Loving God, Loving Life

Healing is a Choice by Stephen Arterburn

2012-02-03T17:55:00.000-08:00

The book’s subtitle, “Ten Decisions That Will Transform Your Life & Ten Lies That Can Prevent You From Making Them,” sum up the book nicely. Each of the ten chapters includes a choice that will move your life forward and a lie that will fight against that choice. The choices involve healing, feeling, investigating, helping, embracing, and risking your life, and the lies concern things such as independence, denial, lack of forgiveness, and hopelessness.

This book was overly long, at 454 pages. For example, the first chapter was 48 pages, and its workbook section, misnomered "Workbook Questions," was 20. Reading the workbook sections after each chapter left me with the feeling I was going in circles, as the workbook sections contained narrative that was extremely repetitious of the chapters. If the sections called “Workbook Questions” were simply that, the book would have been greatly improved.

For the most part, biblical truth was portrayed accurately. The one section where I concluded it was not was in the chapter, “The Choice to Serve,” where the author states: “Romans 12 is one place we learn about the spiritual gifts that I call secret powers.” First, never does the Bible even imply that spiritual gifts to be secret. I Corinthians indicates these are given to serve the Body, and some of those gifts are very public, such as pastor, evangelist, administration. Even helps and mercy are not exercised in private. Second, Arterburn goes on in the next section on service to talk about talents, strengths, interests, personality traits, and desires, which the Bible does not overlap with spiritual gifts. This section was muddy and could be very confusing to an unbeliever or a new believer.

I would not recommend this book because of its length and muddiness. There are other books which convey the same truths without wearing the reader out and without watering down the teaching of Scripture on spiritual gifts until they are described as “secret powers.”

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

The Grace of God by Andy Stanley

2011-10-16T08:23:00.001-07:00

This is the first book I’ve read by Andy Stanley, who is a masterful writer. When he turned his sights to the topic of the grace of God, the result is an in-depth look involving a refreshing perspective, an engaging style, and challenging applications. The author gives everyone something meaty to ponder.

Clearly outlined is man’s need for God’s grace, as well as God’s desire to extend grace to everyone at all times. Scripture is used extensively and well, and some familiar Bible stories, such as the story of Joseph and the parable of the prodigal son, are retold in a fresh way. The author explores many facets of grace in chapters entitled, among others, Surprised by Grace, Ruled by Grace, Sustained by Grace, Puzzled by Grace, and Commissioned for Grace.

This book was interesting, enlightening and thought provoking. I would recommend this book to everyone, especially to those who are new in their faith.
I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

Love You More by Jennifer Grant

2011-08-30T19:14:00.001-07:00

This book chronicles the author’s journey of adopting her daughter, Mia, from Guatemala in 2003. It serves both as her personal account and a narration of what potential adoptive parents can expect from the adoption process. The author readily acknowledges that adoption is not for everyone; she is not a zealot who believes that if you can adopt, you should. Yet she makes the case for adoption for those who are looking at their desires, motivations, and reasons.

Jennifer Grant writes well, and every chapter was interesting. She gives a compelling account of Mia’s story while giving a full picture of people’s response to Mia, from both her adoptive parents to her siblings to friends and even strangers. If you are not an adoptive parent, the author will make you think about your response to adoption.

There are few references to the Bible and a smattering of references to prayer and God’s working in the author’s situation, but that is not a criticism, for this book is an account, not a manual. I would recommend this book to those considering adoption. At the end of the book are useful questions and helpful resources listed.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

Stained Glass Hearts by Patsy Clairmont

2011-08-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

This newest offering by energetic, funny, master storyteller Patsy Clairmont is a treasure. Stepping away from her usual wry and witty style, the author pulls the curtain back on her life, her thoughts, and her deep perspective. She writes thoughtfully of challenge and loss, reflecting on how those times have shaped her into someone who values the brokenness in herself and in others that results. Patsy offers practical steps to help when facing challenging times.

Patsy reveals a side of herself that is at once aware, articulate, and deep. One of my favorites of her statements in this new book is, “Words that give us pause are often a window to our needs.” It is that kind of thoughtfulness that permeates this work.

In addition, every chapter ends with suggestions of art to view, music to hear, and written words to consider if further exploration of the topic is desired. This is an offering not often seen in books and is a way to pursue anything that resonates.

This little book is a keeper, one to consider time and again when life creeps or crashes in.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

It’s Not About Me by Max Lucado

2011-07-30T18:12:00.001-07:00

This book discusses the fact that the universe and everything in it, including mankind, is designed to reflect and focus on God, as God’s person and character deserve and demand it. Man’s responsibility is to reflect and broadcast God in his message, body, struggles and success.

This was an interesting book, effectively making the point that all of life is to be focused on God, not on people. This author is a bit wordy, but he makes good points. Lucado particularly uses illustrations and biblical references very well to direct the reader’s attention back to the importance of keeping God first.

I would particularly recommend this book those wondering what the Christian life is to be all about, either those seeking to know God or ones who are fairly new to faith in Christ as Savior.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

How To Be God's Little Princess by Sheila Walsh

2011-06-07T20:29:00.001-07:00

This book is an updated primer on what used to be called deportment. It instructs young girls how to dress, accessorize, move, and conduct herself by socializing and interacting with others in person and with electronic media. It gives specifics about table manners, personal grooming and hygiene, developing a good attitude, and cultivating a relationship with God.

This is an excellent book, both informative and entertaining. The author does an exceptional job of presenting manners and personal improvement as logical and worthy goals for young girls. The style is friendly and helpful.
The author does an appealing job of weaving Scripture into the book’s principles and gently presents the gospel toward the end of the book.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this book for young girls.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

Max on Life by Max Lucado

2011-04-18T06:50:00.000-07:00

The author answers 172 common questions, organized into seven categories, including Hope, Hurt, Help and Home.

The questions were excellent and, for the most part, so were the answers. For example, one person whose mother was in a nursing home had difficulty visiting her. Max told of visiting his mother there, saying, “At first I saw age, disease, and faded vigor. With time I saw love, courage, and unflappable unselfishness. Ask God to show you his work. He will be happy to do so.” With just a few words, Max demonstrated the ability to help shift a perspective. His answer to a person’s question about suicide was equally good: “God does not measure a person by one decision, nor should we.”

Some answers, though, came across as trite. One person struggled with forgiving an abuser, and Max responded that hurt people hurt people, and forgiveness breaks that chain; Jesus forgave people, including the abuser: “Before you get caught in the crazy cycle of hurt and forgivelessness, try shifting your glance away from the one who hurt you and setting your eyes on the One who has saved you. We all need forgiveness. Especially the person who hurt you.” It was as if Max were answering the question, “Do I need to forgive?” rather than, “One day I feel that I can forgive, and the next I feel I can’t.”

This book was a courageous attempt to answer people’s hardest questions, and I recommend it. While it was a little uneven, many questions were answered well.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

A Conversation with God by Alton Gansky

2011-04-05T19:23:00.000-07:00

This book asks common questions people have of God, providing answers from the perspective of God, Jesus and biblical characters who faced issues reflecting those questions. Major topics covered are the reality of God, trustworthiness of the Bible, and what the Bible teaches about the future, pain, Jesus, the kingdom, heaven and hell, humanity, Christian living, and today’s world.

Frankly, I didn’t expect too much because 1) the subject matter is so broad and 2) the author was unknown to me, but the author did an exceptional job of responding to each question in a thoughtful, kind vein with what I consider to be accurate, biblical answers. His answers are firmly founded on Scripture, which he quotes constantly and at great length. My one wish is that the author would have woven the references into his text rather than putting them in endnotes.

This book was interesting, enlightening, and helpful. It would be especially profitable for a new Christian. It was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time, and I recommend it.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

Left at the Altar by Kimberley Kennedy

2011-03-04T17:41:00.001-08:00

This local newscaster was told by her fiancé at the wedding rehearsal that he was backing out. The trauma of that experience, and coming to grips with it before the Lord, is what this book is all about. It is a wonderful narration of learning to let the Lord lead the way in terrible times.

The author lists what she calls “tools for healing”: know that God cares, realize it’s okay to mourn, allow family and friends to comfort you, don’t mourn too long, focus on the truth, don’t waste valuable time plotting ways to get him back, get back into your routine quickly, find a godly counselor, stay in constant contact with God, and turn off the deceiver’s voice.

This is an excellent book which gives practical encouragement for use in coming to grips with painful emotions. It is well written and profitable.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

The Shelter of God's Promises by Sheila Walsh

2011-01-18T19:26:00.000-08:00

Sheila Walsh’s latest book applies Scripture to challenging situations where provision, peace, confidence, love, grace, hope, and strength are needed. She devotes a chapter to each of those needs, plus a couple of more when there are no answers except that God can be trusted and will make everything right someday. The author’s writing is very comforting and centers on biblical promises and examples. Each chapter can stand alone.

Sheila Walsh always does a good job conveying biblical truth. She quotes often from Scripture and then explains or expounds on that. It can feel a little formulaic, with chapter after chapter of first Scripture quotation and then expansion by the author.

The author can make Scripture and one’s walk with God come alive. A highlight was in the chapter on love, where the author likened questioning God’s love to standing at the top of some stairs. As you listen to and incorporate that first lie, “God doesn’t care. There’s no hope,” you take a step down, and as you believe more and more lies, you fall to the bottom of the stairs. But if you reject the first lie and tell yourself God’s promises, you can escape. I thought this was a very useful illustration and wished the book had more of these practical tips.

All in all, this was a good book. It was pretty basic, but even so, it served as a good reminder of the faithfulness of God.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

2011-01-05T19:37:00.000-08:00

This book contains the story of the writing of 150 songs and hymns, including ones for Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. On the left page is the song, including the music, and on the right is a one-page narration about the hymnwriter.

This was an interesting book, reminding me of the long line of believers who encouraged generations with their words and music and impressing with the fact that many of those who wrote words and music sacrificed significantly to pursue their talent. A surprising number of these hymnwriters lived and died under tragic circumstances.

For the most part, the book was well written. The author carefully matched verses to hymns and so incorporated biblical truth. I would recommend this book to others.
It’s my perception that the average Christian has little to no interest in hymns. I hope this great heritage of hymns and spiritual songs will not be lost, but if the past few decades are any indication, there will be little call for books such as Morgan’s in the decades to come, a great pity and a huge loss to the church.

I received this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review through the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze Program.

Your Money God’s Way: Overcoming the Seven Money Myths That Keep Christians Broke by Amie Streater

2010-11-18T15:41:00.000-08:00

This is a basic book about handling your finances in a godly way. The author learned to walk the walk after financial disasters of her own, applying scriptural principles of stewardship to common spiritual conditions which hinder Christians in their financial lives.

This book is long on principle and short on practice; there are other books and resources that are more practical and step by step than this book. This book would do well for a person who needs a drastic change of direction and wants to know why change is imperative.

This book was challenging. It is hard hitting and would be just right for some. It is interesting reading and held my attention.

2010-09-13T05:38:00.001-07:00

The Boy Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews

2010-09-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

The message of this book is that “every little thing YOU do matters”, that “God made your life so important that every move you make, every action you take
matters. . . . Everything you do matters for everyone and for all time!” This book tells the story of Norman Borlaug, who “developed . . . special seeds that grew into super plants,” having been given that opportunity by Henry Wallace, who had been taught by George Washington Carver, who was adopted by Moses and Susan Carver. The book tells the story of how one life was affected by another in a chain of events resulting in Borlaug’s discoveries.

This book did a good job of narrating the impact of one life upon another. It made a very good point, until the last page, where hyperbole is used to say every single thing we do matters, which is not true. Not even every single thing in George Washington Carver’s life mattered. Some things did, certainly. It grossly exaggerates man’s importance to say every single thing we do matters.

I do not believe this book’s premise that “God made your life so important that every move you make . . . matters . . . to the people around you . . . for everyone and for all time” is biblical. I am hard pressed to think of a passage that supports this belief. Everything about us is important to God because we are precious to Him, but that does not translate into our importance to others.

The danger of this book is that it encourages one to be self-focused and self-centered, believing in one’s importance in an overblown way. It says nothing about needing God, relying on His power, or our responsibility to obey Him. I would not recommend this book.

The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews

2010-09-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

The message of this book is that “every single thing you do matters”, built on the premise that when a butterfly flaps its wings, it moves air, which moves more air, which moves more air and can eventually start a hurricane. Examples of the effects of one man’s actions include a Union commander’s victory at Gettysburg that turned the tide of the Civil War and a man who developed hardy corn and wheat. The author states, “Everything you do matters. Every move you make, every action you
take . . . matters. Not just to you of your family, or your business, or hometown. Everything you do matters to all of us forever.”

This book is meant to be challenging and inspiring. I found it overblown and hyperbolic. Not every single thing people do matters, any more than every flap of every butterfly’s wings results in a hurricane. Some things people do matter greatly, but many things matter not at all, especially to others. It grossly exaggerates man’s importance to say every single thing we do matters; it would be realistic to say some things we do can matter. It would be accurate to say that, as far as we can tell, everything God does matters, but we are not God.

If you’re looking for biblical truth, turn from this book. It makes no mention of God, His will or His ways. I would not recommend it to anyone.

The Heavens Proclaim His Glory by Lisa Stilwell

2010-09-02T08:35:00.001-07:00

This book combines photos from the Hubble telescope with Scripture and inspiring quotations, with a goal of focusing you on “worshiping the God who created it all”. This book meets its goal. The photographs are incredible; you just wish you could see them in 3-D. The Scripture passages and quotations are very reflective and thought provoking, a perfect commentary on the breathtaking photos at the turn of every page.

This was a very interesting book, an exploration of an area of creation heretofore unseen by man. How privileged we are to live in a time when our eyes can show us the wonder and creativity of God’s handiwork. It has only been about 150 years that photographs have been available to the masses, and in that time the earth and the sea have been unveiled to us.

For those who are old enough to remember the awe inspired by the first published pictures of infants in the womb, this book will be experienced on that scale.
I would recommend this book to anyone. It will strengthen your faith in the God who has all power.

The Jesus You Can’t Ignore by John MacArthur

2010-08-18T05:57:00.000-07:00

This book refutes the notion that Jesus was meek and mild in the sense that He tolerated everyone and castigated no one. It carefully builds the case that Jesus was not always nice, demonstrated particularly in His dealings with the religious leaders of His day, whom He decried in the strongest terms. While Jesus was never pugnacious, neither was He tame.

This book was enlightening to me only in the sense that, while I knew that the general culture values “tolerance” and “diversity”, I was not aware there exists a great deal of pressure in evangelical circles to be accepting of all religious persuasions. I do not move in such circles nor have I read about such pressure, so this was news to me.

MacArthur’s most recent work would be persuasive to someone who believed Jesus would not disagree with, much less dishonor, anyone who opposed Him. If that is a belief you hold, then this book is for you. If you do not have such a question, MacArthur’s book is hardly interesting, as it speaks convincingly about something you already believe.

I found the book repetitive, with the result it was longer and less effective than it could have been. While it presents biblical truth accurately, I did not find it appealing.

Chronological Guide to the Bible

2010-06-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

In a unique approach to the Bible, this book lays out history from Creation to A.D. 100 in nine epochs. Into each epoch is fit each book of the Bible, with an outline of each book and a summary of authorship, date, purpose and audience. So, for example, Epoch One includes sections called “Before the Patriarchs”, “The Beginnings of Human Civilization”, and then “The Book of Genesis”, with subsections, “The Creator God is Not Sun or Moon,” “Where was Eden?”, “Records of the Descendants,” “The Flood Through Other Eyes”, “The First World Empire,” “The First Major City,” and “Babel and Its Tower.”

Much information about world history and world cultures is included in this book. Because of the book’s layout, which, instead of looking like chapters, appears more like patchwork on pages, both in content and in style, the book reads like a research or resource book rather than a textbook. It is not a book easily read from cover to cover but more the kind of book you pick up as you begin to study a book of the Bible so that you gain a little insight into historical context.

The sections on the epistles often include just a couple of subjects in addition to the summary and outline, so the intent of this book is obviously not to provide extensive commentary. For example, the section on Ephesians includes only one topical section, “Wives Submitting to Husbands”.

The Guide is 217 pages for the Bible’s 66 books, so it is does not aim to be exhaustive.

I do not believe this book would be helpful to someone not thoroughly acquainted with the Bible. The brevity of some of the commentary assumes the reader has a broad background of Bible knowledge. For example, one of the sections for Acts is called “The Day of Pentecost,” and it begins, “The Day of Pentecost came 50 days after the offering of the firstfruits (Lev. 23:10, 15, 16) at the Passover observances. It was a celebration of the wheat harvest, with pilgrims gathering from various nations of the Roman world. . . .” I think only someone acquainted with the Old Testament would understand this; a new(ish) believer likely would not be enlightened.

I recommend this guide to those who need a little brushing up on the background of each biblical book.

Beautiful Things Happen When a Woman Trusts God by Sheila Walsh

2010-03-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

Sheila Walsh’s latest book looks at 12 Bible characters through the lens of trust. In her usual way, Sheila’s depth of insight into circumstances and characters makes the stories come alive. Sheila is a very practical woman, and she always writes about how the Bible applies to us in our challenging situations.

The author addresses particular aspects of life where trust is needed, such as when we need courage, are broken, hunger to belong, have broken dreams, are in pain, are in darkness, are fearful, need to start again, and when we have a lot to lose. Spending a chapter on each challenge, Sheila Walsh uses the well known, such as Paul, Gideon, and Joseph, and the obscure, such as Tabitha, to show us how their lives demonstrated a trust in God we would do well to emulate.

One of my favorite chapters, “Is It Ever Too Late to Start Again? The Beauty of a Last Chance,” demonstrated how God never rejected disobedient Samson.

This book held my interest, was enlightening by bringing Bible characters to life, and effectively conveyed biblical truth. I recommend this book highly to anyone facing issues of trust.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Jesus Lives by Sarah Young

2010-02-11T18:11:00.000-08:00

This 350-page devotional book aims to show how God’s love infuses every circumstance. The author paraphrases and expounds on Scriptures that address certain situations, emotions, and attitudes, such as trials, the future, brokenness, fear, endurance, and victorious living. She does an admirable job of applying the Word. Each devotional is written as if God is speaking to the reader.

One example of a good application is this, from page 146: “If it is possible as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. . . . To live at peace with everyone, you need to control not only what you say and do but also what you think. It’s common to assume that your thoughts about others don’t matter much, as long as you keep them to yourself. However, I am fully aware of all your thoughts. When you indulge in negative thinking about someone, your relationship with that person is damaged. Those hurtful thoughts also affect your relationship with me, and they may have a depressive effect on you. . . .” Again and again, the author brings this kind of wisdom, depth, and insight to her subject.

This book could bring comfort, inspiration, and encouragement to any Christian reader. It is thought provoking, concise, and edifying. I highly recommend it.

Derailed by Tim Irwin

2009-11-22T16:25:00.001-08:00

This book describes how unaddressed character flaws lead to failure, illustrated by six stories from the corporate world. Irwin discusses how the lack of authenticity, self-awareness and self-management, humility, or courage can easily lead to disaster. He encourages habits of openness, awareness, listening to early warning systems, accountability, and resiliency as safeguards against the flaws. Irwin includes personal and practical steps for self-evaluation.

Irwin's book held my interest, as it is written fairly concisely. Conveying biblical truth did not seem to be a goal of this book, although the Bible was mentioned a few times.

I would recommend this book if one is wondering about the effect of circumstances on character.

The Power of Respect by Deborah Norville

2009-11-01T17:45:00.001-08:00

Working from the premise that respect is “the most forgotten element of success”, the author emphasizes the importance of this trait at home, in relationship, at school, in business, in leadership, and, most particularly, in self. Deborah Norville talks about the difference respect makes in each of those areas, giving examples of people who demonstrated respect for others and self or who made changes, particularly in institutions such as schools and workplaces, which fostered desired changes.

The author addresses the topic of respect in a systematic, thorough way which helpful challenges and hints. One of her most powerful chapters is the last one on self-respect, in which she outlines a grid through which to view yourself, analyzing yourself for strengths and for areas needing improvement.

This book kept my interest. While it does not overtly that about the Bible, it does appropriately quote Scripture, alongside other helpful thoughts, to emphasize the importance of respect. If the need for respect is a topic which intrigues you, this book can be a help.

I do think it is a symptom of how far our society has degenerated that there now needs to be a book about a topic which was automatically ingrained in every citizen only a few short decades ago. I find that distressing and sad.

Take Your Best Shot by Austin Gutwein

2009-10-21T05:27:00.000-07:00

This is the story of Austin Gutwein, an adolescent who, in 2004 as a nine year old, felt moved by God to do something to help AIDS orphans in Africa. A conversation with a staff member from the relief organization World Vision crystallized Austin’s desire and gave him direction through one simple question: “What do you like to do?” Austin had a passion for basketball, even though he wasn’t very good at it. He decided to have the equivalent of a personal walkathon, a free-throw marathon called Hoops for Hope. His idea caught fire, and thousands of these are now held in a many countries, raising millions of dollars for Africa.

Austin tells his story in a very thoughtful, engaging way, with a fresh approach to some old ideas. His word picture of “expiring milk” to describe the fact that everything but people and the Word of God will perish is brilliant. Skillfully woven into this book are two themes: Austin’s story and how your story, whatever it is, can be used by God in good ways, even if they are small ways. Austin even makes the point that God is big on small, secret ways.

Take Your Best Shot is both interesting and challenging. Each chapter is followed by better-than-usual thought-provoking questions. Biblical truth is well presented.

Take Your Best Shot is aimed toward a younger audience, but it has something beneficial to say to everyone. At the least, it shows what can happen when one young boy gives his all to God, not unlike the young boy with the loaves and fishes in the Gospels.

Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World by Dr. David Jeremiah

2009-10-06T20:04:00.000-07:00

In the midst of a world that seems to move faster and faster in a downward spiral, how is a Christian to manage well? Dr. Jeremiah offers sound, basic comforts from the Word of God which also serve as challenges to one's character and growth. The author expounds on our ability to stay calm, compassionate, constructive, challenged, connected, centered, confident, consistent, committed, and convinced when life is hard, whether situationally or relationally.

While this is a very basic book with little new to challenge the mature believer, the author makes some fresh points. An example is his description of what diligence produces—stability, vitality, and reality—and the results of a lack of diligence—a lack of spiritual power, perception, and privilege. Dr. Jeremiah speaks simply and deeply, at times holding old concepts in a new light, such as defining vitality as “abundant mental and physical energy,” demonstrating how those can be characteristic of godly people no matter their age.

This book serves as either a good primer for a new believer wondering what difference Christ can make and as a good reminder for a seasoned believer who may want to “gird up their loins”, in the words of the KJV, for what appear to be tough times ahead.

I recommend this book, as it conveys biblical truth about being secure in Christ in a difficult time.

What difference do it make? by Ron Hall, Denver Moore, and Lynn Vincent

2009-09-24T21:20:00.001-07:00

This book addresses a wide range of subjects, including loss, disappointment, motivations, humility—you name it. The two authors have had such a wide range of life experience that they obvious can speak to many a topic.

Having not read Same Kind of Different as Me, I wondered if this would be a pale sequel. It was not. This book stands alone. While it quotes enough of the first volume to transition anecdotes, it both fills in the background of the first book and adds to it by giving first-person narratives by people whose lives were changed through Same Kind of Different as Me.

This sequel is well written, effective, and interesting. The stark difference between the authors' writing styles only adds to the book's appeal. This volume piqued my interest so much, today I ordered Same Kind of Different as Me so I can know the rest of the story.

Fearless by Max Lucado

2009-09-08T18:26:00.000-07:00

Max Lucado's latest book considers common fears while offering comfort from the Word of God, reassuring the reader with truth. Lucado lists fears of not mattering, disappointing God, running out, not protecting our children, overwhelming challenges, worst-case scenarios, violence, the coming winter, life's final moments, what's next, that God is not real, global calamity and of God getting out of my box. With his usual spot-on anecdotes and illustrations, the author skillfully addresses each fear.

I have not been a fan of Max Lucado's writings, mainly because he seemed, at times, hyperglib, to coin a word; that is, he seemed to strain so hard for wittiness and clever turns of phrase that his message was overshadowed. All that shucking and jiving left me weary, and I would lose interest. His latest book, though, is cut from different cloth. While there is the occasional overdone phrase, Lucado has substantial points to make and valuable perspectives to offer in this book. His choice of fears, alone, reflect his thorough consideration of his subject, offering a fresh perspective on a universal topic.

I found this book interesting, challenging, and encouraging, deeply reflecting Scripture in its solutions. I recommend this to anyone wishing to contemplate the subject of fear.

Called to Worship by Vernon M. Whaley

2009-09-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

This book is a careful study of aspects of worship woven throughout each book of the Bible. Whaley effectively makes the the point that worship is not so much as an activity or occasion as it is a state of mind, heart, and character, both a bent and a lifestyle. He convincingly demonstrates how worship, the most natural response to a relationship with God, was part of the very fiber of victorious saints of the Old and New Testaments. The author spends the first half of each chapter narrating outstanding experiences from books or sections of the Word, and the second half of each chapter delineates principles of worship reflected in that chapter.

Called to Worship was interesting, a great foundational study of the subject of worship. It broadened my thinking about the topic, helping me to see each person as an instrument of worship. The effectiveness of worship will not surpass the quality of the instrument.

This is a careful, well-crafted book. It is not for those who like a lot of flash and dash, as it is subtle in its points, building point upon point quietly and slowly. Biblical truth was well conveyed, and I would recommend this to anyone wanting to study worship.

Book Review: Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs

2009-08-23T22:54:00.000-07:00

The premise of this book is that wives want and need unconditional love, and husbands want and need unconditional respect. When a spouse does not offer unconditionally, it sets off what the author calls The Crazy Cycle where the husband reacts without love and the wife reacts without respect. The solution, The Energizing Cycle, occurs when his love motivates her respect and her respect motivates his love. The author then outlines six components each spouse needs to be fulfilled in marriage.

This book challenges husbands to love and wives to respect unconditionally. The author believes unconditional love has been emphasized properly over the past few decades, but unconditional respect has not been. I found the author's message worthwhile, based solidly on biblical truth.

Something I found too much were the close to 100 testimonials from letters the author received, quoted in blocks of more than five lines each, sprinkled throughout the book, most of which proved to the author that readers “got it”. After a while, it seemed that you were reading the same thoughts repeatedly.

While this was a helpful book, the points seemed belabored at times.

What's He REALLY Thinking? By Paula Rinehart

2009-08-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

This book addresses the impact of significant men on a woman's life and her influence on them. Seven broad categories of men are described, with their motivations, strengths and drawbacks. The rest of the book's two sections, Understanding the Man You Love, and Loving the Man You Understand, explain what motivates and hurts men, how they change, and what they need.
I enjoyed this book, as it was one of the first of its kind I have read. It is more primer than textbook, although it is written by a seasoned counselor. In clear terms and ways which are easy to grasp, Paula Rinehart describes what and how men think, feel, and relate. At the least, the book serves as a good reminder of how men and women differ in their cognitive and emotional makeup. Appendices and a guide in the back of the book encourage women to discern and think about their relationships with men.

The book was easy to read, engaging and entertaining. Material is presented well and is not belabored.

The writer's style was a challenge for me, at times, sometimes waffling between timeless eloquence and colloquial talk as if between girlfriends. An example is at the top of page 95: “If our focus becomes shoring up a man's weaknesses, we may grow blind to what he does so well. When we lose sight of his strengths, our voices sound more like black crows carping in his ear. Forget the cheerleader biz.” Repeatedly, the author uses such jarring metaphors one after, and against, another. On page 100, she says, “All kinds of things can happen when your need taps into his fear of his own inadequacy. But that's no good reason to run for cover or bury your heart. I'm not suggesting you wig out on him, but if you hang in there—and hanging in there is a form of respect—you will both slowly get somewhere.” (Four figures of speech in two sentences are too many for me.) Other times, the author is eminently quotable, as in this case on page 103 when she talks about a woman letting silence be its own message: “So, sometimes, respect means letting the empty place scream its own scream.”

Overall, I would recommend this book, as long as the reader is not looking for a great deal of depth or analysis about the way men are designed.

Book Review: Rick & Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage

2009-07-22T20:39:00.000-07:00

This book purports to help you appreciate your marriage. The authors aim for a light touch, revealing their imperfections, funny moments, and pleasant memories, while providing “insight into matrimony.”

I wanted to like this book, because I like books about marriage, especially ones with a good dose of humor. This book, however, did not hold my interest, as it was really, almost without exception, anecdote after anecdote with a skinny point near or at the end of each chapter.

Stories go on sometimes for pages with what seemed to me a fairly contrived, at times painful, attempt to be funny. There are plenty of naturally funny turns of phrases throughout the book, but some stories seemed intended to serve the purpose of providing an opportunity for doggedly determined wittiness, as in the chapter called “Lost”, an almost six-page narration of Rick's wife's refusal to accept help while driving. This story went on and on, the point of which was to “prove” that women can be equal in the flaw of not accepting help with directions.

Other chapters, such as “Last-Minute Shopping” are spot on with good suggestions about gift giving in marriage.

Still other chapters seem to have as their goal stories in defense of husbands, sort of “Why We Are the Way We Are”.

All in all, this struck me as a disjointed, uneven, and at times annoying, book, almost as if its goal was never chosen, with the result being that sometimes the authors were heroes, sometimes victims, and sometimes almost lost, as in the chapter named “United We Stand, Divided We Blame Dad.”

This book is certainly misnamed, as it is not a guide; there is little guidance unless you count the multitude of illustrations as cautionary tales. This book would have been more aptly named, “Rick & Bubba's Warning Against the Very Imperfect Marriage.”

There are few references to the Bible and, to the best of my recollection, no citations to any biblical passages.

The “Bonus! The Best of the Book of Blame” included at the end of the book consists of 50 articles (as in the Constitution), the majority of which contain these words: “the husband's fault.” If a female had written this book, it would be called male bashing. I'm not convinced it's not, just because two guys wrote this.

I would not recommend this book to others, unless someone just wanted to laugh about how men and women are different.

The Hole in Our Gospel - Book Review

2009-07-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

Warning: Only read this book if you are prepared to consider drastic changes in your thinking and in your life. Richard Stearns, who heads World Vision, presents both an interesting story and a compelling challenge in this well-crafted work, The Hole in Our Gospel. It was a book I could not put down.

Parts 1 and 2, "the Hole in My Gospel--and Maybe Yours" and "The Hole Gets Deeper" interweaves the biblical injunctions for God's people to make a difference in their world by working for His kingdom with Stearns' own story of coming to faith in Christ in his young adult years, his subsequent career success at Parker Bros. and Lenox, and the moving story of his transition, almost kicking and screaming, to World Vision, a change founded exclusively on obedience to God.

Part 3, "A Hole in the World," addresses the crippling needs of much of the world's people, resulting in the deaths of more than 26,000 children a day because of preventable disease. The stark contrast between the haves and have nots of the world is carefully documented.

Part 4, "A Hole in the Church," draws a picture of the difference between the church in developed and undeveloped countries, with an emphasis on 2 Cor. 8, which encourages equality between churches. The application to today's church would be that churches with enough, and more than enough, bring tangible help to the needs of the world. Stearns emphasizes the fact that until the last 100 years, the gospel had theological AND social implications, but with the division of denominations, Christians tend to fall into "social gospel" and "evangelical" camps. These are not biblical distinctions, and Stearns calls for a reconciliation of the two mindsets.

Stearns issues a call to the American church, comprised of the wealthiest people who have ever lived, to meet its responsibility to minister to "the least of these."

Part 5, "Repairing the Hole," challenges each person to bring his time, treasure and talents to bear on the world's pressing problems. "No one can do everything, but everyone can do something," is the message here. Stearns gives moving and inspiring examples of folks who have found a personal way to minister.

At my house, we are making drastic changes to answer the call, determined to live simply so others may simply live. Rarely have I read a book with so much impact, and undoubtedly I will revisit it regularly to evaluate my priorities.

2009-06-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

Ps. 63:7-8: Because You have been my help, Therefore in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. My soul follows close behind You, Your right hand upholds me.

Those are my life verses. I only discovered them a few weeks ago, but they fit me, or I fit them, perfectly. So when it came time to choose a blog name, I chose that first line. If I could give myself a name, that would be it! Because God has been my help . . . everything else became possible for me--balance, maturity, growth, and life itself. Thank you, Lord.