Book Review: Captivating
by Connie Gregory
Then the time came when the risk it took
To remain tight in a bud was more painful
Than the risk it took to blossom.
- Anais Nin
When I came across this quote in the opening pages of Captivating, I marveled at how beautifully and accurately it captured my own journey. I was hopeful that in the coming pages I would find truth and encouragement for my heart. In the end, I was not disappointed.
Captivating is the effort of John & Stasi Eldredge to unveil the mysteries of a woman’s soul. Doesn’t it strike you as odd that as women we would need someone to unveil our own soul to us? Unfortunately, we did not grow up in the perfection of Eden as God intended and our hearts were wounded, often to the point that we no longer desired or even recognized our uniqueness as women. It is John and Stasi’s belief that every woman’s heart longs for three things: to be romanced, to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to unveil beauty. As I read this book, I found Jesus gently guiding me back to these true longings of my heart and revealing that He is the fulfillment of each. He is the ultimate Romancer, He does have a role for me to fill in His great adventure, and as I allow Him to take down my walls of self-protection I will unveil His beauty to the world.
I think this book is relevant for women of all ages and seasons of life. Because we are each unique and at different states of the journey, there will probably be parts that resonate more with some than others. Personally, I found the greatest treasures in the last few chapters of the book. So if you don’t love it right away, I strongly encourage you to keep reading until the end. Each of us was created in the image of God as a woman and therefore what we have to offer the world is different than men. It is not more or less, but it is necessary. For too long the enemy has warred against our hearts and kept us in hiding. I challenge you, perhaps through reading this book, to let Jesus lead you to places of truth in your heart so that you may be whole in Him and able to give from yourself what the world around you so desperately needs.