We live in difficult times. Many people are poor, tired, and hungry. The world, as a whole, is suffering. As for us? We stand in the midst wondering if it's possible to make a difference. Can we fix the problems of the world? Can we offer help in the midst of crisis? Can we reach out with a caring heart and an offer of hope? If we follow the many examples laid out for us in the Bible, we can.

In Outlive Your Life, Max Lucado explores the lives of some of the Bible's greatest characters. Not great because of their lifestyle or livelihood, but because of the impact they had on the world. These were fisherman, tax collectors, and harlots. Important, not in and of themselves, but with a mission to reach out to a hurting world and to challenge us to do the same. As Lucado says, "None of us can do everything, but all of us can do something."

In reading this book, I was definitely challenged to reach out more to those in need. So often, it seems so hard just to meet my own needs, but Lucado opened my eyes to a world that is truly suffering. In light of his stories, my flat tires and dead cell phone batteries don't seem so important anymore. Lucado spurred a desire within me to want to do my part to make a difference in the world.

As all of Lucado's books, Outlive Your Life is well-written, containing verses, stories, and challenges to the reader. I found it not only easy to read, but also compelling. This book is needed today in our land of self-centered goals and self-gratification. It is truly a reminder of how blessed I am. I highly recommend this book to teen readers and up.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”