Book Review
As a Man Thinketh
by James Allen
Read if you're interested in self-help, spiritual growth, or books for adult.
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6.5
VerdictRead with discernment
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Book Summary
This classic self-help book explores the power of thought in shaping one's character, circumstances, and destiny. Allen argues that individuals are entirely responsible for their thoughts and that these thoughts manifest as their reality.
What it does well
- — Emphasizes personal responsibility for one's thoughts and actions, aligning with biblical calls for self-control and stewardship of the mind (Proverbs 4:23, Philippians 4:8).
- — Encourages noble and virtuous thinking, promoting positive character development consistent with Christian virtues (Galatians 5:22-23).
- — Highlights the importance of cultivating a disciplined mind, which can be a valuable spiritual discipline.
Watch for
- — Lacks an explicit Christian worldview, making no mention of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, or the need for grace and redemption.
- — The book's philosophy leans heavily into New Thought principles, suggesting that thought alone creates reality, potentially downplaying the sovereignty of God and the impact of sin and external factors (though it acknowledges effort).
- — The concept of 'circumstances are effects and not causes' can be misinterpreted to imply that all suffering or hardship is solely a result of individual thought, potentially minimizing the reality of evil, systemic injustice, or the fallen world (Romans 8:22).
Verdict
Christian readers can find some beneficial principles regarding self-discipline and the impact of thoughts on character. However, they should approach the book with discernment, filtering its ideas through a biblical lens and recognizing its secular, New Thought underpinnings. It should not be used as a primary source for spiritual guidance.
ALIGNMYREAD RECOMMENDATION
“Christian readers can find some beneficial principles regarding self-discipline and the impact of thoughts on character. However, they should approach the book with discernment, filtering its ideas through a biblical lens and recognizing its secular, New Thought underpinnings. It should not be used as a primary source for spiritual guidance.”
Biblical alignment
- —Emphasizes personal responsibility for one's thoughts and actions, aligning with biblical calls for self-control and stewardship of the mind (Proverbs 4:23, Philippians 4:8).
- —Encourages noble and virtuous thinking, promoting positive character development consistent with Christian virtues (Galatians 5:22-23).
- —Highlights the importance of cultivating a disciplined mind, which can be a valuable spiritual discipline.
- —Promotes self-reflection and introspection, which can be a pathway to understanding one's spiritual state.
Areas of concern
- —Lacks an explicit Christian worldview, making no mention of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, or the need for grace and redemption.
- —The book's philosophy leans heavily into New Thought principles, suggesting that thought alone creates reality, potentially downplaying the sovereignty of God and the impact of sin and external factors (though it acknowledges effort).
- —The concept of 'circumstances are effects and not causes' can be misinterpreted to imply that all suffering or hardship is solely a result of individual thought, potentially minimizing the reality of evil, systemic injustice, or the fallen world (Romans 8:22).
- —The self-sufficiency of man, while encouraging personal accountability, can lead to a prideful reliance on one's own power rather than reliance on God (Jeremiah 17:5-6).
- —Does not address the spiritual battle for the mind or the need for spiritual transformation through Christ for true change (Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:23-24).
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