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The Sacred Search: What If It’s Not about Who You Marry, But Why? by Gary Thomas

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About the Book

What if you stopped looking for a “soul mate” and started looking for a “sole mate”—someone who will live out with you the great purpose of God? 

What if dating isn’t about finding “the one” but making a wise choice so you can better serve the One who loves you most? What if God didn’t design relationships to make you happy but to make you holy? In The Sacred Search, Gary Thomas will transform the way you look at romantic relationships. Whether you are single, dating, or engaged, Gary’s unique perspective on dating will prepare you for a satisfying, spiritually enriching marriage even before you walk down the aisle. As Gary reminds us, a good marriage is not something you find—it’s something you make.

About the Author

Gary Thomas is writer-in-residence at Second Baptist Church in Houston, a frequent guest on Focus on the Family and FamilyLife Today, and a popular speaker around the world. His award-winning books have been translated into a dozen languages and sold hundreds of thousands copies. Thomas and his wife have three children.

Book Reviews

“Gary Thomas looks at the heart of a subject that many consider him an expert on—successful marriage. Anyone who is dating, engaged, or hopes to be one day needs to read this book!”– Ed Young

“Singles, pay attention. Gary knows marriage, and is eager to help those of us desiring marriage get there with confidence and grace.”– Lisa Anderson

“Gary Thomas debunks the mythical search for a soul mate to help you choose a ‘sole-mate’—someone who will lay down their life in faithful love. This biblically based book is for anyone who wants to be wise in their pursuit of a spouse.”– Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott

“Gary creates a compelling argument that shifts the believer’s view of relationships, dating, and marriage to focus on something greater. I’m thankful Gary has created this resource.”– Joy Eggerichs

“The Sacred Search will help those who desire marriage to pursue it in a manner that deepens their faith, honors God, and blesses their future spouse.”– Jim Daly

“Marriages are falling apart all around us and I believe Gary Thomas has just gone straight to the root. Gary just built a map to help you see through the emotion and infatuation to God’s heart for dating and marriage.”– Jennie Allen

“Our culture is obsessed with compatibility and chemistry. However, in relationship formation character always trumps chemistry. The Sacred Search is a gut check for anyone considering, delaying, or even pursuing marriage.”– Ted Cunningham

“Why should I get married? could be the most important questions Milennials are asking. Gary Thomas helps this generation navigate the why in a Christ-honoring way.”– Esther Fleece

“Filled with questions to make you think and teaching that will bring ‘aha’ moments, this book is a must read for everyone considering marriage. I highly recommend it to you—I wish I’d had it when I was single!”– Linda Dillow

“Gary Thomas dismantles contemporary philosophies on love, sexuality, and marital union by offering strong arguments for why they have not been successful. His appeal to a kingdom-first perspective gives both hope and healing for a generation in desperate need of a fresh and Christ-centered understanding of God’s plan for marriage. This book is a must-read before anyone says ‘I do.'”– Michelle Anthony

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