Make It Your Ambition

Reviewed by Wayne S. Walker

John Notgrass graduated from high school at home in 1997. He now works as a partner in his family’s publishing business and enjoys reading good books, making music, and maintaining an active interest in civic affairs. A featured speaker at homeschool conventions and support group meetings, John lives with his parents, four sisters, brother, and grandfather in Middle Tennessee. This book was written primarily for homeschooled students, especially young men, to encourage them to live for God’s glory, but it is suitable reading for all young people who want to please Christ in their lives. It would be my suggestion that parents and their teenage children sit down, read it together, and discuss the material.

Different chapters deal with how to make plans, honor parents, gain an education past high school, make a living, be different from the world in lifestyle, look for a suitable marriage partner, raise one’s own children, become involved in civic affairs, and serve God as a member of Christ’s body. I especially liked the chapter on “Why I Plan to Train My Children at Home.” Because people have different backgrounds, everyone may not find each specific suggestion useful. However, the author himself says, “I do not expect you to do everything the same way I do, but I do expect you to think about the issues, make conscious decisions, and live them out confidently.”

This book does an excellent job of providing interesting information and advice that will help young people accomplish this aim in their lives. I especially appreciate the emphasis that the author places on using the scriptures as the absolute standard upon which we must make the choices and decisions that face us in life.

At a glance: