“Defiant Joy” – it really does feel like we must act in defiance to the world if we are to experience joy in this life.  The mainstream society is governed by worry, fear, guilt, shame, and so many other things that stand in the way of this joy that is supposed to be the birthright of the sons and daughters within the Kingdom.

Some of my favourite books are written by John and/or Stasi Eldredge.  For this reason, I was quick to pick up a copy of “Defiant Joy: Taking Hold of Hope, Beauty, and Life in a Hurting World”, and I am very glad I did.  Stasi’s honesty, kindness, and love for God are evident throughout each page, which gives this book a friendly, easy feel, while still hitting hard on important messages.

This book will challenge readers to find the joy that is ever-present in life, rather than just chasing after the circumstantial feeling of happiness. “Defiant Joy” certainly does not diminish the very real pain that is present in this world, nor does it condemn that feeling of happiness that can also be a good thing.  Rather, it encourages us not to allow pain to have the last word – only God has the last word – and it teaches us that while happiness can also be from God, this much deeper dimension called Joy is the Fruit of the Spirit that is His true desire for us – His beloved.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.