May 7, 2025

Forever: Why You Can’t Live Without It by Paul David Tripp

Written by Harsono Setiono


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“Why is it so hard for us to be satisfied?” 

“Why does life here never seem to deliver?”

That’s the opening line of Paul David Tripp’s Forever book. He is a pastor, counsellor, and author. In this book, he tries to answer these questions by exploring eternity and its impact on our daily lives. Perhaps we haven’t been living with an eternal perspective consciously. No wonder, our relationships, our work, and our lives are in disarray.

Forever is a relatively short book (only 204 pages) and there are 14 chapters in the book. Paul Tripp begins by addressing our innate longing for something beyond this temporary world that we live in. Deep down, everyone is longing for meaning and purpose that this world cannot offer. We are meant to be in a relationship with an eternal God. Paul Tripp uses the Bible to show that an eternal view can change how we see life’s challenges, joys, and duties.

“Step off the treadmill of your busy life and consider what life looks like when viewed through the lens of eternity.”

The premise of this book is that eternity should impact every aspect of our lives. Paul Tripp says our daily choices should reflect the reality of eternity. This view gives us hope and meaning. It also inspires us to live in a way that honours God and reflects His eternal purposes.

There is a common misconception about eternity. One is that it is a distant, abstract idea. He makes a compelling case that eternity is both a present reality and a future hope. Remembering eternity can bring us more joy and purpose. It can help us endure life’s trials.

What I like about this book is his skill in linking Biblical truths with practical applications. He doesn’t just present eternity as a doctrine, but he shows how it should influence our daily lives. His writing is easy to understand without theological jargon, making difficult ideas understandable and relatable.

His personal stories and real examples add authenticity to the book. These anecdotes show how an eternal view has shaped his life and work. His honesty about his struggles and victories makes the book feel like a chat with a trusted mentor. In a world of pain and doubt, he reminds us to trust God’s promise to restore it.

Paul Tripp’s Forever book is a must-read. It helps us understand how eternity shapes our life. It’s a blend of biblical teaching, reflection, and advice. It helps us live with an eternal perspective, giving meaning, hope, and purpose to our lives.

This book is suitable for both new Christians and mature Christians as it is not that dry. I believe this book can change how we see our life. As we think about our 2025 New Year goals, this book will help us to anchor our plans in the eternal truths of God’s Word. 

In conclusion, Paul Tripp’s Forever book reminds us to live with eternity in view. It encourages us to align our lives with God’s eternal purposes. 

“What if you can’t make sense out of life without eternity?”

“What if this present life is not a destination but a preparation for a final destination?”

So, I highly recommend this book. You can get it wherever you normally buy books from. 



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