Thoughts gleamed from the book, Expository Exultation by John Piper

   While this book is intended for those who are considering or who are preachers of the word and seeking a deeper learning, I as a lay person found it not only interesting, but informative. From page one to the final page, there is something that everyone can take to heart.
   I have discovered in reading, that even and especially one that has been a Christian for many years, that we cannot walk with closed eyes and hardened heart. We must be willing and actually seeking God spoken words that will awaken us to a new and better understanding. I found many instances of that in this book.
 I will not attempt to write a review for the ages, that isn't my purpose. My attempt here, is to  share what I am carrying away from reading this book.
 I have a greater understanding of the purpose of corporate worship and its intended purpose. To not only learn and worship, but to glorify God.
 I learned that while the cross of Christ is the ground for faith, true faith begins there and expands outward.
 I learned, that every act, every word, within the Bible, every promise, is one of love, mercy and grace. All that lead and tell of the glories of God.
 I learned, that with everything I learned, there were questions. So it brought a hunger to read more, to examine and seek answers not only in this book, but in scripture.
 As I read on his words of advice and instructions to preachers, I have learned as a layperson what more to listen for, what to hope for in sermons and messages brought to us, to instruct, guide and explain what God wants us to know.
 As I closed this book, with a fire for learning lit, I can say I am pleased what this book taught me and look forward to reading more of his works.