Rick Warren's book The Purpose Driven Life has been a best seller book from the time it came out. He has helped many people through his words and use of the scriptures. This book has changed many lives and inspired so many people through Warren's writing. One of the key things that some people would need to realize is that you cannot just read the book and think that your life will magically be different and better. One needs to apply what Warren talks about in the book to their life. They need practice the things that he talks about and live them, not just read them and say "hey that's good." But how does one apply a book to their life? Here are some tips.
Each chapter has a different reason, a different purpose it serves. The first few chapters focus on realizing you have a purpose and drive. The rest of the book deals with being able to identify that purpose for one's life, and living for that purpose. When you read through the book don't just read. Pay attention to the things Warren says. Highlight different things and make small notes in the margins. Don't read more than one chapter a day. Each chapter is designated to be read one at a time. Take time to think through the things that has been said. Think through where you stand in regards to each chapter, and how that affects your life.
Another thing you should do while reading this book is to make use oh either Warren's journal or create one on the computer or notebook. Write down your thoughts after reading each chapter, and answers to the questions at the end of the chapters and throughout the book. For example in chapter three Warren asks a question: What drives your life, that's a question you should think about not just while reading the book, but when you have finished the chapter. Write down your own questions you could ask yourself later or even your pastor, family and friends. When you keep a journal you are able to look back and see if you have changed, if not you can try harder to change something.
When you have finished the book, don't just leave it on the shelf or give it away or anything. Reread it a few years down the line and see if and how you have changed towards knowing and living for your purpose. Some things that may need to change would be living habits, you may have to change some things that you do in order to live your life according to your purpose. I know I had to distance myself from certain people because they just brought me to a level I didn't need to be at.
If this book inspires you to do something do it! Don't let that inspiration fade. Do what it takes to make whatever you see as your purpose to come true. If you do nothing then it dies and as Warren states a life without a purpose is a dead one. You cannot let dreams and goals fade and dwindle because of fear that you may fail, but failure teaches us what we don't do, but what we need to do instead.
The Purpose Driven Life is a book that has helped many and is taught in many different churches. The things that Rick Warren says within it are moving and can make you realize things you didn't know before reading this book. This book can be used alone, with a group of friends or a small church group, which ever it is used it always beneficial no matter how many times you read it. When you read it don't let it end at the end of the book. Let Rick Warren's words live through your life and guide you towards your purpose with God.
