However, there are some weak points present in Jacobsen’s work. Few scriptures are provided to back up his points, and single verses at times serve as the foundation for suppositions that are widely divergent from those held by the majority of the body of Christ. For instance, he posits that believers no longer need to fear God, but a brief survey of the word 'fear' as used throughout the New Testament would display that the matter of fearing God is not as one-sided as presented here. Scripture speaks to the fear of God in a believer’s life, as well as fear not being present in perfect love. All instances of the term 'fear' need to be taken into account to form a balanced view of God’s thoughts on the matter. Jacobsen’s beliefs regarding sin should also be closely compared with scripture; it seems that they may ultimately lead to the doctrine of complete sanctification within this life when followed to their logical conclusion. Readers will need to proceed with discernment, eating the meat and spitting out the bones.

If you’ve been entrenched in a struggle to trust in Christ’s work on the cross on your behalf, these teachings regarding God’s love may take some time to sink in. Jacobsen acknowledges that tuning in to God’s love and experiencing Him daily takes time, patience, and trust. With each chapter Jacobsen provides points for personal application, as well as questions that can be explored in a group discussion setting. Seeking God in prayer that focuses upon the suggestions offered, and discussing these teachings with others will serve to deepen understanding and belief.

For myself, I’m inspired to read through the New Testament once again, seeking to understand the love of God through His word as I seek to draw near to Him. I am confident that He Loves Me! will reach many believers who are seeking to regain an authentic, personal walk with Christ as they emerge from works based expectations.

Reviewed at http://quiverfullfamily.com ( )

For a while now I've known that, in order to live a surrendered life, I need to get to know who God is, and really sink into the knowledge that He loves me completely. This little book was a great start into heading in that direction.

The author touches on so many different points: trust, fear, shame, prayer, love... But, overall, his message seems to be that we should set aside our striving, and start learning to trust that God the Father loves us absolutely and completely.

This book would be good for those just new to the Christian faith, and perhaps even those who are still wondering whether they should take the leap and commit their lives to being a Christ-follower. Its writing is very "gentle", and yet it's so hope-filled! You get the feeling, while reading, that this all really IS for you, too! And, that's the point, because it is!

The book is also great for all of us long-time followers of Christ who've been taught all our lives --perhaps inadvertently-- that we need to earn God's approval by trying harder... more Bible reading, more prayer, more church attendance. Even if we don't consciously believe this, we often act as though we do. So, this book is a great eye-opener that striving isn't what Christ called us to do -- He died so that we could just rest in His love and friendship. ;)

"That's the invitation to the kingdom. It's not whether we want to go to heaven or hell, but whether we want to trust God or continue trusting ourselves." ~ page 154, "He Loves Me"

Rated: B+ ( )

This is the BEST explanation of the Father's love I have ever read! So much becomes clear as you discover page after page of insights into the eternal. Everyone should read this! Whether you are reacting to the offer of relationship with the Father through rebellion or religion - you need to come home. This book will point the way home. ( )