Publishers Weekly
12/16/2019
Merritt (52 Weeks with Jesus), pastor and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, encourages readers to develop character traits worth emulating in this striking examination. Defining character as “what you know is true on the inside,” Merritt explores different qualities of character through biblical role models who either taught or exemplified each quality, among them integrity, perseverance, generosity, and respect. Each chapter also references historical and current events, touching on famous and lesser-known heroes, both scandalous and admirable. For instance, while discussing integrity via the life of the prophet Daniel, Merritt calls out the hypocrisy of those who ignored Trump’s multiple affairs, yet who earlier had opposed Bill Clinton for similar behavior. He explores humility— like that of Mary, the mother of Jesus—and the honesty of the prophet Samuel. Esther demonstrated courage; Jesus taught what true generosity looks like; Paul was self-controlled and authentic; and Joseph exhibited incredible forgiveness to his betraying brothers. The inclusion of current examples will engage readers who may not be biblically literate. Merritt’s convincing exhortation for Christians to pursue a more perfect character will appeal to readers interested in biblical lessons on morality. (Feb.)
From the Publisher
Not only does James Merritt offer fresh insights into what it means to be a person of character—and why it matters more today than ever—but he is a leader and visionary with exemplary character. The lessons you'll gain from these pages will challenge and change you in all the best ways. You can’t afford not to read this book.” —Margaret Feinberg, author of Taste and See
“One of my consistent prayers is that my gifts would never take me further than my character can sustain me. I’m so grateful for a book that not only emphasizes the importance of character, but helps cultivate it. This book will inspire you, convict you, and challenge you toward the character of Christ, our highest calling.” —Mark Batterson, New York Times bestselling author of The Circle Maker and lead pastor of National Community Church
“I don’t know of a more important topic now than this, and I don’t know anyone more qualified to speak on it than James Merritt.” —Rick Warren, New York Times bestselling author of The Purpose Driven Life
“An important leadership book about leadership’s most important topic character. Merritt’s insights into the human spirit, the nature of leadership, and the mores contemporary society are always insightful, at times breathtaking. Not only does Merritt give us a clear picture of Christlike character, he shows where that character goes against the grain of society. This book glorifies Jesus and will strengthen you.” —J.D. Greear, PhD, pastor of The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, NC
“This is a must-read book for all aspiring leaders, parents, and educators. It gets to the heart of the most fundamentally important aspects of life—that is, the cost of poorly made decisions. Dr. Merritt talks about those decisions, how to make them, and the price one pays when you get them wrong. This book is full of real-life examples of what happens when priorities are misplaced and reputations are ruined. More importantly, it paints a crystal-clear picture of how to prevent that from happening. Read it—it could change your life.” —Vice Admiral Wm. Dean Lee, USCG (ret)
“Character Still Counts is a necessary chalice of cool water in the desert of our anything-goes era. Honest, compassionate, biblically astute and conversational, this book paints a redemptive picture of how the kingdom of God should work its way into our hearts and practices. There is always hope.” —Mary DeMuth, author of We Too: How the Church Can Respond Redemptively to the Sexual Abuse Crisis
