BOOK REVIEW: A Heart Like His

A Heart Like His
By: Beth Moore
Published by B&H Publishing Group
Copyright 1999, 2003, 2012

If you have never attended a Beth Moore Bible study, if you have never read one of her books, if you have never listened to her on the radio, you are missing a real treat.  This woman has wonderful insight into the Bible and into the hearts of women.

Unfortunately, the first time I attended one of her Bible studies (a DVD study at a small church), I was unable to concentrate on the study because I was so distracted by the trappings of the DVD -- the numerous changing of outfits, etc. during one session.  That experience turned me off on Beth Moore for a long time.  However, I am learning that I need to go below the surface.  I need to look into the heart, so to speak.  So when I was asked if I would like to review Beth Moore's book A Heart Like His: Intimate Reflections on the Life of David, I said yes. 

And I am so glad I did!  I cried through this book.  I was convicted through this book.  I was astonished, and reminded of God and His love for us, flawed as we are.  So many pages in my copy of A Heart Like His have pencil marks as reminders, and page corners turned down. 

Beth Moore begins A Heart Like His with David's "back story".  The events in Israel that set the stage.  Characters such as Samuel, Saul and Jonathan.  Israel's demand for a king, the desire to be like all the other nations.  The events that helped shape Israel, that ultimately helped shape David.  David's love, courage, wisdom, and fierce loyalty to God even as a young boy.  A Heart Like His takes you through David's entire life, ending with his death at the age of 70.  He was a beloved king.  He was a strong, valiant warrior.  He was a sinner.  He was a man after God's own heart.

In A Heart Like His you will find an in-depth look at the life of David.  What makes up his character.  David was definitely a flawed human being.  This Bible study brings out his sin with Bathsheba, the murder of Bathsheba's husband, the death of the son resulting from that sin; the rape of his daughter Tamar by his first son Amnon, the resulting hatred of Tamar's brother Absalom for Amnon, the murder of Amnon by Absalom; the attempted overthrow of David by Absalom.  On an on David's sins are pointed out.  But so to are the accomplishments of David.  His willingness to be led of God.  His relationship with God.  His brokenness and desire to return to God once his sins were pointed out. Over and over Beth Moore points out the chastening of God in regards to David.  The leading of David back to God.

Beth Moore has used this study of David to point out areas in our lives where God can use us.  Even when we have sinned and sinned greatly, God can still use His people.  The key is forgiveness.  He is always waiting, always willing.  It's up to us.

It would be a good idea to read this book slowly, in conjunction with reading the Scriptures involved, to absorb and apply the lessons of David.  There is also available an in-depth Bible study, 11 weeks, called David: Seeking a Heart Like His.

In order to comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of  Shelton Interactive and B&H Publishing Group.