Product Description

Women crave a sense of purpose. They yearn to know that their efforts will impact other people's lives. Experts urge them to say "no" to the things that drain or distract them-yet, even as women struggle to maintain a sense of control, they long to discover the calling to which their hearts must joyously respond: "Yes!" That longing, explains author Jan Johnson, can be satisfied only when a woman discovers-and lives out-her God-given purpose.

God's call on a woman's life isn't meant to remain a mystery. More than a role, a spiritual gift, or a job she loves, finding her purpose is about knowing who she is: God's woman in this world. Within these pages readers will discover what purpose in life is, why they need it, and how they can find it. Best of all, each woman will simplify her life by focusing on the things that matter most to her and God, as she becomes the woman he desires her to be.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #446500 in Books
• Published on: 1999-02-16
• Released on: 1999-02-16
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 240 pages

From Publishers Weekly
Believing that purpose comes from what he sees as our primary reason for living?to know and love God?Johnson asks the reader to look beyond social roles and career choices, and that we should acknowledge our passions and gifts as responses to God's designs for us. Johnson notes, "What makes a job the 'Lord's work' is the purpose and heart of the person doing it, not the task itself." Discovering our purpose is a part of our spiritual journey and not simply a task to be fulfilled, and it is a lifelong process, the author says. "As God leads us into a life of greater trust, integrity, and selflessness, doors will open and we'll be equipped for tasks that once scared us." We gain courage to search for God's will and desires as we learn that our purposes and His will are united. According to Johnson, a strong prayer life, deep Bible reading and participation in a close religious community are the tools that help us realize our purpose in life. Johnson closes each chapter with a section of questions to contemplate, an experiment in listening prayer and some Bible passages to ponder. While this is an excellent book for study groups, individuals will also benefit from its valuable lessons.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From the Inside Flap
Women crave a sense of purpose. They yearn to know that their efforts will impact other people?s lives. Experts urge them to say ?no? to the things that drain or distract them?yet, even as women struggle to maintain a sense of control, they long to discover the calling to which their hearts must joyously respond: ?Yes!? That longing, explains author Jan Johnson, can be satisfied only when a woman discovers?and lives out?her God-given purpose.

God?s call on a woman?s life isn?t meant to remain a mystery. More than a role, a spiritual gift, or a job she loves, finding her purpose is about knowing who she is: God?s woman in this world. Within these pages readers will discover what purpose in life is, why they need it, and how they can find it. Best of all, each woman will simplify her life by focusing on the things that matter most to her and God, as she becomes the woman he desires her to be.

About the Author
Jan Johnson is the author of eight books, including Enjoying the Presence of God, Creating a Safe Place, and Listening to God. She has published nearly a thousand magazine articles in a variety of magazines, including Woman's Day, Parenting, Discipleship Journal, Christianity Today, Focus on the Family, WorldVision, and Weavings. Jan, who lives in Southern California, is also a frequent retreat and conference speaker.

Customer Reviews

Life Changing!
I seemed to stumble upon this book when I needed it the most. It's been helping me rediscover who I am. I am very grateful to the Lord for sending it my way. It lays out very plainly the steps to take and the things to think about when you are trying to discover your mission in life. I keep telling people about this book, thinking everyone should be reading it, but probably some people need to wait to read it until they really feel they are ready to take the plunge and really search their heart for what breaks it and what breaks God's heart. Loved it!

A must-read!
This is by far the best book I have read on purpose. Jan Johnson addresses the topic with great wisdom, examining both the superficial and internal realms of purpose. Stressing that being is more important than doing, and that the journey means more than the destination, she provides a much needed perspective in our task-oriented, step-driven society.

I have led three small groups for college students and young adult women using this book - it is excellent for group discussion for women of any age. There are thought-provoking discussion questions at the end of each chapter, as well as bible studies at the end. Its concepts aren't beneficial strictly to women, though Jan Johnson does use mostly female examples.

This book was so good, I tracked down all of Jan Johnson's other books, and have found them equally insightful and full of depth, lacking the platitudes and shallowness of many female Christian writers. It isn't just a "follow-Jesus-and-you'll-know-your-purpose-for-life" kind of deal. While she offers specific, tangible suggestions, they aren't formulaic or stale. For those looking for a challenging, thought-provoking, non-stereotypical perspective on purpose, this is a must read!