Larry Julian, the author of GOD IS MY CEO, has again produced a resource that meets the requirements for both faith-based operating principles and savvy to-the-point business methodology. Julian, whose first book took years to get into print from conception to reality, speaks candidly about wrestling with God over personal desires and dreams as he dealt with daily disappointment and rejection. Speaking from his own painful experiences of being fired, divorced, and disabled with a lingering back problem, the author understands what it is to be defeated. Yet he doesn't end his story there. He expounds upon his spiritual journey of rebirth, which transposed itself into every life passage imaginable, and how he's learned to take the pain and pressure and transform them into powerful life messages of success.

As the basis for his text, Julian shares with readers the message he's received from countless attendees of his "God is My CEO" seminars regarding the five most common life obstacles that hinder the success that God intends for today's man or woman. Topping the list is pain and adversity: humanity unanimously avoids pain, thus short-circuiting God's powerful potential. Second, financial slavery: what we have is never enough; men and women are either chasing money or being chased by its elusive and seductive promises. Third, lack of confidence: individuals are paralyzed into inaction because they don't trust God to provide the tools needed to succeed. Fourth, distractions: across the board people live in a state of perpetual frenzy and are unable to hear God's call, that gentle whisper of sanity. Lastly, fear and worry: the self-inflicted mental barrier that stops progress, incites physical and emotional ailments, and drives people to a place of inner torment.

Lest readers become fainthearted at the opposition to success, Julian assures one and all that while God "doesn't promise the removal of obstacles...he does promise to be with you, partner with you, and teach you as you overcome." Cites Julian, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) Don't give in to the subtlety of misbelief, he writes. Rather, join forces with God and discover the destiny within the pain, discover financial freedom, discover courage, discover God's whisper, and discover peace.

Julian's background as a business coach is seen most clearly in the layout of his book. Each chapter accomplishes five objectives. An obstacle is identified that hinders the success desired by God. Testimonies of others who've walked through this particular trial are shared for in-depth study (and inspiration). A surrender and take-charge plan based on biblical principles is offered with comparative solutions. Exercises of practical application are provided for immediate action. And rounding each chapter is a set of discussion questions to enhance and emphasize the concepts covered individually or in a group setting.

The author's infectious enthusiasm allows him to tackle the darker issues of life while simultaneously offering a substantive, hopeful resource that readers will grasp and grab onto like a lifeline. This isn't a lightweight read; rather, this book is for those who are willing to pay a price of self-discipline and self-sacrifice, going against the natural reactions and responses in order to obtain a greater success --- one that is God-inspired.

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