Title: The Sacred Search: What If It’s Not about Who You Marry, But Why? Author: Gary L.
Thomas
First published January 1, 2013
256 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781434704894 (ISBN10: 1434704890)
Rating: 4.29
Overview
Are you tired of searching for your soul mate? What if there’s a better way to approach romantic relationships?
In The Sacred Search, Gary L. Thomas challenges the conventional idea of finding “the one” and instead proposes the concept of finding a “sole mate” who will help you fulfill God’s purpose for your life.
With his unique perspective on dating and relationships, Gary will help you make a wise choice and prepare for a spiritually enriching marriage even before you say “I do.” Get ready to transform the way you view romantic relationships and discover how they can make you holy instead of just happy. Remember, a good marriage is not something you find – it’s something you make.
About the Author
Meet Gary Thomas: a bestselling author and international speaker dedicated to helping people deepen their relationships with Christ and others. Gary combines the study of Scripture, church history, and the Christian classics to encourage spiritual growth and foster community within the Christian faith.
With 20 books to his name, including the popular titles “Sacred Marriage” and “Cherish,” Gary has sold over two million copies worldwide, translated into more than a dozen languages and earned numerous accolades. His writing has established him as a thought-leader in marriage, parenting, and spiritual formation.
Gary holds a B.A. in English Literature from Western Washington University, an MA in systematic theology from Regent College in Vancouver, BC, and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Western Seminary in Portland, OR. He serves as Writer in Residence and on the teaching team at Second Baptist Church, Houston, a congregation with six campuses and 70,000 members.
Additionally, he is an adjunct faculty member at Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon and Houston Theological Seminary in Houston, Texas.
As a speaker, Gary has shared his message in 49 states and nine different countries, appearing on national television and radio programs, including multiple appearances on Focus on the Family and Family Life Today. His interviews on Focus on the Family have been chosen among the “Best of 2013,” “Best of 2014” and “Best of 2017.”
When he’s not traveling and speaking, Gary enjoys running and has completed 14 marathons, including the Boston Marathon three times. He and his wife Lisa have been married for 35 years, and they have three adult children and a granddaughter who is the apple of their eye.
Gary Thomas is passionate about using the Christian classics to bring people closer to Christ and each other.
Editoral Review
Gary L. Thomas The Sacred Search: What If It’s Not about Who You Marry, But Why?
is a thought-provoking book that explores a fresh perspective on marriage. As one of todays most successful authors on Christian marriage, Gary L.
Thomas, speaks with experience, insight, and a depth of understanding that comes from personal connections and research on various cultures. The book is written in a self-help style, with practical advice that is easy to read and understand.
It aims to help readers understand what to look for in a partner and why. Throughout the book, Thomas emphasizes the importance of marriage, why it matters, and how to find a spouse that not only fits the needs of an individual but also aligns with their values and goals.
The book follows a particular narrative thread, where the author narrates his personal stories, spirituality and contains vital statistics from research. It highlights the challenges people face when making the wrong decision while choosing to marry someone or the right one as well.
The readers could learn from the personal experiences and circumstances of the author and explore their own personal beliefs and thoughts on the matter. Thomas also takes a nuanced approach in discussing his views, as he acknowledges that people have varying opinions and beliefs surrounding the institution of marriage.
He starts by addressing the five key elements that are essential to the marriage process, followed by wedding planning, searching for a partner, and developing a relationship. Thomas provides insightful questions that help to evaluate oneself and ones relationship, ultimately leading to decisions that bring about a more fulfilling and wholesome marriage.
The book is both refreshing and practical, providing clear, actionable steps on how to find a lifelong partner. Thomas explores historic and cultural marriage traditions that might have significance in context to present-day social attitudes.
For instance, he explains the Indian model of arranged marriages and how they work. Furthermore, the book could be seen as gender-focused on heterosexual marriage as it focuses mainly on the perspective of a man looking for the right woman to marry.
It might not cater to readers looking to explore other forms of relationships beyond the traditional male-female relationships or non-heterosexual couples. In summary, The Sacred Search by Gary L.
Thomas provides an insightful, evidence-based guide to choosing a partner to marry. It is an ideal read for anyone who wants to make more informed decisions about marriage, especially for those who are yet to take the plunge.
However, readers should be aware that the books focus leans toward traditional, heterosexual relationships. Nonetheless, it is a highly recommended read for those searching for committed relationships.
The book deserves a rating of 4.5 out of 5, with the unique take on marital issues, writing style, research, and practical advice that leaves the reader feeling well-satisfied with the value of the book.
