Contradictory, dishonest, condescending, and at times nonsensical. Also, some of the things Mr Warren wrote here sound like jabs at other Christian denominations like Catholicism (e.g., "pre-made" responses and insincere "rituals") and some praise song-heavy church groups. If you read this book without prior knowledge of Christian beliefs or tenets, striking up a relationship with god sounds very much like getting involved with an abusive relationship except, in that case, it's eternal and inescapable.

This book really helps put into perspective the challenges you face in life, how to treat others, and how to be more selfless the way God talks about in the Bible. I hope to apply it to my life, and strongly urge everyone to read it.

What a difference between this book and Joel Osteen’s “Your Best Life Now”. I can’t help but compare the two as Osteen’s is one of my all-time favorite spiritual books. While some of the message is similar in both, I found the tone to be very different. Osteen’s book is uplifting and gives hope, while the tone of this book felt more like scolding even condescending. This author drills in your head that it’s “not about you” and that life is supposed to be hard and we are not put on earth to be happy but to serve God and often times that means suffering. Many times while reading I felt depressed and defeated. This book wasn’t right for me.

I'm sure I wrote a review about this book at the time but it's disappeared somewhere. Either way, the fact that I still remember and have a lot to say about this book is a testament to it's impact and long-lasting effect it can have on you.

'The Purpose Driving Life' by Rick Warren, is a 40-day devotional book that holds your hand and guides you to better understanding yourself, the path ahead of you, and God's will. With every section at the end having a series of questions to ask yourself, it acts as a mirror to help reveal to you things you didn't realise about yourself or the way you thought.

It's centred around purpose and how to live a fulfilled life but it also touches on other aspects of life, like self-esteem and belonging and how to better your relationship with God. If you're a new Christian, non-denominational Christian, born-again Christian, traditional Christian, established Christian, Non-believer, Atheist or Agnostic - whoever you are this book is meant for anyone. It's beautifully written, thought provoking, and leaves you with gems that last a lifetime.

(Also makes a great gift, I received it as a gift and would definitely gift and recommend it to others.)

I love this book!
I love that it's a step by step learning process!!!
I would absolutely recommend it to everyone, especially new believers!