I was given
the opportunity to review the book Empty Promises by Pete Wilson. After reading his previous book Plan B, I knew that I would enjoy his writing style. When I got the book, I wasn't really sure what to expect. Pete has a great way of communicating. I ready Pete's blog, not as often as I used to with 4 kids, but I always walk away challenged if I honestly reflect on what he is saying. This book is no different ....The fortune cookie on the front says "The truth about You, Your Desires, and the Lies You're Believing." Before I opened the book I wondered what lies that I'm believing that this book might help open my eyes on, expose in my life. I had no clue that this was a book on idols .... and how those idols affect our lives. Pete defines an empty promise as A promise that is either not going to be carried out, worthless or meaningless. I've had several empty promises given to me and if I'm honest I've dealt a few empty promises as well. I really wasn't expecting to read about the empty promises that idols produce in our lives.
Pete points out that we are a people wired to worship. The question he asks is Who or what do we worship? He defines idolatry as looking to something (or someone) that does not have God's power to give me what only God has the power and authority to give. We buy into empty promises when we "feel a God-given appetite and try to fill it with something that isn't God."
I appreciate Pete's honesty as he writes and his ability to dive into a difficult topic and cause the reader to ponder his/her own life. I know that I finished this book way too quickly. I want to re-read and pause and really reflect on the questions it asked. I want to ask God to point out areas in my life where I have allowed idols to take his place. Where I have believed empty promises ... I want to work through these areas.
I willy highly recommend this book to anyone that will listen. I believe the truths inside this book can help unlock the damage that believing in empty promises has accomplished and help the reader move past and find a deeper relationship with the one who never breaks a promise!
