Where are great leaders like Elijah today? Uncompromisingly strong, yet self-controlled. Disciplined, yet forgiving. Audaciously courageous, yet kind. Heroic in the heat of battle, yet humble in the aftermath. We see a few such men and women, but the list is tragically short. Rarely does someone model these invaluable traits more obviously than God's mighty prophet Elijah, Where are great leaders like Elijah today? Uncompromisingly strong, yet self-controlled. Disciplined, yet forgiving. Audaciously courageous, yet kind. Heroic in the heat of battle, yet humble in the aftermath. We see a few such men and women, but the list is tragically short. Rarely does someone model these invaluable traits more obviously than God's mighty prophet Elijah, whose calling was anything but calm and free from conflict. Nevertheless, as you are about to discover in this book. Elijah exemplified true heroism and genuine humility amid the relentless pressure of battle. "Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility" is the fifth volume in the best-selling Great Lives from God's Word series by Charles Swindoll. The series also includes such powerful biographies as "Joseph, David, Esther, "and" Moses." Exploring the depths of Elijah's fascinating life as a prophet of God, Swindoll does not gloss over his human weaknesses; rather, he presents an honest picture of this ordinary man who God transformed into His personal spokesman to confront idolatry and evil in the ancient world. You will find that it's a life worth emulating. In a world that has lost its way, due in part to the lack of balanced, godly leadership, we are more than ever in need of a few Elijah-like men and women who are not afraid to live courageously among their peers as they walk humbly with their God. "May this book establish deep within you a desire to stand strong for what is right as you bow low before Him who is worthy of your trust and obedience."-Charles Swindoll
Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility
Where are great leaders like Elijah today? Uncompromisingly strong, yet self-controlled. Disciplined, yet forgiving. Audaciously courageous, yet kind. Heroic in the heat of battle, yet humble in the aftermath. We see a few such men and women, but the list is tragically short. Rarely does someone model these invaluable traits more obviously than God's mighty prophet Elijah, Where are great leaders like Elijah today? Uncompromisingly strong, yet self-controlled. Disciplined, yet forgiving. Audaciously courageous, yet kind. Heroic in the heat of battle, yet humble in the aftermath. We see a few such men and women, but the list is tragically short. Rarely does someone model these invaluable traits more obviously than God's mighty prophet Elijah, whose calling was anything but calm and free from conflict. Nevertheless, as you are about to discover in this book. Elijah exemplified true heroism and genuine humility amid the relentless pressure of battle. "Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility" is the fifth volume in the best-selling Great Lives from God's Word series by Charles Swindoll. The series also includes such powerful biographies as "Joseph, David, Esther, "and" Moses." Exploring the depths of Elijah's fascinating life as a prophet of God, Swindoll does not gloss over his human weaknesses; rather, he presents an honest picture of this ordinary man who God transformed into His personal spokesman to confront idolatry and evil in the ancient world. You will find that it's a life worth emulating. In a world that has lost its way, due in part to the lack of balanced, godly leadership, we are more than ever in need of a few Elijah-like men and women who are not afraid to live courageously among their peers as they walk humbly with their God. "May this book establish deep within you a desire to stand strong for what is right as you bow low before Him who is worthy of your trust and obedience."-Charles Swindoll
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Sarah –
A wonderful look at this amazing man of God
Kayce –
Yet another wonderful read by Charles Swindoll! Reading these books remind me of what my grandmother used to tell me. When I was in the 10-12 year old range, I read a lot of R.L. Stine novels (Fear Street series, anyone?) And my grandmother, a devout Christian with G rated thoughts, used to ask me, “Why don’t you read some nicer books like animal stories or biographies?” At the time that just sounded horrendous. But the older I get, the more I really do enjoy both! haha (Guess my Nana was on to Yet another wonderful read by Charles Swindoll! Reading these books remind me of what my grandmother used to tell me. When I was in the 10-12 year old range, I read a lot of R.L. Stine novels (Fear Street series, anyone?) And my grandmother, a devout Christian with G rated thoughts, used to ask me, “Why don’t you read some nicer books like animal stories or biographies?” At the time that just sounded horrendous. But the older I get, the more I really do enjoy both! haha (Guess my Nana was on to something…) And I can’t help but think she would have loved the Great Lives from God’s Word series by Charles Swindoll. Biographies dedicated to men and women of the Bible, this series teaches what we can learn and take away from their lives to better our own. I have previously read (and loved) Volume 2: Esther, A Woman of Strength and Dignity and Volume 3: Joseph, A Man of Integrity and Forgiveness. I was thrilled when I was able to get my hands on a copy of Volume 5 (which was hard to track down; thanks to a local used bookstore I snagged one!) These books not only offer a great study of the person’s life, but Charles Swindoll does a fantastic job of sharing life application principles. I especially felt that the take away messages of Elijah’s story were very powerful. I’ve been talking about some lessons I’ve learned from this volume to anyone who will listen. I didn’t know much about Elijah before reading this book but I’m glad I read this. His life is a wonderful example of how we can put ourselves through “boot camp” for God, trust in the Lord without hesitation, and do it all with a humble attitude. Humility is a lost art in today’s world and this was a wonderful refresher on the topic. I highly recommend this book (and series!) to those interested. Other characters featured in the series are David, Moses, Paul, Job, and the greatest life of all: Jesus
Ian –
A solid study of Elijah's life, if a bit presumptuous in some places. There is plenty of insight and some useful historical insight as well. A solid study of Elijah's life, if a bit presumptuous in some places. There is plenty of insight and some useful historical insight as well.
Poppy Brown –
So good!!! I love reading Charles Swindoll’s character studies. His imagination as he breaks down the situations of each person is crazy cool. Would definitely recommend
Brian Taylor –
Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility takes a look at the life of Elijah in a way that is unlike any other book that I've encountered before. Dr. Charles Swindoll paints a picturesque image of him as someone akin to this nation's Robert E. Lee. Having faced a crucible that was very warlike in nature, Elijah had to show great humility and heroism throughout his life, whether it was in service to God as he faced those who wanted him dead or whether it was in the presence of a grieving woman who si Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility takes a look at the life of Elijah in a way that is unlike any other book that I've encountered before. Dr. Charles Swindoll paints a picturesque image of him as someone akin to this nation's Robert E. Lee. Having faced a crucible that was very warlike in nature, Elijah had to show great humility and heroism throughout his life, whether it was in service to God as he faced those who wanted him dead or whether it was in the presence of a grieving woman who simply wanted her son. I'd say this book is for anyone who truly wants a greater look into the life of this prophet and really has not grasped the heart of this man in relation to how he might be just like us. While at times I felt that this book was disjointed, I found that there was a method to the direction the author took to tell the story as I progressed. This is one that is most likely one that will stretch your understanding and provide you, your bible study, book club the material for greater dialog about faith, character,and life.
Clara Roberts –
Although I have read the Story of Elijah many times, the Bible became fresh again as I read Swindoll's Character study of Elijah. When Elijah is taken up in a whirlwind and Elisha cries, "My Father! My Father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel." This was a capsule of the life of Elijah. Swindoll speaks of Elijah's despondancy, his discouagement, and his depression. "God looks for special people at difficult times and God's methods are often surpristing and we all stand before God." These are s Although I have read the Story of Elijah many times, the Bible became fresh again as I read Swindoll's Character study of Elijah. When Elijah is taken up in a whirlwind and Elisha cries, "My Father! My Father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel." This was a capsule of the life of Elijah. Swindoll speaks of Elijah's despondancy, his discouagement, and his depression. "God looks for special people at difficult times and God's methods are often surpristing and we all stand before God." These are some comments regarding Elijah. Elijah lived in an evil and perverse world but most of the time he was a man of faith that commanded rather than spoke. Swindoll rminds us that there is an end to God's patience and that God keeps His word. "The heroism of godly men and women is demonstrated in their being willing to face unpleasant conditions, even threatening circumstance, with remarkable calm." Elijah is a man that belivers can use as an example to pattern their life after.
Lori –
Elijah is a character that provides hope for all of us in that he is a common man; unexceptional in most every way, as are most of us. But, at the same time he is discouraging: would I be unhesitant in following the Lord's seemingly nonsensical commands like Elijah was? Would I be brave when squaring off with the wicked king of Israel, challenging his idols, dualing spiritually with his 'god' and slaying that god's priests? I wonder. I do know that I would like God to give me the same 'thumbs up' Elijah is a character that provides hope for all of us in that he is a common man; unexceptional in most every way, as are most of us. But, at the same time he is discouraging: would I be unhesitant in following the Lord's seemingly nonsensical commands like Elijah was? Would I be brave when squaring off with the wicked king of Israel, challenging his idols, dualing spiritually with his 'god' and slaying that god's priests? I wonder. I do know that I would like God to give me the same 'thumbs up' that He gave Elijah, to be so pleasing to Him that He calls me home in a whirlwind without ever having to die physically. I only gave this book a 3 star rating because it seemed predictable in its principles and applications. For me, though perhaps not for you, it was flat. That said, I still loved Elijah and Swindoll presented him fairly and accurately.
Dan Curnutt –
I really enjoyed reading this. Chuck does a great job in capturing not just the life of Elijah but then helping the reader (me) put into practical terms how I should apply the lessons Elijah learned to my own life. I was particularly moved by the thought about how Elijah could get the best of 450 prophets of Baal, succeed in his contest with them, be at the top of his game emotionally and spiritually but then plunge into the depths of depression. It gave me much to think about. It is a quick read I really enjoyed reading this. Chuck does a great job in capturing not just the life of Elijah but then helping the reader (me) put into practical terms how I should apply the lessons Elijah learned to my own life. I was particularly moved by the thought about how Elijah could get the best of 450 prophets of Baal, succeed in his contest with them, be at the top of his game emotionally and spiritually but then plunge into the depths of depression. It gave me much to think about. It is a quick read, but then a slow read if you really stop to digest all of the lessons that you will learn from Elijah's life and Chuck's detail expository re-telling. Enjoy.
Christine Barth –
Someone gave me this because my son's nane is Elijah. This is a really good study of the Biblical Elijah and how it applies to modern life. I want to read more in thos series now! Someone gave me this because my son's nane is Elijah. This is a really good study of the Biblical Elijah and how it applies to modern life. I want to read more in thos series now!
Frank –
I have been looking forward to reading this series and received this book for my last birthday. Elijah is one my favorite OT characters and the showdown at Mt. Carmel one of my favorite passages. I would have liked some more in depth analysis regarding some of the events in Elijah's life, but will look for other books to fill in those desires. I have been looking forward to reading this series and received this book for my last birthday. Elijah is one my favorite OT characters and the showdown at Mt. Carmel one of my favorite passages. I would have liked some more in depth analysis regarding some of the events in Elijah's life, but will look for other books to fill in those desires.
Tiffany Ashcraft –
i really enjoy all of charles swindoll's great lives books. i liked that this particular book had more scripture than the others i have read. at the same time, this book probably had less personal reflection which i missed. overall, the book was great but esther and david are better:) i really enjoy all of charles swindoll's great lives books. i liked that this particular book had more scripture than the others i have read. at the same time, this book probably had less personal reflection which i missed. overall, the book was great but esther and david are better:)
Ireine Roosdy –
After I read this book I was ascertained to name my baby boy Elijah. I prayed he would take the full humanity of Prophet Elijah's service, be of full bravery in faith, yet humble enough to admit insecurity only to God in person. After I read this book I was ascertained to name my baby boy Elijah. I prayed he would take the full humanity of Prophet Elijah's service, be of full bravery in faith, yet humble enough to admit insecurity only to God in person.
Lori –
Swindoll takes the story of Elijah (from I & II Kings in the Bible) and breaks it down. He adds details and gives a better sense of the time that passes while Elijah is prophet for God. It brings to the forefront exactly how much Elijah is "A Man of Heroism and Humility." Swindoll takes the story of Elijah (from I & II Kings in the Bible) and breaks it down. He adds details and gives a better sense of the time that passes while Elijah is prophet for God. It brings to the forefront exactly how much Elijah is "A Man of Heroism and Humility."
Matt Terry –
Another Great Read Once again Pastor Charles writes in ways that I can apply in my weirdly worldly life. We are certainly blessed that God has given such a spiritual gift to the good Pastor in order to spiritually help us.
Laura –
I loved reading about Elijah. I feel that I spend so much time reading the New Testament that it was very refreshing to read about the life of someone in the Old Testament.
Emily –
Elijah was pretty good, but the author didn't expand on some of the parts of Elijah's life I was most interested in like the part where he runs for cover after Jezebel threatens to kill him. Elijah was pretty good, but the author didn't expand on some of the parts of Elijah's life I was most interested in like the part where he runs for cover after Jezebel threatens to kill him.
Kelly –
A great book about a great man. Very informative while applying Biblical concepts to everyday life. I highly recommend this book & hope to read others in the series.
Christian Saputra –
Too many repetitions; but still considered OK.
Doris –
Powerful! Insightful! Want to read more books on Biblical characters.
Jobe –
My review isn't going to be very good. Are you ready? This book was really good. I enjoyed it immensely and encourage you to check out all of Swindoll's books in this series. The End. My review isn't going to be very good. Are you ready? This book was really good. I enjoyed it immensely and encourage you to check out all of Swindoll's books in this series. The End.
Darrell –
A really good look inside the life of this great man.
Mona Randall –
Another great read by Charles Swindoll.
Matt Maples –
This is a nice read about the life of one of the most extraordinary characters in the Bible.
Chris –
Enjoyable Overview of Elijah Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility is classic Charles Swindoll. For those familiar with his expositional style, you know he is an able storyteller who moves through the text easily and accurately. This is an enjoyable and easy read to get an overview of the life of Elijah but there are other works that provide more meat. For example, Swindoll skips over the crucial chapters on King Ahab, the Apostate nemesis of Elijah (1Kings 20, 22). While Elijah does not appear in Enjoyable Overview of Elijah Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility is classic Charles Swindoll. For those familiar with his expositional style, you know he is an able storyteller who moves through the text easily and accurately. This is an enjoyable and easy read to get an overview of the life of Elijah but there are other works that provide more meat. For example, Swindoll skips over the crucial chapters on King Ahab, the Apostate nemesis of Elijah (1Kings 20, 22). While Elijah does not appear in these chapters (thus Swindoll’s omission), they are critical to the literary development of the storyline as the appearance of Elijah in the middle chapter (1Kings 21) suggests. To study Elijah without understanding Ahab is like watching Star Wars and not understanding Darth Vader. 1Kings 20-22 is a literary unit that continues into 2Kings 1. Each expositor will have to decide whether he or she wants to include these chapters in their exposition but the storyline tells us to include them. Swindoll has a gift for providing applicational principles. These principles are always found at the end after he has worked his way through the story. Some principles are more tied to the meaning of the text and some are more devotional. Their value is dependent on what the reader is expecting from the study. This book will receive a 3-star or 4-star rating depending on your expectations and needs.
MaryEllen –
This was a thought provoking study. I loved how it made me think about my own spiritual growth. I liked all the Bible references. Yes, there are some assumptions in the writing but I feel they were adequately supported by the author with scripture or by the times/traditions Elijah lived in and it was fun to learn more about this time period in the Bible. Overall a successful Bible study since I learned a lot, sought God while learning, and questioned my own spiritual health. I'm looking forward This was a thought provoking study. I loved how it made me think about my own spiritual growth. I liked all the Bible references. Yes, there are some assumptions in the writing but I feel they were adequately supported by the author with scripture or by the times/traditions Elijah lived in and it was fun to learn more about this time period in the Bible. Overall a successful Bible study since I learned a lot, sought God while learning, and questioned my own spiritual health. I'm looking forward to reading another of Charles Swindolls "Great Lives from God's Word" series!
Ron Thibeault –
Charles Swindoll has done a great service with his biography of Elijah. I have been mightily blessed and encouraged by this series. I look forward to reading the last three books in his Great Lives from God’s Word.
Barbara Bingham –
What a Great Read! I love "Great Lives Series" which also includes other great figures of the Bible. Swindoll is one of the great teachers of our time. He brings these men and women alive in his books. Great Reads! What a Great Read! I love "Great Lives Series" which also includes other great figures of the Bible. Swindoll is one of the great teachers of our time. He brings these men and women alive in his books. Great Reads!
Katherine Basto –
I enjoyed reading about the prophet Elijah, along with his nemesis's King Ahab and Jezebel, the Canaanite worshippers! Although this book was a bit redundant, I learned a lot about the humble prophet, who was not afraid of these monarchs and stood up to them, truth-to-power. Well done! I enjoyed reading about the prophet Elijah, along with his nemesis's King Ahab and Jezebel, the Canaanite worshippers! Although this book was a bit redundant, I learned a lot about the humble prophet, who was not afraid of these monarchs and stood up to them, truth-to-power. Well done!
Lisa –
Charles Swindoll really brings the characters and the time to life. A great way to study some of the most amazing and prominent characters in the Bible
Leslie Ladd –
This is the 4th book of Swindoll’s biblical character studies I’ve read and loved. And I’m even willing to forgive the anti-Catholic references! He IS a great storyteller.