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Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy
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PRODUCT DETAILS

Release Date: October 2009
Page Count: 256
Size: 5 1/2 x 8 1/2
Binding: Perfectbound
ISBN: 978-0-7369-1923-4
Case Lot Quantity: 40

Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy


Counselor and author Leslie Vernick has discovered that many people pray, “Lord, I just want to be happy!” With candor, Leslie reveals that readers don’t need new circumstances but a new perspective to discover true happiness. With biblical insight, Leslie guides readers to take simple steps as they…

  • recognize and change habits that, day by day, keep them from experiencing happiness
  • make good choices and learn from mistakes without beating themselves up
  • develop the skills that enable them to let go of negative and painful emotions more quickly
  • transform difficult circumstances so they can live with gratitude, joy, and purpose

Application questions help readers work godly thinking, as well as healthy skills and habits, into their lives and hearts. They’ll discover that, even if nothing changes in their circumstances, their inner chains can be broken and they can go free…into a new path of real hope and happiness.

Meet the author

Leslie Vernick

Leslie Vernick

Leslie Vernick, a licensed clinical social worker with a private counseling practice, has authored numerous books, including The Emotionally Destructive Relationship and Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy. She completed postgraduate work in biblical counseling and cognitive therapy. Leslie and her husband, Howard, have been married more than 30 years and have two grown children.

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28 REVIEWS Leave a Comment »

12/21/14 Susan Evatt

Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy by Leslie Vernick is the first book I have read by this author and I liked it very much. Leslie Vernick challenges us with statements that people who are ‘morbidly preoccupied with themselves are not able to be happy.’ Throughout the book various phrases like ‘stinking thinking’ and the inability to handle failures in one life prevents one from obtaining goals, encourage self reflection. Each chapter ends with questions which challenge one to look closely at one’s thinking along with different Biblical references. She uses examples from her life along with others to explain the different points of each chapter. This is a book that can be read over and over again to recognize new ways to think about being happy I plan to read another book by this author.”

12/21/14 Tina W.

Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy is an amazing book for anyone. It gives each individual person the ability to apply different concepts to their life, and have a better understanding of themselves or someone else that is going through a difficult process. I have recommended to church’s family and friends!”

12/21/14 Sharon Spivey

“A very practical approach to finding genuine peace through spiritual growth and personal change. It helps one evaluate his/her own patterns and beliefs, and want to make positive change. I will gladly pass this book on to others and recommend it to my clients.”

12/21/14 Lana Koehler

“After hearing Leslie Vernick speak at a recent conference, I became interested in her as an author. Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy is the first book that I’ve read of hers, but it certainly won’t be the last. It was as if she was speaking directly to me. Many of the things that I have struggled with in my life were so clearly explained and thoroughly accurate. I came away with a renewed appreciation for God, and, yes, remarkably happier.”

12/21/14 Carol Meyer

“After reading Leslie Vernick’s book, Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy, I was once again amazed at the insight she provides. This book is very empowering by helping a person identify negative thought patterns, which hinder happiness. The practical suggestions she offers demonstrate a thorough grasp of the subject. As with all of Leslie’s books, I can wholeheartedly recommend this one!”

12/21/14 Donna Barats

“I absolutely loved this book! There was so much useful information to block all the negative thinking we surround ourselves with. As soon as I finished the book, my husband and teenage daughter asked to read it! They felt the same way! The insight is incredible! I intend to make this book a Christmas gift for many people this year! The book applies to men and women of all ages who want to live a more positive Christian life! I highly recommend it to all!”

12/21/14 Debi Kruk

“I am absolutely passionate about this book, Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy! Leslie has packed in a great deal of practical wisdom and loaded it with healing truths which are changing my life! I plan to buy more copies and share with those people in my life who most desperately want to be as happy too!”

12/21/14 Karen Mees

“I am so glad to join with other voices to share a good word about Leslie’s new book Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy. Leslie writes with conviction, experience and wisdom speaking boldly about the true nature of happiness and our joy starved condition as Christ followers. Her book would be a wise add to any Christ centered counselor’s shelf and equally a must read to the Christ follower today who finds themselves facing the symptom of disappointment more often than they wish. Thank you for another great resource Leslie.”

12/21/14 Loraine Brewer

“I found Lord, I just Want to Be Happy very helpful. Each person can see their own struggles in the book. It is a great tool of encouragement to all that seek to be happy as they walk with Lord. I will purchase a number for Christmas gifts.”

12/21/14 Carolyn

“I have just read and re-read Leslie’s new book. Lots of food for thought and action. I have been able to label some deep held feelings and deal with them. Thank you so much. Just being aware and having a plan to follow is so helpful. Leslie has been able to tie thoughts and suggestions into a profound resource for encouragement and change. Along with Christ and practical steps anything can be faced and overcome. I encourage everyone to read this. There is something for everyone.”

12/21/14 Misti

“I just finished reading Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy by Leslie Vernick. I have heard Leslie on radio programs but never had the pleasure of reading any of her books. Every chapter is full of Biblical wisdom and insight. The way this book is written makes you feel like Leslie and God really want to help you out of your pit of despair. I recommend this book for everyone. If you have ever been unhappy or ever will be unhappy you should read this book. That’s everyone. The steps in this book can be used daily. The study guide at the end of each chapter makes it great for personal growth or group study. I now this book will be a great blessing to anyone who applies these concepts to their life.”

12/21/14 Dawn Kreeger

“I just finished reading Leslie Vernick’s book Lord, I Just Want to be Happy, and highly recommend it for anyone who has struggled with not being happy and wondering why we’re not. This is a great book and easy to read as Leslie writes in a down-to-earth style and is easy to relate to. She clearly points out what we need to do (and not do) to become the beautiful and happy women God created us to be.  “I’m a highlighter of things I want to remember and what I feel is important, and just about this whole book is highlighted! I will highly recommend this book to all of my friends and to the women of my church for a book study. The questions at the end of each chapter and designed for thought and discussion and are great. Please read this book! It’s time we are happy women!”

“I loved the book and it is a must have for every home library! The book is interesting and easy to read and understand. The changes we may need to make are not difficult or overwhelming. The discussion and questions at the end of each chapter bring it all together. This feature makes if great for book clubs and Bible studies!”

12/21/14 Teresa R.

“If you want to open a treasure chest full of practical help in transforming your unhappy life into a genuinely happy one…then look no further than Leslie Vernick’s book, Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy. Just wishing for happiness will not turn you into the happy person you have always dreamed of…but this intriguing, yet easy-to-read life-changing book will show you how your life can be truly delightful. Even if you are already a fairly contented person Leslie’s book will challenge you to enjoy a more buoyant peace, a more cheerful hope, and a more pleasurable well-being through her straight-forward words of wisdom. You will not want to put it down! And you will want to buy one for almost everyone you know, because almost everyone can use the encouragement she offers. “Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy is full of fascinating facts, sage advice, timeless truths, interesting examples, quotes and questions to challenge your thinking and best of all solid help for everyone and anyone who would like to experience true happiness. Thank you, Leslie for writing this book! I look forward to reading it again, as well as your other books, because the Truth does set us free!”

“In Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy, key questions are raised to awaken our consciousness. Leslie Vernick distills the cultural messages we succumb to. She calls us to rewrite our own script and let go of the one we’ve bought. Her message is positive, encouraging, and realistic. The reader has in this book both a spiritual life coach and a friend. It provides the tools to take a personal inventory, one which requires focus and sincerity with ourselves.  “We can take responsibility for ourselves, without it being condemning or a drudgery. She incorporates her professional knowledge, her faith life, and wisdom with real life scenarios, all to lead us along a path of personal growth. Of the many questions asked to think critically and explore our lives, she asks, ‘What do you think of the idea that happiness is a skill we can learn?’ The book teaches that happiness is a skill, a way of thinking and being. Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy can make a difference, if you let it!

12/21/14 Vicky

“Informative, insightful, uplifting. I am passing this book on to encourage others.”

12/21/14 Terry

“Leslie does a wonderful job articulating her points. She shares real life examples and gives you practical application steps to follow. I love the biblical content found in this book and I cannot say enough about what I have read and the skills I have learned—I recommend this book to everyone!”

“Leslie hits the nail on the head with her refreshing new book. From the very first page she affirms that God actually wants people to be happy, and she doesn’t leave us hanging. Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy is full of practical, theologically astute advice that is easy to read and understand. This book will be a favorite in small group venues as well as a good counseling resource. I love that Leslie’s approach to this subject offers women practical application to think intentionally and embrace a happier life!”

12/21/14 Mary

“Leslie Vernick’s book is an answer to prayer! Having been raised in a family that experienced much heartache and early death of my dad and brother, my mom suffered from 2 serious bouts of depression. These occurred during my very impressionable developmental years. Back in the 60’s, children were not considered in the healing or counseling process…at least not in my community. I’ve struggled with a lot of self-doubt and unresolved issues. Although I found loving Christian counselors through church, I would often ask for ‘tools’ for dealing with the negative feelings that would be hard to shake even though I came to understand their source.  “This book has finally given me not only a better understanding of my feelings, but a way to stop over-analyzing them! I am so grateful for Leslie’s style and honesty. I used to think because of my struggles God could not use me in Kingdom work. Hearing that she also has struggled has given me a hope and joy! Thanks so much to Leslie for her work and guest spots on Midday Connections on Moody Radio each month. I really look forward to sharing this info with friends and family!

12/21/14 Rose

“Thank you Leslie for writing this book. I was one that was crying out Lord, I just want to be happy. I really didn’t know what to do or where to start. Now I have a place to start by applying these examples to my life. Well done.”

12/21/14 Autumn

“Thank you Leslie! The wisdom in this book, if put to practice, will change your life.”

12/21/14 Bev

“Thank you, Leslie, for another book to help us better understand our personal struggles. I have all your books and continue to re-read all of them for renewed hope. I shared this one with friends in bible study and received lots of positive feedback.”

12/21/14 Ginny Westover

“The only unhappy part of reading this book was closing the cover on the final chapter. Flowing with the ease of a conversation with a wise, trusted friend, each chapter is filled with poignant and personal illustrations, practical help and penetrating principles from scripture that encourage and guide the reader into wholeness and true happiness. Having read some of Leslie’s other books, I expected to learn important truths about myself, my choices and God. What I never expected was learning how to make lemonade while controlling an elephant; or the happy changes that result from putting that knowledge into practice. Read this book—you’ll be happy you did!”

12/21/14 Vida Ursic

“This book can be your first private counseling session and may be your last. Wonderful. Key words happy, transform, recognize, develop, choose, and live intentionally. A must read to sort out those areas in our personal lives where we know we created to be more/inside and out. Thank you, this will be a gift for many people in my life. I loved it.”

12/21/14 Zeenat

“This book is enriching and I have recommended it to my friends in Toronto along with other books written by Leslie. Thank you.”

12/21/14 Vicki W.

“This book reminds us all that in order to attain the live of happiness, we need to look to God for all things. There are many practical examples and focused directions given for a person to find their footing to attain God inspired happiness.”

12/21/14 Mary Dreisbach

“Well on the road to happier life, I have just finished reading Lord, I Just Want To Be Happy and have to say that this is well worth the read! Not only worth reading but also putting the skills Leslie Vernick teaches, into action!  “Leslie guides and encourages us to take the necessary steps in learning how to live a happier life in Christ, by helping us to understand our unhappiness, showing us how to move beyond our unhappiness, and then taking all we’ve learned and practicing it in order to lead happier lives. She uses practical biblical applications and examples in developing these skills and focuses on the fact that true happiness is only found in living our lives for Christ. Though most Christians already know this fact the issue often is how to carry it out, especially in the midst of our hurried, chaotic, and broken lives. “Lord, I Just Want To Be Happy is a life-changing book for anyone wanting to live a happier life. It helps us to examine our lives in light of God’s word and gives a formula for lasting change. At the end of each chapter are life-application questions for thought and discussion, making this book an excellent tool for personal growth or group study. I highly, highly recommend this book!”

12/21/14 Teresa

“What a great read! Leslie’s perspective and communication skills bring practical help to those suffering from unhappiness. Using scripture to support her suggestions for a happier life enforces her wisdom for encouraging change. It helps to know someone who can communicate life changing ideas in such a way to promote personal growth to become the person God intended me to be. Thought provoking questions are at the end of each chapter to encourage and strengthen the reader to want more for their life.”

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Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy is a refreshing work, full of permission and wonderful skills for learning to be happy. Leslie Vernick offers hope, help, and messages of encouragement we can claim as our own in our personal quests for happiness. I most appreciate Leslie’s honesty. She has had plenty of situations that would make anyone wonder if happiness is even possible. Yet she’s found it and freely shares how we can find it for ourselves in this delightful book. I love it. It makes me happy.”
—Jan Silvious, author of Big Girls Don’t Whine


“Drawing from a commitment to biblical truth and from rich familiarity with spiritual masters, Leslie Vernick offers practical, helpful direction to walk the road to spiritual maturity, which sometimes includes happiness now and always centers on hope for happiness forever, in knowing God.”
—Dr. Larry Crabb, psychologist, author, and founder of NewWay Ministries


“Thank you, Leslie Vernick, for writing one of the best books I’ve ever read. I want to proclaim to the world: read this book! You’ll fall in love with God and with life for the first time or all over again.”
—Elaine W. Miller, author of Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Moms and Splashes of Serenity: Bathtime Reflections for Drained Wives


“Thank you Leslie for another wonderful book, filled with such practical and effective cognitive therapy all based on Scripture. I'm ordering a case for my counseling clients.”
—Jan Grentz, LPCC


Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy drew me by its title but it kept me because of its Biblical foundation. Leslie communicates that happiness is not find in a person, place or thing but in God. And, then gives practical steps to walk out to discover this truth for oneself.”
—Becky Turner, executive director of LifeHouse

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