We find ourselves in a nation we never envisioned with a future which seems very uncertain. In what seems like a very short time, Canada has gone from being a nation that was friendly toward Christian values to one where these same values are now either openly under attack or already trampled underfoot.
Prayer has been removed from schools, the rights of the unborn have been obliterated, marriage has been redefined, euthanasia has been legalized, marijuana is being normalized, society is hypersexualized, children are being taught that they can choose their gender, the rights of parents are being eroded, Christian organizations are being denied government funding because they won’t endorse abortion, Christian universities are being restricted because of their convictions about sexuality and marriage—and this is just the beginning of the list.
How we respond now is critical and will determine the future that we leave for our children and their children. To Shift a Nation examines where we are, what went wrong, and what we need to do to change course and see our nation shift.

Shortlisted for the 2023 "Braun Book Awards" and a finalist in the 2025 Word Guild "The Word Awards"!
This book succinctly explains how a Spiritual Shift in a Nation occurs. It confronts the mistakes of well-meaning people who desire to see God move but also provides the Biblical pathway for how Spiritual shifts actually happen.
This book will encourage those contending for a move of God and lay a theological framework for biblical participation. The Bible shows us how things Shift, and history confirms that shifts can happen.
After reading Craig's book, I quickly bought more copies to send to leaders I know who are praying for a move of God in Canada. I would recommend this book to any person with a burden to see their nation changed for God. Carefully consider what has been said, and get to work living it out!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Repeatedly, I found myself nodding my head in agreement as To Shift author, Craig Docksteader set out sound biblical principles for shifting Canada back to this nation’s Christian roots.
Many Christians are disappointed and angered as they see the country drift away from the moral and spiritual foundation that was established by earlier generations. Legitimately they ask, “How can we bring our nation back to God?” Docksteader systematically sets out the answer to that question. In short, we need to do the hard work of implementing incremental organic change. This is change that moves from the bottom up transforming society, rather than being imposed from the top down by government authority. This progressive incremental change is how the Kingdom of God is intended to operate among us.
Reading Craig’s book To Shift a Nation has been like having the “windows of my understanding” finally cleaned after a long season of haze, naitivity, mediocrity and some ignorance with regards to the workings of my nation’s government. For Canadians with a sense of anxious uncertainty and questions about our future identity as a nation with purpose and significance in the world, Craig brings clarity as to where our focus has been wrongly placed and the antidote guaranteed to bring restoration. Straightforward, uncomplicated, and easily grasped To Shift A Nation is a handbook and guide which carries truths that will “open the eyes of your understanding” as the lyrics of an old song declare, “ I can see clearly now, the rain has gone ….. Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind!”
As we enter anotherg election year, people will be asking how to vote, who to vote for and why vote at all. It is no secret Canada has shifted off the rails. What has happened to Canada? Why has it happened? What is God calling the church to do?
Craig Docksteader has written an excellent book that succinctly answers these questions and offers help for how to help people of faith respond biblically, intellectually and practically to the challenges before us. Best yet it is a unique in that it is written from a Canadian perspective. This is a must read book for and person wanting to understand the Canadian political arena and how people of faith can impact our nation.
If you find the division, disagreement and dogmatism that is seemingly becoming a growing part of the Canadian fabric disheartening, Craig Docksteader invites people of faith to dream again. Highly readable "To Shift a Nation" offers a refreshing and compelling hope for organic and incremental change. Followers of Jesus propelling change through prayer, in partnership with what God is already doing all around us, effectively frames future legislation—since legislation mirrors the will, desires and attitudes of society. “Government is almost always a reflection of the pre-existing reality of the problem, not the root of it.” Top-down legislation which imposes change on a resistant population, is not only “misguided” and “dangerous”, but also unsustainable. Rather, legislation that mirrors life-giving will and heart is both effective and sustainable.
As lovers of truth, Christians are challenged to be wise and careful, that is, “not to attribute motives or intent” on dissenting political decisions and opinions. The truth we are told, is in Isaiah 9:7’s promise that there is no end to the increase of God’s government. We just need to get on board with God. As Docksteader says, “the opportunity to partner with God awaits every follower of Christ”. We simply need to grow in our responsibility, organically and incrementally, as His fellow workers (1Cor 3:9).
Looking to be inspired, spiritually nurtured and encouraged to dream God-sized dreams, "To Shift a Nation" is your next read!
In To Shift A Nation, Docksteader provides a typology of change that is thoughtful. The focus is on the grassroots, and indeed, this is where it really matters, and where it really happens.
Besides his fine craftsmanship (very readable and effectively delivered prose that bounces with optimism and hope) and the personal anecdotes and stories, I appreciated the author's take on the separation between Church and state. A fascinating question that has shaped the West. Too often that separation is conceptualized as if watertight compartments. Docksteader offers more openness.
There are so many other bits I liked. The dismissal of conspiracy theories, hyperpartisanship and leader-driven politics. And also the salient critique of quietism that too often accompanies a Christian’s view of the political.
A thoughtful book by someone who is active in the field.
This book is an inspirational road map to how we as Christians can affect change in our nation, our community, and amongst ourselves. I highly recommend reading Craig’s book and learning from his wealth of wisdom and experience.
I appreciated Craig’s wisdom and experience as he approached a difficult topic. As Christians we have a responsibility to turn our nation toward a sovereign God.
I appreciate Craig's level of wisdom from his personal experience. All of his viewpoints come from having lived and worked through the challenges to bring lasting change in Canada.
Craig Docksteader has outlined beautifully, that while politics and government are necessary, they are not the ultimate source of our hope! Our Hope is found in a person- Jesus Christ, and in His ability to change hearts and minds and to transfer us from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of Light!
This book is a must read for all who desire to see change in our country. Craig gives very wise counsel on how we individually can take part in bringing that change!
This book was very timely, as I have been mulling about our role in government as a follower of Christ. Craig’s articulate, practical and refreshingly hopeful book was a joy to read.
To Shift a Nation is a thoughtful, inspiring read for anyone who believes politics in Canada (and beyond) can be changed for the better. Loved the practical and biblically-grounded examples of how Christians can re-think the political realm and effect positive change. Highly recommended.
It's one thing to complain about things that are wrong and the fear we may fear as we experience a Canada that's hard for us to recognize. Craig presents a clear and concise way to make the difference that our country needs. He does this without being insulting or mean-spirited. Truly a GREAT book.
