He Chose the Nails by Max Lucado

He Chose the Nails by Max Lucado By Max Lucado is among the most inspirational and motivating books that I have recently read. That can be said about almost all of Lucado's books, actually. This book specifically impresses upon the reader the enormous sacrifice Jesus offered each and every one of us.  It brings to life, the experiences that Jesus faced on the cross for each one of us- the cold painful nails, the sharp thorns and the splintered wood. Adjectives and description brings this sacrifice to animated life- in vivid detail. It helps those who are enduring really difficult times, to endure and persevere. 

The beginning of this book had a slow start, with Lucado's analogy of the painstaking process of finding his wife the perfect gift. I found there was too much detail. Yet I am sure many economically "gifted" or  comfortable  readers can relate.  At times, he is a bit self serving in addressing the issues of financial prosperity and comfort in life that he and many readers are lucky enough to enjoy.  Yet, Lucado puts his God given resources to good use- there is no doubt about that! He uses his economic gifts and wisdom to help countless readers. Pehaps if Lucado was not in a comfortable financial position, he would not have the practical resources and time to be able to deliver his wisdom to the masses. Personally, I could not afford to buy his books, and I assume that much of the readership that actually read his books are upper middleclass that can afford to buy his books and have the luxury of time to dedicate to read-  but I am thankfully they are offered free to bloggers so that not only the economically advantaged have access to his wisdom.

The author address real issues- job loss, terminal illness, grief and loss. This book is designed to help those who are suffering from extreme circumstances.  If you are bellyaching because you burned your husband's dinner, or the grass stain won't come out of the soccer uniform, or if missed an apointment for your pedicure, or your favorite coach bag sold out before you reached the mall, then this book isn't for you. What you need is a fluffy, superficial, condescending, feel- good, women's devotional book. But, if you truly suffer from life's heartaches, then this book will offer the comfort you need.


In true Lucado fashion, Max writes in an animated, easy to understand style that communicates biblical truths to the reader. His books bring bible stories and biblical truth to life in an inspirational way that speaks out to the reader. "Catch God in a bad mood? Won't happen. Fear exhausting his grace? A sardine will swallow the Atlantic first. Think he's given up on you?" ..... Lucado's use of colorful language and his conversational tone, make it so that biblical truths are memorable and meaningful to the average modern reader. You need not be a theologen, educated in an expensive seminary or college to understand Max Lucado's books. This inspirational book will be certain to leave the reader with a lasting impression. In today's self centered society, without offense Max Lucado illustrates the importance of living life based on biblical principles. After reading this book, and really meditating on the biblical truths communicated via Max Lucado, one can feel a renewed sense of embpowerment to live a selfless life style. Max makes use of personal anecdotes as well as bible stories to illiustrate the importance of depending on God rather than on the material things of this world. If you are a theologen, looking for an apologetic defense on the purpose of depending on God then this book isn't for you. But, if on the other hand you are simply looking for bible based motivation and a relief in a world that takes pride in materialism, selfish ambition and competition, then this book is perfect. As a blogger for booksneeze, I receive books from Thomas Nelson publishers in exchange for writing an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.