Chappell Hill United Methodist

"Thinking of Him" Book Review
Posted: 25 Jun 2011 12:24 PM PDT
by Dr. Chet Weld

I’ve been “thinking of Him” for the past few weeks while reading Reverend Paula Behrens’ book of the same name. Behrens’ book is short and can be read quickly, but as with the classic, The Practice of the Presence of God, by Brother Andrew, there is more benefit in reading slowly, contemplating each page, than there is in reading the book as if it were a novel.

Thinking of Him is written primarily for these three noble reasons: To help us have a “higher understanding of God,” to help us know how God relates to us and to creation, and to guide us into a tangible and close relationship with our Creator who is a continual source of hope. As Behrens explains that only God can reveal Himself to man and that these revelations will not contradict scripture, these intentions begin to be fulfilled. As the scriptures teach, says the author, our “good works” will not bring us these revelations or accomplish these longings of the human heart.
Anyone who reads or shares this book with others can be confident that there is a sound scriptural base for every inspiring word. At a time when such diverse and false understandings of God permeate our culture, this book contributes to the stability of a true faith that can change lives.

In simple language, Behrens explains one important doctrine at a time, follows the explanation with questions, and then provides a page for writing down “Journal Notes.” As I reflect on each question, I’m aware of God’s presence and the importance of internalizing the truths of scripture. I quickly forget that I’m reading a book on theology!

Beginning with the doctrine of the trinity (that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are of the same “substance” and equally God, but have different functions), Behrens offers Old and New Testament scriptures that support the reality of the trinity. As the author launches into this doctrine, she states, “Knowing God goes much deeper than describing who God is and how He relates to us; knowing God is a lived experience; it is a personal encounter with the divine.”

Because the author speaks both from her knowledge of the scripture and from her personal relationship with God, the reader is invited into more than just a deeper “head knowledge” of God. The reader/seeker is drawn into more intimate fellowship with the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. This is the author’s intention, and for all hungry souls with open hearts, I believe that her goal is achieved with ease.

The seven doctrines that Behrens’ explores are the following: The doctrine of God, Creation, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church, Salvation, and Eschatology (e.g., end times and everlasting life considerations). Included in the discussion are the two sacraments of baptism and the Eucharist (or Holy Communion), which help to equip believers to fulfill the mission of the church. Again, each doctrine is briefly and simply explained, enabling even new believers to firmly grasp eternal truths about our faith and lives.

As with the lofty spire on a cathedral, Behrens’ final chapter points us toward the ultimate hope of all believers: Our temporary experience of the kingdom of God from within and in our midst becomes our permanent, unshakeable inheritance; and the New Heaven and the New Earth will become the eternal reality for all who choose life over death, heaven over hell, Christ over false gods and other oppressive taskmasters.

Thinking of Him is an excellent book for use in small groups. Groups could meet for seven or more weeks for fellowship, discussion, and further teaching by a leader. I think that group discussion of this book could easily stretch to 20 or more weeks.

Thinking of Him seems especially useful for new believers who may have never heard of any of the doctrines. No longer will they need to see where the bible flops open in order to “know” what God might be “saying” to them!

Mature believers can also benefit from reflection and discussion of the doctrines, as well as from Behrens’ insights, e.g., “The nature of the church is to re-presentChrist to the world.” Well put! Here’s another example: Communion “is a foreshadowing of the feast to come, God’s own ‘heavenly banquet.’” I’m still reflecting on the heavenly banquet, and partaking of the Eucharist will never be the same for me! Here’s one more example from the final chapter that summarizes a number of scriptures: “The kingdom of God is an inward holiness and cannot be merited by outward works.” Meditation upon Thinking of Him will certainly help the reader to cultivate the inward holiness that God longs to impart to His children.

I have John Wesley’s journal on my nightstand, which I read from occasionally. Behrens is an ordained Methodist minister, but the purity of the doctrines and of Behrens’ explanations transcend denominational differences. And from what I’ve been able to learn about Wesley, I think that he would be pleased with Thinking of Him!

How many short devotionals have you read that have focus? I’ve read many devotionals, but none with a specific focus on the most important doctrines of the church. I don’t know about you, but my highest goal and value in life is to know God more intimately, as I walk with Him daily. Because Thinking of Him helps to accomplish these goals, I highly recommend this book, and I expect that joy and personal growth will likely come from taking a journey with Reverend Paula Behrens.

Dr. Chet Weld is the Director of Pastoral Counseling and the Pastoral Care Dept. of Casas Church in Tucson, Arizona.

*Order Direct from the author:
Thinking of Him: Theology 101
Spirit Talk books are also available on Amazon