Review of Love Like That:  5 Relationship Secrets from Jesus

Dr. Les Parrott.  Thomas Nelson, $22.99 (240p) ISBN 978-1-4002-0781-7

From psychologist and #1 New York Times bestselling author Parrott comes a thought-provoking inquiry into the “how” of loving others effectively.  Parrott suggests five qualities characterized by the love of Jesus as a practical model.  [xxiv ff].  In Chapter 1: “Mindful,” Parrott presents biblical examples of Jesus seeing beyond the obvious [p. 5 e.g.] and indicates that our personal agendas are a barrier to mindfulness [pp. 9-12], one of the keys to wisdom [p. 24].  In Chapter 2: “Approachable,” Parrott discusses the barrier of pride [p. 40 e.g.] and offers humility as the path to approachability [p. 40 ff].  Chapter 3: “Grace-full” contains biblical lessons in accepting others unconditionally and free from judgment [p. 60 ff].  Chapter 4: “Bold” deals with authenticity in relationships and fear of rejection [p. 103 ff].  Parrott states, “if you want to become a better and bolder truth-teller, a good place to start is with a little more vulnerability” [p. 116].  In Chapter 5: “Self-Giving,” Parrott presents the idea of emptying the self of personal desire in order to put others first [p. 144 e.g.].  He offers connection with the Holy Spirit as a means to receive and apply the five steps from a place of heart vs. head [pp. 151-173].  The Appendix, “21 Days to Loving Like That” contains a promotional offer for readers to receive daily text messages from Parrott offering verses and quotes as a reminder to spend daily quiet time with God.  The text overall is easily accessible to readers, written in simple language and well-organized.  However, a plethora of stories, examples, and quotes clouds Parrott’s overall message and he fails to address dysfunctional/ abusive situations which call for valid considerations of self-interest to be weighed against sacrificial love. 3 stars.