Book Review: Fearless by Max Lucado

In the midst of the current global financial crisis fueled by fear, Max Lucado has written Fearless. The book examines the “why” of fear, and then encourages Christ-followers to “fear not.” Chapter by chapter, Lucado disarms the fears of global calamity, of death, for your children, of the future, of failure, of violence, of insignificance, and of financial ruin. Using short stories, poetry, song lyrics and anecdotes, he speaks with a calm, matter-of-fact voice and uses scripture to back up his assertions.

An easy-to-read book, Fearless reaches across class, ethnicity and age. My favorite chapter was the last and it contained a segment, that, for me, summarized the message of the book: ‘Courage does not panic; it prays. Courage does not bemoan; it believes. Courage does not languish; it listens. It listens to the voice of God calling through Scripture, "Fear not!" It hears Christ's voice comforting through the hospital corridors, graveyards and war zones: “Be of good cheer, your sins are forgiven.” (Matt 9:2)… “When reports come in of wars and rumored wars, keep your head and don't panic.” (Matt.24:6) “Let not your heart by troubled.” (John 14:1)’

Just after those encouraging words, Lucado includes a wonderful poem by William Fariss – seven-year-old. This poem is filled with glorious imagery and a global perspective.

For the many who fight fear every day, Fearless is a profound encouragement, and can be read again and again. As the book cover says, “Imagine your life without fear.” And, for some of us, this is a daily – maybe even hourly – assignment.