I Am Number 8: Overlooked and Undervalued, but Not Forgotten by God by John Gray

I Am Number 8: Overlooked and Undervalued, but Not Forgotten by God

by John Gray

About:

If God can take David--the invisible eighth son of a forgotten family--and turn him into a king, just imagine what magnificent plans He has for redeeming your life.

David was born a number 8--a hidden gem, often overlooked and undervalued by everyone except for God. For David, being a number 8 seemed like a curse until the day God transformed him from the unknown eighth son of Jesse into the much-honored king of Israel. 

When God sends out an invitation to greatness, His directions don't always make sense to us. You may feel like the most invisible, broken number 8 out there, but God sees your hidden value and is growing you for better things. David didn't know it, but his time as a simple shepherd with a dull future did not go unnoticed by God. In David's darkest moments, he was cultivating the kind of gifts, wisdom, and leadership he would need to become a king. Even when you're an underdog in the eyes of the world, God is working behind the scenes to develop you into a king or queen.

My Thoughts:

"I Am Number 8" is about John Gray who know's what it's like to be a "nobody" who often gets overlooked, but so did so many of those in the Bible who God called to be great warriors of the faith. John takes his story and intertwines it with David, which is a man that God calls after "His own heart." This book is for those who feel like they aren't sure if God will use them? The biggest thing that I take away from this book is God is willing to use anyone, but we need to be available to God and seeking him. He is willing to use us, if we are available. I also loved how John Gray talks about in this book authentic leadership. He describes that pastors cannot be wearing a Halloween mask in front of the church and living this perfect lifestyle, when that isn't the truth of who they are. You have to own your mistake and walk in the destiny that God has called you into. I love this part in the book because I think it's really easy for many church leaders to feel the need to have it all together, when in reality they don't need to do. Mistakes are mistakes and they are humans too, however the culture and world makes Christians feel as though they cannot be humans either. I found this to be good perspective. Overall, this book will make you realize that God can use you and He wants too! Be available, He will use even the tiny small mundane things in your life for His glory. He has a plan for your life! Thank you to the kind folks at Faith Words for sending me a copy. A favorable review was not required. I give this book 5/5 stars.

To purchase your copy, head here! 

About the Author:

 JOHN GRAY is the associate pastor of America's largest church, Lakewood Church, in Houston, Texas. He preaches at Lakewood's midweek service, where attendance has quadrupled in the last several years. He is also a featured keynote speaker, emcee, and comedian for "Acquire the Fire" youth rallies held in arenas all over the U.S. He resides in Houston with his wife and their children.