Trusting in Holiness: A Review of Jackie Hill Perry’s Holier Than Thou
From the moment I learned about Jackie Hill Perry’s latest work, Holier Than Thou: How God’s Holiness Helps Us Trust Him, I felt that familiar spark of excitement reserved for authors whose words have genuinely impacted my life. Jackie’s ability to weave profound biblical truths with practical applications has always captured my attention, and this book is no exception. As someone who often wrestles with trusting God in the midst of life’s uncertainties, the promise of exploring His holiness felt like a guiding light.
In Holier Than Thou, Perry dives deep into the essence of God’s character—His holiness—and what it means for us as believers. She offers a fresh perspective by saying, “If God is holy, then He can’t sin. If God can’t sin, then He can’t sin against me.” This foundational truth resonated profoundly with me, reinforcing the idea that trust grows when we understand who God truly is. By likening our trust in God to that of a child for their loving parent, Jackie gives us relatable imagery that is both comforting and enlightening. This parallel helps us understand that just as children bask in the security of their parents’ unwavering love, we too can rest secure in God’s perfect character.
Jackie navigates complex theological themes—God’s transcendence, moral perfection, and idolatry—with grace and accessibility. She traces the narrative of holiness from creation through the fall and redemption, articulating how this journey impacts our relationship with God. For those who might initially feel overwhelmed by theological jargon, her straightforward yet profound language breaks down substantial concepts into bite-sized portions. She emphasizes that “because God is holy, all that He says is true and all that He does is good,” a reminder that is both simple and deeply enriching.
One of the standout moments for me was when she contrasts God’s holiness with idolatry, stating that “idolators don’t want the real God; they want to be him.” This vivid insight encouraged me to examine my own tendencies towards self-sufficiency and idolatry, challenging me to re-evaluate what I truly hold dear in my spiritual life. Perry doesn’t just preach; she invites us to behold the glory of the Lord actively, suggesting that transformation is a natural result of intimacy with Him.
The pacing of the book is well-balanced—each of the seven chapters is rich with insights yet maintains a flow that keeps you engaged. I found her vulnerability in sharing her own struggles with trusting God to be refreshing, making the reading experience feel authentic and relatable.
As I closed the final pages, I couldn’t help but reflect on the significant impact this book had on me personally. It distilled years of theological understanding into a practical guide that speaks to the heart’s deepest need for trust and relationship with God. I rate Holier Than Thou a resounding 5 stars!
For anyone wrestling with doubts or seeking to deepen their understanding of God’s nature, this book is a treasure. Whether you are a seasoned believer or just starting your journey, Jackie Hill Perry’s insights may very well open a door to a more trusting relationship with our holy God. Thank you, Netgalley and the publisher, for the advance reader copy that allowed me to dive into this enriching work!
If you’re ready for a transformative experience, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up Holier Than Thou. It just might change the way you view trust in your relationship with God.
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