The Dream Giver Reviews

• Uplifting, Entertaining, But Unbalanced

  
  By A1TXD4O7Z15FY4 on 2003-12-27
  Bruce Wilkinson, the best-selling author of The Prayer of Jabez, has managed to enlarge his territory yet again with this inspirational work. A short book, 157 pages, it consists of two parts. The first is an extended allegory about a young man named Ordinary, who pursues his Big Dream through many obstacles and struggles, at the behest of the Dream Giver (God). In doing so he must leave his home in the land of Familiar, leave his Comfort Zone and deal with the Border Bullies, who include his family and closest friends. Author Wilkinson uses a lot of capital letters to make sure we don't miss his points.

  In the second half he talks to the reader, explaining his concepts in more detail, for any who might not have "gotten it" the first time round. He gives examples from his own life and ministry, exhorting, cheerleading and cajoling us onward to the fulfillment of our Big Dreams.

  The book is easy to read, uplifting and entertaining. I managed to finish it in little more than one afternoon. Author Wilkinson has a gift for communication and his writing conveys the sense of personal contact. Unfortunately, he has left out some important elements that would have given the book more balance. Not all Big Dreams are to be followed relentlessly. Some dreams are misguided or even delusional. The author meant to say, I think, that certain dreams--dreams from God, dreams of service and ministry--are to be pursued. Dreams of winning the sweepstakes or becoming a world dictator--maybe not. But, he didn't say it. I think he also meant to say that one should exercise discernment in following a Big Dream. Pray about it, get advice from others, ask questions. Is it really a Big Dream or is it just restlessness, a hankering for change. Maybe your purpose in life is right where you find yourself. But author Wilkinson doesn't say that either.

  The Dream Giver is an entertaining, uplifting book--but lacking in balance. Take it with a grain of salt. Reviewed by Louis N. Gruber.
  
  

• A Complex Issue Made Simple

  
  By A3PNNSIWSXQYCY on 2004-01-13
  The critical reviews for this book express that simplicity is a bad thing. The truth is that anyone can take a complex issue and make it sound complex. In The Dream Giver, the authors have taken a very complex, yet motivating aspect of life and they have made it very simple.

  The story of Ordinary leaving Familiar is very simple. And it is true that you can see many of the illustrations before they are fully developed, but that is not a bad thing. I have been going through the process of reevaluating my dreams, goals, etc. and I had begun to think that the emotions I was experiencing were unique to me. However, this presentation reveals to me that the experience of spiritually chasing your dream is universal.

  Specifically, I have been dealing with God's asking me to give Him my dreams and then receiving them back after He becomes more important to me than they are. Having read Ordinary's tale, I now understand so much more about the process of developing a Big Dream, inspired by the Dream Giver.

  I recommend this book for mature Christians, new Christians, and even the discouraged unchurched. I think this book could be a great tool for evangelizing the unchurched because the descriptions of Ordinary's experiences will speak to them and confirm the reality of God's hand upon their lives.
  
  

• the Journey towards the Dream

  
  By AQ8DU6XVA3USJ on 2003-10-22
  Biblically based, with an emphasis on the lives of Moses, Joshua, and David, this slender volume is extremely helpful to those of us either pursuing the Big Dream, or those who have it in their hearts, but have not taken any action to fulfill their Destiny. It will be of particular value to those who might feel that they have lost their way in the WasteLand.
  The first part of this book is in the form of a parable; it is as wise as it is charming, and is an almost Tolkienesque tale of Ordinary, who lived in the Land of Familiar, and who one day leaves his Usual Job, and his Comfort Zone, to persue his Dream. There are many trials and tribulations in his path, and Giants to slay (Giants like Moneyless), but his faith gets stronger, as he learns his lessons.

  In Chapter Nine, "Living Past the Edge", Mr. Wikinson describes his fear of public speaking, and the steps he took to overcome it. I recently had the good fortune to be at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, where Mr. Wilkinson spoke not only to the vast crowd in attendance, but to millions on televison, and he is a truly gifted speaker; it is hard to envision that at one time he had felt inadequate in front of an audience. With this book he will help you conquer your own fears, and get past the feeling of being Unworthy and Unable.

  In Chapter Twelve, he talks about the Dream that has not been surrendered to God, and the pitfalls that can bring; how "Your Dream will become your idol", and how that can "make people 'successful' but not fulfilled" (pg. 133) and further, to face the areas in our lives that need cleansing, where we may be making compromises and have "unfinished business".
  In the final chapter, Mr. Wilkinson describes how his Dream has led him to South Africa, to help the millions of children who have lost their parents to AIDS, and it is an example of how once you have reached one Dream, it can lead to another, with God continually working through you. "You are meant to be a river of blessing, not a puddle drying in the sun".
  The layout is lovely, with small but beautiful images by Steve Gardiner, good quality paper, and a readable font size. I found a lot in this book to inspire me and give me the tools and armor to slay another Giant, and perhaps you will too.
  
  

• Can be a great help, read in the right spirit.

  
  By A1VHK9A4VLJTHC on 2004-07-23
  I have mixed feelings about this work (as I did with the Jabez book). First off, I don't question Wilkinsons motives at all, it's apparent he's working to make the world a better place by following the Spirit and second I do question the motives of his detractors, it's easy to go on the radio or publish a book or write a review and bad mouth someone, it's not so easy to go and actually do something positive to change the world.
  
  And it's world changing that Wilkinson address here in this book. If we, as people created by a loving Father, follow the dreams and visions and paths that He as created for us, then we will, but virtue of His nature and His motives, make the world a better place. If we don't follow our dreams, or ?the Dream? if you will, then we don't make the changes to the world that God intended for us to accomplish. I believe the most important and poignant point that Wilkinson made in the entire book was near the end, when we was describing a horrible scene in Africa, where a young boy was found on a street corner dead: that scene was a graphic word picture of someone's failed dream.
  
  That's a hard pill to swallow, and he makes no bones about pointing out the fact that it is indeed a bitter pill. But, unfortunately, a true one, if you subscribe to the logic he presents here (and I for one, think he's on a better solid biblical footing).
  
  So why the three star rating, instead of a five? Well, unfortunately, while I find the ideas and ideals and enthusiasm all five stars and great, I'm not going to compare the writing here to C.S. Lewis or Yancey and I also have some problems with the general lack of overall ?balance? (hoping I'm not overusing that word here).
  
  For those that happen to like simple allegorical stories, like Hindsfeet on High Places, well, maybe maybe the first part of this book will be enjoyable to you. I was going nuts and about to scream. It was short, so I waded through it. I simply can't stand this kind of reading, I feel like I'm being talked to like I'm a six year old. Perhaps that's the reading level we Americans have averaged out at, I don't know, but I find it incredibly annoying.
  
  The second part of the book, were Wilkinson simply explains what he means, and gives examples from his life, I enjoyed and found helpful. I think the man has incredible insight and has done much to advance the kingdom. I also think, perhaps incorrectly, that many people won't wrap all of scripture and logic around the teachings in this book and thus will produce the kinds of abuses that the detractors of this work are prone to point out. Maybe. People can be sort of ?dumb? and there's the rub. How do you write a simple teaching, one that people will read and understand, without going into a lengthy doctrinal dissertation of all the ?ifs ands and buts??
  
  Maybe you can't, and that's a shame.
  
  More people in the Christian community need to read Bonhoeffer I'd wager, but lets face it, it's hard work.
  
  I do recommend this book, it's got inspirational teaching which I believe, balanced correctly, is Biblically based and sound. I also recommend reading works like The Divine Conspiracy, which compared to this short book looks like the Bible itself and perhaps as complicated. Maybe there's a bit of insight into why some people seem bitter and jealous with the success of Wilkinson's work, it doesn't really seem like it took years of toil and hard labor to write them. They are relatively short and quick reads and not very complicated. (While I don't necessarily agree that that fact should lessen the value, I do take it into consideration in my rating of the book.)
  
  All in all there two ways to look at this work: one is to simply call it a materialistic capitistic ploy of dubious value to rib off unsuspecting and uncritical Christians and the second is to consider it a catalyst towards joining the Holy Spirit in working out your salvation in the areas of this world that have a special draw or attraction on you. A place you've dreamt about.
  
  I wonder what train of thought is most productive?
  
  

• A Dangerous Man

  
  By on 2003-10-27
  Wilkinson was recently (October 2003) on Robert Schuller's "Hour Of Power" program pushing this book. His segment ended with him hypnotically "calling" hundreds of members of the audience to the front of the stage in a pledge that they would "never again" ignore their "dream," and that this was their "breakthrough." It was a classic example of people indulging in "runner's high" without actually earning it by "running." Do yourself a favor...if you're looking for God's purpose in your life, get Charles Stanley's "Success God's Way," John Ortberg's "If You Want To Walk On Water, You've Got To Get Out Of The Boat," or Joyce Meyer's "How To Succeed At Being Yourself." These books are deeply rooted in Scripture and reality, and present a balanced picture of the hard work that is required of anyone who plugs into their "dream." The Schuller show was truly chilling...reminds me of Traffic's old song "The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys" and the line "the man in the suit has just bought a new car from the profit he's made on your dreams." Caveat Emptor. Go to Schuller's Web Site and watch the clip yourself. The entire 26 minute segment is archived there.
  
  
• The Dream Giver
  By on 2003-09-29
  The Dream Giver is an inspiring parable and directive book. It will remind its reader of the importance of not only listening to God, but giving our dreams to him. Bruce Wilkinson does a fantastic job of conveying the message that we can do all things in Christ.

  I was encouraged to know that when my dreams seem to far out of reach or like they will never happen that there is something I am missing. I will buy this book again and again as gifts. If you are a dreamer buy this book. If you think that you have no dreams buy it. It will inspire you to find your dream.

  Karen
  
  

• Fresh Wind Beneath Their Wings
  By on 2003-10-16
  I gave this book to a Pastor Friend and his wife. They had resigned from their latest church assignment where they served the local church as associate pastors and were waiting to see where their next steps would lead them. During their waiting period they became discouraged as people doubted their decision to step down. Then, they encountered being blocked by co-pastors from pursuing starting their own church in the same area.

  As a result they began experiencing depression and had settled under a dark cloud.

  As I read out loud the first half of the book -- the modern day parable -- they wept together, smiled together and seemed to settle into a new peace. It was like watching a spiritual washing. I left the book for them to finish by studying the second half. During the following days, they embraced the marvelous truths and became strong once again -- refreshed, renewed and focused on the steps God has for them.

  They are soaring today with a fresh wind beneath their wings!
  
  

• God help His people!
  By on 2003-12-19
  God help His people not to be taken in by yet another "Christian" fad. It is nothing short of idolatry to go from one new teaching after another searching for fulfillment in htis life.
  Wasn't wilkinson's "The Prayer of Jabez" enough? Didn't that book have the answer to procuring the blessed life? It said so on the back cover. What happened? Do we now need another fad teaching to really break throught to the blessed life where our dreams are fulfilled? Or are we being taken down yet another merchandising road by Wilkinson and Multnomah? Broad is the way that leads to destruction and many there be that go thereat... but narrow the road that leads to life... and few there be that find it.
  For a good look at what Wilkinson and Multnomah are doing to western Christianity see the book "The Cult of Jabez... and the falling away of the church in America". It has awakened many sleeping Christians. Find it here on amazon.com
  
  
• The Dream Giver
  By A3PQCPNZV8UI3U on 2003-11-04
  If you loved the Prayer of Jabez, you're going to love The Dream Giver. Watch out best seller list! Once this book gains momentum, it will probably eclipse global sales of Jabez by a wide margin.
  It's a rare book that can make each and every reader feel as if the author tailored every page for their enrichment.

  One day afer reading this book I encouraged my immediate circle of friends & family to make The Dream Giver a top priority read. It's that good.
  
  

• Awesome Book for Dreamers!
  By A1BMKEJ61X57EU on 2003-11-24
  Wilkinson believes each one of us has a dream that is as unique to our identity as our fingerprints or personality. Furthermore, he believes God planted that dream inside us and if we don't fulfill our mission, something significantly consequential will not happen in the lives of people who need to be touched by our God-given dream. The logical is sound if you read this book grounded in principles from the Bible.

  Like other dreamers, Wilkinson says the process never ends. As soon as one major dream is accomplished, it serves as the launching pad for a bigger dream. Vitally important though is the relationship between the dreamer and the Dream Giver. There are some eternally significant issues addressed in that area, but in order not to spoil the plot, I'll just advise you to read this book. You'll thank me for recommending you do so. Your life IS meant for eternally positive consequences. Trials are part of the process.
  
  

• Powerful and Inspiring
  By AI37YX1U4KB1L on 2004-03-10
  The Dream Giver proves to be a book that it is as equally inspiring and thought-provoking as it is short and compact. Told in the form of an allegory of an individual named Ordinary, The Dream Giver takes him on a journey from his land of Familiar and away from his Comfort Zone into the land of the unknown as he pursues his Dream. As Ordinary disembarks on his journey in pursuit of his Dream, he is confronted by Border Bullies (people you know who try to, in one way or another, deter you from your dream, and Giants, or obstacles that one must confront on one's way to fulfillment of one's Big Dream.

  While everyone has a Dream, Wilkinson points out, not everyone follows through with it due to all of the foreboding obstacles, perseverance, and imminent confrontation that it will entail in achieving it. Leaving one's Comfort Zone, and the stability and peace of mind that accompanies it, seems to be the most difficult course of all. Once abandoned, Wilkinson says, one will doubtless encounter alarmists, defeatists, and antagonists who will try with reckless abandon to halt your progress for one reason or the other including being motivated by fear of your failure -- as well as fear of your success. Giants, such as lack of resources, an immovable bureaucracy, & physical burdens must be conquered on the way as well. While all of this may seem perhaps idealistic and simplistic to some(and it is at times), The Dream Giver is nonetheless a great read that will, if nothing else, surely open your eyes and make you take a second look at everything around you in your current milieu - and, at best, could possibly change your life. Have faith in God and abandon fear all ye who enter here.
  
  

• Buy a Blank Notebook and THEN This Life Transformer!
  By A19G0JUSMBS1GS on 2005-10-03
  Stuck? Confused? Lost your purpose or never found it to begin with? This book is alive with counsel, flashing lights, red flags, warm hugs, piercing truth and excellent advice to get you Unstuck, Clear and Purpose Driven! This book sorta haunted me around the bookstore, library and then house after I finally both checked it out AND bought it, gave it to an associate on a whim and re-checked it out (after re-locating) and bought it for the 2nd time. Get ready to rediscover yourself and re-realize how much God the Father loves you p e r s o n a l l y and has a purpose, plan and plot for your life, your world and the world you inhabit in your day to day living. I was reminded of books like The Little Prince and The Giving Tree that get inside of you and W O R K you through them. You come out enlightened, inspired, motivated and above all T R A N S F O R M E D. If you stay stagnant, unchanged or depressed after reading this book, I'm praying for people like you: you really just might BE hopeless. But that couldn't be the case, because the Dream Giver is real and if you have the nerve to meet Him and learn about Him, then you have been infused with power to succeed in the pursuit and realization of your dreams and purpose. Superb!
  
  
• Trite Insipidity
  By A31MTCQCWMMDQL on 2006-02-02
  Part one of this book, a parable, is cute and would make a decent bedtime story for my elementary-aged kids -- so long as they could interpret it their own way. Part two (the designated application part) is hokum-riddled mush. Aside from its obvious lack of Biblical foundation (addressed elsewhere in these reviews), "Dream Giver" is replete with Robert Schuller-ish, trite, and incomplete answers for large, complex problems.
  
  For example, Wilkinson's trumpeting (pp. 73-75) of how he needed just five minutes to turn his lunchtime waitress into a dreamer -- all in front of his Hollywood producer friend, no less -- so utterly fails to address all the woman's issues that, on first read, I thought perhaps the publisher had dropped some text. But, no. Later, Wilkinson urges caution when one spouse's dream conflicts with the other's ideas -- but he offers no solution, and no approach for handling that serious problem. Wilkinson also flashes an arrogance that is both unseemly and unsettling, claiming variously that EVERY person has a "big dream" that God wants fulfilled (p. 73), and that he (Wilkinson) can tell just by looking in a person's eyes whether that person is in the "Wasteland" (p. 123). Wow, Bruce, you are the MAN.
  
  If what you want is a banal sugar rush, buy this book, and tingle all the way through. If you want meaningful, well-thought, and intelligent help in identifying or pursuing your "big dream," go look in the Amazon business section.
  
  
• Better than The Prayer of Jabez
  By A2PUNSQZP355GH on 2003-11-22
  This is a book that I have and will continue to give to friends, relatives and co-workers. The unique format caught me off guard, but it is firmly an affirmation that Bruce Wilkinson is one of the finest Bible teachers of our time. His use of parable and then application was inspired.

  For those who truly wish to pursue the big dream that God has placed in the heart of everyone, this is the book. It is profound in it's simplicity. It is inspiring in it's revelation of how much God truly wants each of us to do the dream and give God the glory.
  
  

• a trilogy in two parts...
  By A2NFA5NNGE3M6X on 2003-12-26
  This book is three masterpieces wrapped into one. Part one is the Parable of the Dream Giver, the story of a Nobody named Ordinary who leaves the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. We all have been born with a Big Dream, a gift from the Dream Giver. Often we lose sight of that Big Dream, or crumble under obstacles that seem insurmountable.

  Through this parable, Wilkinson walks us through the stages of living that Big Dream: embracing the Dream, leaving our Comfort Zone to pursue it, meeting discouraging Bullies along the way, entering a Wasteland of delays and disappointment that test our faith, finding Sanctuary where we solidify the purpose of our Big Dream, warring with Giants for the Dream Giver's honor, and finally thriving in the Land of Promise.

  Part two is the Journey to Your Big Dream, and is much more than an explanation of part one. Wilkinson acts as our "Dream Coach", supplying a solid foundation for applying the lessons learned through the parable. He relates personal experiences and answers questions from real readers. With the turn of every page I was able to identify and address my own personal obstacles that have held me back from my Big Dream.

  The Dream Giver will help you identify where you have been, where you are today, and where you are headed. It will equip you for part three, which is beyond the covers of this book. Part three is where your personal adventure begins, as you take up your quill and pursue your own Big Dream for God's glory. If you are ready to begin your quest, then you are ready for the Dream Giver.

  Larry Hehn, author of Get the Prize: Nine Keys for a Life of Victory
  
  

• Words of Hope & Courage in the midst of it all
  By on 2004-01-12
  When I came to Christ I asked Him what He wanted me to do with my life & He showed me in a dream. Ironically, it was a business that I was about to call it quits on. But, understanding the revalation of what Christ endured for me, I accepted His Vision for my life because when it is fufilled so many will have benefitted because I was faithful to Him. Now, 2 1/2 years later, the death of a parent, the loss of a child and the almost constant fear of rejection and disapproval, I asked Him to do whatever needs to be done within me & get it over with so His vision for my life in the spiritual can become a reality in the natural.Can you say, 'Ouch!'? This book puts into words almost everything I have been experiencing and offers not only encouragement but solutions that are simple. Sometimes, we complicate things that are really as easy as 123 with our perfectionism ( like we could ever be perfect enough for God. That's what grace is for.) This book will help anyone whose heart aches for something more out of life but doesn't know where to start and once begun how to handle those things that threaten to crush you and your dreams. I love that this book is so simple yet so profound. I also am so grateful the author himself found the courage to pursue his dream in spite of his fears so that I could be inspired by his work. To God be the glory!I'm going to put this review wherever I can.

  Also recommended: Confidence by Alan Loy McGinnis, Jesus, Entrepenuer and Jesus, CEO both by Laurie Beth Jones
  
  

• Excellent - A Must Read!
  By A3D4FSWD5O24SL on 2004-10-25
  This is an excellent book that is a must-read for anyone who is even slightly uncertain about their future. It is so encouraging to know that God has a Big Plan for each of our lives and that Big Plan will impact a Big Need in the world. It is a concise, simple book to read, with a huge impact. I read it and it completely changed my life. I am a living testimony to the joy that comes when you pursue your big dream and step in line with God's will for your life. There's nothing closer to heaven here on earth!
  
  
• MUST READ
  By A13XWCRVRFQ1XZ on 2003-09-29
  Excellent guide out of mediocrity.

  Bruce touches that raw nerve hidden under years of "surviving life" - Life was meant to be lived, not merely survived.

  This is a must read!
  
  

• The future does not have to be an extention of the past
  By on 2003-11-18
  After having read all of Bruce Wilkinson's books I am convinced that this one will appeal again to millions of readers. Many of my friends read it and told me it is an eye opener. As Bruce takes you into ORDINARY's story thru the seven DREAMSCAPES you will identify where you are and know what to expect next. The book is both motivational and instructional - you can help others after reading it. Bruce's use of a story makes the truth easy to remember - knowing the author's own pilgrimage adds to the credibility of the story. The book is a wonderful mix of the romantic and reality side of following a God given dream.

  Many people will thank God for at least 3 things after reading this book - for giving them a unique dream - for the Bruce retelling the story of Moses and Joshua in a modern idiom - and for the person who gave or recommended this book to them. You want to be connected and connect others to this message.

  Go get it, read it, teach it - I am convinced 2004 will be different for all who do it.
  
  

• THIS ONE, finally did it!
  By A27BMFKOEIHZUX on 2004-05-27
  This book will take you "there" It did me, and I have read them ALL. I found that this book sincerely helped me see where I was, and how to get on with it. I liked the book very mush, the real issue here is, WHO YOU ARE, and WHAT YOUR PURPOSE IS, HOW TO FIND IT, and GETTING ON WITH IT.
  Life is so much simpler than we make it. Just let this book show you how, to get to who, and what, YOU are. This book will do JUST THAT.
  
  
• Dream On!
  By A3LFM0LQW686N9 on 2004-09-08
  From the time I was in Junior High I have wondered what God has wanted me to do with my life. If only I had this book during those years. Maybe then I wouldn't have sought the answer in high-sounding Theology but by looking deep into my own dreams and desires.
  
  Starting with a strong metaphorical narrative, this book brings the reader face-to-face with their deepest dreams and allows them to know that is where God has given them their direction for their lives. How many times have we heard that God directs us where we want to go the least? With this book Bruce Wilkinson gives us permission to do what we always knew was right; to follow our dreams because that is where God is leading us.
  
  One warning thought. Do not mistake your dream as something that will only serve your own ends for as Bruce Wilkinson points out all too clearly, the dream that God gives us is one that serves God and others above ourselves. As the children's song so wisely teaches:
  
  Jesus and others and you
  What a wonder way
  To spell JOY
  
  Dream on!
  
  
• Read it more than once to understand fully!
  By AY8IWWGKXTX1L on 2005-03-05
  This book has changed everything for me. I saw some mixed reviews here and I think you truly need to understand what the author is saying to have a real opinion about it. I have the CD version and I have listened to it, wheeping, over and over in my car 15 times! I am not saying you should read it 15 times but definately more than once. I have been pursuing my big dream for over 3 years and the Dream Giver really put it in perspective. I cried like a baby hearing how Ordinary suffers in the Wasteland because it was just like it was written about me.
  
  It's very educational to learn about the stages dreamers go through written by a very experienced dreamer. We start with a dream that's inspiring but still small and selfish compared to what it's intended to be, and it's meant to grow into a real dream fulfilling a big need for the whole world.
  
  If you have a dream, you will fall in love with The Dream Giver.
  
  
• Are you 'living the dream'?
  By A1EU0MJNWK4YVV on 2006-11-07
  Imagine if we had a time-machine and we traveled back to talk to the Apostle Paul, and we asked him, 'Are you living your dream'?
  
  I can hear him saying, 'Boy, I've been in prison recently, I was ship wrecked, left for dead, stoned, beaten, thrown out of a few cities, naked, hungry.... I'm not living my dream. However, I'm living God's dream for me and it's been so rewarding and fulfilling'
  
  Or, consider Mother Teressa. Was her dream to be surrounded by filth, death, and disease? I'd say that wasn't her dream, it was God's dream for her.
  
  My point is this, my dream is often the thing God has to take away in order to replace it with something my natural person would never want.
  
  The thing I wish Wilkinson had spent time on is knowing and discerning our dreams. Do they come from....
  
  1. My own desires that are at war within me and entice me and drag me away? (see James 1:14)
  
  2. Worldy passions and ambitions that are imposed on us from tv, advertising, movies, etc? (see Titus 2:11-13)
  
  3. The real enemy who seeks to distract us and divert us from a real passion for God (see I Peter 5:8)
  
  Wouldn't it be essential to know the source of my dream prior to pouring everything into it. What if a person spends their whole life climbing a ladder only to find that it was leaning against the wrong wall?
  
  This is not a small issue. If Wilkinson had at least attempted to address this I'd give the book 4 stars. Apart from addressing a real time of soul-searching and discernment I'd suggest dreams can be dangerous to follow indiscriminately.
  
  
  
• Not Sure What to Think...
  By ANU0QMN9J3757 on 2003-11-09
  Well, I have to start off by telling you that I was really waiting in anticipation for the release of this book. I was not a huge fan of The Prayer of Jabez, but I had heard Bruce Wilkinson speak on the subject contained in this book a year or so ago. His message was truly helpful to me. He talked about the "border bullies" and all of the other characters you'll meet in this book. When I read the book I did not sense the same passion that I felt from him in the live setting. It also seemed like he was trying to fill up some space and combine odd things. There are parts of the book that should be required reading for any leader, but much of it isn't really breaking any new ground. I won't judge his motivations, but I will say that I was somewhat let down by the book. It was not what I was expecting. However, most people will find it highly encouraging and will benefit from a careful reading of it.

  Paul Heier, author of Leading Out of Love: Christian Leader's Guide
  
  

• Perfect! Wonderful!
  By AC4QS6A8GHFCX on 2003-11-10
  I have been working HARD for my dream for the last 10 months and it has been quite a journey. I happened to see this book, buy it, read it, and was ASTOUNDED to hear my journey decribed PERFECTLY - each step I have taken was outlined, in exactly the same order. WOW. It was truly a blessing to know that the same steps were taken by some great men and women of God and they made it! It encouraged me and has given me strength to press forward. I am now ready to "battle the Giants" and I'm ready because I know what's in front of me. For those that don't understand this book, they can't be on the same path - they aren't going for THE DREAM. So, dear reader, if you have something precious tucked away in your heart that you want more than anything, read this book and GO FOR IT! God Bless you.
  
  
• Great gift for someone in crisis!
  By A2UWIWD56X2Z5O on 2004-02-20
  A good friend was inspired to knock on my door and drop off this book for me to read. I was facing a difficult challenge. I am a very busy person and don't have time to read long books -even though I love the details of any issue. This book is so simple and a very fast read. However, every point jumped out at me and I could really see myself in the whole analogy. I have never had a confusing situation made clear so quickly before. I was already familiar with the principals it discussed, but because they were laid out as a process, I saw and understood them, in a totally new way, as I needed to right then. I was so moved I cried for two days as I read it! I have never cried over a book in my life. Please buy this book for your self. I have already bought two copies for friends and plan to buy 2 more!
  
  
• Dig for the gold.
  By on 2003-11-03
  An easy read with personal touches by Mr. Wilkinson. God's truth can be found if you dig for it...but it has been heavily culturalized and commercialized. For those of us who have experienced this truth, it shines through. For those looking for the "self" centered dream, they will think they have found it; but you will be disappointed with what you find. Beware of what you ask for.
  
  
• "The Cult of Jabez" exposes the dream merchant
  By on 2003-11-04
  To more fully understand the devastating impact on the churches of America being sold to Christians by Wilkinson and Kopp one must read "The Cult of Jabez" by Pastor Steve Hopkins. Hopkins' book, "The Cult of Jabez" is available right here and now at amazon.com! ISBN 0971761272
  
  
• Overly Simplistic
  By on 2003-12-23
  I liked the Prayer of Jabez but I had a hard time getting through this tiny book. The first half is a parable about "a Nobody named Ordinary" who is searching for his "Big Dream" outside "Familiar." It reminded me of "Who Moved My Cheese" and was just too cutesy for my taste. The second half explains the parable (which didn't really seem necessary - I got it the first time!) It may be a good book for a teenager but I wasn't impressed. This book did not Change My Life or provide any new inspiration. It seems to be a rehash of mostly common sense information.
  
  
• "Great idea--a little disappointing..."
  By A35ZE774A41WSC on 2004-05-02
  Although this work seemed to have a great idea going for it, I was a bit disappointed in the finished result. Dreams and goals are important to all of us, but life does not allow us to reach all our goals, nor would all our goals necessarily bring us success ( e.g., winning the lottery) if we achieved them.

  While I enjoyed the authors' use of characterization by way of description (can you say: Pilgrim's Progress'?), I would have enjoyed the lessons a bit more had they used actual Biblical characters, and their lives.

  If you enjoy such prompts which teach goal-setting, achieving success, dealing with hardships and other 'need to know' (and nice to know) principles for life--or want to give such to a graduate just starting out--this book pales in comparison to works such as "With Joseph in the University of Adversity" (if you can find it!), or "The Purpose Driven Life".
  
  

• Beyond Jabez: Expanding Your Borders
• The Dream Planner: Inspired by the Dream Giver
• The Dream Giver for Couples
• A Life God Rewards: Why Everything You Do Today Matters Forever
• Secrets of the Vine: Breaking Through to Abundance (Breakthrough Series)