Clark (Every Thought Captive
) offers what first appears to be a book on discerning the will of God, addressing the tricky question, “What does God want me to do with my life?” But what Clark actually provides is a much broader look at a discerning life, or living wisely. She encourages young Christian women to experience their emotions fully without basing decisions on them, to appreciate their bodies as a beautiful place where God resides, to get rid of sarcasm and fill their words with love, and to explore their desires and gifts as they look for their life calling. Each chapter includes questions for group discussion and thoughts for personal meditation. Occasionally chapters take an unexpected approach—like one about finding your place in the church, which addresses postmodern angst over Christian culture—but there's little new. Clark relies so much on quotes from others that chapters often feel like little more than a collection of what other leading Christians are saying (she leans heavily on Dallas Willard and Evelyn Underhill). However, her fan base will likely appreciate this comprehensive perspective on creating a meaningful life. (Mar.)
