Unleashing Peace: Experiencing God’s Shalom in Your Pursuit of Happiness

Bible scholar and radio host Johnston (Unanswered) illuminates a path toward “the peace and presence that Jesus Christ offers,” or Shalom, in this reassuring meditation on Christian happiness. Throughout, scriptural examples are offered to counter the concept of a vindictive deity, because, as Johnston writes, “God’s peace fulfills, restores, and makes complete.” He cites how Jesus spoke about peace and happiness in the beatitudes, encourages the cultivation of gratitude to “unleash shalom,” and challenges the church to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health through increasing awareness and open dialogue. Bible passages punctuate personal stories of Johnston’s experiences of God’s supernatural protection, which he credits for his wife and triplets surviving a high-risk pregnancy, and he and his father a car crash. He explains why vulnerability should be viewed as a strength rather than a weakness, and explores the benefits of shalom on spiritual, mental, and physical health, concluding, “We experience the peace of God when we have peace with God.” Johnston’s mix of scholarly and uplifting notes will speak to solace seekers and their ministry leaders alike. Agent: Curtis Wallace. (Dec.)