The Book of (insert your name here)

What is your purpose in life? What is your book---I mean, what motivates you and propels you forward every day? If you're interested in answering those questions, you may want to watch The Book of Eli. The film's simple plot is powerful and leaves the viewer asking important questions. Caution: You'll hear more profanity than dished out in a men's locker room, but The Book of Eli treats the Bible reverently.

Eli (Denzel Washington) is on a treacherous mission in a post-civilized world to deliver the last remaining Bible to safety. An illiterate community so closely associates the special book with its protector that it becomes known as The Book of Eli. He sets his face like flint westward and walks "by faith, not by sight." Cutting through the cacophony of life, the film's Spartan features compel the viewer to ask big questions.

For non-Christians: What drives Eli? Why does this accomplished man devote his life unwaveringly to a spiritual, rather than a material, cause? And, how can I possess a clear mind like Eli's?

For Christians: How can I obtain Eli's strength and become steadfast in purpose?

For teenage Christians: Am I willing to walk the difficult path that God may set before me? Will I serve God or use my talents in pursuit of shallow self-indulgence?

The most important question for everyone is: Will I swap my name for Eli's? The Book of (insert your name here).

As I sat silently at the end of this simple and violent film, I asked myself if I have swapped my name for Eli's. In other words, am I following God resolutely and treasuring His book like Eli? He demonstrates that following God can be difficult. As portrayed by the film, the Christian's journey can feel like a never-ending series of spiritual battles requiring great strength and wisdom. Like Eli, God requires the Christian to walk life's path by faith, not by sight. Do you want Eli's focus, sense of purpose, and strength? Then insert your name for his.