Customer Reviews

Let Yourself Be Loved (Illuminationbooks)

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4 star:		(2)
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A friend of mine loaned me this book to read. I just finished it and am now going to order it to send to my parents because it is that moving. Mr. Bennett has put into words so many of my fears about life and spirituality that it brought me to tears while reading it. Each chapter examines what it means to be loved by others, God and yourself. Then it ultimately concludes in showing that loving God and others is loving yourself and it is O.K., as is contrary in so many facets of our modern society. The sections conclude with prayers that are meant to help implement the teachings in the specific chapters. The language is clear, concise and inspiring. This book is for anyone that considers themselves remotely spiritual, no matter what doctrine of faith you practice. The love and message is universal, so let yourself be loved as the title says.

Spiritually, I feel like Phillip was writing to me when he wrote this. He understands the daily angst we all feel from day to day and sometimes minute to minute and gives us an understanding of how to handle it - and get on with our lives. I believe we are all searching for that peace and magic that he writes is achievable with prayer and understanding and appreciating ourselves through and through.

In practice, I appreciate the way it's written so that I can go back to it from time to time and focus on a chapter or prayer. It's easy to keep next to the bed or in a travel bag for quick reference.

Looking forward to Phillip's next book!

This little booklet is one I sense I will return to over and over again. What attracts me to it are: the clarity of its organization, the real-life examples Dr. Bennett so effectively uses, the literary references, the layers of meaning and the summary prayers at the end of each chapter -- the "collects," if you will. Ever since I received my copy (a friend gave it to me as a gift), I've kept it at my bedside so I can dip into a chapter each night as a way to end the day and populate my dreams with affirming prayers. I have a list of people for whom I plan to give it as a gift and it continues to grow.

This book jumps right to the core of the problem for those who have a problem allowing themselves to be or feel loved. Bennett lays the Truth right out there and as long as you believe God's Word is true, you will come away from reading this book knowing that you are valuable and that it is necessary for us to allow others to care for you as much as you care for others. I can honestly say this book has given new light and life to my ministry just by correcting the way I see myself. As a fundamental evangelical, some of the things Bennett says seem just a tad off but 99% of the book is right on target.

My spiritual director, a Franciscan priest, lent this book to me as we discussed my desire for a more intimate relationship with Christ. I found Bennett's concise but thorough analysis and cure for all the fears that keep us from the love of God very helpful. I was particularly intrigued by his conclusion, where he describes the "circle dance of love." What a beautiful image for that which is ultimately indescribable. This is a jewel among spiritual books!

I happened across this book when I was on retreat during a particularly difficult period of my life. It was one of the most grace-filled moments I can remember - opening this book and feeling like the words were absolutely meant for me. This book is a gem. Dr. Bennett provides a simple, beautiful reiteration of a truth that all of us so easily forget - that we are loved by God for who we are, for how we are created to be. This book would be perfect for a small group or devotional exercise.

The book was a little hard to read. I did get a couple ideas of how to go to adoration. I think it would be difficult for young readers to understand. If they can get through it the time would be well spent.