The Pursuit of God by A. W. Tozer

Nonfiction. 136 Pages. 4 Stars

Synopsis:

Sometimes the voice that speaks so clearly in the present is one that echoes from the past. So it is in this Christian classic by the late pastor and evangelist A. W. Tozer.

Tozer brings the mystics to bear on modern spirituality, grieving the hustle and bustle and calling for a slow, steady gaze upon God. With prophetic vigor and flowing prose, he urges us to replace low thoughts of God with lofty ones, to quiet our lives so we can know God’s presence. He reminds us that life apart from God is really no life at all.

Tozer writes from his knees, a posture fit for presenting the character of God in all its demanding grandeur. “Arise, O sleeper!” is his word to us, and yet if we heed the call, we will see that to arise is not to stand but to kneel before the God of heaven in humble contemplation. To pursue God is to know Him, and in our knowing be drawn in.

My Review:

This was an interesting read. My bible study group decided we’d go through this book together instead of a bible study this go round, and I’d heard that Tozer was a big name in the Christian space. I’d never read anything by him before, though, so this was my first experience.

I’m usually a fan of older books and older language, and though this wasn’t a super difficult read, I did find myself wondering why Tozer explained the same point six times over. There were bits that just felt a little repetitive to me.

But that said, the book is beautiful in its simplicity and Tozer’s obvious devotion to deepening his relationship with God. He calls us back to the basics and reminds us that truth is what brings us depth. One of my favorite things about this book was his adamant warning against accepting a shallow faith. Being okay with mediocrity. Tozer practically shouts for depth and purpose and intentionality in our faith walks. And that is something our society often sorely misses.

There were many beautiful lines and poignant points that struck me, so I allowed myself a highlighter in this instance–oof! I do so hate to write in books! But as this was being used much like a bible study, I have convinced myself I will be thankful later to review the book and find the gems standing out. I must admit, however, there were a few chapters in the middle that I got a little bored with. Again, there just seemed to be three pages to cover one (albeit simple and often profound) truth. But he ended with a bang. The last chapter was absolutely my favorite.

I also enjoyed the prayers that concluded each chapter. There are ten fairly short, fairly straightforward chapters in this little book, but Tozer was no stranger to depth. It was a refreshing read and will leave you with something to chew on for sure.