In “JumpStart Your Thinking: A 90-Day Improvement Plan,” John C. Maxwell provides a practical guide to help you elevate your thinking and unlock your full potential.
As a Christian non-fiction author, you can apply the lessons from this book to your writing, aiming to emotionally impact your readers and encourage them to make significant changes in their lives.
Here are three primary takeaways from the book, each supported by biblical passages from the New King James version of The Bible.
Takeaway #1: Embrace the Power of Positive Thinking
Maxwell emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and nurturing thoughts that propel you towards success. As an author, you can inspire your readers to adopt a similar mindset, which will empower them to overcome challenges and grow in their faith.
- Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.”
Encourage your readers to focus their thoughts on what is good and praiseworthy, replacing negativity with optimism. - Romans 12:2: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
Challenge your readers to renew their minds through the power of God’s Word, experiencing personal transformation and growth. - 2 Corinthians 10:5: “Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”
Urge your readers to be vigilant in guarding their thoughts and aligning them with the teachings of Christ.
Takeaway #2: Cultivate a Growth Mindset
Maxwell advocates for the development of a growth mindset, which allows you to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and continuously strive for improvement. As a Christian author, you can instill this mindset in your readers, motivating them to persevere and grow in their faith.
- James 1:2-4: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Encourage your readers to embrace trials as opportunities for growth and spiritual refinement. - Proverbs 9:9: “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.”
Inspire your readers to be lifelong learners, seeking wisdom and knowledge from God’s Word and other sources. - Ephesians 4:15: “But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ.”
Help your readers understand the importance of spiritual growth, maturing in their relationship with Christ and becoming more like Him.
Takeaway #3: Develop Daily Habits that Foster Growth and Success
Maxwell highlights the value of daily habits in shaping our lives and achieving our goals. As a Christian non-fiction author, you can guide your readers in establishing habits that promote spiritual growth and personal development.
- Psalm 1:1-3: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.”
Encourage your readers to meditate on God’s Word daily, making it a cornerstone of their daily routine, and experiencing spiritual nourishment and growth. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Teach your readers the power of maintaining an attitude of gratitude, rejoicing in all circumstances, and praying continuously as part of their daily habits. - Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Inspire your readers to foster a sense of community, regularly engaging with other believers to encourage, support, and learn from one another.
“JumpStart Your Thinking” by John C. Maxwell offers valuable insights and guidance for those looking to improve their thinking and achieve greater success in life.
As a Christian non-fiction author, you can utilize these takeaways to emotionally impact your readers, inspiring them to make meaningful changes in their lives.
By embracing positive thinking, cultivating a growth mindset, and developing daily habits that foster growth and success, your readers will be well-equipped to overcome challenges and grow in their faith.
