CHARACTER:
How do I change?
By Sharon Dickens
9Marks First Steps Series, Christian Focus
Publications. 112 pages. £5.99
ISBN 978 1 527 101 012
This short book is aimed at someone who would say that they’re a Christian but feels that they’re not behaving like one. It is part of the First Steps series of books which are designed for those from an unchurched background who are starting to follow Jesus.
Focusing on Galatians 5:22–23 and the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc.), the book explains what godly character looks like and talks about how to develop it.
Author Sharon Dickens is involved with 20schemes, a ministry which aims to reach Scotland’s housing estates with the gospel of Jesus Christ – and there are plenty of examples of conversations and situations from the author’s effective ministry among 20schemes women. Each chapter helps the reader to think about one aspect of godly character, with key Bible verses, examples from the life of ‘Jackie’ and her partner ‘Frank’, and a summary of the main teaching point. At the end of each chapter, there’s a Bible verse to memorise. The book can be used individually, one-to-one or in a group – ideally, over a number of weeks if it is to be of real, lasting benefit. The material is in bite-sized chunks and the language is deliberately down-to-earth, contemporary and punchy. It consistently points the reader to Jesus and the gospel, and the call to godly living is unintimidating, humorous, encouraging – but also challenging and uncompromising.
