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They Walked with God: 40 Bible Characters Who Inspire Us
The characters we meet in the Bible play a huge role in our lives. Whether we personally relate to Joseph’s dedication to serving the Lord even when he was confused or we understand when Mary Magdalene mourns in front of the vacant tomb, the timeless stories we find in the Bible influence and inspire us to learn to be more like Christ. But how can we apply these lessons to our everyday lives?
In They Walked with God, a compilation adapted from previous works with new content added, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado takes a closer look at 40 of the most inspirational characters in the Bible and shares a powerful if God can find a place for each character in the Bible, we can rest assured that he’s carved out a spot for us too.
They Walked with God includes a series of meaningful, in-depth discussion questions that correspond with each biblical character that Max has highlighted, giving you a chance to reflect further about the incredible lives they led and the lessons we can learn from them. This one-of-a-kind, interactive resource is ideal for devout followers and new believers alike.
In this compilation, Max weaves together stories from Scripture with stories that offer a modern perspective, bringing each of these men and women to life within the pages of They Walked with God. Max will encourage you as you get to know these figures, and yourself, better
Guiding you through a comprehensive study of 40 of the Bible’s most remarkable--and sometimes seemingly unremarkable--charactersProviding 185+ thoughtful and engaging discussion questions designed to spark further conversation about how we can apply these lessons to our daily livesSharing personal stories that will help you grow your faith and strengthen your relationship with JesusMax adds dimension and depth to 40 incredible people who had the chance to walk alongside God, reminding us that we’re invited to walk alongside him too.
In They Walked with God, a compilation adapted from previous works with new content added, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado takes a closer look at 40 of the most inspirational characters in the Bible and shares a powerful if God can find a place for each character in the Bible, we can rest assured that he’s carved out a spot for us too.
They Walked with God includes a series of meaningful, in-depth discussion questions that correspond with each biblical character that Max has highlighted, giving you a chance to reflect further about the incredible lives they led and the lessons we can learn from them. This one-of-a-kind, interactive resource is ideal for devout followers and new believers alike.
In this compilation, Max weaves together stories from Scripture with stories that offer a modern perspective, bringing each of these men and women to life within the pages of They Walked with God. Max will encourage you as you get to know these figures, and yourself, better
Guiding you through a comprehensive study of 40 of the Bible’s most remarkable--and sometimes seemingly unremarkable--charactersProviding 185+ thoughtful and engaging discussion questions designed to spark further conversation about how we can apply these lessons to our daily livesSharing personal stories that will help you grow your faith and strengthen your relationship with JesusMax adds dimension and depth to 40 incredible people who had the chance to walk alongside God, reminding us that we’re invited to walk alongside him too.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2022
598 people are currently reading
564 people want to read
About the author
Max Lucado
1,213 books5,520 followersWith more than 150 million products in print and several NYT bestsellers, Max Lucado is America's bestselling inspirational author. He serves the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy. His most recent book published in August 2024 and is titled What Happens Next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 23, 2022
My thanks to Thomas Nelson and libro.fm for an advanced audio copy of this book to listen to and review.
It probably didn’t help that I was listening to this with next to no sleep under my belt for weeks. The narrator had a very soothing tone of voice and the topic is the Bible, so relaxing. Too relaxing. I had to stop halfway through my commute each day so o wouldn’t fall asleep behind the wheel.
That docked it a star for me, to be perfectly honest.
I also wasn’t fond of the imagining what the Biblical characters thought, did and said that wasn’t in the Bible. It made me uncomfortable. I understand why he did it, but I didn’t agree with it.
Not horrible, but I wasn’t wowed. I do like his books, but this one missed the mark a tad for me.
3, might have been better for me if I had read instead of listened, stars.
It probably didn’t help that I was listening to this with next to no sleep under my belt for weeks. The narrator had a very soothing tone of voice and the topic is the Bible, so relaxing. Too relaxing. I had to stop halfway through my commute each day so o wouldn’t fall asleep behind the wheel.
That docked it a star for me, to be perfectly honest.
I also wasn’t fond of the imagining what the Biblical characters thought, did and said that wasn’t in the Bible. It made me uncomfortable. I understand why he did it, but I didn’t agree with it.
Not horrible, but I wasn’t wowed. I do like his books, but this one missed the mark a tad for me.
3, might have been better for me if I had read instead of listened, stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2022
Each chapter of this book focuses on a different character from the Bible and begins with a passage from the Bible. Through skilled and inspired writing, this author imparts wisdom and truth with compassion and sincerity. In many of the chapters, I felt like he was speaking directly to me.
A standout chapter for me is the one about Mary Magdalene. The author centered this lesson around Psalm 30:5, Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning. This verse has the hard-earned position of being my favorite Bible verse.
Another chapter that spoke to me personally was the one about Noah. Noah was a flood survivor. What “floods” have you survived? I have survived “floods” which did not involve excessive amounts of water. Each “flood” that I have survived has uniquely qualified me to give hope to someone else.
This book blessed me, comforted me and challenged me. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing through the Amazon Vine Program.
A standout chapter for me is the one about Mary Magdalene. The author centered this lesson around Psalm 30:5, Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning. This verse has the hard-earned position of being my favorite Bible verse.
Another chapter that spoke to me personally was the one about Noah. Noah was a flood survivor. What “floods” have you survived? I have survived “floods” which did not involve excessive amounts of water. Each “flood” that I have survived has uniquely qualified me to give hope to someone else.
This book blessed me, comforted me and challenged me. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing through the Amazon Vine Program.
May 8, 2024
Please read this book
This book is phenomenal. It really pulls you in to the people mentioned in the Bible, and sheds light on their story from a completely different direction. The discussion questions really make you dive deeper into the Bible as well. Very few books will I read again, but this is definitely one of them!
This book is phenomenal. It really pulls you in to the people mentioned in the Bible, and sheds light on their story from a completely different direction. The discussion questions really make you dive deeper into the Bible as well. Very few books will I read again, but this is definitely one of them!
June 15, 2023
I love this book. I learned so much about key Biblical characters, while also looking to this as an outlet to read whenever I felt challenged, frustrated, or out of control (so always as I keep being reminded that God is in control).
I highly recommend and plan to return to it annually.
I highly recommend and plan to return to it annually.
March 16, 2024
This has been a work in progress as it has taken me since last spring to read the entire book. I’ve read it with a discussion group doing one or two chapters each time. It takes a closer look at 40 different bible characters, some well known and others not so well known. Each chapter is a beautifully written character study with modern day examples to help the reader’s understanding. I learned a lot about the characters in the Bible, their motivations, and their relationships with Jesus and or God.
July 15, 2022
I enjoyed Max Lucado's story telling in this book. He documents his writing with Biblical verses. For me, there is a fine line between "preachy" and story-telling. He does a great job of simply telling a story based on what scriptures states. This book is a great reminder of the type of people attracted to Jesus' company. Those who were intrigued, or curious, or broken, or dying, or outcast, those shunned by society for their culture and race-- they lurked and watched, approached, listened. He had something to offer them when no one else did. He accepted and loved them no matter what society thought; because, it didn't phase Him what society thought. He stood up for them when they were humiliated, ridiculed and welcomed them to Him.
Lucado does a great job of bringing to light their stories. Those I was most intrigued by were: Rahab, Esther, the Samaritan woman, the bleeding woman, and the woman accused by the religious leaders of adultery.
Lucado does a great job of bringing to light their stories. Those I was most intrigued by were: Rahab, Esther, the Samaritan woman, the bleeding woman, and the woman accused by the religious leaders of adultery.
November 13, 2023
Took me a while to get into but really enjoyed each chapter.
September 19, 2022
Max Lucado never disappoints, and this book is no exception. I especially enjoyed his weaving of contemporary examples with these well-known and not-so-well-known people from the Bible. Ben Holland once again does a masterful job as narrator, and as was discussed in an interview between author and narrator, even Max Lucado has come to think of him as his stand-in (my words, not his). (This refers to the Audible version.)
October 12, 2023
Max Lucado never fails to astonish me with his down to earth, yet spirit filled writing. He takes the lives of 40 people from the Bible and gives a new view of them. I have read about these lives since I was a child, yet walked away from each chapter with something new-something to open my eyes and heart more to my God. One again, thank you, Max for your amazing way of writing and speaking to my heart about our great God and Savior, Jesus.
April 13, 2023
Wonderful book
Max Lucado did a masterful job of bringing the 40 Bible characters alive in ways that will truly inspire you. I very rarely read a book more than once. But I will read this book again and again. Life changing truths communicated in relatable and impactful ways. I was sorry to see it end.
Max Lucado did a masterful job of bringing the 40 Bible characters alive in ways that will truly inspire you. I very rarely read a book more than once. But I will read this book again and again. Life changing truths communicated in relatable and impactful ways. I was sorry to see it end.
June 12, 2024
so inspirational
I started out planning to read about one character each day but could hardly put the book down. Max Lucado brings a new light to familiar stories that cause you to stop and consider the situations that they found themselves in. Then he weaves a connection between the characters and the life of the reader. I was actually sad to get to the last page.
I started out planning to read about one character each day but could hardly put the book down. Max Lucado brings a new light to familiar stories that cause you to stop and consider the situations that they found themselves in. Then he weaves a connection between the characters and the life of the reader. I was actually sad to get to the last page.
March 26, 2023
Like a lot of Max Lucado books, I found they walked with God to be very entertaining!, Let me be clear, Max tends to word things with quite a bit of contemporary dialogue. Mostly, this ends up being helpful, sometimes, it ends up kind of getting in the way, at least for me. Occasionally, I find myself not really wanting the authors tendency to paraphrase as often as he does….this is both the best points in the worst points of reading Christian authors. Their words are helpful, but honestly connecting with the Bible is what really matters. A well written Christian book will serve as a guide through Bible verses, chapters and books, and hopefully, make an educated statement by the time the book is completed. I use this book to help increase my personal connection with the characters of the Bible. They were inspired by and lives lives for God. The best thing about a book like this, is the fact that it has the journaling portions, that are nice to help you feel connected, discover a few things, and reestablish your relationship with Jesus often in a deeply personal way. I use this in combination with a recent weight loss effort. So, the deep dive was quite helpful during that 40 day stretch. Strongly recommended for anybody, either looking to reconnect, strengthen, or continue to pursue their walk with God among the pages of the Bible.
December 17, 2025
Max Lucado's "They Walked With God" offers more than just Bible stories; it provides rich historical context and thoughtful reflection. Lucado skillfully paints the likely backgrounds of each narrative, immersing readers in the world of these biblical figures. This approach not only makes the stories more relatable but also enhances our understanding of the challenges and triumphs of these individuals.
One of the book's strengths is its ability to weave in historical information seamlessly. Lucado's attention to detail brings the ancient world to life, shedding light on the cultural and societal norms that shaped these iconic stories. This historical backdrop adds depth and credibility, making the book an enriching experience for those interested in biblical history.
Furthermore, Lucado's thought-provoking questions encourage readers to engage with the text on a deeper level. These questions prompt introspection and invite us to consider how these ancient stories resonate with our own lives. By posing these striking questions, Lucado challenges us to examine our beliefs and values, making "They Walked With God" a truly transformative read.
One of the book's strengths is its ability to weave in historical information seamlessly. Lucado's attention to detail brings the ancient world to life, shedding light on the cultural and societal norms that shaped these iconic stories. This historical backdrop adds depth and credibility, making the book an enriching experience for those interested in biblical history.
Furthermore, Lucado's thought-provoking questions encourage readers to engage with the text on a deeper level. These questions prompt introspection and invite us to consider how these ancient stories resonate with our own lives. By posing these striking questions, Lucado challenges us to examine our beliefs and values, making "They Walked With God" a truly transformative read.
March 30, 2026
Lucado writes an essay for each biblical character. Most essays incorporate a similar event of a contemporary person, often from Lucado's own life. For example, Esther includes a touching story when his daughter wanted to take home a desk that very day. Each essay has half a dozen reflection and discussion prompts afterward.
The essays are in alphabetical order, which contrasts Old Testament men and women with those in the New Testament and juxtaposes events rarely considered together. Mostly he chose minor characters, instead of just the usual Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Paul, and Peter. I was particularly touched by his essays on Abigail and Jesus' Brothers.
Although the first essays are excellently crafted and varied, later essays were repetitive and contained too much of the thoughts of men, mingled with scripture. His back stories or extrapolations wandered far from spiritually uplifting. That's why I only give it three stars. His admonitions to faith, humility, acceptance (vs. unrighteous judgement), and godly sorry are gratifying, however.
The essays are in alphabetical order, which contrasts Old Testament men and women with those in the New Testament and juxtaposes events rarely considered together. Mostly he chose minor characters, instead of just the usual Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Paul, and Peter. I was particularly touched by his essays on Abigail and Jesus' Brothers.
Although the first essays are excellently crafted and varied, later essays were repetitive and contained too much of the thoughts of men, mingled with scripture. His back stories or extrapolations wandered far from spiritually uplifting. That's why I only give it three stars. His admonitions to faith, humility, acceptance (vs. unrighteous judgement), and godly sorry are gratifying, however.
January 29, 2026
This was my first Max Lucado book. He has an evident giftedness in writing, and certainly knows how to provoke interest and trigger the imagination. I was a bit skeptical about this book initially, as he sometimes draws connections and applications to Scripture that may seem a little forced. It's like when people reference David's battle against Goliath and then say "What giants in your life does God want you to slay by trusting in him?" Though not completely inappropriate, questions like that miss the primary point of Scripture's stories. One ought to be very cautious with using Scripture and stories appropriately, practicing exegesis rather than eisegesis. That being said, I still found the book enjoyable, and many of the questions at the end of each chapter thought-provoking and helpful.
February 1, 2025
This is a book of 40 stories, or we might say "reports" of Biblical individuals. The author relates the stories with good authority - they are very Biblical, in fact, a good bit of Scripture is used in each story. Lucado uses humor, good story-telling to make the story relatable and understandable, and helpful explanation. He also includes questions at the end of each story to encourage interaction with the material. Characters in these stories are many that are well-known (like David, Esther, and Jacob), along with some that are lesser-known (like Jairus, Mephibosheth, and Sapphira). This is a good book to use as a devotional, a resource for teaching, or just to read for encouragement and edification. I like the cover too.
December 1, 2025
Our weekly Bible study recently wrapped up They Walked with God, and let me tell you… this book blessed every single one of us. Max Lucado has a way of taking familiar Bible characters and making their journeys feel personal, relatable, and alive. Week after week, we found ourselves digging deeper into the stories of people who weren’t perfect but they chose to walk with God anyway.
Each chapter reminded us that God walks with real people, with real struggles, real doubts, and real faith.
This book sparked testimonies, questions and those “mmm-hmm, I felt that” moments. The whole group said the same thing: 10/10, highly recommend.
If you want to see the Bible through fresh eyes and understand how everyday people leaned on God, this is the one.
Each chapter reminded us that God walks with real people, with real struggles, real doubts, and real faith.
This book sparked testimonies, questions and those “mmm-hmm, I felt that” moments. The whole group said the same thing: 10/10, highly recommend.
If you want to see the Bible through fresh eyes and understand how everyday people leaned on God, this is the one.
September 29, 2023
A Strong Set of Words
I have read a lot of Max's books over the years, but this book is different. The words are stronger, the stories with more impact and meaning. The thoughts more provocative. Lots to contemplate in the stories of those that encounter Jesus. The one word I would use is the book is powerful, it brings emotions to the surface as one thinks about what these people that encountered him must have experienced. Faith, belief, and choices, leading to grace and ever lasting life. I don't think I have ever read anything like this before. Highly recommended for those seeking Jesus and those wanting reassurance of grace.
I have read a lot of Max's books over the years, but this book is different. The words are stronger, the stories with more impact and meaning. The thoughts more provocative. Lots to contemplate in the stories of those that encounter Jesus. The one word I would use is the book is powerful, it brings emotions to the surface as one thinks about what these people that encountered him must have experienced. Faith, belief, and choices, leading to grace and ever lasting life. I don't think I have ever read anything like this before. Highly recommended for those seeking Jesus and those wanting reassurance of grace.
April 13, 2023
I chose this book as my Lenten devotional journey this year and I actually read it nearly every day, and found that when I did fall behind, it was easy to get back to it again. It was especially amazing that the last few days centered on people that were involved with Holy Week. Max Lucado's interpretation was usually interesting, though one person's vignette felt like it wasn't true to Scripture. For the most part, his perspective brought fresh interpretations.
February 10, 2025
I've discovered I'm not a Bible study kind of gal. Or at least I thought so until I read this. Though the sections are brief and seem to only cover a tiny portion of anything, they are profound. I'm not going to go out and buy a bunch of Bible studies now. In fact, I thought this was something other than that. Having said that, I learned a lot and was moved deeply. I highly recommend.... especially if you enjoy a brief Bible study format.
June 18, 2023
Absolutely love this book! Max is so good at bringing the truth of the Bible to us with wonderful narration and beautiful stories. His hometown boy style just makes you feel so at home, and he pulls at your heart. The characters in this book from the Bible a truly brought to life along with God’s truth. Highly recommend this book to everybody!
August 21, 2023
A look at 40 various Bible characters - mostly from the New Testament - and lessons we can learn from them. Max Lucado's writing provides a modern twist that inspires personal reflection. I do not agree with some of his character descriptions; however, the way the characters are presented causes me to see them from a different perspective.
March 9, 2025
I enjoyed this book, which was given to me as a Christmas gift. The 40 stories are repeated from the Bible, but insights are added so we can apply them to our daily lives. Lucado is always delightful to read. Each story can be read in about 5 minutes and there are questions after each one to aid the reader into thinking deeper and applying the principles.
August 3, 2022
We all walk daily with God
One of his best. Enjoy every minutes of it. When I was reading it, did not remember who was going to be the next. This make it for myself more enjoyable. The last chapter was the climax to me. The Gift of Choice
One of his best. Enjoy every minutes of it. When I was reading it, did not remember who was going to be the next. This make it for myself more enjoyable. The last chapter was the climax to me. The Gift of Choice
July 22, 2023
Another excellent read by Max Lucado
The insights Reverend Lucado has i!nto God's Word is insightful, encouraging, often convicting,
but always spiritually uplifting. Another God-inspired read.
The insights Reverend Lucado has i!nto God's Word is insightful, encouraging, often convicting,
but always spiritually uplifting. Another God-inspired read.
September 24, 2023
Real People
Max always takes Biblical facts and writes about them in a setting that is easy to understand and and relate to. He asks questions that will make you think about some of your decisions and choices.
Max always takes Biblical facts and writes about them in a setting that is easy to understand and and relate to. He asks questions that will make you think about some of your decisions and choices.
March 5, 2024
This book was amazing. I read a chapter a day so I could reflect on it everything I was reading. The insight, the comparisons and the way he tells the stories, as well as Max's always upbeat and positive approach, has made him a favorite author. This book is one of the best of his I've read so far.
December 19, 2024
I always enjoy Max’s writings and I was surprised to learn about these 40 characters. One wouldn’t think there was much to read about their lives, some are not even mentioned by name in the Bible, and I was pleasantly surprised.
July 2, 2025
You Lear a lot about the super stars of the Bible through this easy reading book!!! Praising God & The Holy Spiriit for guiding me so I would be in lightened on the word of God! I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to go deeper into the word!
November 29, 2022
Excellent study guide to learning stories from the Bible. Very detailed and informative. Highly recommended
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews