unable to control the circumstances. But I can be in control of how I think and this will lead to a joy filled life.
“With a renewed perspective comes a renewed focus.”
~Pastor Jamie Rasmussen
** I was provided a copy of this book by Baker Books Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
March 7, 2021
The author provides an interesting examination of Phil. 4:8-9 and the various attributes to right thinking. At times the writing is dry, although occasionally he provides some good personal anecdotes. I read through it quickly, frustrated that it had a tone and focus different from what I expected. My hunch is that the publisher pushed for a more "self-help" title not explored in the book. Also, the chapters were repetitive -- the introduction of the term in Greek, common misunderstandings, followed by the author's interpretation and useful application. Likely better as a sermon series than in this format. I appreciated the succinct summary in the afterword but wondered why I had to wade through the book to get to those rather simple (although biblical) points.
August 13, 2018
This book was wonderfully writing and compelling to read and helpful with all the verse that, we will look into God’s way of thinking by focusing on a crucial mindset that forms a prerequisite for our journey into the eight ways of thinking. Then we will explore each way of thinking in detail and what is involved in learning to think God’s way. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. “ I received complimentary a copy of this book from Baker Nooks Bloggers for this review”.
August 31, 2018
In this book, Jamie goes through Philippians 4:8. He talks about how someone’s attitude can affect how they will overcome in a situation. He breaks down each part of this verse to examine the joyful parts verses how society handles everything. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking to find joy in each possible scenario that could be encountered. This is definitely something essential to learn as we live in a chaotic and negative world.
July 2, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book (audio) version. It is both challenging. Helps us see what we think about what some of the Bible verses mean when it comes to thinking on those things that are good, just, noble, and true. Rasmussen breaks it down in such a practical way that makes you truly consider what it means to be like Jesus.
September 14, 2020
Biblical and practical but mostly obvious.
(NOTE: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book or a B. 3 stars means a very good book or a B+. 4 stars means an outstanding book or an A {only about 5% of the books I read merit 4 stars}. 5 stars means an all time favorite or an A+ {Only one of 400 or 500 books rates this!).
(NOTE: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book or a B. 3 stars means a very good book or a B+. 4 stars means an outstanding book or an A {only about 5% of the books I read merit 4 stars}. 5 stars means an all time favorite or an A+ {Only one of 400 or 500 books rates this!).
December 15, 2025
¨Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Think about these things . . . and the God of peace will be with you.(Phil. 4:8)¨
September 25, 2018
Thought provoking
This a thought provoking look at the eight qualities listed in Philippians 4:8. Each key word is carefully defined and then fleshed out. It is very interesting and worth pondering.
This a thought provoking look at the eight qualities listed in Philippians 4:8. Each key word is carefully defined and then fleshed out. It is very interesting and worth pondering.
February 2, 2019
This book was not what I expected, and I'm glad of it! After I was about a third of the way through it, I started noticing how Rasmussen's words were staying with me throughout my day. His presentation of Philippians 4:8 is well worth reading.
November 21, 2018
This book had some good bits, and even some profound bits. But there are points where this author and I differ on theology.
September 16, 2020
I enjoyed this book. The information is accurate & concise—much more than a “self-help” book. I recommend this book for either personal or corporate Bible Study.
April 9, 2024
Some thoughtful takeaways from the book.
Think positively, possibilities, and problem-solving. These three steps will help you.
Philippians 4:8–9, Paul uses the word “whatsoever.” He indicates what specifically we are to think on.
When things are not easy, and there’s nothing else you can do, you can always praise.
You might have a bad day, but you can choose joy.
Think positively, possibilities, and problem-solving. These three steps will help you.
Philippians 4:8–9, Paul uses the word “whatsoever.” He indicates what specifically we are to think on.
When things are not easy, and there’s nothing else you can do, you can always praise.
You might have a bad day, but you can choose joy.
May 26, 2020
Jamie Rasmussen's HOW JOYFUL PEOPLE THINK is an exegetical study on Philippians 4:8. If you enjoy exegesis-style books, then you will enjoy his book. Rasmussen takes each part of Philippians 4:8 and helps us understand it in context as well to understand each point individually. He uses this passage to illustrate that if we "think on these things," we will be a more joyful people. Since I study joy, I enjoyed Rasmussen's study. I'm not a big fan of exegetical studies, but HOW JOYFUL PEOPLE THINK was definitely worth reading (listening to :)).
Read
August 6, 2018How Joyful People Think is an inspiring read that shows how each person reacts differently when faced with adversity. A book that is full of scripture and personal stories that are sure to open your eyes and look at things differently. Stories that are both heartbreaking and hopeful as faith is tested.
February 25, 2019
This is a book I could (or rather, should) read annually. :)
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