Founding pastor of Atlanta's Church of the Apostles and a syndicated radio host, Youssef (Discover the Power of One
) offers fellow evangelicals a subtle word distinction on the power of positive living rather than positive thinking. Youssef explains that it is not enough to simply think positive thoughts; Christians must allow God's power to flow through them and into others by living positively. For Youssef, the positive thinking model is inferior because it requires constant self-motivation, self-elevation and self-affirmation to maintain a positive attitude. Over time, this emphasis on the self is discouraging and exhausting. Instead, Christians should focus on God and allow his love to flow through them. Through engaging personal narratives and stories, Youssef uses the book of 2 Corinthians as the biblical foundation for detailing 15 secrets of positive living, including overcoming timidity, extending and receiving forgiveness, leading by example, receiving blessings through self-sacrificial giving and combating pride and jealousy. Youssef's premise will pique readers' interest, but it is his sincerity and servant-minded spirit that will keep them thoughtfully engaged. (Mar.)
