Michael Sherrard - Why You Matter: How Your Quest for Meaning Is Meaningless Without God

For years Ive been saying that young believers need two whys for every what . Its not enough to explain what the Bible says; we need to explain why its true and why it matters. In Why You Matter , Mike Sherrard tackles the second why question with biblical accuracy and wisdom. What makes life meaningful? Why does God matter? How can we find joy in our identity? How can we love our enemies and endure hardship? If youre looking for answers to these incredibly timely questions, Why You Matter just may be the most important book youll read this year.

J. Warner Wallace , Dateline featured cold-case detective, senior fellow at the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, and author of Cold- Case Christianity and So the Next Generation Will Know

Does my life really have any meaning? If so, how do I find it? Even though our lives are busy, we all think about these questions. I am grateful that my friend Mike Sherrard has tackled these vital questions in Why You Matter . He pushes back against many of the cultural narratives today and looks to Jesus, and the biblical worldview, to find the ultimate answer. It shouldnt surprise you, but his answer is yes . Whether Christian or not, read this book and find out why your life matters deeply.

Sean McDowell , PhD, associate professor of apologetics at Biola University and author or coauthor of over eighteen books, including Evidence That Demands a Verdict

Dignity. Equality. Human value. We take these ideas for granted but find ourselves in a vast and dangerous experiment: Can we sustain these cultural goods while we, at the same time, reject their only Source? All around us, individuals are being sacrificed to various collective agendas not delivering what they promise. In this very important book, Mike deals with humanitys most basic question, reveals why its pursuit seems so elusive to so many, and points to the only One who can offer an answer worth believing.

John Stonestreet , president at the Colson Center for Christian Worldview and coauthor of A Practical Guide to Culture

As our culture becomes increasingly secular, more and more people are searching for meaning in all the wrong placesoften with tragic outcomes for both mental and physical health. Mike beautifully explains why a search for meaning in the absence of God is meaningless itself, and why its only by finding our meaning in God that we will experience true and lasting joy. His thoughtful and compassionate approach makes this one of those rare books thats perfect to give both your Christian and non-Christian friends! Highly recommended.

Natasha Crain , speaker, blogger, and author of three books including Talking with Your Kids about Jesus

Is there life that is unworthy of life? In this book, Mike Sherrard invites us to think deeply about one of lifes most fundamental and significant questions: Why does life matter? Throughout this book, he demonstrates that the only rationally and psychologically compelling answer is grounded in God. But this is not merely an academic exercise. Mikes pastoral heart bursts through as he shows how our intrinsic value as Gods image bearers spills over into every area of life. Identity. Love. Work. Racial justice. Sexuality. Struggles. No aspect of life is left untouched. In the end you will be able to declare with conviction, all lives matter and all of our life matters.

Brett Kunkle , founder and president of MAVEN and coauthor of A Practical Guide to Culture: Helping the Next Generation Navigate Today s World

Michael Sherrard engages the most pressing question of our day: Why do humans matter in the first place? That single question impacts everything from public policy to how we prepare for eternity. With so much at stake, its tragic so few of us take time to seriously ponder it. And thats precisely what Sherrard invites us to do. Instead of plucking answers out of thin air, we need a plausible foundation for human dignity and human equality. Mike points us to the only one that works. His book is clear, thoughtful, and carefully argued. And its accessible. Ive known Mike for years, both as a dear friend and a valued coapologist. This man truly lives out what he teaches. Im overjoyed to enthusiastically commend his latest work to you!

Scott Klusendorf , president of the Life Training Institute and author of The Case for Life

If you have ever struggled with depression, despair, and confusion, if youve ever questioned whether your life mattersor whether anything matters at allthis book is for you. From the crucible of personal experience, Michael Sherrard tells us how he and his family have dealt with soul-searing pain and how the presence of God provides hope and meaning in the face of the realities of living in a fallen world. Here is truth, hope, meaning, and a reminder of why it all matters.

C. Ben Mitchell , PhD, Graves Professor of Moral Philosophy, Union University

Meaning is meant. It is intended and given by a mind. If there is a meaning to all of life, one that transcends my subjective desires or thoughts, then it can only be because a Mind gave it meaning. Everyone, from an atheist to a Christian, seeks happiness and meaning in life. And many find themselves failing to live the good life. This book suggests why you may not be experiencing a meaningful life and how you can experience joy even amid hardship. The author, transparent with his own life, walks us through how hes found meaning through the good and the bad and shares how this is availablewithin our graspfor everyone.

Corey Miller , PhD, president of Ratio Christi and author of In Search of the Good Life: Through the Eyes of Aristotle, Maimonides, and Aquinas and Engaging with Mormons: Understanding Their World; Sharing Good News