Book Review: "The Principle of the Path" by Andy Stanley

Andy Stanley's "The Principle of the Path" is about choosing the correct path to get to where you want to be in all aspects of life. It's about realizing when we are on the wrong path and how to change our direction to reach our goals. Ultimately, the main premise of the book is that our intentions are meaningless if we choose the wrong path.

Stanley's conversational tone drew me in right away. I felt as though I was talking with a friend and it was a conversation that was intriguing enough that I didn't want to put the book down. Peppered with personal anecdotes, Stanley illustrates how our best intentions don't guarantee that we'll end up where we want to be. Seemingly wise people can make a string of bad choices and end up on a path that destroys finances, family ties and health. No one is immune from bad decisions and detours on destructive paths.

Using biblical stories surrounding such figures as Solomon, David and Saul, Andy Stanley presents the major way people can avoid destructive paths that lead to despair: trust in God. Our need for God and His way for our lives trumps the daily desires of our hearts. And if we are honest with ourselves about the choices we make, we can tell right away if our choices are biblical and aligned with the desires of God or if they are self-serving.

This book is an essential read for people in all stages of life. Anyone who cares about reaching their goals and avoiding pitfalls along the way should read "The Principle of the Path."