When I Don't Desire God by John Piper
“The full enjoyment of God is my ultimate home…”
Our greatest joy is being satisfied with God. But what do we
do if we have never felt a desire to be joyful in God?
I have spent most of my life in Christian circles – church,
school, small groups, etc. – and I have always felt like the odd man out. It
seemed like everyone else has strong, fiery passion for God. They seemed so in
tune with God’s plan, as if they were in a true, deep, relationship with God.
My relationship with God usually feels like a one-sided long-distance
relationship, where I was the only one trying to communicate. I had gotten to
the point where I found myself completely dispassionate and indifferent in my
faith.
If God didn’t show up why should I look for Him?
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he
cannot lose.” –Jim Eliot
There is no book out there can give a comprehensive perspective
on our detachment from God. There are a lot of personal stories and there are a
lot of academic-centered theologies. Piper has a simple message in every book
he writes: God is the center of our greatest joy.
If you have read any other book by Piper then I would skip
this book. If this is your first read of Piper then it is a great summary of
his work. This book will pick you up out of the valley of despair, but it will
definitely make you feel less lonely.
