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Book Review
Come Thirsty
Max Lucado
©2004 W Publishing Group/Thomas Nelson.
Review by Jo van Leerdam
Max Lucado needs no introduction as an author to most Christians. He’s written so many books, yet he keeps on coming up with fresh perspectives and subjects on which to write.
Come Thirsty examines the idea of our spiritual thirst as sinful humans, and offers only one solution to our search for fulfilment – Jesus Christ. Only He can offer us satisfaction, only He can quench the thirst and the desire within us.
Lucado draws on the biblical image of the well throughout the book, but he does it in a very creative way. He uses the word WELL as an acronym for God’s way of dealing with our “dehydrated hearts”:
“Receive Christ’s work on the cross,
the energy of His Spirit,
His Lordship over your life,
His unending, unfailing love.” (p. 16)
The four elements of this acronym become the basis for the four sections of this book. The formula for taking hold of these elements – Christ’s work, the energy of the Spirit, Christ’s Lordship and His love – is quite simple – submit, submit, submit… and you guessed it, submit!
Using his trademark imagery and allegories drawn from every day life, Lucado encourages us to turn to God and drink from His “endless aquifer of grace”. His gentle yet persistent urging characterises the style in which this book is written. He gives reminder after reminder of God’s knowledge of us as His children, His desire for us to trust Him, and His ability to rule as Sovereign Lord over the situations we face. Why do we forget to trust in God’s wisdom? Why do we often treat prayer as though it isn’t effective? Why do we doubt our ability to follow when it’s Almighty God who promises that nothing can separate us from His love? When we look at ourselves and try to satisfy our own needs, the fears and anxieties quickly settle in. However, when we look to the Lord for the strength and courage to continue, He will always work out situations for His glory and for our own good.
I would recommend this book for anyone who is struggling to deal with the circumstances they find themselves in, whatever their situation might be. Come Thirsty would also be helpful for anyone who is counselling or comforting someone close to them who is wrestling with issues of faith and trust in God’s goodness. I can honestly say that over the past month, while my family was going through a traumatic and testing time, this book has certainly brought me great comfort and encouraged me to trust in God’s all powerful hand on our lives. I am confident that in the midst of pain, sorrow or doubt, God can use Max Lucado’s words mightily to remind you of His abundance of compassion, love and mercy. However, this book isn’t just for the lost, the hurting or the grieving – there is something in this book for everyone.
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