Strong in Battle: Why the Humble Will Prevail

This contemplative volume by radio talk show host Larson (May His Face Shine upon You) offers advice on how to remain steadfast in one’s faith. Cautioning against the evils of Satan, Larson draws on the Bible and personal anecdotes to explore the qualities that will help Christians prevail in their personal spiritual battles. Chief among these qualities is humility, Larson contends, and she provides humbleness-enhancing exercises that include confiding one’s troubles in “someone who has the kind of faith you need right now” and contemplating passages from Ephesians and Isaiah. Larson counsels readers to “stay dependent” on God, recounting how she woke up one night seized by a conviction that her adult son was in danger only to realize she had let fear overtake her faith in God’s ability to keep her family safe. The author suggests staying alert to the influences of Satan in one’s life, which may manifest as complacency or excessive self-righteousness. Christians will appreciate the focus on prayer and the bounty of prayer prompts, including such meditations as “Whom do I need to forgive?” and “What in me still needs to heal?” This makes for a solid Bible study companion. (Aug.)