Reposition Yourself: Living Life Without Limits

I like Bishop Jakes sermon and message very much when i watch him online.
Bishop Jake did not present a good read from his book on this CD for me.
His voice sound hoarse and although he spoke of very positive can do things
I didn’t hear it in his voice. I listened to two of the 5 CD’s and then I
Went to youtube to see and hear Bishop Jake speak on his 4 part message of Reposition yourself.
His Presentation Was Outstanding.!!!!!!

Bishop TD Jakes is an amazing spiritual leader, who is continually empowering the masses of the world, "Reposition Yourself" is overdue. I have purchased and submitted 12 books to family/friends, we are planning to live life without limits and reverse the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in the Big Easy (New Orleans).

Reposition Yourself by T.D. Jakes is an excellent book to read. It will change your life. I received the order in approximately 5 days and it was nicely packaged. After receiving the book in such a timely manner, I decided to order the book for a gift. I will definitely order from the company again.

My first criticism of the book; revolves around the assertion that African kids are hungry for education, implying that our kids have somehow dropped the ball. When the truth is we never had the ball to begin with. I have love for my African brothers and sisters, but how can you equate what we have been through, and continue to endure as African Americans, to the African experience. That somehow cheapens our struggle. It is like saying, the 300+ years of slavery and oppression were not enough. For many us, even when we get the education we are marginalized, disenfranchised, underemployed, and or undervalued in the workplace (through no fault of our own). We don't get the luxury of hitting the glass ceiling; the glass ceiling is lowered to meet us halfway up. If I/we weren't hungry there would have been no Civil Rights Movement, there wouldn't be a Jackie Robinson, Medgar Evers, a Cornel West, or even a T.D. Jakes. If we weren't hungry many, of us would not eat.
Another area of the book I found to be objectionable was that the book stressed education, as if it is the only road to obtaining a better life, yet the people who names were dropped as examples had no degree at all. I had a boss who as an insult would say to me "I am no Tiger Woods". The fact is that "Tiger Woods is no me!" Anyone can play golf, let's see him earn a degree, and get job and keep it. For the record, Tiger Woods does not have a degree nor does Michael Jordan.
I read this book in hopes it would give me some insight on my own place. I realize how powerful repositioning can be. I was disappointed that the book did not make reference to playing the position that you have. Just as the rich man climbed the tree, some of us have already been blessed, without climbing the tree. The real lesson of life is to know when to, and when not to, and when to just play the position. If you talk about repositioning, I think you have to devote some time to just playing the position you have.
In spite of my criticisms I found the book to be a pleasant and entertaining read. Everyone wants to move beyond where they are in life. I found the book to be a bit to simplistic, although the title is especially captivating there is little substance here. While reading this book it became apparent that the people whom are most likely to read this book are beyond this point of growth and development. This book is excellent for teens.

While I respect Bishop Jakes and enjoy listening to him preach, I felt this book was not one of his best efforts. Sadly in spite of his impressive credentials none of the information in this book was new. The financial information was incomplete but somewhat helpful. I was really hoping for more from this book but was sadly disappointed.

A young man searching for more spiritual debth, expressed an interest in this book. I purchased it as a gift for him. I hope that it impacts his life for Christ

The pages that I scanned, were insightful, encouraging, engaging and motivational. I appreciate the writing gift of T.D. Jakes

I saw Bishop Jakes speak in person several years ago. He's as good a writer as he is a speaker. This book is for everyone regardless of where they are in their walk. It shows us how to reposition ourselves regardless of where we were or are. It's good to know that with God, there is always a fresh start available to us if we are sincere. I like living life without limits and the bishop shows us how. I also derived lots of help from Lin Tomasso's book Prayer Warrior: How to Get Your Prayers Answered. I downloaded it to my laptop (you can download it to your computer or any device) for $2.99 at smashwords.com. Most people don't realize that prayer is a formula, so we should make sure we're using the right one as this book outlines. I'm grateful for both these books.

T. D. Jakes is uncomfortable with preachers who tell people that if they give a certain amount of money they will reap a harvest of results. Similarly he is concerned with people who think that faith will lead to success. These two matters are incomplete, partial aspects of truth that are sometimes taken out of context. He believes that if one is to have faith that works, one must work that faith. Believing is not enough. It is the believing that leads to action that will see the desired results. In the matter of giving, that is part of stewardship, but only a portion. One cannot give what one does not possess. It is by effective stewardship that one has resources to give.

Bishop Jakes speaks with authority because he has successfully applied the principles from Scripture he teaches in this book. Stewardship is holistic. He writes that it is usually easier for some people to concentrate energies on success in the workplace (or ministry) while neglecting success at home. It isn't intentional, but by default that relationships deteriorate. In a straightfoward manner he tells you how to overcome this neglect and excell in domestic matters without cutting back on career success.

It is refreshing to see a man of the bishop's high standards discuss the contributions made by people society might consider to be "unsuccessful." He talks about the valuable marks they made "in spite of their flaws." Amen! We all have flaws and God works through imperfect people.

One of the weaknesses of the book was his examples of role-models. I find it hard to believe a preacher of the Gospel would select some of the ones he spotlights.

He concludes this book in a powerful way, discussing the mystery of giving in spite of the fact that one could never give enough to meet all the legitimate needs that exist. As a guest in Nigeria he describes a situation that caused him to reflect on this phenomenon and he offers a wise analysis of the matter. Overall this is a very powerful book, but coming from Bishop Jakes I would expect no less, as I have read several of his other excellent books.

'Reposition Yourself - Living Life Without Limits' is a content rich book that is part inspirational and part instructional centered on forging the blessings that life has to offer - that which is due and inherent. Within this book, T.D. Jakes has a stream of conscience flow that in some parts resemble Susan Orman and other times Jack Canfield. Forging even deeper he picks up the reinforcement exercises of Napoleon Hill (at times), and the practical sequence of action leads to results approach of Brian Tracy (take a minute and write this down or before you go any further). Mixed in with the candor and straight forward writing style that is all T. D. Jakes.

Jakes opens this work by introducing us to fictional characters that include the dreamer, the lover, the manager, and the believer in all of us. This sets the framework (somewhat) of the discussion that will take place between Jakes and the reader; however, he does not expound upon the characters so we are disconnected from them at the outset - in other words Jakes leaves it to you to remember and associate with the aforementioned characters - most importantly their traits (our traits) except when he decides to bring them up - he doesn't take them along for the ride. Yet, Jakes doesn't take long to reconnect with us through powerful lessons with the first being the 'five stages of progression,' which include the revelation of opportunity and continues into burn out (not just professionally speaking), or as he writes ". . .when deterioration has taken its toll." This outline of the stages was both innovative and unique because it did not climax with optimal performance, but instead ended with performance taken to far.

Jakes goes on to write about the difficulties that we all will face as a result of living a full life, along with the opportunity to overcome life's challenges with a "go all out" BALANCED approach to living -- where Jakes believe in not only speaking your blessings (as practiced by many men/women of faith), but through measured and deliberate deeds and actions. He has - I dare say it - a "pull yourself up by our bootstraps" philosophy to those discouraged and a "hold your hand out" to those that have prospered.

Chapter 6 entitled 'Shifting Gears and Changing Lanes - Repositioning Yourself for What Around the Corner' is one of the most inspiring chapters. Here, Jakes not only advises, but challenges the reader to throw off limitations that prevented success in the past. Specifically, on page 102 (hardback - May 2007) edition, he captures the content of his message within one paragraph:

"You must stop procrastinating, waiting for others to lead you to where only you can go yourself, or blaming the past. So many times it's much easier to embrace the role of victim, of loser, of the one who's not smart enough, not good enough, not educated enough, not financially sound enough. When you accepted such limitations for yourself, then you don't have to worry about being disappointed. . ."

I don't care how many inspirational/self-help books you have read - that is powerful in and of itself. Within the remainder of Part II, Jakes goes over what many authors have already written about numerous times yet bears repeating (in his view): Importance of paying down debt, managing your finances, working on purpose, leveraging credit to obtain wealth, finding a mentor, etc. with a hard to identify target audience - initially thought by reviewer to be a broad audience of those that are seeking to "reposition" themselves and later thought to be a primarily AA audience; followed by young AA that have lived long enough to experience life, yet still have enough life (and belief) to reposition (25 - 45?) -- followed by women (sometimes all?). That was the weakness of the book. Because it is primarily a stream of conscience flow, Jakes is really speaking to ANYONE that needs to reposition (or desires to) and either forgets to keep the lens wide enough or really doesn't care -- it's his view and lessons that are important.

Part III contains an inward focus on Jakes himself, specifically Chapter 13 'Mail Carriers - Surviving the Labels of Success'. Yet, he offers another series of steps in which one can remain connected (this chapter I think assumes you have repositioned or at least would like you to visualize). It is the balance of those that have arrived, emphasizing the importance of keeping grounded within one success; the you can go alone and be alone or you can involve family and friends while recognizing your roots. In essence, Jakes' message is that success is a team sport.

In conclusion, this book is not eloquently written (the "then-than" rule may irk you from time to time and there are a couple of administrative errors). In addition, he may have lost some of his audience when two chapters were dedicated to "ladies only." That is fine and very important; however, a 'Reposition Yourself for Women' book that addresses their challenges unique to them may have been more appropriate in the opinion of the reviewer. (This prevents alienating your core reader and gives a dedicated work to this important group.)

Yet Jakes does provide a powerful, practical, and sage words to live a fuller and rewarding life. It is not narrow in focus and what's refreshing is that Jakes has a practical view of spirituality - knowing that believing alone is not even half of the battle, but it sure helps!

You know the old saying, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing expecting different results. Some people call it a "comfort zone,"
others may refer to it as being "complacent," -- either way, Reposition Yourself by T.D. Jakes will empower you to do exactly what the title says.
When you apply the key principles and underlying life applications eloquently conveyed, you will be equipped with the insight of a determined soldier prepared to battle for the life you deserve. You are worthy. You are special. You deserve to Reposition Yourself! and squeeze out of life every good thing God has purposed for you. T.D. Jakes keeps it plain, simple and powerful. Don't miss it!

Happy reading!

Reviewed by Marina Woods for GoodGirlBookClubOnline | the #1 Destination for Today's Aspiring Woman

If you are unhappy with your current life situation I would advise buying this book and reading it. Bishop Jakes will tug at you to change your behavior and habits. He will ask you to change your mind to put yourself in a position to receive the blessings this world has to give. He will explain the importance of relationships on your way up and how to balance your life so you will be successful in all areas not just one. Bishop Jakes is the man who set me on a spiritual path over ten years ago through his ministry and I believe to be one of the authentic ministers out there today. This book could be a life changer for someone at the pivot point in their life. You will have to reposition yourself for the life you really want and stop setting limits. Let Bishop Jakes show you how to begin.

The arrangement of the book was very troubling. Pastor Jakes begins with a few points, but the information that needs to be presented doesn't appear until the end of each chapter. What is really disappointing is that the information is really common sense. The wordiness of the book makes it a challenge to understand where Pastor Jakes wants to go with the information. Other self help books that relate specifically to your situation could be of more use, like, Have a New You by Friday, Women Who Love to Much, or Discerning the Voice of God. These books allow you to learn about yourself and enable you to make lasting changes.

Reposition Yourself leads with the confrontation by the major characters of one's personality and lays the ground work of what needs to be addressed. Bishop Jakes reveals direction as it was applied in his life, which is a light outline of doables should one desire to be in a place to appropriate all God would have for us. There are lots of examples to help any one reposition themselves to a better place to be. It is an all around help for those who desire change and well worth the price for that alone.

As a side note and frosting on the cake for me, I appreciated the Black American perspective to so many things and have a better understanding of Cultural Challenges facing so many people today. T. D. Jakes did a good job of not revealing too much of his political position, as it is impossible to please all. Life is not a free lunch and anything worth having is worth working for.

He addressed the Label Problem that all in the leadership positions deal with as a constant issue and how to maintain integrity in spite of the attacks, as well as how letting your guard down can and will crash the cause.

Yes, ... and the `P' Word, as he calls it, when someone hears a message on `Prosperity' they judge that that is all there is in the ministry. Regardless, it is properly addressed, by his statement, `True Prosperity Comes From The Inside" and is not the frills, bank accounts, cars and homes that that some associate success with.

Even as myself, having read many `Help books' this one will and has added to the understanding what `Life' is about and how diligence can bring a better one to pass.

D. P. Gatten

Reposition Yourself offers a powerful message for all, but especially to believers who feel stuck because of their spiritual interpretation of their circumstances. Bishop Jakes provides the keys to unlock the gates that may have kept one hemmed in and limited, and offers exciting Biblical perspectives that allows us to see our lives in a different light. If you are feeling frustrated or hopeless, this book is for you.

There is an urgency to the Bishop's message and even a warning to the slothful, but it is tempered with compassion and folksy wisdom. Bishop Jakes is one of America's best speakers, and in this work he doesn't disappoint as he draws upon his interesting life experience and rich illustrations.

My only minor nit is that sometimes the advice is a bit too basic--especially the financial advice--but you can't be too disappointed in a product that is sincerely seeking to help.

The audio book format works extremely well--an excellent choice for a long drive or a daily commute.

A really good read by all standards - very informative and relevant to the subject. Just wondering now, how come I am only chancing on it now. Good stuff. I also recommend one titled “Where Did God Hide His Diamonds” – here’s a link:
http://www.the store.co.uk/Where-did-GOD-Hide-Diamonds/dp/1909326275/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1415021814&sr=8-3

In Reposition Yourself, Bishop T.D. Jakes gives wise and authoritative insight on making a new pact with your life and recovering from setbacks. Although Bishop Jakes is an impassioned and sweaty-browed speaker that engages hundreds of thousands in his television broadcasts and church congregations, his writing style is calm, personal and understanding, yet provacative.

Coming from an intimate understanding of human nature and relationships as well as stances influenced by paternal pastoral leadership, Bishop Jakes takes readers by a firm hand and leads them through the theme of the book. Ultimately he guides you to the mirror to face the challenge of personal responsibility.

I found that the first half of the book was the most useful. The second half was a bit preachy and out of touch with most peoples' experiences, as it was mostly written from the standpoint of his role as a high-profile church leader and executive.

The first half was an easy read, and I could definitely relate to all of his points. For instance, he opens the book with "The Intervention", as though the reader has entered a room filled with his/her neglected selves, all begging for the proper attention from his/her conscience. Sometimes as we go through life, outside matters take precedence over our health and deeper needs. Each of us experiences this as we all have denial in some area life. The lesson in this is to stop and reposition ourselves to pay attention to what has been neglected or what needs to be reprioritized.

I knew that I would need to read this book eventually. It is not a motivational book that gives pie-in-the-sky affirmations or advice. With his Biblical wisdom and ability to speak directly and intimately, Bishop Jakes' style is spiritual and practical. It is not realistic to think that any book will give instant solutions, because most of the things that become problematic in life do not happen overnight, either. But this book is a very wise choice to read if you are feeling or experiencing a need to take another look at yourself in order to become happier or more successful in any area of your life, and need a firm foundation to get a grip or start over for the better.

T.D.Jakes has done it again!!! This book teaches you how to prepare yourself for the blessings of God to flow. Instead of going around in circles making the same mistakes, T.D. Jakes shows you what certain situations are there for. The lesson of each tribulation is to inform you and guide you to another level. This book sort of opens your eyes to what is right in front of you, and teaches you how to take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow. This book should be in every persons hand because it is so full of wisdom.

Dionne Hunter
Author of Healing Connection
Healing Connection: Poems and Psalms that Heal the Soul

Reposition Yourself is the newest release from the skilled writer, orator and man of God,Bishop T.D. Jakes. In this offering, Bishop Jakes teaches how to make changes in your life to see positive results in areas of career, finance, personal development, and many others. Two of the chapters
in this book were dedicated to the unique challenges that women face in the workplace. Bishop Jakes' eloquent writing style is spiritual and uplifting without
being "preachy" and judgmental. Bishop Jakes uses examples from the
Bible as well as from his own life to illustrate common mistakes and
ways to overcome them.

Reposition Yourself is well-written and the best self-help book I have ever come across. Reposition Yourself is a book that has a lesson and blessing for everyone who ventures to read it. Each chapter opens with a relating verse from the Bible; Bishop Jakes uses these verses as a lead into the lesson and moral of the
chapter. I appreciated how he used a contrast of biblical characters and situations. Overall, I recommend Reposition Yourself to anyone who enjoys self-help books,
spiritual reads or is open to the work of a dynamic writer and orator. Reposition
Yourself is available on (CD and tape) for those who prefer. There is also an accompanying workbook available for purchase online.

Reviewed By: Porscha
APOOO BookClub

Dr Jakes have hereby written a book which echoes the voice of our Savior JESUS Christ. It is never too late to make a U-turn by the grace of God. Dr. Jakes takes one back to the Mountain Top and shows us through the eyes of God the promise land. We can make it there says Dr. Jakes. We can make it there says The Lord. Truly, Dr. Jakes is a Prophet for a time like this. I strongly recommend the message has conveyed in this book. Dr. Israel King, Ph.D. Author of How To Keep A Man

This book was recommended to me by a friend several months ago. I finally felt the urge to purchase it a few months ago. I am so pleased that I did. The information compiled in this book is exactly what I needed in my life for right now. I choose to stick to information that promotes wisdom and knowledge, spiritually & naturally. This book have a great balance. I specifically enjoy T.D. Jakes' style of writing. The book challenges the reader in key areas of inner growth. When I read the first Chapter, I was hooked. I never heard of an addiction to apathy. For anyone that may be in a situation & you are having a hard time moving out or on from it, READ THIS BOOK.

The one thing that stood out about this book over and over was self accountability.
Bishop Jakes teachings and examples were pretty good because they covered a variety
of situations.Sometimes oddly enough it felt as if he was talking to me.Whether your
a Christian or not you most likely will gain something from this book.I did however feel
like the book was geared towards women.The financial part in the book didn't really
have any new information but some you don't read those types of books might find it helpful.