Empty Promises by Pete Wilson

Pete Wilson in Empty Promises: The Truth About You, Your Desires, and the Lies You're Believing addresses head on the issue of idols in our lives.  Wilson notes that "idolatry is when I look to something that does not have God's power to give me what only God has the power and authority to give (Wilson, Empty Promises, 5).  He then goes on to explain that we, including those in the church, are practicing idolatry on a daily basis not allowing us to achieve our purposes.  Wilson then chronicles the common idols of our day, including the warning signs that we are worshiping at a false idol.  These idols include; power, success, money, beauty and religion.  Wilson notes that humans are inclined to worship and that only by worshiping God can we achieve our true purpose of reflecting Him.  Wilson finishes with practical tips for connecting with God and throwing off false ones. 

I have to be honest, I went into this read expecting generic Christian book and a continuation on the themes in Wilson's first book Plan B.  Instead, I found all new content that was challenging and to be honest things we need to be saying to each other.  Wilson is honest and calling us out in the church on our issues.  Chapters on pleasing others for their approval and religion for the glorification of self will make many uncomfortable.  There was plenty in this book that I found challenging!  Wilson identifies the sin of idolatry in the midst of God's people and then gives us the prescription for overcoming it.  The text itself is very well written, easy to read, and has a nice balance of personal stories, Biblical references and secondary supporting sources.  Overall Empty Promises is a very challenging book attacking issues that are often blind spots in the church. 


Review Copy Provided by Thomas Nelson