📖 Overview
The Best Yes guides women through the challenge of making wise decisions in a world of endless demands and responsibilities. TerKeurst shares personal experiences and biblical wisdom to help readers identify their priorities and recognize the difference between good opportunities and the best choices.
The book presents practical strategies for evaluating commitments, setting boundaries, and developing discernment in daily life. Scripture-based insights combine with real-world examples to create a framework for managing overwhelm and avoiding the pitfalls of people-pleasing.
Through a blend of memoir and instruction, TerKeurst addresses the fears and pressures that lead women to take on too much, while offering tools for saying "no" with grace. She outlines specific steps to help readers assess their current commitments and make space for what matters most.
The work speaks to deeper themes of identity, purpose, and the intersection of faith and daily decision-making. It challenges readers to move beyond reactive choices toward intentional living aligned with their values and calling.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this book as practical help for making decisions and setting boundaries, particularly resonating with Christian women who struggle with overcommitment.
Readers appreciated:
- Real-life examples from TerKeurst's experiences
- Bible-based decision-making framework
- Concrete steps for saying "no" without guilt
- Worksheets and action items
- Focus on discerning between good and best options
Common criticisms:
- Content could be condensed into fewer chapters
- Repetitive points and examples
- Too many personal anecdotes
- Writing style can be overly casual
- Some found it focused more on time management than spiritual guidance
One reader noted: "She takes 270 pages to communicate what could have been said in 100."
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.2/5 (15,000+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.7/5 (2,000+ ratings)
Christianbook.com: 4.5/5 (150+ ratings)
Most negative reviews came from readers who expected deeper theological content rather than practical life application.
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Grace Not Perfection by Emily Ley This book outlines methods to simplify life, set boundaries, and embrace imperfection while maintaining focus on what matters most.
It's All Under Control by Jennifer Dukes Lee The author shares biblical wisdom and practical tools for releasing control and trusting God while making life choices.
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🤔 Interesting facts
🌟 The term "Best Yes" comes from the author's realization that saying "no" to less important commitments allows us to say "yes" to what matters most.
📚 Lysa TerKeurst is the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, which reaches over 1 million women daily through various platforms and devotionals.
⏰ The author spent 3 years researching and writing this book while simultaneously leading her ministry and raising five children.
🎯 The book was inspired by TerKeurst's own struggle with overcommitment, which led to exhaustion and health issues before she learned to make wiser decisions.
💡 A key principle in the book—the "small no"—suggests that declining minor requests early prevents having to make painful "big no" decisions later.