Gods at War by Kyle Idleman

Gods at War is the latest book from Kyle Idleman, bestselling author of Not a Fan.  Idleman works through a variety of issues that hinder us spiritually and calls them for what they are – not struggles, but idols that we worship.  From entertainment to romance to success and to self, few stones are left unturned in this book. 

Having not read Not a Fan, I was pleasantly surprised by Idleman’s writing style.  He covers heavy issues while maintaining a lighthearted feel.  Never does this negate the seriousness of the topic at hand.  Each chapter is an engaging blend of personal examples and examination of Biblical passages.  And this book wins my award for the best footnotes ever put to print!

I read this book without any personal agenda to like or dislike it.  While I would not put it in the ranks of the best books I’ve ever read, I can say that I am very glad that I did read it.  There were multiple times throughout the book where he uncovered an idol that was in my life.  I was very convicted as he explained why these sins and struggles are truly an issue of idolatry in me.  I think this book provides a needed point of self-examination for believers to help us see the seriousness of things that we tend to dismiss as unimportant.  But the beauty of Idleman’s writing style is that the book does not aim to shame or condemn us for the idols we have allowed into our lives.  Rather, he speaks the truth in love and calls us to abandon these idols to embrace Christ alone as the Lord over our hearts.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”