https://www.gutenberg.org/files/25141/25141-h/25141-h.htm
The Pursuit of God: Updated Edition Paperback – July 1, 2015
by A. W. Tozer (Author)
4.8 out of 5 stars 3,714 ratings
To have found God and still to pursue Him is a paradox of love, scorned indeed by the too-easily-satisfied religious person, but justified in happy experience by the children of the burning heart. Saint Bernard of Clairvaux stated this holy paradox in a musical four-line poem that will be instantly understood by every worshipping soul:
We taste Thee, O Thou Living Bread,
And long to feast upon Thee still:
We drink of Thee, the Fountainhead
And thirst our souls from Thee to fill.
Come near to the holy men and women of the past and you will soon feel the heat of their desire after God. Let A. W. Tozer's pursuit of God spur you also into a genuine hunger and thirst to truly know God.
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The Way To God
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Recent Update: NASB Scriptures
To have found God and still to pursue Him is a paradox of love, scorned indeed by the too-easily satisfied religious person, but justified in happy experience by the children of the burning heart. Saint Bernard of Clairvaux stated this holy paradox in a musical four-line poem that will be instantly understood by every worshipping soul:
We taste Thee, O Thou Living Bread,
And long to feast upon Thee still:
We drink of Thee, the Fountainhead
And thirst our souls from Thee to fill.
Come near to the holy men and women of the past and you will soon feel the heat of their desire after God. Let A. W. Tozer's pursuit of God spur you also into a genuine hunger and thirst to truly know God.
About the Author
Among the more than 40 books that he authored, at least two are regarded as Christian classics: The Pursuit of God and The Knowledge of the Holy. His books impress on the reader the possibility and necessity of a deeper relationship with God.
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Publisher : Aneko Press; Updated edition (July 1, 2015)
Language : English
Paperback : 128 pages
Customer Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars 3,714 ratings
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A. W. Tozer
A. W. TOZER (1897–1963) began his lifelong pursuit of God after hearing a street preacher in Akron, Ohio, at the age of seventeen. The self-taught theologian committed his life to the ministry of God’s Word as a pastor, teacher, and writer. For his flowing prose, Spirit-filled words, and deep conviction, many have called him a modern-day prophet. He is the author of the beloved classic The Pursuit of God and dozens of other works.
For more information and for more of Tozer's writing, visit awtozer.org or follow Tozer on Twitter @TozerSpeaks.
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must read pursuit of god relationship with god highly recommend thought provoking every christian recommend this book holy spirit great book easy to understand pursue god aneko press prayers at the end well written life changing end of each chapter years ago book to anyone spiritual growth relevant today
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K. Dombach
3.0 out of 5 stars The book is great, but steer clear of this version.
Reviewed in the United States on September 15, 2018
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The _Pursuit of God_ is a classic, and well deserving of that distinction. However, this publisher (Aneko Press) has replaced the original translation of the Bible used by Tozer with their own translation. The problem is not whether or not there is something wrong with the new or old translation, but that this translation has an emphasis that is foreign to Tozer. Tozer frequently refers to particular words in the text, which may not be the same in the new translation (for example, honor in the original may be glory in the new), leaving you to have to reverse-translate. This extends even to punctuation. It adds confusion in Chapter 6 when Tozer quotes John 1:9: "That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." Tozer then comments on moving the punctuation around, referring to the debate of whether a comma should be placed after "every man." However, this publisher has replaced the quote with their translation, "That Word was the true Light, which lightens every man that comes into this world." This new version removes all possibility of ambiguity present in the KJV, but leaves you wondering for the rest of the paragraph what Tozer was talking about! Even if you are not familiar with the debate, you can at least figure out what it might be if you are referencing the same translation the author was referencing, but not if the publisher has taken liberties with the translation, as was the case here.
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Donnie
5.0 out of 5 stars A must read for serious Christians
Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2017
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I choose a 5 star rating due to its intensity and indepthness. I've been a Christian for most of my adult life. I thought I pretty much had things in order. Reading this book opened my eyes to the many short comings and failures I actually do have. A.W. Tozer takes the reader to a level where he or she must open themselves up and pronounce that they should seek God at a level where when you pray, there is no doubt HE will hear you and take action. One of the more interesting subjects he writes about, is, how we try to separate our secular lives from our spiritual lives. Another area he discusses is how we, "popularize" certain days to be Holy. For the casual reader, please take note this book was written in the '50's. The trials and troubles he mentions are still prevelant in our present day at a much more alarming rate. In some subject matter, it's almost as if he is taking his information from the nightly news. Over all, if you want to get closer to GOD and see yourself as somewhat less than spectacular servant of The Most High, doing the minimum required, (as I sometimes thought of as myself), read this book. Read it with sincerity and a pureness of heart, fully expecting God to reach into your heart and bringing you to a level thought unattainable. And then read it again!!
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RandyH
5.0 out of 5 stars I never understood any of this before, despite reading the bible several times.
Reviewed in the United States on October 7, 2016
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It is a blueprint for living a happy life closer to God and using this to cope with the human problems here on earth. A brilliant explanation of human sins versus Jesus' beatitudes on how we should live and how doing so gives us peace. The explanation of the lightness of His yoke and what it is and what "meekness" actually means is eye opening. It is written by an educated deep thinker, so it requires reading a little slower to understand some of what Tozer says. Eye and heart opening stuff. I never understood any of this before, despite reading the bible several times.
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Valerie Caraotta
5.0 out of 5 stars Great instruction on drawing closer to God and possessing a stronger anointing
Reviewed in the United States on June 29, 2015
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If you were attracted to the title and perhaps the history of this fine author I will say with surety that this work will not disappoint!! It is a book for the serious of heart and desiring to draw closer to God and reap the benefits of communion and a greater anointing. Author A.W. Tozer holds nothing back in his straightforward way of revealing how sin, self, and pride are stumbling blocks preventing true union with God.
In each of these chapters the reader will gain greater clarity on how to pursue God and follow hard after Him. His illustration of the Old Testament tabernacle will relay how the interior journey of the soul goes from sin to God's presence. The many sins of "self" will need to be brought to the cross, he states before the veil of true communion can take place. "Self is the opaque veil that hides the face of God from us. We must confess, forsake, repudiate the self life and then reckon it crucified ".
As you discover how a defective faith can result in spiritual numbness, too will be the revelation of how obedience can give Inward revelation and acute perception, enabling us to experience God as one pure in heart. Programs and church attendance can still leave one inwardly bankrupt. Tozer exhorts us to get still to wait on God to hear him speak to our hearts. Accept His full Lordship and give forth complete submission. "We will acquire a new view point and mindset and a new power will begin to surprise us".
This book, quite frankly, will revolutionize your life if you determine wholeheartedly to be a "doer"and not just a "hearer". These are simple, yet profound principles upon which any believer can follow if they choose to do so. I give this book a five star rating for the quality content and to the point principles. Allow it to change your life forever.
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Godchaser
5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books ever written. If only every Christian would read and then live the message of this fiery book
Reviewed in the United States on April 11, 2017
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One of the best and most needed Christian books ever written. If we lived with the same pursuit that it's author possessed, Our churches and indeed our very nation would be different indeed. Unfortunately, people like to read books but don't live the messages. This is one of those exceptionally rare finds that if you not only read, but live with a heart in pursuit of God, it will truly change your life. If the church would live the message of this book, we'd change the world...
If you do read these fiery pages, be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only. So many times we read great books but never act. Just reading even God's Word won't change you, but living the Word will. Christian books are just like the Father Book if you will. Read passionate books and authors, and then put what you read into action. Live in Pursuit of Him, don't just be aware that pursuing Him is possible.
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Simon
5.0 out of 5 stars Cannot recommend this book more highly
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 8, 2020
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Amazing book written by a true man of God. Can not recommend this book highly enough
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Marina Martin
5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 28, 2017
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars In the beginning - God
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 30, 2018
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Oh God...
Where are more of your men, and women like this?
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Kindle Customer
4.0 out of 5 stars Brings the reader closer to God
Reviewed in Canada on January 8, 2021
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Tozer has tried to put in a practical insight into what it is to pursue Christ beyond the rituals. Once we diligently start to seek God , it starts laying down a foundation of good work through us for all. Today faith and religion are on separate paths and God is left out of the word of God, for the word needs to be reflected through our actions. The book beautifully captures the spirit of the Word of God in our daily life and forces us to question our understanding of being closer to God.
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NASB77
4.0 out of 5 stars The Great Pursuit
Reviewed in Canada on February 3, 2021
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Overall this is a challenging book that deals with man pursuing God in a more intimate relationship. The only real caveat I would give to this book is the positive quoting of the mystics without warning. Besides that , this book is quite beneficial. Recommended.
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The Pursuit of God: The Human Thirst for the Divine
by A.W. Tozer
4.35 · Rating details · 67,676 ratings · 2,148 reviews
“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” This thirst for an intimate relationship with God, claims A.W. Tozer, is not for a select few, but should be the experience of every follower of Christ.
Here is a masterly study of the inner life by a heart thirsting after God. Here is a book for every child of God, pastor, missionary, and Christian. It deals with the deep things of God and the riches of His grace.
In The Pursuit of God, Tozer sheds light on the path to a closer walk with God. (less)
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Published December 1st 1982 by Christian Publications (first published 1948)
Original TitleThe Pursuit of God
ISBN0875093663 (ISBN13: 9780875093666)
Edition LanguageEnglish
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how could I read this book ?
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Gary B You can read it via Gutenberg. Please see http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/25141
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What page to I find in what way is a Christian life a paradox?
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Shari In the 1993 edition, see the bottom of page 106 and the top of page 107 in Chapter 9. "The meek man is not a human mouse afflicted with a sense of his own inferiority. ... He knows he is as week and helpless as God has declared him to be, but paradoxically, he knows that the same time that he is, in the sight of God, more important than angels."(less)
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LISTS WITH THIS BOOK
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Mere Christianity by C.S. LewisThe Screwtape Letters by C.S. LewisThe Pilgrim's Progress by John BunyanThe Pursuit of God by A.W. TozerSlow Brewing Tea by Randy Loubier
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Fergus
Jun 12, 2020Fergus rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
A.W. Tozer says if we seek meaning in our lives by pursuing a Real, Living God, we will soon find the tables turned.
For so desirous is He of giving true meaning to anyone who seeks him, God will then start pursuing US.
For the rest of our lives.
We’ll try telling a barefaced lie - and God will hound us down. We’ll find a certain lady deucedly attractive - and He’ll shout, “now what in tarnation d’you think YOU’RE doing?” We’ll ask Him for a special favour - and He’ll heap it into our lap a HUNDREDFOLD.
Don’t believe me?
Just try to find Him in your life. Seriously. Once you’re hooked, you’re hooked.
He doesn’t fool around. You don’t dare mess with Him. But oh, how you cringe when the storm clouds gather... And guess what? He’s still right there, showing you a way OUT of your mess.
Some folks say that’s all nonsense. That life is what you make it. But wait 20 or 30 years, and SEE what they’ve made of it - for by then, they’ve been given stale black bread for their banquet.
Life is what you make it?
No, we’re a piece of clay in the hands of the Almighty. If he can’t make anything of you, into the fire you go. Will you get a second chance? Time will tell...
If you want frank, straight-up writing shooting straight from the hip, Tozer will deliver. Brought up poor, hungry and illiterate in rural Pennsylvania at the turn of the twentieth century, he rarely knew rest from his labours.
Life was tough.
But, meandering brokenly homeward after a gruelling day of back-breaking work, young Aiden heard snippets of a street preacher’s message at the centre of town.
How can we be saved, the message probably went? Salvation is a free gift. Our work doesn’t save us - never has and never will.
Only the free gift of supernatural Love will.
Well, so Tozer then did the impossible - he pursued God.
Yikes! When the scales fell wonderfully fell from his eyes, he KNEW God’s Love had always pursued HIM.
In his parents’ corrections and disciplines.
In the dinner that every night, miraculously appeared on the supper table.
In the robin that woke him up for another day of relentless work, serenading and INSPIRING him.
This was the Way.
God had GIVEN the Way to him.
No, friends, it was not by painstakingly memorizing who begat whom in the Book, or studying an ancient language, or even having great insight into the meaning of scripture that Tozer found true meaning in his life.
No.
It was by insight into Real, Simple Being.
And that Being, as Love - the Beatles once sang - is ALL YOU NEED. (less)
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Scott Stoinis
Apr 16, 2019Scott Stoinis rated it it was amazing
Shelves: holy-books
I bought this book for myself and was so moved by it that I reread it chapter by chapter often as my nightly devotional. I personally found it to be one of the best books to fill me with hope! This is the best edition of it available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Pursuit-God-W-... (less)
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Mike
Mar 03, 2009Mike rated it really liked it
First Review
I hesitate to call Tozer a theologian because his approach to Christianity and the practice of faith is very practical. He is very well read and often deals with theological topics but he typically scoffs any intellectual dealings with faith and puts forth his down to earth alternative.
The description of "down to earth" only goes so far, because Tozer is also very clearly a mystic. He focuses on experience, feeling and hearing God's voice as important to faith. He also emphasizes those to the point of relegating scripture to a close second in matters of faith.
I liked the book (this is my second time through it). Tozer has many good observation about a life of faith and good insight can be gained from reading this book. I am just not sure it strong enough to stand by itself as a guiding text for the Christian life.
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Second Review
I revisited Tozer recently and concluded that I was a bit too rough on him in the first time around. It was obvious from my third reading that Tozer is a thinker. The reason from his initial distancing of his argument from scripture is because God needs to be viewed as a person to be interacted with and not a distant deity to give lip service.
I still agree with most of what I said I just think that Tozer has better
theological backing than I had once thought. His theology is intact and his view of scripture is sound.
Personally I was struck by what he had to say this time. Tozer has some good insights that struck me at the core of my being. I will be chewing on this book for a while. (less)
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Kurt Nelson
Jan 09, 2013Kurt Nelson rated it it was amazing
Shelves: read-2013
Broke down in tears reading one of Tozer's prayers. Praise God for the hour I spent reading part of it today, it was as if God was hear with me sharing the wisdom from the book! Incredible book that taught me to slow down and listen to God. (less)
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Laysee
Oct 15, 2021Laysee rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: five-star-books
The Pursuit of God is a book I had long wanted to read. Lately, the impetus to read it seemed to have sprung from somewhere deep and unsearchable. It felt like a hunger that needed to be assuaged. I read this slowly over two months and was impressed by Tozer’s clarity in describing a pursuit that might strike many of us as abstract and remote. My GR friends are most indulgent when it comes to my book reviews and I am thankful for your love and support. Do not feel obliged to read this if it is not something that appeals to you.
Aiden Wilson Tozer (1897-1963) was an American pastor and author. He was apparently born into poverty and was self-educated. You would not have guessed his humble beginnings from how beautifully and cogently he wrote. Tozer received honorary doctorates from Wheaton and Houghton colleges. In 2000, The Pursuit of God was named to Christianity Today’s list of 100 ‘Books of the Century.’
In the introductory chapter, one of the first things that struck me was this line: ’It is theology not of the head but of the heart.’ Tozer himself said that the reflections in this book were "a discovery which my own heart has made of spiritual realities most delightful and wonderful to me.” As I read it, I was warmed by Tozer’s sincerity in conveying his personal spiritual journey. Of this book which he wrote in 1948, Tozer said, “Others before me have gone much further into these holy mysteries than I have done, but if my fire is not large it is yet real, and there may be those who can light their candle at its flames.” And gratefully, I did just that.
Just a few key takeaways.
Why do we pursue God?
If we begin with the premise that man is made in the image of God, then we have within each of us the capacity to know Him. Sometimes in our inner self, we may encounter God in our conscious personal awareness. Tozer explained, “We pursue God because, and only because He has first put an urge within us that spurs us to the pursuit.” He called this prevenient grace. In my limited understanding, it seems that man was created for fellowship with his creator, and that longing never ends. Augustine articulated this best: “Thou has formed us for Thyself, and our hearts are restless till they find rest in Thee.”
Is this a worthwhile pursuit?
The greatest encouragement I derived from reading this book is contained in this one line: ”Our pursuit of God is successful just because He is forever seeking to manifest Himself to us.” That is mind-blowing – that God wants to be found by us. We see Him in the beauty of the created world; we see Him when we witness love and kindness extended by fallible human beings to each other. He is universally present.
What do we know of God’s nature?
It is in the nature of God to speak, to communicate His thoughts to others. Tozer described Him in Chapter 6 as The Speaking Voice. He spoke creation into existence. “He spake and it was done.” I thought it marvelous that it is in God’s nature to be articulate. There is also the written word (the Bible) through which He continues to speak. Here is another precious thought: “The Voice of God is a friendly Voice. No one need fear to listen to it unless he has already made up his mind to resist it.”
How do we apprehend God?
Even for those who believe, we tend not to be conscious enough of the kind of communion with God that the Scriptures seem to offer. Why? Tozer said, ”The answer is our chronic unbelief. Faith enables our spiritual sense to function. Where faith is defective the result will be inward insensibility and numbness toward spiritual things.” Faith is indispensable in our pursuit of God.
What’s the point of this pursuit?
If we are made in God’s image and He has made us for Himself, then it seems to me that we can never be fully all we are meant to be until we are restored to a right relationship with our Creator. We are not yet home until we find communion in His presence. From a psychological perspective (if I may borrow Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs), the end of this pursuit is our spiritual self-actualization. Tozer said, ”As a sailor locates his position on the sea by ‘shooting’ the sun, so we may get our moral bearings by looking at God.” When this relationship is made right, then there is hope in our troubled world for peace on earth and goodwill toward men. This is perhaps the same as saying, ”Social religion is perfected when private religion is purified.”
At 108 Kindle pages, there is much food for thought. It is a helpful read for folks like me who feel a hard-to-define homesickness of the soul. Thank you, A. W. Tozer. (less)
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Clark Goble
Jul 05, 2012Clark Goble rated it it was amazing
My review of this book can be summed up in four words – it blew me away! Tozer identifies one of the major problems in our Church today. As a Church, we are creating a new breed of Christian who understands doctrine better than at any point in history yet fails to understand what it truly means to be a follower of Christ.
Having identified the problem, Tozer offers a beautiful solution that is more practical and mystical than theological. His book is an invitation for the the reader to seek God a ...more
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¸¸.•*¨*•♫ Mrs. Buttercup •*¨*•♫♪
Dec 02, 2019¸¸.•*¨*•♫ Mrs. Buttercup •*¨*•♫♪ rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: favourite-books-of-all-time, kindle, non-fiction
“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”
In this beautiful, theologically accurate yet original and deep insight into the relationship of a Christian with God, A. W. Tozer forces the readers to question the intensity of our desire for Him, our will to always put Him first and the authenticity of our pursuit for His full presence in our everyday life. It is easy to feel the presence of God when we pray, worship or read the Scriptures, it's less easy to live our lives having in mind that God is here, with us, every day; He is everywhere, and if we just open our ears and listen, we can hear Him and feel His presence in everything we do.
This book describes the beautiful, incredibly intense pull that a Christian feels when he/she thinks about God - a similar sensation to the desire for a loved one when we first met them - and in doing so encourages us to always pursue this pull, and never let it grow cold. If you ever experienced that pull, the intensity of that emotion, the tears falling down your eyes when you can really feel that the Lord is good and that He loves us and protects us, you know what the author is talking about. If you want to know more about this relationship and about its theological and scriptural references, thus growing as a Christian and never leaving the honeymoon phase with God, you should definitely read this classic. On the other hand, if you are not a believer and you just want to know more about what it means to be a Christian, and maybe you only saw people in Church checking their phones while the preacher is teaching, check this out and maybe you'll realize why we're all so crazy about this Lord of ours! 🤩 A beautiful, deep, short book, which shows the incredible knowledge and sensitivity of the author. An example of the fact that you can be both educated and emotionally and spiritually involved in a subject.
My favourite quote from the book:
“Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So one hundred worshipers met together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be, were they to become 'unity' conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship.” (less)
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Angela Wallace
Aug 25, 2011Angela Wallace rated it it was amazing
Shelves: christian
I read this book over and over. It's the one I'd pick to have on a desert island. The way Tozer talks about faith and living the Christian life--he takes what religion has turned into complicated and noncommittal routines and returns to the blessed simplicity of what it means to pursue God, to fully engage your heart with His. I can't write a review that will do the book justice. It's a short one and can be read in one day, so see for yourself. (less)
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Douglas Wilson
Jan 15, 2017Douglas Wilson rated it really liked it · review of another edition
I read this many moons ago, and just now listened to it again. Very edifying book, with some brilliant sections.
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ij
Jun 18, 2016ij rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Recommends it for: Christians, or those seeking knowledge about getting closer to God.
Shelves: kindle, theology, non-fiction, 2016, christian, religion, librivox
An interesting and inspirational guide for Christians seeking to get closer to God.
The book is public domain and is available free from many sources. I downloaded free, from Amazon, to my Kindle. I listened to it on LibriVox, also free, as I read on Kindle.
It is about a two (2) hour read.
flag15 likes · Like · 2 comments · see review
Sarah
Aug 28, 2013Sarah rated it liked it
Shelves: non-fiction
Tozer writes, "The modern scientist has lost God amid the wonders of His world; we Christians are in real danger of losing God amid the wonders of His Word." Discuss what you feel Tozer means by the second half of his statement.
I’m not sure, but I think he fears we are in danger of living too much by our head knowledge, which is indeed a real danger for christians. We accept with our mind the theological truths of the Bible, but do not show by our actions that we have truly taken them to heart.
Give a favorite quotation from the book and discuss why and how it impacted you.
“Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So one hundred worshippers men together, each one looking away to christ are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be were they to become “unity” conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship.”
This stood out because it is so easy to get caught up with reacting to the people around you instead of looking to God to give you the ability to love them.
How will what you read in this book affect your relationship with Jesus?
It definitely makes me think about really pursuing God, rather than just being happy with whatever level of spiritual growth I’ve already attained. (less)
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Jeanie
Mar 15, 2011Jeanie rated it it was amazing
Shelves: serious-about-god-theology, kindle
Every Christian should read this book. This book had clairification backed up with scripture. As I was reading, I had a longing in my heart. It's focus is on the Lord, not on what I can do better, or what I need to do, or need not do. It was about surrending and the importantance of knowing who God is. In my own walk with the Lord, I am amazed every year on what there is to know about the Lord, his character, his desires and how much I lack. This book is a freeing that it releases many lies that as christians we can believe. If we believe a lie, we are in bondage in that lie. Only the truth will set us free to love and to surrender. It shows the importance of being well fed with a body of other believers. How we are to beseech the lord to show us his Glory. He is well pleased to show us his mercy but on his terms and not on ours. Which again leads to a total surrender. I loved how each chapter ended in a heart-felt prayer to the Lord. This book is a blessing to read over and over again. (less)
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Mike (the Paladin)
Jun 08, 2013Mike (the Paladin) rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: christian-theology
This book would/will/does require thought and a solid grounding in the Bible. I find the central theme to be of immense and transcendent value.
The theme dealt with has to do with the basic idea of "finding God" vs. "knowing God" vs. "growing in God"...
I could say a lot but as those reading this will be not only atheist vs. theist but also Christians of various denominations. There are places I must disagree with some of whats taught here, but that does not mean that I disagree with the basic point of view.
I can and do highly recommend this for Christians seeking a closer relationship with God.
I won't go into basic disagreements as the bottom line is that I don't think "where we disagree" is on a point of doctrine that would "force" two Christians to have a major disagreement (though some of course would/will. We do always manage that don't we?)
As I said excellent book. Recommended especially for Christian readers. (less)
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Faye
Nov 22, 2020Faye rated it it was amazing
A great book to bring the center of our focus to God and get our focus off of ourselves and the world.
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Chrissy
Jan 08, 2012Chrissy rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Recommends it for: Nancy, Terri
Shelves: christian-study
I have been wanting to read this book for a long time, and I am amazed that as I completed this book I wondered that had I read it sooner it would not have been as impacting. As is the way with God, timing is everything-perfect and precise.
I will warn this is not a casual read. I found myself reading and re-reading paragraphs over and over. He has a dizzying intellect and an ability to reach to the heart of things which often is no casual venture. My favorite sections regarded pride, God's instruction on holiness, the duality of our existence and how the mundane tasks of daily life may be accepted by God as our worship. The simplicity of the pursuit and how our fallen nature and desires complicate the journey resonate with me.
I do highly recommend this book for those honestly seeking God. In fact, I plan to get a hard copy as it seems to be one of those books I would turn to time and time again for a perspective check and maybe even a new insight should I mature in my walk. May God bless your journey to seek Him wholly! (less)
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Kristian Kilgore
Dec 23, 2012Kristian Kilgore rated it it was amazing
My fourth reading of this classic proves once again that it never fails to challenge, to encourage, and to satisfy. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. AW Tozer's genuine passion for God and to see others encounter and draw near to God is unmistakable. He is relentless with his courageous call for a life lived in opposition to nominal Christianity.
Casual, or common, Christianity is not a legitimate option in Tozer's view of things. The book is basically the author's attempt to walk through the disciplines, or methods of pursuit. He makes a case for each aspect of intentionally growing in knowledge and love for God through exploring the essence of each practice, not so much in mechanics but in spirit. He leaves room for the reader to "fit" each method to his/her own unique personality, but he is intractable with regard to the importance and meaning of each of them.
I will continue to re-visit this every couple of years. This work, along with few other selections, becomes a diagnostic tool for my heart. It is a barometer of my dedication to being a disciple and pursuer of Christ. (less)
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Anne
Oct 11, 2019Anne rated it it was amazing
Shelves: spiritual-growth
Excellent book. Rich in theology and scripture, and also full of practical wisdom. It challenged and encouraged me and I highly recommend!
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Ashley
May 09, 2016Ashley rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: 2016, bible-study
"God is here when we are wholly unaware of it. He is manifest only when and as we are aware of his presence. On our part there must be surrender to the Spirit of God, for His work it is to show us the Father and the Son. If we cooperate with Him in loving obedience, God will manifest himself to us, and that manifestation will be the difference between a nominal Christian life and a life radiant with the Light of His face."
I am thankful for this book at this time in my life. I feel like it taught me things I hadn't considered before, and showed me the areas where I was deficient in my relationship with Christ. I will be reflecting upon this book for weeks to come. (less)
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Bookish Ally
Feb 27, 2018Bookish Ally rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: christian-read, favorites
I would recommend this to any Christian. In fact, once I finished, I ran down to Barnes & Noble and bought 2 extra copies for friends.
I took my time to read it (4.5 months). Read it, shared excerpts with others, meditated on it.
This explores the importance of passion in seeking God by a man who lived with passion for God. It is so easy to get distracted by a noisy and demanding world and this book is spiritual succour
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Drew Dixon
Feb 11, 2011Drew Dixon rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This book was one of the most fruitful and refreshing school assignments I've ever received. I have heard much talk of Tozer lately and now that I have read him I understand why. Every sentences drips with wisdom that has been soaked in much prayer. He writes beautifully and poetically. Such crafted language is beautiful enough to make one want to pursue God. Yet it is not the outer beauty of the writing that captures a person in this book, it is the passionate heart-filled exhortations which overflow with love for Jesus that make one desire to pursue God after reading this book. Tozer writes not only with passion, but also with God-exalting humility. This is seen in his own description of the book:
"This book is a modest attempt to aid God's hungry children so to find Him. Nothing here is new except in the sense that it is a discovery which my own heart has made of spiritual realities most delightful and wonderful to me. Others before me have gone much father into these holy mysteries than I have done, but if my fire is not large it is yet real, and there may be those who can light their candle at its flame."
I have found light in this book that has enlightened my dull vision and warmth which has impassioned my heart. I greatly recommend this book for anyone who wishes to draw nearer to and deeper with God. (less)
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Kiel
Mar 10, 2020Kiel rated it it was amazing
This beautiful little book is a must-read for every Christian. I will be rereading it again, hopefully in the near future. Tozer has a sensitive heart, but he also isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. I underlined and copied out many meaningful lines on which to meditate later. This book is a call to the heart of the believer to get back to the very basic gospel and to seek the Lord with all of oneself. Truly challenging and encouraging at the same time!
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Chaplain Walle
Feb 11, 2021Chaplain Walle rated it it was amazing
Full review at a later date.
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Rick Dugan
Oct 04, 2015Rick Dugan rated it it was amazing
Considering Tozer wrote this classic on an all night train from Chicago to Texas, I'm challenged to redeem the time I spend on airplanes!
This intensely spiritual yet practical book gets beyond emotive arguments for pursuing God. Tozer stimulates a hunger for God and teaches us to find him in various ways and placed. He kindles the fire so that we become dissatisfied to religious programs and orthodox theology alone. Nothing less than the presence of God will satisfy.
I was especially challenged by the chapters on meekness, possessing nothing, hearing the voice of God, and apprehending God by faith. Difficult yet worthy goals of discipleship.
A book worth your time. (less)
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Madison
Dec 06, 2021Madison rated it it was amazing
So enjoyed this! Listened on audio and really felt a stirring in my spirit with many of the things that were talked about. Encouraged me in my walk. Definitely recommend!
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Nancy Larimer
Jul 28, 2020Nancy Larimer rated it it was amazing
The Pursuit of God by A. W. Tozer 1897-1963 is a non fiction inspirational Christian book. A.W. Tozer became a Christian after hearing a street preacher in Akron, Ohio. He was a self taught theologian. He was a pastor, writer, teacher . His books are often used by pastors in sermons. This book is considered a classic. It draws and shows the reader their need for a deeper relationship with God. It is well written and well respected in the Christian world. The book describes who God is and makes the reader want to know Him on a deeper level. This book was given to me by Bethany publisher to read and review . The opinions are my own. Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read and review this book. I will share my review on facebook, goodreads, Amazon, my blog , bookbub, with church staff. (less)
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Olivia
Oct 30, 2021Olivia rated it really liked it
Shelves: tbr-2019
Thought provoking and worth the read! It's not a long book and I think it's easy to get online for free 😉 honestly, there was a lot Tozer wrote that has hit me after a big life change and things I've noticed within in the church. As Christians, we need to seek God more instead of rituals that are man made. ...more
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Adam
Apr 26, 2012Adam rated it it was amazing
One of the most profound books I’ve ever read was A.W. Tozer’s book The Pursuit of God. Even before I ever read this book and before I even heard of John Piper, God was already laying the foundations in my heart, teaching me the discipline of seeking Him.
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:5 esv
When I first read The Pursuit of God it was like water to my dry soul. I hadn’t ever read anything like it and I couldn’t put it down. Since them I have read it more times than I can count. I now have the added advantage of having it on audio, so I listen to it regularly. Each time I read it I am encouraged in a new way.
I think it would be in line with Tozer to say that we do not take the time to truly study anything anymore. With the dawn of the digital age, we are more susceptible to just move on to the next book without actually grasping everything there is to know in the last one. The Pursuit of God is one of those books that ought to be studied by everyone. It’s not very long, but each chapter is very deep.
While there are several orthodoxy points I would probably take issue with, I cannot read The Pursuit of God without worshiping. Ever chapter finishes with a prayer that convicts my heart and brings the lessons that much closer to my soul.
Next week WOTG will dedicate the whole week to specific lessons from The Pursuit of God and Tozer’s life. I hope that you’ll find value in the lessons, but more-so, I hope you find the time to not only ready Tozer, but to study and know him as you pursue God.
Check out my book reviews every Wednesday at worthyofthegospel.com
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Hope
Sep 29, 2012Hope rated it it was amazing
Shelves: non-fiction, classics, christianity, life-essentials
As Tozer puts it, Our pursuit of God is successful only because He is forever seeking to manifest Himself to us. We find Him only because He is eager to be found. (Jeremiah 29:13-14)
Many Christians believe in God, but don't live in intimate fellowship with Him. What makes some people so much more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's promptings and correction? What makes some people so willing to give up all this world's "toys" to serve selflessly and wholeheartedly? Tozer proposes that those who actively pursue Him put into place certain attitudes and actions that help them to cultivate their life in Christ. They practice certain spiritual habits and avoid others.
One hindrance to communion with Christ is what Tozer calls "hyphenated sins." They are not something we do; they are something we are, and therein lies both their subtlety and power. The self-sins are these: self-pity, self-confidence, self-sufficiency, self-admiration, self-love, and a host of others like them. These hidden sins must be rooted out if we are to live in glad obedience to our loving heavenly Father.
This devotional classic is chock full of admonitions and insights. If you want to go deeper in your relationship to Christ, Tozer will point you in the right direction. But be warned, if you are used to fluffy Christianity that requires little or no effort on your part, you may be offended by what Tozer has to say. (less)
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Brandon R
Jun 25, 2019Brandon R rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
If only 6 stars was an option.... I believe a must read for those whom the Lord has called into fellowship with him. This book places knowledge in its proper place and penetrates straight to the heart. Correct heart posture is our ONLY hope in pursuing God and his righteousness. What a blessing knowledge can be, but only if the heart is truly the Lords.
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Brian Ming
Oct 01, 2016Brian Ming rated it it was amazing
A classic, by one of the greatest minds and theologians of our time. Although written a long time ago, the content still holds true. It challenged me. Encouraged me. After reading this I can honestly say, "I want more of God."
And isn't that the point?
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