Book Review "Enough" by Adam Hamilton

Adam Hamilton’s treatise on “prudent financial practices,” Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity, is inspiring.  In a world where computers and cellphones are “disposable” items, his message of restraint and charity stands out.

Beginning with an autobiographical story, many of us can identify with, Reverend Hamilton looks prophetically upon the culture of “affluenza” and “credit-it is” the US finds its citizens living in.  For Hamilton, a deeper problem lies beneath:

“Inside us there is a brokenness; the Bible calls it sin.  Our souls were created in the image of God, but they have been distorted.  We were meant to desire God, but we have turned that desire toward possessions.”  (pg. 21)

Believers need to think about and plan out the financial sphere of their lives.  Its foundation is the answer to the question, “What is your life purpose?”

US society calls us to consume.  Hamilton asks, “What does God call you to do?”

Along with helpful practical advice on financial planning, the author also seeks to remind us of the theological value that undergirds the life of a “contented” Christian.  Can, we Christians, be defined by our generosity?  Our giving?

“When God created humankind, God designed us to be generous.  God created us with the willingness to give to God and to others.”  (pg. 76)

Unfortunately we are strongly “tempted to keep” for ourselves.  Fear and selfishness drive our actions.  Hamilton reminds us that we have been given a gift – our lives.  The One who gave it to us, owns all of it.

“You didn’t bring any of it with you when you came into the world and you won’t take any of it with you when you leave.”  (pg. 79)

Tell them to do good, to be rich in the good things they do, to be generous, and to share with others. When they do these things, they will save a treasure for themselves that is a good foundation for the future. That way they can take hold of what is truly life.         I Timothy 6:18-19

In Enough, with the simple and clear understanding which Adam Hamilton writes on the how’s and why’s of a Christian’s fiscal life, we too can grab ahold of “what is truly life” and not the mere shadow of living.  We come to realize that for most of our lives, we are not needy, but we are “wanty.”  Knowing the difference is the beginning of purpose – God’s purpose for your life.

If you would like your own free copy of Enough by Adam Hamilton, send us an email to info@umcdevelopmentcenter.org with your request, name and mailing address.  Supplies are limited.