We all have things we fear. Some of our fears are rational and grounded in the realities of living while others can be more accurately categorized as phobias. Regardless of the source of our fear, author Max Lucado writes in the first chapter of his latest book, Fearless, that "Fear, at its center, is a perceived loss of control."  In the 15 chapters that follow he provides us with an instruction manual for regaining a sense of control by, paradoxically, giving up control.

Each chapter explores a different fear; the fear of violence, the fear of overwhelming challenges, the fear of worst-case scenarios and so on. Starting with an example of each fear in action, Lucado goes on to share the biblical scripture and parables that demonstrate why Christians have no need to fear.

The absence of fear that Lucado describes is the result of living a life of faith in God and "getting on board with Jesus" (You'll have to read the book if you want to understand what he means with that phrase). This is the point of giving up control in order to regain a sense of control.

As an added bonus, the book includes a discussion guide that provides relevant scripture for each chapter and questions to help guide your study and increase your understanding of how to apply each point in your daily living. I found the guide to be invaluable when I would come across a concept that seemed especially difficult to grasp and accept.

Fearless is an excellent resource for anyone looking for an accessible Christian perspective on dealing with fear.  Lucado's conversation style and firm grasp of his subject make it an easy, enjoyable and informative read. The end result is a book that will be appreciated by Christians and non-Christians alike

Full Disclosure Notice: I received a review copy of Max Lucado's Fearless from Thomas Nelson Publishing as a participant in their Book Review Bloggers program.