Think Ahead: 7 Decisions You Can Make Today for the God-Honoring Life You Want Tomorrow

In this relentlessly upbeat guide, pastor Groeschel (Winning the War in Your Mind) encourages Christians to “decide now what you will do later” to live more moral, faith-filled lives. According to the author, believers can avoid getting overwhelmed by fear or strong emotions by making personal and spiritual decisions early and in accordance with godly values. For example, readers can better spread the gospel by committing “to the long game” instead of getting dispirited when their efforts are rebuffed, and can ward off sin by constructing sturdier barriers against temptation (such as setting time limits on social media apps, or having a friend change one’s Amazon password to prevent excessive online shopping). Elsewhere, Groeschel suggests that tithing to the church each month can help pave the way to future generosity. He strikes an appealingly down-to-earth tone and isn’t shy about weaving in his own spiritual shortcomings, as when he recalls how the realization that he’d inadvertently become “a full-time pastor and part-time follower of Christ” motivated him to forge a more intentional relationship with Jesus (“full devotion to God will never happen by accident”). Believers will be motivated by this solid case for the value of planning and intention when it comes to faith. (Feb.)