The Glorious Pursuit

A Life-Changing Book on Christian Virtues from the Author of Sacred Marriage “When we practice the virtues of Christ,” writes bestselling author Gary Thomas, “we become who God created us to be.” In this classic book of spiritual formation, we encounter true discipleship―the life we were made for―by observing Jesus in his daily life: his interactions with the people around him, his reactions and responses to spiritual warfare, his thoughtful engagement of complicated questions about faith and profound temptations. Jesus embodied the virtues that God has invited us all to cultivate. This book becomes instrumental to our spiritual growth. There aren’t a lot of books that focus squarely on classical Christian virtues; those that do often approach the topic in a scholarly, detached fashion. Gary Thomas has a deep concern for the spiritual vitality of his audience, and that concern comes through in this book. Gary Thomas is one of the most celebrated writers on spiritual formation, with beloved books sitting alongside other contemporary classics by authors such as Dallas Willard, James Bryan Smith, and Richard Foster. In his distinct style, he provides a heartfelt survey of humility, chastity, generosity, patience, perseverance, and more, as demonstrated in the life of Jesus. These virtues are for us, and this book draws lines from our lived experience to the lived experience of Christ, and back to us, pointing the way to a more vibrant faith and a more fulfilling life.

1. Opening Credits
2. Dedication | Introduction to the New Edition
3. Chapter 1: Getting Your Life Back
4. Chapter 2: The Holy Bridge
5. Chapter 3: The Glorious Pursuit
6. Chapter 4: Living Where You Are: Humility, Part 1
7. Chapter 5: The Beautiful Spirit: Humility, Part 2
8. Chapter 6: Resting in the Current: Surrender
9. Chapter 7: Freedom from Within: Detachment
10. Chapter 8: The Energy of Your Soul: Love
11. Chapter 9: Safe Relationships: Chastity
12. Chapter 10: Positive Possession: Generosity
13. Chapter 11: Awakened Living: Vigilance
14. Chapter 12: Realistic Expectations: Patience
15. Chapter 13: Pure Perception: Discernment
16. Chapter 14: Exuberant Living: Thankfulness
17. Chapter 15: Caressing Life: Gentleness
18. Chapter 16: Courageous Living: Fortitude
19. Chapter 17: Enlarged Living: Obedience
20. Chapter 18: The Renewal of Faith: Penitence
21. Afterword
22. Closing Credits