There Is More: When the World Says You Can’t, God Says You Can

In this inspiring book, Houston (Live Love Lead), senior pastor of Hillsong Church in New York City, encourages readers to expect more out of life. Drawing on his experience growing up in a small town in New Zealand, he asserts that “humble beginnings are the perfect soil for a blossoming and fruitful life” and that “wild dreams” are what will set readers on the path to fulfillment. Houston is strongest when speaking about his own experiences—he knew he wanted to minister from an early age and worked 11 jobs during high school to pay for Bible college—and using them to illustrate how great things come to those who have patience, faith, and big dreams. Although the book contains plenty of encouragement, Houston’s exuberance often gets in the way of clarity. He jumps from his own past to his current congregation and then to underdeveloped success stories—such as his section on Jorn Utzon, the originally unheralded architect of the Sydney Opera House—with head-spinning speed. In the strongest sections, the author’s conversational admonishments (on being of service to others, obedience to God, and being receptive to new challenges) come across like advice from a trusted friend. This action-oriented book will interest readers looking to find more deliberate ways of using their faith in Christ’s limitless love to achieve their full potential. (Mar.)