In His Steps (Charles M. Sheldon, 248.5 SHE)

Recommended By Dn Paul Teoh (3 Jun 08)

“What would Jesus do?” This expressions and its acronym, WWJD?, are inscribed on bracelets, tee-shirts, mugs, bumper stickers, pencils, notebooks and even friendship bands. The source of this famous question is Sheldon’s inspirational novel, In His Steps.

First published in 1896, the fictional book has sold more than 30 million copies, which ranks as the 39th best-selling book of all time. Set in the late 1800's, a pastor challenges his church to take a pledge: to make no decisions before first asking "what would Jesus do." As a result, many lives were changed. Many who took that pledge suffered for it.

As Singaporean Christians living in the 21st century, I believe Sheldon’s message is still relevant to us today. What difference would asking the question, “What would Jesus do?” make in our lives today. It would certainly make me a more patient and less irritated driver on our roads. I’d like to think that it would help me be a more devoted follower of Christ and a more caring husband and father.

But what about the larger issues of life – our careers, our choice of life partners, our financial investments and even the way we raise our children. Would a pledge to ‘make no decisions before first asking what would Jesus do?’ make any difference in these big areas of our lives? The unspoken question that begs asking then – ‘Is the Bible and its teachings relevant to life today, in the exceedingly driven rat-race of Singapore?’ I believe that the principles found in God’s Word are timeless and therefore still extremely relevant today.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5, 6 (NASB)

Librarian: more info on book at SSNET