tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77927517778681651262024-03-13T11:35:54.712-07:00Loving God, Loving LifeAngie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.comBlogger143125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-75453972948481526862019-06-23T19:55:00.000-07:002019-06-23T19:55:14.278-07:0010 Minutes in the Word: JohnThis small book consists of 46 devotionals covering the gospel of John. It is pretty formulaic, consisting of the quotation of a main verse in each passage, about one-and-one-half pages of expanded and summarizing thoughts on the passage, a prayer, and a personal challenge. The approach is very basic, with no illustrative stories or other anecdotes.
An interesting aspect of this book is that it is unattributed. I searched hard for an author's name, and there was none, although John MacArthur's works appear often in the Notes at the end.
As a very basic devotional book to accompany the book of John, for example, for a new believer or a seeker, this is adequate.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program. Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-27562324762574888152019-06-09T18:26:00.001-07:002019-06-09T18:26:33.448-07:00The Logic of God – Ravi ZachariasSubtitled "52 Christian Essentials for the Heart and Mind," this book was not what I expected, which was for 52 clearly articulated topics to be addressed in an orderly manner. Instead, as stated in the Introduction, it is ". . . a collection of my writings, most never before published in book form, selected for their perspective on the many ways God has provided us with evidence of His existence and how this 'logic' gives life meaning, establishes the credibility of the Christian message, shows the weakness of modern intellectual movements, demonstrates the certainty of the claims of Jesus Christ, and validates biblical teaching and Christian apologetics."
Unfortunately for me, it seemed the 52 chapters alluded to the above topics without always addressing them, as if the author were addressing an audience familiar with his earlier writings. Some chapters were excellent standalone topics, such as "The Pathway of Pain" and "Are You Lonely?", while others, such as "A Bigger Story" seemed an introduction to something that never came. A few chapters, such as 'A Royal Wedding Just Like Mine" seemed almost silly, comparing Prince Harry and Meghan's wedding to the author's own 46 years ago; this particular chapter seemed appropriate for a blog followed by faithful readers and will not hold up well as the years pass. This makes for an uneven reading experience, with the sometimes-profound sprinkled in among the almost-shallow—might I even say "trite"?--chapters.
I would recommend this book only to those who have read other works by Ravi Zacharias, which I have not. It is a fairly light work by an author who, I can tell, usually writes works of much more depth.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program. Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-403228647832467282019-05-27T18:54:00.000-07:002019-05-27T18:54:25.585-07:00The Rock, the Road and the Rabbi – Kathie Lee GiffordThis is the first book I have read by this author, and it was worth reading. Kathie Lee Gifford has traveled to Israel many times over the last four decades, and she wanted to pass on to readers her enthusiasm for what she has seen and learned in the Holy Land. Each chapter focuses on a location in Israel, and usually the author writes a few pages about what she learned and then asks Rabbi Jason Sobel or another expert to explain in more detail some aspect of the background of the places being visited.
Kathie Lee Gifford focuses on the major sites important to Christianity, such as Bethlehem, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Mount of Olives, Capernaum, the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea. She includes chapters on less-known places, such as Magdala, Caesarea Philippi, Bet Av, and Masada as well.
This is not a scholarly book, but there is enough scholarship here that I think everyone will learn something (did you know it is very likely Jesus was NOT a carpenter?).
The writing style is very engaging and conversational. Whether or not the Christian reader has been to Israel, I think this book makes one want to know more; it is a good introduction to the places of the Bible.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program. Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-54064509968617631282019-05-11T07:03:00.001-07:002019-05-11T07:04:34.908-07:00Grateful American - Gary SiniseGary Sinise is an actor who has a passion for supporting veterans. While I knew this because I've seen him for years on PBS at the Memorial Day Concert in Washington, DC, I did not know his background nor much about him as an actor since my TV and movie interests are narrow.
His book, subtitled "A Journey from Self to Service" narrates just that, beginning with his childhood and moving to the present day. His personal history is an interesting one; Gary is very much a product of his time, as he came of age in the 1970s.
The author's interest in the military stems from family relationships—some of his and his wife's relatives served in different wars, giving him a broad understanding of the importance of the military to America's freedom. Through a combination of others inviting him and his seeking opportunities to honor and support the military, I got the impression that his service in support of the military and veterans has become his life's work; acting almost sounds incidental now.
The book is fairly well written, although there were times topics seem belabored.
I noticed a couple of typos: on page 47, Neiman Marcus is misspelled as "Nieman Marcus". On page 202, "the" is omitted from: ". . . network execs recognized the opportunity for publicity when announcer could introduce me. . . ."
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more about the author or who is curious about how he came to be so supportive of the military. The book goes into great detail on both subjects, so readers must be motivated to know more in order for their interest to be held.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program. Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-7667945801748031822019-04-20T09:37:00.002-07:002019-04-20T09:37:16.183-07:00Delivered by Beth MooreThis pocket-sized book, "derived from material previously published in Get Out of That Pit," contains the essential excerpts from that earlier work, making it lean and mean, so to speak. Pared down, it effectively addresses how to work with God when we find ourselves in sin or dogged by sinful attitudes, such as resentment or bitterness, which Beth Moore calls "pits".
The author addresses the three ways we get into pits: we are thrown into, slip into, or jump into them. Her next three chapters address how to get out in three steps (cry out, confess and consent), waiting on God, and making up your mind. After deliverance, a new song will result, and you can learn to live without pits.
Beth Moore's writing is clear, concise and on target. She is often very funny, and I found her illustrations to be on the money.
I highly recommend this book. It would be a worthwhile reread a couple of times a year to remind myself of how to stay in a victorious walk with God.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program. Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-13050291647324056032019-04-04T11:33:00.000-07:002019-04-04T11:39:07.613-07:00The Book of Signs by Dr. David JeremiahSubtitled "31 Undeniable Prophecies of the Apocalypse," this outstanding book lays out in a clear, engaging format the author's interpretation of what is commonly called The End Times. It should be stated that it is presented from an unwaveringly pre-Tribulational, pre-Millennial view, which, I should make clear, is also mine; since that is so, I naturally would have no argument with the author's perspective. Since the author's aim is to present his view, there is no discussion of other viewpoints with regard to the events or their sequence. If the reader is hoping to evaluate varying viewpoints in one volume, then this is not that book.
For those wishing to have in one source a pre-Tribulational, pre-Millennial view of what is to come, you can do no better than this book as a refresher course of future events, especially if you are acquainted with eschatology, prophetic Old Testament books, and Revelation. The Book of Signs is not an apologetic (that is, a defense of doctrine) work; it is a presentation of one doctrinal perspective. It was very well researched, citing many other respected theologians, sometimes reaching back many years for their works, and used Scripture quotations extensively.
Each chapter, beginning with an engaging story meant to capture your attention and make you want to read more, progresses with helpful sections and subsections which help make the book eminently readable. Jeremiah was schooled in a time when alliteration was encouraged as a preaching tool, and it shows. For example, in the chapter "Heaven," the sections are entitled, "The Prominence of Heaven," "The Plurality of Heaven," "The Place Called Heaven," and "The Preciousness of Heaven." This method permeates the book.
While the tone of the book is didactic, it is also intended to comfort believers and challenge unbelievers; each chapter focuses on these two things in its closing paragraphs.
This was one of the best books on prophecy I have read; it is one I will reread periodically.
I did notice a couple of typos: on page 81, it says, "He gave every single one to the hospital, more than $200,000 dollars in all"; and on page 272, it says Adolf Eichmann was a "principle" (rather than "principal") player in the Nazi persecution.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program. Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-89969097951862401382019-03-16T08:54:00.000-07:002019-03-16T08:54:39.185-07:00The Theft of America's Soul by Phil RobertsonIf you know anything about the author, you know he is the very plain-spoken patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family. He is a straightforward, no-nonsense man; if there is anything subtle about him, it would be his sense of humor.
In his latest book, Robertson addresses 11 lies that he says are ruining America, the foundational one of which was perpetrated in the 1960s: "God is dead". From there followed the next seven: There is no Devil, Truth is Relative, God did not create life, Sex is for self-gratification, Virtue is outdated, Laws can be ignored or changed if they are inconvenient, and Unity is not possible. The last three lies are aimed at the American church: Church participation and day-to-day life should be kept separate, Christians should shut their traps; and the Truth of Truths,
Often the author addresses each subject with his own personal stories, which are both entertaining and instructive. In the chapter on laws, Robertson incorporates a fair amount of historical research, which was new to me. Throughout, he cites biblical support for his views.
Robertson hopes he is issuing a clarion call to the nation, that unbelievers would come to the knowledge of Jesus as Lord and Savior and turn from their ways, and that believers would adhere to the Bible and share and preach it unafraid. Robertson believes that only if enough individuals embrace the gospel with America's decline be halted.
Phil Robertson makes a very good case for his beliefs. He evidences a good mind and a stout character that is formed by what he believes. This book is worth your time.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program. Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-71818493236249414532019-02-25T08:06:00.006-08:002019-02-25T08:13:37.512-08:00The Luckiest Man by John R. PaineSubtitled, “How a Seven-Year Battle with ALS Led me to Intimacy with God”, this book provides a narration of the life of a successful Texas businessman who was diagnosed at age 47 with Lou Gehrig’s disease. At the time of writing, the author was likely close to the end of his life.
The narrative rotates around the time when a documentary of the author’s life is released, and a fair chunk of the book is devoted to talking about the premiere of that movie, from John being readied for the event, going to the event, and participating in it. A second aspect of the book looks back over John’s life, beginning in childhood. The third aspect involves John’s internal journey.
The book is 187 pages long, and the first 100 pages does not address what the subtitle mentions: intimacy with God. So it takes a while for the foundation to be laid, by which time the reader may lose interest, thinking the book will talk about John’s growing relationship with God. Toward the end, John intensifies his emphasis on walking with God through the disease, and there are some very challenging and worthwhile perspectives he offers.
One of the best is one he was offered from a friend, which is to learn to say goodbye as the inexorable flow of losses continue—with a last time for everything as his body loses its abilities, from his last hug, to the last time he was able to feed himself, to the last time he was able to pull the bedcovers over himself.
John R. Paine clearly grows in his insights and understanding, which was clearly demonstrated as he walked himself through the process of coming to terms with everyday frustrations and was able to put himself in his wife’s shoes when she was frustrated. John was deliberate, thoughtful and responsive in a way we all wish we might be, but only after he took a timeout and carefully walked himself through his own emotions.
The author’s thoughts about and understanding of how God views him and encourages him were worth the read. His own shift from self-perspective to God’s perspective was something I wished received more words and pages in this book. So much of the narrative was devoted to John’s physical situation that the book felt uneven, with the spiritual journey receiving short shrift in the narrative.
One literary device that I found annoying was the very frequent use of a series of rhetorical questions, which had the effect on me of feeling badgered. For example, on page 74, in typical fashion, the author asks, “Hadn’t I served God as best I knew how? Didn’t God promise to provide for those who loved him, for those who did the right things in faith? Hadn’t I done all the right things? Hadn’t I outworked everyone? So, where was he? Did he see me? If he did, then why the failure of my businesses, of my marriage? Why wouldn’t he intervene in Hillary’s life; why wouldn’t he make her eat? Shouldn’t I reap the rewards? After all, without some reward, what good is rigorous dedication? What good is all of this faith? Even more, what of his promised comfort and closeness?”
On balance, the book is worth reading for its message, but it was not as smooth a read as it might have been.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program.
Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-84434871655194283492019-02-14T08:55:00.000-08:002019-02-14T08:55:56.411-08:00Better Together by Warren PhotographicOn each page of this small book on friendship is either an outstanding photos of two animals interacting or a thought or verse on friendship. The authors of these thoughts range from the Bible to Priscilla Shirer to Vincent van Gogh. I found it to be a heartwarming and encouraging book, just a little light reading when one wants to reflect on friendship and what it can mean.
I recommend this book to anyone wanting to consider their friendships and their importance in your life.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-4663858835721032622019-02-02T09:12:00.001-08:002019-02-02T09:12:39.559-08:00Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas by Ace Collins
This small book gives the history and background of 26 aspects of our Christmas celebrations, from the meaning of “Advent” to the history and use of “Yule Logs”. The author is thorough, sometimes overly so, in presenting the origins and practices concerning each of the traditions. I found some of the chapters, such as “Handel’s Messiah”, “The Nutcracker Ballet” and “The Twelve Days of Christmas” interesting and educational. Others, such as “Holly”, “Lights”, “Mistletoe” and “Xmas” felt belabored.
All in all, this book tells you all you’d want to know about the Christmas traditions you and others around you practice. It will likely deepen the reader’s appreciation of the celebration we call Christmas.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-8514994864989916952019-01-08T20:30:00.000-08:002019-01-08T20:30:35.824-08:00The Golden Thread - Darlene ZschechThis book about the author’s walk with God was interesting, as it talked about the challenges of following God, such as being surprised in good ways and bad by adventures, including moves, new ministries, and health crises. Much of the writing aims to encourage others in their journeys through life, to lean on and learn from God.
That being said, this book was not quite my cup of tea for a couple of reasons.
One was that it tended to be wordy, as exemplified by this paragraph from page 46: “I am humbled when I think of the times God spoke to Abraham and Moses and Joshua and David and His prophets, how Jesus drew near to an outcast woman at a well, how God spoke to a young virgin through an angel, how He spoke and created the earth and the planets and every living thing above and under the earth through His word. And yet, He still longs to dwell in me and you, and lead us in the way that only He can.” That paragraph reminds me of how people speak, not how they should write; there are a lot of “and”s and a lot of topics in that first very long sentence. Much of the book reads this way.
Another reason this book was not a good fit for me was that I come from a different church tradition than the author. On page 143, Darlene Zschech said three people during one shopping trip asked to “pray with me or prophesy over me.” One said, “I have asked my pastor that if ever I saw you here, could I please give you this word that I feel is for you. I see and hear thousands of regal horses galloping up the freeway toward the Central Coast. This picture represents strength and leadership, literally galloping together in response to the many prayers that have been prayed over this region for many, many years. God has said that you are here as a part of this prophesy.”
I am not familiar with people prophesying over others or giving “this word.” Because of this, there were aspects of this book where I questioned whether I understood what was written; words I thought were common were used in ways I did not know.
Still, there were lessons offered and encouragements written that can be helpful. It is not a book I recommend, but if my two criticisms above do not resonate with you, this may be a book you will enjoy.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-25809142020156597632018-12-11T06:56:00.004-08:002018-12-11T06:56:40.577-08:00The Voice by Sandi PattyThis thought-provoking book traces the author’s journey, which had parallel tracks: on one track, Sandi Patty became the most celebrated Christian female vocalist of her time, and on the other, she was, from a young age, so overly compliant that for many decades that she failed to speak up for herself, losing touch with her own perspective, attitudes and feelings.
Sandi Patty describes in this book how she was sexually abused by a female grade-school teacher when she was six. The fear and shame of that time taught Sandi to keep silent and set her on a path of negotiating with herself where others’ voices and opinions became more important to her than her own. Sandi traces the effects of that trauma-induced habit well into her adulthood.
This book is written clearly and concisely. It is easy to trace the pattern with Sandi of learning to be silenced and then voiceless. At the end of each chapter, the author includes thought-provoking questions so the reader can evaluate their own ability to speak, with most verses cited in this section quoting a Bible verse that has to do with the voice, including God’s voice.
I recommend this book to anyone. If you have not given up part or all of your voice, particularly as a result of childhood trauma, you know someone who has. The Voice will help you understand the perspective of those who have been muted.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-32000671894138983392018-11-14T06:59:00.000-08:002018-11-14T06:59:24.443-08:00Across the Street and Around the World by Jeannie MarieThis is an important book, thoroughly describing what it means to go and make disciples, starting right where you live. It is biblical, practical, thorough and specific.
Jeannie Marie describes the mission, how to begin and move forward, the obstacles each will face--including a couple of chapters on obstacles from your own mindset and personality, experience, background, and weaknesses--and how to address and overcome them.
This book will certainly make you think and then consider. Whether it will make you change at all depends on who and where you are in your life, all of which is worth a deep look.
I highly recommend this refreshing and original book.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-1012355260428405702018-10-28T06:58:00.001-07:002018-10-28T06:58:07.965-07:00Through My Father’s Eyes - Franklin Graham
This look at Billy Graham is a combination biography and ministry summary, tracing both life and ministry in effective detail. Few of us are old enough to remember the start of Billy Graham’s ministry in the 1940s, the rise and peak of it through the decades that followed, and the subsiding of it until his death earlier this year. The overview of the the ministry alone is worth the time it takes ot read this book, as it is not likely something that will be seen again.
In addition, the author’s reflections on both his parents, both their upbringings and their parenting, are personal and interesting. The reader comes away with a full picture of Billy and Ruth Graham as well as of Franklin himself.
If you are curious about Billy Graham as an evangelist, father or person, you will enjoy this book. If you are curious about the ongoing ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, you will like it, too.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-49566661024228321252018-09-03T16:47:00.000-07:002018-09-03T16:47:06.915-07:00Praying the Promises - Max Lucado and Andrea LucadoThis book is comprised of 30 promises laid out in a five-fold format: a verse, followed by a narrative called Unshakable Hope, then Promises from God, Praying God’s Promises, and an “I Am” statement. Its topics are fairly elementary, such as You Will Know God, God Will Guide You, God Is Near, God Gives Grace to the Humble, God Works Through You, Your Sins Are Forgiven, God Will Meet Your Needs, and Hope Is an Anchor for Your Soul.
My opinion is that the promises the Lucados chose and the supporting verses and writings the authors offered are aimed at either those who are new to faith or those who need basic reassurance. Only one thought struck me as fresh, and it was on page 92: “Some of the most incredible invitations are found in the pages of the Bible. You can’t read about God without finding him issuing invitations. . . . God is a God who invites. . . .”
Very occasionally, some of the words chosen seemed a little jarring because they were not used conventionally. As an example, on page 109, in a prayer, it says, “You’ve ridden me of the chains of sin that had taken me captive.” The author very likely meant “rid”.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-53989660727109702062018-08-21T06:06:00.003-07:002018-08-21T06:06:59.997-07:00Ever Faithful by David Jeremiah“Solid” is the word I’d use to describe this devotional, as it is biblical, reassuring, and challenging, appropriate for both new believers and those who have walked with the Lord for a long time. Most of these devotionals offer nothing particularly original--as that is hard to do--but Jeremiah’s insights are usually thought provoking.
Of particular value, I thought, were the devotionals in December, which were a balance of aiming at those celebrating family and traditions with those who feel alienated at Christmas. Jeremiah shines in his compassion for and insight into those who struggle during the holidays.
Overall, the tone of this book is one of care by a seasoned pastor who knows how to feed his sheep. I appreciated that it was not glib, self-impressed or trendy. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a deeper personal walk with God.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-60001191247668829672018-07-29T19:12:00.000-07:002018-08-10T06:44:59.956-07:00Boundaries for Your Soul - Alison Cook and Kimberly MillerThis book is a life changer, one of the best books I have ever read. Many are acquainted with boundaries--the establishment and keeping of a border where others end and you begin.
This new book addresses how to establish those borders within oneself. It is a very practical tool to apply Internal Family Systems by Richard Schwartz (recommended by Bessel van der Kolk in The Body Keeps the Score) in a way where Christians access the power of Christ in addressing the parts of themselves that had been wounded or damaged.
At the center is the “Spirit-led self”, or “your self led by the Spirit of God,”, from which “you can be attuned to your troubling thoughts and emotions and give them the care they need. The Spirit-led self is not a part; rather, it is the core of who you are. Its role is to lead the parts of your soul like a symphony conductor so that they can work harmoniously." A wounded person is comprised of Managers, who are protectors who “drive you to perform, produce, protect, and please”; Firefighters, who “try to extinguish pain after it occurs”; and Exiles, which are “the distressed parts . . . voiceless and long neglected [which] have great need, and they’ve often yielded their power,” signaled by “shame, fear, insecurity, hurt, a feeling of worthlessness, a sense of being marginalized, a sense of being unseen, unappreciated, or overlooked; loneliness; sadness.”
The “Five Steps” involved in helping Managers and Firefighters relax and Exiles come forward are Focus, Befriend, Invite, Unburden, and Integrate. The approach is easily learned, makes intuitive sense, and it works.
This excellent work is well written, easy to understand, easy to apply and written for the layperson. Most chapters begin with a quote and a Bible verse which seems presented through a new lens. For example, for the first chapter, Why Boundaries for Your Soul, which gently begins explaining the necessity for internal boundaries, Romans 7:15 is quoted: “I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate."
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Even if you are, ahem, perfectly mature emotionally and spiritually, you will want to read this to help and understand others. If, on the other hand, you are like the vast majority and sometimes have something falling out of the emotional box, this book can help you figure out why and how to help yourself get to the root of it. It is a book like no other I have ever seen. It is already changing my life, and I would venture to bet it will change yours.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-31283816440154618432018-07-15T15:11:00.004-07:002018-07-15T15:16:14.618-07:00The Road to Freedom by Johnny BakerThis book focuses on Celebrate Recovery, its mission, purpose, and method. It encourages the reader to come to grips with “hurts, hang-ups and habits” by absorbing ten Life Lessons, which are distinct from the Eight Recovery Principles, with or without participation in Celebrate Recovery.
The author balances the biblical justification for each life lesson with an exhortation to take to heart and apply each.
The writing is clear, albeit sometimes repetitive from chapter to chapter,
The author seems to believe that Celebrate Recovery is for everyone, as he says we are in pain, coming out of pain, or about to enter pain. I am not convinced that is true, but I would say that if this rings true, then Celebrate Recovery may be of great help.
This book could have used closer proofreading. On page 103, in the last line it says, “down the garbage shoot [rather than “chute”] she goes.” There are a number of instances on pages 105 and 106 where “cannot” is written as “can not”. On page 174, one of the headings says, “Serving is Manditory.”
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-46241224363422558112018-07-01T20:36:00.001-07:002018-07-01T20:36:06.735-07:00NIV - The Woman's Study BibleThis hardback, full-color version Bible has many special features. The Bible itself is in one easy-to-read font, and all footnotes and commentary are in another smaller font, making them easy to distinguish.
Each of the 66 books is prefaced by an introduction explaining the title, naming the author, and discussing date, background, themes and outlines. Commentaries and charts are liberally placed throughout, with short biographies of women indicated by a blue header and descriptions of topics headed by a maroon stripe. Unique charts, such as “The Breastplate of the High Priest” in Genesis, “Musical Instruments of the Old Testament” in Psalms, “Women and Jesus” in John, and “My Identity in Christ” in Colossians, and “The Significance of Numbers in Scripture” and “Beatitudes in the Book of Revelation”, provide helpful, new perspectives.
The viewpoint espoused in this edition is conservative and traditional. My careful reading of the commentary on 1 Timothy 2 drew me to conclude the commentators for this edition do not support females in the role of pastor, and the footnotes in Romans 1 and commentary at Leviticus 18 describe homosexuality as “deviant behavior,” “sinful lifestyle,” and “aberrant behavior”.
The one jarring note I found throughout this edition is the inclusion of quotations in boxes by various women in the biblical text, the style of which in most books is used to highlight a particularly important point from that page. It was distasteful to me, and I think they should have either been omitted or placed in a separate section.
This edition is attractive, informative and well constructed.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.
Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-61373512217303538132018-04-29T19:40:00.001-07:002018-04-29T19:40:21.952-07:00Embraced - Lysa TerKeurstSubtitled “100 Devotions to Know God is Holding You Close”, this book had some excellent devotionals. Among my favorites were ones which listed key thoughts, such as one on humility, which made the points that God is our provider, providing what we need but not always what we want, and providing what protects our hearts. Her devotionals seemed aimed at someone getting used to a walk with God rather than at those who have matured in their faith.
At times she belabored points, and at times her self-consciousness (such as the devotional where she was envious of the shape and size of another woman’s legs) was more than I could take. But I am not a young woman, so a young woman’s perspective and concerns are no longer mine.
The author writes in a clear, straightforward way. After recently reading some writings of other young women, I found TerKeurst’s style refreshing. She said what she meant and meant what she said without using phrasing that sounded self-impressed. I like the fact that I think her writing will stand the test of time.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-45986272750645524042018-04-14T17:26:00.001-07:002018-04-16T06:05:14.461-07:00The Way of Abundance - Ann VoskampI am of a generation that was taught to write in keeping with certain rules, where a sentence such as “So my grandma Ruth, she told me . . .” would come back with “, she” crossed out in red. Words such as “realest” and “realer” were unacceptable as replacements for “most real” or “more real,” if they were acceptable at all, because how can “real” have degrees? It is or it isn’t. And one did not invent words such as “givenness”, especially when meanings are not supplied but need to be inferred. Writing was to be clear and unambiguous, or it was not good writing.
While Voskamp’s more recent writings are much improved over the tortuous One Thousand Gifts, the same thread of intensity over everyday things and events continues. This paragraph on page 29 is typical: “I put the porcelain pitcher on the barn board shelf by the farm table. All of us in a heart-breaking world, we are the fellowship of the broken like that painting of Jesus over the table. Over all of us is the image of the wounded God, the God who breaks open and bleeds with us.” This paragraph appears on page 162, in a chapter on doing for others: “And there’s an answer that lives cruciform, broken and given like bread, a broken way forward through brokenness, that gives grace forward, that gives forward, that chooses to make its life about being a gift, that moves dreams and hopes and abundant wholeness forward.”
If this kind of repetitious, pseudo-philosophical, pseudo-wise, pseudo-authentic writing is your thing, then you will love this book, but be warned that it plows over the same tired theme repeatedly, making the point that giving and living by grace are essential.
Many chapters bear titles such as Decisive Givenness, Vulnerable Givenness, Breaking Brokenness, Sacrificial Givenness, Held Brokenness, Living Givenness, Yielding into Givenness, Unashamed Brokenness, Sacrificial Givenness, Grieving Brokenness, Zacchaeus Brokenness, Crisis Givenness, “If Only” Brokenness, Koinonia Brokenness, Patient Brokenness, and Esther Givenness, as if adjectives and nouns were laid out in two lists and then joined willy-nilly.
The writing seemed to me to follow that same randomness, matching events in the author’s life with some overblown application. The chapter about locking her keys in a vehicle and waiting for a spare key to be delivered (p. 194) is described as a near-crisis with “Patient Brokenness” as the lesson: “Passion has much less to do with elation and much more to do with patience. Passion embraces suffering because there’s no other way to embrace love. Love isn’t about feeling good about others; love is ultimately being willing to suffer for others.” So if locking your keys in your vehicle qualifies in your life as suffering (by contrast, previous generations would have considered this a mere inconvenience and a consequence of carelessness), this is the book for you.
If, on the other hand, you prefer a straightforward writer who says what she means and means what she says, with events shrunk down to scale and points made succinctly, then look elsewhere.
Because her writing is so popular, I gave Voskamp’s work another shot, in hopes it had calmed down from that self-impressed silliness of her earlier work. Never again: I'm not afraid to say it: The Emperor has no clothes.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-74798246205808601452018-03-29T07:47:00.003-07:002018-03-29T07:51:49.957-07:00I Can Only Imagine - Bart MillardThe back story of the famous song is written by the lead singer/songwriter of MercyMe. It begins as a story of early trauma, abuse and neglect, resulting in a wounded, damaged adolescent. Bart Millard’s father, an intimidating, severe figure in Bart’s life for many years, was diagnosed with cancer, which wrought a spiritual transformation that was life changing for both of them. A relationship characterized by pride and fear softened into one of repentance, honesty and openness. Bart says his father went from being a monster to being his example in all things. Bart’s father died in Bart’s senior year of high school, but by then, a firm foundation had been constructed for Bart which would guide him all his life.
Bart tells the story of the formation of MercyMe, a band that self-promoted for many years, ministering mostly through youth worship events, including conferences and camps. Living on a shoestring, the band worked together to cover all the bases necessary to keep itself going. This is a fascinating story of the group’s slow success, living on the edges of contemporary Christian music.
Bart’s paternal grandmother, a great influence in Bart’s life, was the inspiration for both the band’s name (“Mercy me!” she once said. “Get a real job!”) and the famous song. After Bart’s father died, she said, “Bart, I can only imagine what Bub must be seeing right now.” Her words percolated in Bart for many years before he wrote, in 10 minutes in the middle of the night, the words to the now-famous song.
The tale of how the song wove itself into the band’s history and gradually skyrocketed to fame, taking the band along with it, is a fairly simple story, part of the great charm of this very readable book, told simply and engagingly.
A bonus is the sweet story of Bart and his wife, Shannon, who knew at 13 that she would marry Bart. The reader senses the great blessing these two have been to each other and how Shannon’s family helped preserve Bart through his traumatic childhood.
Everyone will enjoy this book, although two groups of people may struggle emotionally with the first third of the book: those who have not been exposed to childhood trauma and those who have.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-45708534937142796962018-03-11T19:29:00.001-07:002018-03-11T19:29:34.664-07:00Finish First - Scott HamiltonThis is the first book by this author that I have read. I found it enjoyable and challenging. The author combines his own life story with the lessons he has learned about perseverance, and it makes for a personalized aim that encourages the reader to find their own challenges, and to pursue and persist.
This would be a good resource for anyone who feels stuck, as it talks about such things as the great value of failure, of editing others' criticisms, and of the importance of habits.
While the book had some good points, I found it repetitious; it would have made a fine magazine article but was overly long as a book.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-81818383219433929832018-03-11T19:21:00.000-07:002018-03-11T19:21:08.285-07:00Shaken by Tim TebowTim Tebow wrote this book to both tell his football story and to encourage readers when life goes awry. I found Tim’s story interesting and gained an understanding about how unstable the life of a professional athlete can be.
Tim talks about how to assure and reassure yourself as well as how to move forward when disappointed.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Tim Tebow.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792751777868165126.post-18858700545702440012018-02-14T06:12:00.004-08:002018-02-14T06:12:41.098-08:00When Is It Right to Die? by Joni Eareckson TadaJoni Eareckson Tada has been a wheelchair-bound quadriplegic for more than 50 years. She is sympathetic to the physical, emotional, social and spiritual struggles of those who are challenged to have a full life.
This book is Tada’s answer to the right-to-die movement, and she writes thoroughly, considering the movement itself. One of her unique contributions to the topic are her beliefs about how euthanasia affects others, self, Satan and God.
I understood the author to say she believes that only when death is actively approaching without hope of reversal is it right to withhold life-sustaining measures.
This was a thought-provoking work with which I happen to not agree, as I am of the opinion that science has outpaced ethics; just because a person can be kept alive does not mean they should be. The last few decades have challenged medical ethics with mind-bending dilemmas in a way they have not been challenged for millennia. Artificial means of sustaining life now call for reason and emotion to make decisions that bodies alone used to make, which makes it necessary for books such as this one to be written.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.Angie A.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13694124640237673778noreply@blogger.com0