• When the Game Is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box

  • By: John Ortberg
  • Narrated by: John Ortberg
  • Length: 6 hrs and 15 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (170 ratings)

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When the Game Is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box  By  cover art

When the Game Is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box

By: John Ortberg
Narrated by: John Ortberg
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Publisher's summary

In this thought-provoking look at what's really important in life, John Ortberg uses games as a metaphor to help us recognize and play for life's real prize: being rich toward God.

Told with humor and wisdom by this best-selling author, pastor, and game-strategist, When the Game is Over It All Goes Back in the Box reminds us that everything on earth belongs to God, and everything we "win" is just on loan. Being Master of the Board is not the point; playing by God's rules is. Ortberg makes sure we understand the object of the game, but he also walks us through the set-up, the rules, the strategies, and choosing the right trophies.

This audiobook is for those who want to sort out what's fleeting and what's permanent in God's kingdom. It's the perfect playbook for individuals or groups interested in considering life's true priorities and arranging their lives with eternal prizes in mind.

©2007 John Ortberg (P)2007 Zondervan

Critic reviews

"A thoughtfully written instruction manual for Christian game players of all ages.... With excellent tools for personal and group study alike, this book's strategy offers a win-win solution." (Publishers Weekly)

What listeners say about When the Game Is Over, It All Goes Back in the Box

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One more move

Loved the book! The King has one more move! A very timely book for the culture we live in.

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excellent, inspiring, uplifting

I loved every minute of John Ortberg's book. I will seek more books by John Ortberg.

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1 person found this helpful

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Great perspective on life

I appreciate everything of John Ortberg's that I read. This book does not disappoint. He weaves game analogies throughout the book to help us see life from God's perspective. Very entertaining, humorous at times and extremely perceptive.

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3 people found this helpful

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Greatness

Engaging from beginning to end! Real life lessons for us all to learn by and live for.

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    5 out of 5 stars

Excellent, As Usual

John Ortberg is one of my favorite authors, and once again he hits the nail on the head. There is much in here worth listening to over and over.

The book is read by the author, and it is obvious that he has not done it very often. But, it's not terrible enough to warrant not listening to it. Just not as well done as some I've heard.

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7 people found this helpful

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I’ve listened multiple times.

One of my favorite books!
I’ve gifted this book multiple times. It holds great lessons.

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Inspiring... amazing ability with words and stories!

This book could be a life life changer! While listening to this book, I knew the Lord was leading me to be tested to give my kidney to someone who is a friend in need of a kidney. I can't take them with me! Don't worry there are lots more things I can't take with me that will be easier to reposition. Can't recommend this book highly enough... if you want to live a good life... a life free from addiction to stuff., read this one! I wIll need to listen to this one often because that's what addicts do! Thank you, John Ortberg!!

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Great book and discussion, from Author!

I enjoyed this audio book as read by the author. It really gives you some thought provoking things and wisdom to consider when evaluating what really matters in life. The author comes from a faith background but the words, life wisdom, and discussion topics could be helpful for anyone, not just those in a certain religion or faith background. I enjoyed the examples, stories, and discussions he used for the different topics.
Glad I listened to this book!
Thanks!

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    5 out of 5 stars

Expand your thinking

This was my first book to read (listen to) of John Ortberg. It is not the typical motivational book that seems to be so popular with Christian writers lately. He challenges us to look at some of our attitudes in light of eternity. If you want to grow I recommend you trying this one. BTW, it's nice to have the author read the book.

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Hands down a favorite book! (I read a lot!) ⭐️

Truly an absolute FAVORITE book of mine. His stories are relevant and personal. His humor is outstanding! Would love to write a percentage of this well someday! Thank you John Ortberg for doing what God has called you to and gifted you for!

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