From the very first sentence, it is easy to see why this book will continue to make such an impact in anyone's life. Dr. Stanley begins with the beginning by chronicling a real world struggle between our imperfect views of marriage as well as our" ideal partner" . This work is another example of his masterful storytelling ability to detail the story from the beginning as well as its eventual impact on our relationship choicesal choices as well as its impact on our lives today. By the end of the first chapter, you have been drawn into the story with its rich tapestry as well as helpful anecdotes . Before you know it, you are devouring the instruction both pauses to absorb the interplay between our choices but then accelerates during the vividly described clashes related to marriage struggles . Woven throughout the story is the continual theme that God’s creations are never alone or forgotten despite the chaos that can accompany free will choices.

Part of this novel’s success is the ability of the author to relate why each choice that eventually led to both desired as well as undesired outcomes as well as practical real life strategies for a marriage of partners under the framework of a biblical/God ordained marriage. . You consistently felt like your life is depicted in the action and story . This blend fed a desire to continue devouring the book from cover to cover .Although written from a Christian background, the lessons apply to all who absorb its teaching. Without education such as this book, virtually all marriages will continue to struggle , and I was able to apply many of the stories to my own marriage virtually imediately. I look forward to reading it again.

The value of this story is that it is able to thread the needle of education primarily to men's responsibilities while elevating the role of their partners. Equal partners with different responsibilites . This edition will continue to reflect the value of Dr. Stanley's career of teaching , counseling and immense value to our world.

"What is a... 'real' man? He is the one who understands and accepts the responsibility for the development of his mental, emotional, and spiritual capacity and demonstrates this by his maturing attitude and actions in his personal... home... vocational... social... (and) spiritual life."

Man of God by Charles Stanley is a detailed, example filled, biblically cited resource that teaches biblical masculinity. In this broken world, filled with lost men searching for what is true and who to follow, Stanley points readers back to God and what He wills for mankind. Perfect for all men wanting to grow in this area and women seeking more information for how to help the men in their lives reach the fullness of life God has for them. I personal recommend fathers read this book with their sons (14 years+) and share it with the men in their lives.

Stanley covers a man's personal relationship with the Lord, how to deepen and develop it further, what the Bible says about being a husband, father, and community member, and backs everything up with quotes from Scripture. 80% into the book is an 8-Part Study Guide with session goals, preparation steps, discussion questions, and "homework". This book is perfect for Bible studies, men's groups, or just family devotionals. At the very end of the book are helpful appendices and notes.

The following are some of my favorite quotes from just the beginning of the book, broke down by topic:

Step 1: Get right with God
- "God takes pleasure in spiritual sons who reflect His character."
- "but if his emotions, mind, and will are not under the control of the Holy Spirit, he will fail regularly and tragically."

Step 2: Work on your relationship with God
- "the man of steel (has) conviction. He stands for Him and what he believes is right. He studies the Bible and knows not only what he believes but why he believes as he does."
- "the man of steel is a man of character. He is a man of integrity and honesty who can be trusted."
- "(God) Wants His followers to be men of courage and compassion, mettle and mercy."

Step 3: Avoid sin
- Put on the full spiritual armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-18).
- "the man of steel (has) courage... Makes decisions based on the principles of scripture rather than preference even when it is difficult."
- "his life is self-controlled... disciplined- taking proactive, positive steps and avoiding sinful behaviors and harmful actions."

Focus A: A wife is a gift from God (Prov. 18:22)
- "you are part of your wife and responsible to God for her."
- "'Incompatibility' between partners is not an acceptable excuse to Him."
- "A man's responsibility for his companion is... care... Care says, 'whatever your needs are, I am interested in them and am going to do my best to honor them.'"
- "Some people say... 'marriage is a fifty-fifty partnership.' but the Bible says the man is responsible."
- "The velvet of cooperation balances the steel of authority. No woman wants to snuggle with a rock. She may admire the strength of steel, but she also loves the feel of velvet... He makes every effort to live in peace."
- "You are responsible for providing a sense of security... Security arises from the feeling that a responsible person cares for us."
- "if a look and a touch are vital, more so are your verbal expressions of affection."
- "I have challenged you to courageously open your heart to your wife, and if you are not able to do that, the reason may be that you have not fully opened your heart or spirit to God."

Focus B: Children and community: what spiritual inheritance are you leaving them?
- "If fathers are passive or unavailable, the consequences can be absolutely devastating"
- "A man of steel is committed... Entrusted with three important tasks: to provide for his family; to protect his family from anything destructive to their minds, bodies, and spirits; and to point his family in the direction of the will of God."
- "a Man of steel is constructive. He tries to build others up, especially the members of his family... he spend time with... encourages... is a blessing... he edifies... understand that he has both a right and a responsibility to contribute to the society, his home, and his church.'

This book is an incredible resource and would make a perfect study guide or gift for every man this side of heaven. I can't wait to tell others about it!

Thank you to David C Cook and NetGalley for this ARC!