A Far Better Life: Spiritual and Psychological Insights
from Jesus' Teaching
(Paperback)

by James G. Friesen

A Far Better Life: Spiritual and Psychological Insights from Jesus’ Teaching (2008) encourages readers to re-think whatever they have learned about "The Sermon on the Mount". From his years of gaining knowledge and experience, using this understanding of "The Sermon on the Mount" in his life and in his counseling practice, Jim has produced a book with profound, yet practical ideas. Staying with everyday language and common sense concepts, the book provides plenty of biblical depth, with almost half of it devoted to Jesus’ sermon. One chapter contains a fully translated copy of the sermon, which is sometimes referred to as “the greatest sermon in history.” A wealthy stream of ideas flows from it, a stream that offers life to the fullest. Following the section where Jesus’ teaching is discussed, the book applies the three central truths from the sermon, to people’s lives. Pastors and counselors will find clearly connected counseling principles, and people who are struggling will find hope. A Far Better Life is far more than a catchy title. Listen to the Master’s voice. It is not saying, “You should do better!” It is saying, “Let me help you do better.” Soft and welcoming, yet compelling, Jesus invites us to make Him our guide.

“Jim Friesen’s A Far Better Life transforms The Beatitudes from lofty concepts to an intimate interchange between Lord and listener. It awakens a longing for closeness with the Healer.” – Pamela Perez, family therapist and author of Just before Dawn

“A Far Better Life gives insightful truths which deeply impact the heart of a believer. Instead of taking the superficial path of treating symptoms, James Friesen directs our attention to the reality of God’s revealed truth and the transformation that takes place in genuine relationship with the heavenly Father. Through a fresh look at the Beatitudes taught by Jesus, we are reminded again that all permanent change takes place from the inside out.” -- Dr. Henry Malone, president of Vision Life Ministries

After reading individually we came together to discuss what we learned. At each meeting we were given nuggets of insight by each other to expand our own understanding. We found the “Sermon on the Mount” and the “Lessons about Healing Hearts” chapters the meatiest, spending meeting after meeting discussing them. This is a great book for group discussion, bringing each person closer to God and to each other. We still talk about the book even though we’re through studying it. – Jewels, an intercessory group