MUSINGS OF A MINISTER

WHY JESUS?

2012-01-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

WHY JESUS?

Rediscovering His Truth In An Age

Of Mass Marketed Spirituality

By Ravi Zacharias

OVERVIEW: In this book, bestselling author and radio evangelist Ravi Zacharias analyzes the "spiritual" movements of the past forty years, debunking thier claims and returning the reader to the classic, biblical definition of Jesus' person, work and teaching. Focusing on Christianity's centrally important tenet—the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ—Zacharias makes a passionate, imaginative, and convincing case that the biblical Jesus is the real Jesus.

AUTHOR: Frederick Antony Ravi Kumar Zacharias (born 1946) is an Indian-born, Canadian-American evangelical Christian apologist. Zacharias is the author of numerous Christian books, including Gold Medallion Book Award winner Can Man Live Without God?^[1] and bestsellers Light in the Shadow of Jihad^[2] and The Grand Weaver.^[3] He is the founder and chairman of the board of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, host of the radio programs Let My People Think and Just Thinking, and visiting professor at Wycliffe Hall of Oxford, where he teaches apologetics and evangelism.^[4] Zacharias studied as a visiting scholar at Cambridge University and held the chair in Evangelism and Contemporary Thought at Alliance Theological Seminary from 1981 to 1984.^[5] Commentator Chuck Colson referred to Zacharias as "the great apologist of our time."^[6]

MY REVIEW: Ravi Zacharia has done it again. This is one amazing book! This is a book about the deep, irrepressible spiritual hungers we all have. These are confusing times we live in. We live in a world that mass-markets numerous paths to truth. But of course all these paths do not lead to truth. Zacharia has given careful research and deep thought to this subject. After traveling in numerous countries and many conversations over a period of forty years he is able to offer thoughts that lead to truth. Many today say they are not "into" religion but they are "into" spirituality. Ravi Zacharia looks into all of this, the forms of new spirituality and the religions that have provided the underlying worldviews from which these popular forms of spirituality have emerged. Finally, he looks at what it is about the message of Jesus Christ that, if properly understood, still offers the beauty, the power, and the only hope of any future for mankind. At the point of his conversion C.S. Lewis said, "I thought I had come to a place. I found out I had come to a person." that's what this book is about: examining the places we wish to be and those we should walk away from until we find the Person for whom we are looking. This is an important book. I recommend it without reservation!

(My thanks to FaithWords of Hachette Book Group for this book to review.)

WHY DO WE CARE ABOUT WHAT OTHERS THINK OF US ?

2012-01-25T13:46:00.001-07:00

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF ME?

WHY DO I CARE?

Answer to the Big Questions In life

By Edward T. Welch

OVERVIEW: Peer pressure, codependency, shame, low self-esteem--these are just some of the words used to identify how people are controlled by others' opinions. Why is it so important to be liked? Why is rejections so traumatic? Edward T. Welch's insightful, biblical answers to these questions show that freedom from others' opinions and genuine, loving relationships grow as we learn about ourselves, others, and God. This interactive book includes questions for individual or group study and is suitable for teenagers and young adults.

AUTHOR: Edward T. Welch, MDiv. PhD, is a licensed psychologist and faculty member at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation. He has counseled for thirty years and is the best-selling author of many books including When People Are Big and God Is Small; Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave; Blame It on the Brain?; Depression: A Stubborn Darkness; Crossroads: A Step-by-Step Guide Away from Addiction; Running Scared: Fear,Worry, and the God of Rest; and When I Am Afraid: A Step-by-Step Guide Away from Fear and Anxiety. He and his wife Sheri have two married daughters and four grand-children.

MY REVIEW: This is a book I needed to read sixty-five years ago. I agree with Walt Mueller, Founder and President of Center for Parent/Youth Understanding, who said, "This book is life-giving. And since God gives us limited years on his earth, it's a book for those who are young to read sooner rather than later!" This is especially for younger people but it will challenge people of every age. I especially like the way the author brings Scripture alive to help with this problem. The book is well written and easy to read. Most of us know people who are trying to win approval and escape rejection. You can bless them by giving them a copy of this book that just may challenge them and change their lives.

(Thanks to B & B Media Group, Inc. for giving me this book for review.)

EXCUSABLE DUE TO HIS YOUTH?

2012-01-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

Talented young preachers are putting forth a message lifting up Christ while putting down religion.

It sounds good. I know I certainly worship Christ and not religion.

But at its heart the message of Jesus versus religion is wrong.

Many keep embracing this message while saying, "Yes, this is wrong but we need to excuse it because of his youth."

I'm sorry but that is just not right. We need to lovingly correct this mistake not excuse it!

Please read, think and pray about the words of Kevin DeYoung as quoted in a Christianity Today article by Glenn T. Stanton posted 1-20-2012:

If you want Jesus, you have to take him for who He was. You can't re-construct a stripped down, organic anti-corporate version of what you think He should be. Jesus' gospel is a scandal to all of us, the hipsters and the geezers. It's different than your fabulous pair of pre-worn skinny jeans.

James tells us about religion, that there is some religion that God is quite big on.

So it's not a question of Jesus and religion or Jesus minus religion. It's Jesus and what kind of religion. And this is a bit of the problem with the "Just give me Jesus" and the "Jesus Plus Nothing" approach to faith. We'd like to make it all that simple. Jesus never did. He just didn't. He gives His church certain trappings for good reason.

Does the system of religion (of belief and practice) take you regularly to Christ, compelling you to cast yourselves before him in adoration and upon him in desperation? Or does it given you a false sense of your own self-sufficiency and superiority based on the system itself because it fits with your sense of right?

One is what each of us need. The other is rooted in the original and devastating sin of pride. So no, religion is not the problem. Our rewriting the script is.

INTO THE NEW YEAR

2012-01-23T16:25:00.000-07:00

The days of this year seem to be moving forward at a rapid pace.

Regardless of how I describe it, this year is moving. It may be sinking. I'm not sure. If so, it is not a forward movement but a downward one. You can see I am confused. The year is definitely going. I'm just not sure if it is going up, down, forward or where the heck it is going---but it is going.

Yes, I am amazed that this month is almost gone. Kaput. Gone.

Don't ask me why I am amazed, surprised. It is always this way. "Here today. Gone tomorrow."

Every year, for fifty-three years when we take down our Christmas tree, my wife says, "We will just turn around a few times and be putting it back up." Of course it never happens that way but she always says it---and always will.

Why? Because life seems to be "flying" by.

"What is your life? You are a mist that

appears for a little while and then vanishes."

James 4:14

I have already done a lot of "stuff" in this new year. The Lord willing, I will do a lot more.

I want to try and do everything I do to the glory of God. He does so much for me!

Yes. January is going. But February is coming. I'm kicking it up a notch into pure joy!

PRAYER FOR THE HEART AND WILL OF GOD

2012-01-21T13:37:00.000-07:00

I LIKE THIS PRAYER OF THOMAS A KEMPIS

Grant me, O Lord, to know what I ought to know,

to love what I ought to love,

to praise what delights thee most,

to value what is precious in Thy sight,

to hate what is offensive to Thee.

Do not suffer me to judge according to the sight of my eyes,

nor to pass sentence according to the hearing of the ears of ignorant men,

but to discern with a true judgment between things visible and spiritual,

and above all things always to inquire what is the good pleasure of They will.

---Thomas A Kempis (Germany/C. 1380-1471)

GAINING AND LOSING

2012-01-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness

of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all

things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.

Philippians 3:8

Remember Jim Elliot's words: "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." That is what Paul experienced. He lost his religion and his reputation, but he gained far more than he lost. In fact, the gains were so thrilling that Paul considered all other things nothing but garbage in comparison!

No wonder he had joy---his life did not depend on the temporal things of the world but on the eternal values found in Christ. Paul had the spiritual mind and looked at the things of earth from heaven's point of view. People who live for things are never really happy because they must constantly protect their treasures and worry lest they lose their value. Not so believers with the spiritual mind; their treasures in Christ can never be stolen, and they never lose their value (see Matt. 6:19-21).

Perhaps now is a good time for you to become an accountant and evaluate the things that matter most to you.

(Taken from Warren W. Wiersbe's book Pause for Power--A 365-Day Journey Through The Scriptures.)

THESE ARE THE DAYS MY FRIENDS

2012-01-12T16:21:00.001-07:00

I agree with Ben Stein who said in a recent article, "Time goes by so amazingly, incredibly fast."

New Year's Day 2012! I turned around a few times and here it is the 12th day of 2012!

It was only "yesterday" that I was sitting in the first grade classroom at Emerson School in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Now here I am at age 77 sitting in my upstairs study in Scottsdale, Arizona. I'm sitting in front of a computer---something I had never even heard of or dreamed of back in the first grade.

I was born in the thirties, lived through the forties, fifties, sixties, seventies, eighties, nineties and have raced from 2000 to 2012. I'm tired!

But not exhausted!

I cherish the time I have left.

I adore my wife, my children and my friends. Many of my friends are gone and time is drawing to a close for several more. We all need to appreciate and enjoy our loved ones while we can.

Enjoy your days. They are slipping away--moment by moment.

I expect to shortly hear, "Dinner is ready dear." Charlotte's meatloaf. I love it. I will thoroughly enjoy it!

These are the days my friends. Thank God for them.

LOOKING LIKE "SOMETHING THE DOGS DRUG UP"

2012-01-11T13:54:00.001-07:00

CLOTHING MATTERS: WHAT WE WEAR TO CHURCH, What we put on may be more important than we think is the title of a wonderful article in the January 11, 2012 issue of Christianity Today.

When I say wonderful I mean just that---WONDERFUL!

Do you ever read something and think to yourself, "Wow, I wish I had written that"? Do you? I do! Occasionally. And today was one of those occasions.

Author Duane Litfin served for 17 years as president of Wheaton College. His article about the clothing we wear to church has really touched a sensitive nerve with me. Yes, I realize the reason I appreciate his article so much is because he agrees with me.

People who wouldn't dream of going to a loved ones funeral or wedding dressed casually assemble for worship of the Lord looking like they just came in from skid row. And if they indeed did just come from skid row their clothing would be appropriate. It would be the best they had.

Following a recent memorial service I attended a lady said to me, "I no longer come here. I find it hard to worship. The preacher doesn't need to dress up but he comes looking like he is going fishing." I felt like saying, "Yes, but so does everybody sitting on the pews." But all those people, including the preacher were "dressed up" for the funeral that day.

Enough from me! I can't begin to explain this as well as Duane Litfin.

I implore you to read his splendid article. It is lengthy--eight pages. But please read it all. And read with an open mind. Think about it. Pray about it. http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2012/januaryweb-only/clothingmatters.html

I will be happy to hear what you think, even if you disagree with the article and with me.

Peace.

HOW WOULD YOU RATE YOUR LIFE?

2012-01-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

TEN
How Would You Rate Your Life?
By Terry A. Smith

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Terry A. Smith has served as a lead pastor of the Life Christian Church for twenty years. TLCC is a nondenominational faith community in West Orange, NJ, serving the New York City metro area. Terry is a cofounder of the New York City Leadership Center and an instructor in its Leadership Fellows program. A gifted communicator, Terry speaks in a variety of venues nationally and internationally. He is passionate about challenging, developing, and encouraging leaders.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Many of us dream of living a richer and more significant life—the kind of fulfilling life that, when rated on the scale of one to ten, would score a definitive ten. Inviting us to awaken to the TEN Life is the theme of a new book by Terry A. Smith, lead pastor of The Life Christian Church in West Orange, New Jersey. A gifted communicator, Terry is a national and international speaker with a passion for challenging and encouraging others, especially those who are completely unaware of their own unique power and potential.

Based on the tenth verse of the tenth chapter in the Book of John, Ten: How Would You Rate Your Life? (Higher Life Development Services, Inc) is a guide to living the life God dreams for us. “We can only know life in all its fullness,” he explains, “if we live the life God dreams for us. And part of the TEN experience is to try to figure out what that means for each of us as individuals.” Smith’s easy-going style of writing, coupled with his broad scope of reference, makes the book appealing to any reader wanting to create a richer quality of life.

MY REVIEW: I agree with Ken Blanchard, author of The One-Minute Manager, who said, "If you are looking for significance in your life, this is a must-read." This is an instructive and inspiring book and will challenge you to grow. Terry Smith is a gifted communicator. Frances Hesselbein, Chief Executive Officer, Girl Scouts of The USA (1976-1990) said, "Ten is the guidebook for the journey--the wisdom for the future--for those who serve and those who seek to serve." This book will inspire you to create the best possible future for yourself and others. I was impressed and amused by what Priyan Feernando, President and Chief Operating Officer for American Express Business Travel said about the book: "Terry Smith inspires us to think and act more boldly in our personal, professional, and spiritual journeys. I read this book on the plane. Despite some great in-flight movies, I couldn't put it down."

I recommend this book. Your faith will become stronger.

MOVIES---OLD BUT GOOD

2011-12-29T18:05:00.000-07:00

Last night there were four movies on that I really like: Top Gun, You've Got Mail, On Golden Pond,and Father of The Bride.

I have lost track of how many times I have watched each of these movies.

Do you say, "Nope." "Not for me." "I have seen that. I am not going to watch it again!"

I guess I'm a slow learner. I have no problem watching a movie that I like, again and again.

Last night I settled in on You've Got Mail.

It's a girl's movie? Hey, what can I say? I like it!

What do you think? Should I get a life? Maybe this is just what seventy-seven year old men do? I certainly don't know. This my first time to be seventy-seven.

I can just hear my Christian friends saying, "You should be reading your Bible, praying, visiting the hospitals and prisons, feeding the poor............ "

Maybe I will---just as soon as I get through watching On Golden Pond.

But then again---maybe not!

NEIL DIAMOND---HONOR TO WHOM HONOR IS DUE

2011-12-28T13:43:00.000-07:00

Neil Diamond was one of five people who was honored last night by the Kennedy Center.

I have been a Neil Diamond fan for many years.

One day while living in Southern California I was at my brother's home visiting with my nephew. He was excited about Neil Diamond and wanted me to listen to one of his songs---"I Am I Said."

I didn't really understand the song but I liked it immediately.

That was over five decades ago and I have been listening to Neil belt out his songs ever since.

One night while living in Northern California friends took Charlotte and me to San Francisco to a Neil Diamond concert. It was a wonderful evening. We loved every minute of it and it has lived in our memory.

Last night when he was honored with popular artists performing his songs, I felt a tug on my heart and moisture in the corner of my eyes.

I don't worship Neil---not even close to it, but I do love to hear him sing!

Sweet Caroline

Good times never seemed so good

I've been inclined to believe

They never would.......

GIVE IT YOUR ALL

2011-12-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

In the New testament, the apostle Paul encouraged his young coworker Timothy to "fan the flame and stir up the gift that is within you" (2 Timothy 1:6). Paul was reminding his understudy to live with enthusiasm. Give it your all.Don't settle for mediocrity. Stir yourself up; rekindle that fire.

You may have to live or work around people who are prone to being negative, who tend to drag you down. But don't let their lack of enthusiasm squelch your passion. If you live with a deadbeat spouse, make a decision that you're going to be happy and enthusiastic anyway. If your parents are always negative, try to overcome that negativity by being positive, encouraging, and uplifting. Fan your flame more than usual to make sure the fire doesn't go out.

(From Joel Osteen's devotional Your Best Life Begins Each Morning--Devotions to Start Every Day of the Year)

AN EVENT FOR EVERYONE

2011-12-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

Luke 2:8-20 (The Message)

AN EVENT FOR EVERYONE

^8-12There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God's angel stood among them and God's glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you're to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger." ^13-14At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God's praises:

Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
^15-18As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. "Let's get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us." They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed.
^19-20Mary kept all these things to herself, holding them dear, deep within herself. The sheepherders returned and let loose, glorifying and praising God for everything they had heard and seen. It turned out exactly the way they'd been told!

**************************************

I love the fact that the sheepherders didn't just talk, they took action. They got over to Bethlehem as fast as they could. And then when they returned the Scripture (The Message) says they "let loose, glorifying and praising God for everything they had heard and seen."

That's my prayer for every human being. I want them to hear the Word and then not just talk about it, but check it out. And then I believe every sincere heart will let loose glorifying and praising God."

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

CHRISTMAS---SEVENTY-SEVEN AND COUNTING

2011-12-22T14:04:00.002-07:00

In so many ways, music expresses the feelings of the heart.

Growing up in Oklahoma, "I'm Dreaming of A White Christmas" was always on my mind during the Christmas season.

I can't remember if it ever snowed at Christmas time but it must not have or I think I would have remembered.

I liked "Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley but it didn't express my feelings. I never had a blue Christmas.

I've celebrated Christmas in Oklahoma, California and now Arizona. They all have been great---all seventy-seven. Of course I don't remember the first few. In fact, the first time I remember Christmas or getting a Christmas present I must have been about five. We lived in the very small town of Fletcher, Oklahoma. My mother took me and my brothers to a Baptist Church where they had a huge Christmas tree. Years later I realized the "pearl" handled gun I received was not from Santa but from my mother.

Most of my Christmases have been spent with Charlotte. They have all been wonderful.

When you're seventy-seven you can't completely block out the thought, "How many more will there be?"

I'm comforted by the thought---when it's over here, it won't be over there.

At once the angel was joined by a huge

angelic choir singing God's praises...

Luke 2:13

Wow! I don't have the words to communicate what that huge angelic choir must have looked and sounded like when Jesus was born.

If we think our Christmas celebrations are great, what must it be like in the angelic realm.

The song that expresses the feelings of my heart now is: "O happy day that fixed my choice On Thee my Savior and my God! Well may this glowing heart rejoice, And tell its raptures all abroad.....He taught me how to watch and pray, And live rejoicing every day."

O HAPPY DAY!

THE ONE THING THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING

2011-12-19T11:02:00.001-07:00

(The following is from Stephen M.R. Covey's excellent book THE SPEED OF TRUST.)

There is one thing that is common to every individual, relationship, team, family, organization, nation, economy, and civilization throughout the world---one thing which, if removed, will destroy the most powerful government, the most successful business, the most thriving economy, the most influential leadership, the greatest friendship, the strongest character, the deepest love.

On the other hand, if developed and leveraged, that one thing has the potential to create unparalleled success and prosperity in every dimension of life. Yet, it is the least understood, most neglected, and most underestimated possibility of our time.

That one thing is trust.

GOD'S WORD

2011-12-17T15:18:00.003-07:00

(The following is from Jon Walker's excellent book, IN VISIBLE FELLOWSHIP--A Contemporary View Of Bonhoeffer's Classic Work, LIFE TOGETHER.)

(Holy Scripture) is God's revealed Word for all men, for all

times. Holy Scripture does not consist of individual passages; it

is a unit and is intended to be used as such.

---Dietrich Bonhoffer

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching

the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving

instruction for right living, so that the person who serves

God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of

good deed.

---2 Timothy 3:17-17

Seeing what God has done through history and knowing what he has done for us develops our faith. In fact, Bonhoeffer says knowing what God did for Israel and what he did for us through Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, is more important than seeking what God intends for us today.

The God-adventure is a sweeping dance of redemption showing how he moves through history coordinating circumstances and events in order to bring us home to him. God's story is a tear-filled romance where he chases after those he loves, regardless of whether they love him back. It's a nail-biting drama where he launches a rescue mission for his children, who are held in captivity, and he arrives in his perfectly planned nick of time.

In God's story, his children follow him in faith, yet even the most faithful stumble and fail. But the story doesn't end there! God redeems even the worst mistakes, making all things work together for the good of those he calls his own.

BLOWIN' YOUR TOP---BLOWIN' IN THE WIND

2011-12-16T11:38:00.001-07:00

And don't sin by letting anger gain control over you.

Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry.

Ephesians 4:26

"Sally Jo I have been here since 9:00 (that meant an hour) and this guy just now walked in and your are taking him before me."

"I'm sorry but he checked in on the computer and his name got here before his body. He's next. I'm sorry that's just the way it is."

"Ok, good-bye. You will never see me again."

Out the door he went!

Charlotte and I were waiting for hair cuts. We have been married 53 years and this was the first time we had ever gone into the same place at the same time to get our hair cut. A big adventure!

No more than a minute later the door opened and back in walked Mr. Angry. He had calmed down and wanted to get his haircut. Smart move. After all, he had been waiting an hour and he was next in line.

Years ago when I was a young preacher. A deacon became upset at a meeting we were having. He jumped up said he was resigning as a deacon and walked out closing the door behind him.

No more than a minute later the door opened. He slipped back in and sat down. Nothing was said.

It's bad to "blow your top." It's good to get over it quickly.

Oh yes, Charlotte and I got our hair cuts. And it's a good thing too. It's a windy day in our area and what little hair we have left is "blowin' in the wind."

"THE MAIL MUST GO THROUGH"

2011-12-15T16:22:00.000-07:00

SURE.

HA. HA. HA. HA. HA. HA. HA.

SURE.

ALWAYS CORRECTING SOMEBODY

2011-12-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Do you think that you can reprove words,

when the speech of a despairing man is wind?

Job 6:26

If you talk all the time---like politicians do, you say many things you shouldn't.

Even if you're not a politician, preacher or mother, you still talk a lot and say things you wish you hadn't said.

"Oh my, I wish I hadn't said that." "I could bite my tongue off."

We all do it!

So why then are we always trying to reprove the words of others?

"Newt shouldn't have said what he did about Paul Ryan."

"Mitt shouldn't have tried to make a $10,000 bet."

On and on it goes. It never ends. We are always correcting somebody.

Am I saying nothing ever needs to be corrected? Absolutely not.

What I am saying is that we are just making ourselves miserable and everybody around us when we are constantly reproving words.

Words can be dumb,hurtful and uncalled for but they soon pass away. Like dead leaves on a tree.

GONE WITH THE WIND!

A RAINEY DAY IN THE DESERT

2011-12-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

Yes. It rains in the desert.

Phoenix gets about 8 inches of rain a year. This is not much compared to other major cities. Los Angeles gets about twice that much and Seattle gets four times that much rain.

But it does rain here. In fact it's raining right now. It was raining when we went to bed last night and it was raining when we got up this morning.

Earlier I posted on Facebook that we were going to the health club and that I would be riding the bike, walking on the treadmill, lifting weights and looking out the huge windows past the palm trees to the beautiful purple mountains soaked in rain.

By the time we got to the club the rain had stopped the sun was shining and I looked out at purple mountains shrouded in billowy,white clouds. Beautiful!

After lunch we went shopping at Kierland Commons. With all the beautiful decorations, a light mist falling and many, many people scurrying around---it looked a lot like Christmas. Or at least it was beginning to.

We are now home again. Charlotte is bustling around wrapping presents. I'm upstairs posting this on my blog as the rain splatters gently against the windows.

I'm going downstairs and curl up with a book---a good book, in front of the fireplace.

Sunday afternoon following a memorial service I was chatting with a Doctor friend of mine who will be retiring next year. He was wondering if he would like retirement.

I SAID, "YES!"

TOO MUCH GRACE? I DON'T THINK SO!

2011-12-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

When Job's three friends...heard about all the troubles that had

come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together

by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him.

Job 2:11

We all need a little help from our friends.

I especially like two words that leap out to me from this Scripture: sympathize and comfort.

Job needed both sympathy and comfort.

Did his friends succeed in giving it to him? NO!

ELIPHAZ put great faith in TRADITION (15:18-19).

BILDAD was a LEGALIST (8:4).

ZOPHAR was the MOST DOGMATIC of the three (11:6).

Job needed mercy. He needed grace. He didn't get it from his friends.

I am pleased our preacher has preached on the theme of grace all year. Too much grace? I don't think so!

I have known many like these three men. Right or wrong I have always looked upon them as just good ol boys.

Good ol boys with some good points but too narrow to be of any help.

They talk a good game but nothing helps. They offer no hope. Grace would have brought some of the comfort they wanted to give.

Want to be a good friend? Want to offer sympathy? Do you want to comfort?

Try showing a little grace.

LOOK TO JESUS

2011-12-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite devotional books of all time is Tim Hansel's Keep Dancin'---Daily Readings to Celebrate Life.

The following is the first devotional from that book.

But Jesus came and touched them. "get up," he said.

"Don't be afraid." When they looked up they

saw no one except Jesus.

Matthew 17:7,8

I can vividly remember a series of Bible studies with a group of high-school students from San Francisco. We examined the basic theology and doctrine of the church. We explored the philosophical and theological positions of the church through history, debating the relevance of each to today's problems of hunger, nuclear weapons, and other ultra-complex situations. We explored how their subjects at school wove together with all the subtleties of Scripture.

Finally one morning a student raised her hand and said, "I'm really getting confused. Is it okay when I get lost in all of this stuff---if I just look at Jesus?"

__________________________________________

I look to You, Jesus, because You alone hold the keys to life.

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

2011-12-09T15:32:00.000-07:00

Scottsdale has become a study in contrasts, where residents and visitors can ride horseback through pristine Arizona desert in the morning and visit one of the country’s best contemporary art museums in the afternoon. It is now counted among the largest cities in the nation, but retains its connection to its small-town, Western heritage.

The Phoenix area is big---really big! It spreads out in every direction.

But for some reason it still has that small town feel for me. Maybe not for everybody. But for me it does and I like it.

I grew up in Lawton, Oklahoma. Graduated from High School and went to two years of college there.

I felt like I knew almost everybody in town. I didn't of course, and had sense enough to know it. But still I knew a lot of people.

A few days ago pushing a cart around in Fry's Market I met a man I know. We met and became friends at a health club.

Today while pushing a cart around in Costco I heard a cheery "Hi, how are you?" It was a Doctor who lived next door to us at one time but now has moved away.

A few months back we were at Oregano's Italian restaurant waiting to be seated when a family we knew walked in. I had known the lady and her family when she was just a young girl in California. I married her and her husband in Phoenix. I preached her mother's funeral. We hadn't seen her and her husband in many months. They were moving the next week to Colorado.

Will I see somebody I know tomorrow when I am out and about? Maybe. I don't know.

This is a big place. There are a lot of people here. But to me---it's getting "smaller" all the time. It feels like home.

I like it!

LIAR, LIAR, PANTS ON FIRE

2011-12-08T14:06:00.000-07:00

Attorney General Eric Holder's butt must so hot right now he can hardly sit down.

Why the fire department hasn't been called I'll never know.

It's about time those questioning him about Fast And Furious called him what he is----a liar!

There is absolutely no other way to look at it.

It's no longer, he may be lying. He is lying!

ERIC HOLDER IS A LIAR!

I'LL NEVER FORGET---FROM SEVEN TO SEVENTY-SEVEN

2011-12-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

"READ ALL ABOUT IT!" "READ ALL ABOUT IT!"

It was Sunday afternoon, December 7, 1941.

"What's all that yelling about?" "I don't know."

My mother and I were just coming out of the Palace Theater in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Looking around we could see young boys on every corner with arms full of newspapers.

Small crowds were gathered around them buying papers, gesturing wildly and terribly upset.

My mother bought a paper.

THE HEADLINE SCREAMED THE NEWS: PEARL HARBOR HAD BEEN BOMBED!! WE WERE AT WAR!

Home was only a few blocks away. We walked fast but it seemed like it took much longer to get home than usual. HOME. It felt good to be there.

Mother looked sad, worried. I felt sorry for her. I really didn't know how to feel.

I was seven then. I am seventy-seven now.

I have revisited that day many times in my mind on many different occasions and for many different reasons.

I WILL NEVER FORGET!

I LOVE AMERICA!

OVERFLOWING WITH HOPE

2011-12-06T16:25:00.000-07:00

So I pray that God, who gives you hope,

will keep you happy and full of peace

as you believe in him. May you over-

flow with hope through the power of the

Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13

It has always been easy for me to get mental pictures of things.

But for the life of me I can't get a mental picture of overflowing with hope.

I have tried. But nothing that comes to mind is good enough.

"Overflowing with hope" is beyond my mental capacity.

Read this passage, Romans 15:13 again. Read it slowly and deliberately. Think about what it means.

Isn't it wonderful? Absolutely wonderful!

I want to say with the Apostle Paul: "May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit."

BUT GOD MEANT IT FOR GOOD

2011-12-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

"But as for you, ye thought evil against me;

but God meant it unto good,..."

Genesis 50:20

Genesis 50:20 comes close to being my favorite passage of Scripture.

But it's not! My favorite is Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him."

A great truth written large in both the Old and New Testaments is that God means everything for our good.

It just doesn't get any better than that!

But how can it be that all things work together for our good?

Taken separately "stuff" that happens can be bad.

Taken together it can be good.

Whatever the circumstances yesterday or today they can be good as long as our hearts are right with God and others.

Maybe you can't say it right now, but in time you can say like Joseph, "But God meant it unto good."

WHY? I KNOW NOT, BUT GOD KNOWS

2011-12-02T16:05:00.000-07:00

BUT GOD

I know not, but God knows;

Oh, blessed rest from fear!

All my unfolding days

To Him are plain and clear.

Each anxious, puzzled "why?"

From doubt or dread that grows,

Finds answer in this thought:

I know not, but He knows.

I cannot, but God can;

Oh, balm for all mycare!

the burden that I drop

His hand will lift and bear.

Though eagle pinions tire,

I walk where once I ran,

This is my strength to know

I cannot, but He can.

I see not, But God sees;

Oh, all sufficient light!

My dark and hidden way

To Him is always bright.

My strained and peering eyes

May close in restful ease,

And I in peace may sleep;

I see not, but He sees.

---Annie Johnson Flint

FOLLOWING CHARLOTTE AROUND THE FESTIVALS

2011-12-02T13:11:00.001-07:00

She has a bum knee and has had surgery on it ---but you wouldn't know it.

She can walk for miles (maybe it just seems like miles to me) at an Arizona festival.

Last month we went to the one at beautiful Fountain Hills. I like to watch the fountain and rest and eat at the food court.

Today we enjoyed the one at Tempe.

It never fails to amaze me how many talented people there are. I'm not good at crafts. Not at all.

These "crafty" people come from all over the country. And they make and sell a little bit of everything.

I'm not all that crazy about art and craft festivals but I do enjoy being with Charlotte and watching her "have fun."

And I have learned that festivals can be fun if you just relax and enjoy being out and about.

Out and about in beautiful, sunny Arizona!

I'M COMIN' HOME---BEEN GONE TOO LONG

2011-12-01T08:49:00.003-07:00

I'm comin' home, I've done my time
Now I've got to know what is and isn't mine
If you received my letter tellin' you I'd soon be free
Then you'll know just what to do if you still want me
If you still want me

Ok! Ok! I'm not Tony Orlando. But I have been away from "regular" blogging and I am comin' home.

Some of you have been kind enough to let me know that you miss me. In the words of one blogger---Kathy Barr, "I just wanted to let you know that, although I think your book reviews are well done and thorough and informative, I miss your personal writing -- your stories and anecdotes."

For a long period of time I wrote a blog post every day. I felt obligated to do it and less than I should be if I didn't. One day I "woke up" and said to myself, "I'm taking a break from blogging except for book reviews." And so I did!

I stopped blogging every day and I stopped writing every weekend for my wife's blog, Spiritual Sundays." When writing for Spiritual Sundays I was also reading every post and leaving comments. That made for a very busy weekend.

Well, so much for all that. I'm comin' home--if you still want me. No need to tie any yellow ribbons around trees I wouldn't see them anyway. And I'm not on a bus.

What I would like is for you to leave a comment on my blog and also subscribe as a friend.

I will be coming around again visiting your blogs and leaving comments.

I'M COMIN' HOME!

THINK, FEEL, LIVE BETTER

2011-11-21T12:11:00.000-07:00

40 Days To Better Living
DEPRESSION

OVERVIEW: You want to feel better― and this book provides clear, manageable steps to get you there, through life-changing attitudes and actions.

If you're ready to really live better, select one or more elements of the 7-step Model for Healthy Living: Faith, Medical, Movement, Work, Emotional, Family and Friends, Nutrition, and follow this 40-Day plan to improve your life ―just a bit― day by day.

With plenty of practical advice, biblical encouragement, and stories of real people who've taken the same journey, 40 Days to Better Living ― Depression may be the most important book you read this year.
(From The Back of The Book)

AUTHOR: This book is produced by the staff of Church Health Center in Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Scott Morris wrote the introduction. The book is small and has the feel of a magazine. The church has produced several books about healthy living. This one is about depression.

MY REVIEW: This is a good book, easy to read and helpful. It will help you manage stressors, get moving, work with your doctor, enjoy family and friends and connect with God. The part I like best is that it is filled with stories of real people and how they discovered healing. Each day is divided into Morning Reflection and Evening Wrap-up. Morning Reflection includes: Faith Life, Medical, Movement, Work, Emotional, Family and Friends and Nutrition. Evening Wrap-up is just that ― wrap-up! I personally believe that the best part of the book is the part that helps you connect with God.

I believe there should be a better way to state the fact that this book is about depression and yet I do not know how to do it. The title now is: 40 Days To Better Living with Better Living in large letters on one line and the word depression in capitol letters but smaller letters on another line. It all seems to run together and the word depression doesn't stand out. Maybe 40 Days To Better Living as the title and Overcoming Depression as a subtitle would be better. Regardless, this is a book about how to overcome depression ―and a good one. I recommend it to all those suffering from depression.

(I want to thank The B & B Media Group, Inc. for giving me this book for review.)

IS THERE ANY HOPE FOR ME?

2011-11-19T12:39:00.000-07:00

HEALING IS A CHOICE
Ten Decisions That Will Transform Your Life
Ten Lies That Can Prevent You From Making Them
By Stephen Arterburn

MY REVIEW: I'm not a psychologist but I strongly believe that reading this book can transform your life ― if it needs to be transformed. The pain in his own life is what led Stephen Arterburn to write this book. The book has produced study groups around the world. Many have been "healed" and found hope for a future they had lost hope for.

Arterburn tells the story from the fifth chapter of the book of John about Jesus healing a man who had been sick for thirty-eight years. We think the strange part of the story is that before Jesus healed the man he asked him if he wanted to get well. The man had a choice to be healed or not. He may have wanted to remain unhealed so he could just lie around, or he may have grown accustomed to begging and knew begging was easier if he had a health problem. He may have used his illness to disconnect from the world and the other pressures of life. There are many reasons that he may not have wanted to be healed. So this is not a bizarre question.

Healing is a choice. If you are struggling or know someone who is--get this book and read it. Rick Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Life, said: "Steve Arterburn has written a classic on personal healing. If you make these choices your life will be transformed." I agree. Like many books I read, this one has some things I disagree with but nothing that takes away from the books value. I recommend it to all those that want to be healed.

OVERVIEW: This book was originally published in 2005, and there have been many changes, developments, and new insights since its publication. Arterburn is a strong advocate for marriage even after suffering a divorce. He is convinced that when there are marital problems and even betrayal, the first response needs to be steps toward reconciliation and saving the marriage.

The book deals with far more that marital problems and divorce. It's about the deep hurts of life and how to heal them. It's about God's presence, unconditional love, and provision in your life. It helps you to know that no matter what you have lost or been through, you can be healed.

AUTHOR: Stephen Arterburn is the host of New Life Live!, a radio and television program distributed across the country. He is a best-selling author with more than eight million books in print. He is also the founder of Women of Faith, a conference attended by more than four million women since its inception. Steve also serves as the teaching pastor of Heartland Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. If you have a question or a comment for Steve, you can contact him at SArterburn@newlife.com.

(I am thankful to Thomas Nelson Publishing Company for providing this book for review.)

IN VISIBLE FELLOWSHIP

2011-11-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

IN VISIBLE FELLOWSHIP

A Contemporary View of Bonhoeffer's Classic Work

LIFE TOGETHER
by Jon Walker

OVERVIEW: Jon Walker engages Bonhoeffer's classic work on Christian life in community, presenting its rich and vital themes for Christians in the twenty-first century. Christians were never meant to live life alone. Only "in visible fellowship" do we learn to love one another and to live like Jesus is real.

Walker brings a clear voice and powerful teaching to Bonhoeffer's classic work on the church enabling you to understand the great importance of the Body of Christ. Through life together we grow into authentic spiritual maturity. As we live out the life of faith together, the love, forgiveness, and power of Christ literally and visibly comes alive for the world.

AUTHOR: Jon Walker has worked closely with Rick Warren for many years, first as a writer/editor at Pastors.com. later as vice president of communications at Purpose Driven Ministries, and then as a pastor at Saddleback Church. He's also served as editor-in-chief of LifeWay's HomeLife magazine and founding editor of Rick Warren's Ministry Toolbox. he is the author of Costly Grace: A Contemporary View of Bonhoeffer's The Cost of Discipleship. His articles have appeared in publications and websites around the world. He lives in Nashville, Tennessee. Learn more about his ministry at www.gracecreates.com.

MY REVIEW: When I picked up Jon Walker's first book, Costly Grace I did so not because I knew Jon Walker, but because the book was about Bonhoeffer and his book, The Cost of Discipleship. Costly Grace is a wonderful book. One of my favorites!

I wanted to read more from Walker and subscribed to his daily devotions on the internet. When I heard that he had written this new book--In Visible Fellowship, I was excited. Now that I have read it I can report that I was not disappointed. I agree with Harold Harper who wrote: "In Visible Fellowship will help you understand the necessity of staying focused on Jesus throughout the day and compel you to make a deep commitment to the people in your small group."

This book shows how Christian community is not a theory or an ideal, but an everyday practical reality. It is a practical, biblical treatment of the church as the Body of Christ. It includes discussion questions which makes it excellent for small group discussions.There are thirty-six chapters and the thing I like best about the book is that every chapter is brief and to the point. I recommend this little book to all Christians.

(Thanks to Leafwood Publishers for providing this book for review.)

THE LATCH ON THE SCREEN DOOR

2011-11-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

As a boy growing up in Oklahoma I didn't know anything about security doors or screens. Today, we have security screens on three doors of our home.

The Oklahoma summers were hot and we left the front and back doors open to cause a draft through the house. The windows were also up or open. At night we always checked to see if the screens were "latched". Although I don't know why. If anybody wanted in all they had to do was pull real hard and the screen would come unlatched.

I never felt afraid! Dumb Okie? Maybe. But I was happy and at peace with myself and others.

At Halloween I went all over town with one or two other boys. No adults. We wouldn't have even considered it.

Last night here in Scottsdale. A few children were out. Their parents were only a few feet away. And for good reason.

Did I grow up in the "good old days"? I think so. There were a lot of things in those days that were not so good and many "good" things have come into being over the years. But generally speaking, if I had to make a choice I would go back to the days gone by.

Yes, I would miss the "good" things that have come to pass and the "progress" that has been made. Like this computer I am using right now.

But mercy me, I would love to pillow my head at night knowing that generally speaking all is well in Scottsdale and all points beyond. That women and little children are not being molested. And that all that "crappy stuff" I value so highly will still be there in the morning.

FINALLY .....

2011-10-31T10:44:00.003-07:00

It's early morning in Scottsdale. The sun is shining brightly as it does most mornings in this part of Arizona. In a few hours Charlotte and I will drive a few minutes to our son's home, pick him up and then drive down through Scottsdale to Green Acres Cemetery to attend the memorial service for our friend Ruth Noland.

About two or three years ago I was contacted to be ready to deliver the message at Ruth's service. She wasn't expected to live but just a few days. "Ok, we were planning to do some traveling out of town but I will postpone that and stand by." After several months I asked the family to release me from my obligation. They graciously agreed to do so and we all went on waiting for God to call Ruth home.

For some reason, I don't know why, maybe it's because we live in uneasy times---I have been reading a lot of books along with the Bible about the end times. Also, as I grow older I find I have a greater interest in the life hereafter. Especially heaven, but also hell.

The Scriptures teach that we all have an appointment with death (Hebrews 9:27). So the end for all of us will come---someday. It may be soon. It may be later. But it will come!

Ruth got ready "to go." She was ready had the Lord summoned her a few years ago when I was first contacted. She was ready a few days ago when He did wink at her and say, "Ok, Ruth come on home."

I won't be speaking at Ruth's service today. The family needed to have someone prepared, ready and the important thing--standing by. I am happy that I am in town and able to attend her service today. I will be there to honor the great Christian lady that she was.

As I think about Ruth today, here is what is on my mind: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable---if anything is excellent or praiseworthy---think about such things." Philippians 4:8

Someday, for all of us, the last word will be FINALLY!

THE WORLD ON THE BRINK OF DISASTER

2011-10-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

THE TEHRAN INITIATIVE

A Novel by Joel C. Rosenberg

OVERVIEW: In Joel Rosenberg's new novel, Iran has just conducted its first atomic weapons test. Millions of Muslims around the world are convinced their messiah―known as the Twelfth Imam―has arrived on earth. Israeli leaders fear Tehran, under the Twelfth Imam's spell, will soon launch a nuclear attack that could bring about a second Holocaust and the annihilation of Israel. The White House fears Jerusalem will strike first, launching a massive preemptive attack against Iran's nuclear facilities that could cause the entire Middle East to go up in flames, oil prices to skyrocket, and the global economy to collapse. With the stakes high and few viable options left, the president of the United States orders CIA operative David Shirazi and his team to track down and sabotage Iran's nuclear warheads before Iran or Israel can launch a devastating first strike. But will they be too late?

AUTHOR: Joel C. Rosenberg is a New York Times bestselling author with more than 2 million copies in print. A communications strategist based in Washington, DC, he has worked with some of the world's most influential and provocative leaders, including Steve Forbes, Rush Limbaugh, Natan Sharansky, and Benjamin Netanyahu. Once a political columnist for World magazine, he now writes commentaries for National Review as well as Flash Traffic, a weekly e-mail update for business and political leaders.

MY REVIEW: Because of my interest in what is happening in the Middle East today and what the Bible says about the end times, I found this book fascinating. This is an exhilarating political thriller―a pulse pounding tale of international intrigue that will keep you on the edge of your seat and wondering...what if this worst-case scenario comes true? I read and review many books but not many novels. I wanted to read this novel because Rosenberg is such a great writer. I hope many will read this book and take an interest in what is happening in our world today. Christians need to be thinking about what is happening in the world around us and praying about it everyday. I agree with Rush Limbaugh who said, "Rosenberg has become one of the most entertaining and thought-provoking novelists of our day. Regardless of your political views, you've got to read his stuff."

(I want to thank Tyndale House Publishers for giving me this book for review.)

LETTING GO OF WORRY

2011-10-11T08:19:00.000-07:00

LETTING GO OF WORRY

God's Plan for Finding Peace and Contentment

By Dr. Linda Mintle

OVERVIEW: Does worry have you in its grip? Respected author, speaker, and counselor Dr. Linda Mintle comes to the rescue with basic, practical ideas drawn from longtime professional experience and her personal qualifications as a veteran worrier, with Dr. Linda's help, you can rethink your core beliefs and surrender worry to God as you discover

*the spiritual roots of worry

*what to do when anxious thoughts
arise

*how to have peace about health, job,
money, and relationships

*practical ways to cultivate a truly worry-free life

*the biblical secret to lasting contentment

AUTHOR: Dr. Linda Mintle is a national speaker and bestselling author of over 15 books. She appears regularly on national broadcasts and is a network news contributor. A licensed clinical social worker, she specializes in marriage and family therapy and eating disorders. She holds a PhD in urban health and clinical psychology.

MY REVIEW: Because I come from a family of worriers and spent almost fifty years as a pastor--I know a lot about worry. I have felt the need to educate myself on the subject and therefore have read about and studied the subject as much as possible. Dr. Mintle's book is one of the best I have read. She covers the subject from every possible angle.

The best part of the book is that Dr. Mintle is not only presenting her common sense advice gained from years of experience, she is presenting God's plan for finding peace and contentment. She does an excellent job of pointing readers to God and His Word. I smiled when I read what Ruth Graham wrote in her introduction: "My friend Dr. Linda Mintle has written a valuable book--it could be titled All You Wanted to Know About Worry but Were Too Anxious to Ask!" I recommend you read this book if you are worried and anxious. It will help!

(Thanks to Harvest House Publishers for giving me this book for review.)

HOW THE CHURCH WILL END EXTREME POVERTY

2011-10-10T12:06:00.004-07:00

FAST LIVING
How The church Will End Extreme Poverty
By Scott C. Todd, PhD

OVERVIEW: Fast Living is unapologetically hopeful. Riveted with eye-opening economic progress. And firmly rooted in God's words. Scott Todd's keen biblical insights and on-the-ground experience will change forever how we live the "true fast" of Isaiah 58. And in dramatic fashion, he reveals the truth: Jesus never said the poor will always be with "us." For a generation of Christians tired of cliches or messages of guilt, Fast Living lifts our expectations to live our noble callings and demonstrate the Good News in a history-making way. Skeptical? Bring your questions and your doubts. Take a personal journey with Dr Scott Todd into Fast Living and join a movement that will end abject poverty on a global scale.

AUTHOR: Dr. Scott Todd is the Senior Ministry Advisor for compassion International and one of the chief architects of 58: Combining his analytical background in academic research and immunology with his passion for the cause of Christ, he speaks plainly about what is possible when the church bands together in strategic actions fueled with compassion. He is a champion for the poor. An encourager of the Church. And a voice speaking to a new generation of Christians eager to make a difference.

MY REVIEW: Wow! What a book! What a challenge!

When I first read the words: "How The Church Will End Extreme Poverty," I was skeptical--very skeptical. I almost laughed. And I thought to myself, "Oh yeah. And just how do you expect that to happen?" Well, it took awhile for Dr. Todd to give me a satisfactory answer. In fact, I had to read the entire book. Oh, I started thinking differently a few chapters in. But I have known all my life about extreme poverty and I truly did believe Jesus said, the poor will always be with us. What an eye opener to read Jesus' statement in context and to see the true meaning of what He did say.

Do I think, as Dr. Todd does, that we will end pandemic poverty by 2035? I don't know if we will, but I do now think that it is possible. I have come a long way in my thinking on this subject just by reading this book. I think you will too. I encourage you to buy a copy of this book soon. Let's be a part of the answer to world hunger.

(I want to thank CGrant & Company for giving me this book for review.)

FREEDOM FROM ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS

2011-10-06T15:16:00.000-07:00

HOW TO DEFEAT HARMFUL HABITS

Freedom from Six Addictive Behaviors

By June Hunt

OVERVIEW: In How to Defeat Harmful Habits, beloved biblical counselor June Hunt offers expert direction through the complex world of addictions. With heartfelt compassion, June combines wisdom from God's Word with the latest in science and research to answer questions such as:

*What are the underlying causes of addiction?

*How can you genuinely help strugglers without enabling destructive behaviors?

*When trying to defeat a harmful habit, what works and what doesn't?

*How can those who struggle experience complete freedom--permanently?

AUTHOR: June Hunt is the founder of Hope for the Heart, a worldwide biblical counseling ministry that provides numerous resources for people seeking help. She hosts a live, two-hour call-in-counseling program called Hope in the Night, and is the author of Counseling Through Your Bible Handbook, How to Handle Your Emotions, How to Rise Above Abuse, and Seeing Yourself Through God's Eyes.

MY REVIEW: There are hurting people all around us, in our churches and schools, in our offices and homes. Most of them do not have the willpower to overcome strong addictions and so they go on struggling through life. Many times these people find ways to hide their addictions and they struggle alone.

If you find yourself struggling with one of the addictive behaviors found in this book, June Hunt can help you. She offers great help for: alcohol and drug abuse, anorexia and bulimia, gambling, overeating, and sexual addiction.

One of the things I liked best about the book was the gripping real-life stories of former strugglers. These stories provide proof that with God, all things really are possible, including lasting freedom from even the most destructive addictions. You may not need the information in this book for yourself but you may need it to help others you love and care about.

(Thanks to Harvest House Publishers for providing me with this copy for review.)

WHAT WOULD YOU ASK IF YOU KNEW GOD WAS LISTENING?

2011-10-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

GOD, I'VE GOT A QUESTION

Biblical Truth for Our Deepest Concerns

by James Merritt

OVERVIEW: We all have a list of questions we'd like to ask God if we could bend His ear. Popular pastor and author James Merritt reminds us that God is neither surprised nor offended by our concerns. In this book, he wrestles with some of the most frequently asked questions about faith, life, and the world around us--questions that perhaps you've been hesitant to ask the only One who can answer them:

*God, why do You allow innocent people to suffer?

*Are people of other faiths with You in heaven?

*Did You use evolution to create the universe?

*Is the bible really Your Word?

*Do You really have a plan for my life?

AUTHOR: Dr. James Merritt is a pastor, author, and host of the television program Touching lives, seen nationwide and in 122 countries weekly. Known for the ability to communicate timeless wisdom in down-to-earth language he's been featured on 60 Minutes, Fox News, and MSNBC.

MY REVIEW: This book contains Bible answers to ten questions that claw at us. For example: "If You're So Good, Why Do You Allow Innocents to Suffer?. As a pastor for almost fifty years I was confronted with this question about human suffering, more than any other. James Merritt does a good job of taking the Bible and answering that question. Will you agree with the answers he gives to all of the questions in the book? Maybe not. But you may, because he goes directly to the Scriptures for his answers and then he gives wonderful stories and illustrations of the truths he finds there. Merritt writes in a way that holds your attention and makes you keep turning the pages. I believe this is a book that will be of benefit to most Christians and one that you will want to share with others. Do I agree with every answer Dr. Merritt gives? There may be a few points we differ on--but not many. Read the book for yourself and see what you think about his answers to questions like, "How Can You Be One God in Three Persons?", "Did You Use Evolution to Create the Universe?"

(Thanks to Harvest House Publishers for giving me this book for review.)

ARE DIFFICULT PEOPLE DRIVING YOU CRAZY?

2011-10-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

STRESSED BY THAT DIFFICULT PERSON IN YOUR LIFE?

HERE'S HOPE!

We all have at least one difficult person we just can't seem to mesh with. Perhaps they're too demanding, never satisfied with our efforts, or just plain ornery.

WHAT CAN WE DO?

We can--and must--set realistic boundaries that will decrease our own stress level and may even benefit our difficult person. Whether your difficult person is a friend, relative, coworker, boss, neighbor, or just an acquaintance, Allison Bottke can help you establish those necessary boundaries to bring sanity back into your life using her popular SANITY. acronym:
S - STOP your own negative behavior

A - ASSEMBLE a support group

N - NIP excuses in the bud

I - IMPLEMENT rules and boundaries
T - TRUST your instincts

Y - YIELD everything to God

ALLISON BOTTKE is the author of Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children and the founder of the SANITY Support Group Network, an international outreach based on the acclaimed Setting Boundaries book series with groups meeting around the world and online. She has written or edited more than 25 nonfiction and fiction books, and is a frequent guest on national radio and TV programs around the country.

I agree with Suellen Roberts, Founder and President Christian Women in Media Association who said: "Allison touches the heart of the matter in this inspired expression of help and hope for all who face challenging relationships in life."

For forty-seven years I was a pastor and served with four churches and many difficult people. Church people are good people but they also can be difficult people. Before that, as a teenager I worked in two different grocery stores. Many customers were difficult. Before that I was busy "growing up" with brothers and sisters. They too could be difficult. And I am confident that all these difficult people found me to be difficult too.

Life is difficult and the sooner we learn that, the better off we are. Setting Boundaries with Difficult People is a good book. It will give you the steps you need to maintain or find sanity when dealing with challenging relationships.

(Thanks to Harvest House Publishers for this review copy.)

HOW TO BE A GOOD PASTOR

2011-09-28T08:15:00.007-07:00

LETTERS to a YOUNG PASTOR
By Calvin Miller

OVERVIEW: In this book, Calvin Miller shares his well-earned wisdom with the next generation of pastors. He acknowledges much has changed over his years of ministry, as we've moved from switchboards to smartphones and from big-haired evangelists to cigar-smoking emergents. But two truths remain; God is love, and people are broken. In his honest, engaging, and humorous collection of letters, he encourages you to fight the good fight, stay the course, and keep your eye on the Author and Finisher of the faith.

AUTHOR: Calvin Miller was the pastor of Westside Church in Omaha, Nebraska, for twenty-five years. After teaching seven years at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, he joined the faculty of Samford University's Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, Alabama, where he serves as research professor and distinguished writer-in-residence. He is the author of more than forty books.

MY REVIEW: I agree with Ed Stetzer, author, church planter and director of LifeWay Research, who called this book "A gift to the church...a gift to young pastors." And what a gift it is! Timothy George, founding dean of Beeson Divinity School said, "This is the irrepressible Calvin Miller at his best." I agree. I have read many of Miller's forty books and this is one of the best.

This is an honest look at the church and the work of the pastor. Miller loves the church and he loves young pastors. Like a father who loves his children he can tell the truth about the church and preachers because of the great love he has for them. This is one of the funniest books I have read in a long time. Miller sees humor in almost everything that happens in the church and uses that humor to drive home great truth.

I wish I could have read a book like this when I started in full-time ministry. I will be recommending it to all the young pastors I know--but not only pastors, I will recommend it to all who love the church and care about pastors. There is something in this book for all Christians.

***Thanks to The B&B Media Group for providing my review copy.

HOW TO BE HAPPIER 7 DAYS A WEEK

2011-09-26T09:09:00.002-07:00

A RECENT STUDY FOUND HAPPINESS

INCREASES 10 PERCENT ON FRIDAYS.

In EVERY DAY A FRIDAY, bestselling author Joel Osteen offers encouragement, spiritual guidance, and practical advice on how to find joy and happiness in every day of the week, every day of your life.

Whatever challenges you may face, whatever circumstances are weighing you down, you can choose your response. It's not what happens to you or what you have or don't have that is important; it's how your mind is set and the decisions you make. How you live your life is totally up to you. It's not dependent on your circumstances. It's dependent on your choices. By being aware of the thoughts and feelings that come to you each day, you can choose to tune in to happiness just as you can choose the station on your car radio. Tune out the negative thoughts and feelings and tune in to God's blessings in your life.

Osteen encourages you to be a source of happiness to others by being a source of understanding and support. Instead of being quick to judge or criticize, he offers ways for you to discover the happiness and fulfillment that come from being the kind of person who inspires and motivates others.

Osteen has described this message as a core theme of his ministry. Combining his personal experiences with scriptural insights and principles for true happiness, he shows you how every day can hold the same promise and opportunities for pure joy that we all experience at five o'clock on Friday.

Joel Osteen is the senior pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. Listed by several sources as America' largest and fastest-growing congregation, Lakewood Church has approximately 45,000 attendees every week. Millions more watch Joel's messages as they are broadcast on national and international television networks.

If you are looking for a book that is deep into theology and providing an answer to all of your doctrinal questions---this is not it. So do me a favor. Don't run out and buy this book and then criticize Joel because he's not Biblical enough for you. Whatever that means. If you want a book like that then buy a book on systematic theology.

I recommend this book for those of you looking for a more positive, happier way to live. Not just occasionally, but every day. This book will help you be excited to be alive at this moment and the moments of each day. The book is divided into seven different parts. I think it would be good to read one part each day for a week and then start over again. It will help you have a happier week and all those who come in contact with you.

(This book was given to me by Hachette Book Group for this review.)

EXPERIENCING PURE JOY IN YOUR LIFE

2011-09-22T08:25:00.001-07:00

THE FULFILLMENT PRINCIPLE
Experiencing Pure Joy In Your Life
By Rob Westfall

OVERVIEW: The Fulfillment Principle is packed with stories― encouragement and motivation to help readers pursue their God-given gifts in order to experience the joy of a lifetime―for a lifetime. Drawing on the challenge from Jesus' parable of the talents, Westfall shows readers how the Creator of the universe hands His children a clear, concise blueprint for pure joy. They will see the extraordinary impact individuals can have when they choose to use their gifts and not bury them. They will learn: How to discover their God-given talents, how to invest the talents God has given them and how to realize a life of joy and fulfillment.

AUTHOR: Bob Westfall is president of the Westfall Group which serves charities and Christian ministries in financial stewardship and communications. He frequently speaks at national conferences and to charity boards, philanthropists, churches and other groups. Previously he served as the Senior VP for development for Walk Thru the Bible Ministries (WTB). He currently lives in Suwanee, Georgia, with his wife, Kim, and is the parent of four children.

MY REVIEW: Compared to the many books I read and review this is a small one―one hundred twenty-three pages. There are nine brief power packed chapters. There are not many words on each page or in each chapter but they are filled with meaning. As in many books Bob has selected a quote that begins each chapter. Quotes from Winston Churchill, Benjamin Franklin, Erma Bombeck and many others. And what I like about these quotes is that they are good. Not just quotes, but good quotes! They fit with what he is writing about.

I like what Bob told a young man who wasn't feeling much joy in his life. He said to him: "What God's looking for is faithfulness in the little things, the things that may not seem important to you. Are you going to invest in that which God has given you today, the things you may not have even noticed, but the things that, I can assure you, matter to him? When you show that you value the talents he's already given you, then he can trust you with more―and you can enter into his joy." These words helped change the young man's life. I believe this book can help change yours―for the better.

(This book was given to me by the B & B Media Group, Inc. for this review.)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-09-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

THE FAITH OF LEAP
Embracing A Theology of Risk, Adventure and Courage
By Michael Frost and Alan Hirsch

OVERVIEW: So much of our lives is caught up in the development and maintenance of security and control. But as Helen Keller observed, "Security is mostly a superstition...Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing." And when our only experience of Christianity is safe and controlled, we miss the simple fact that faith involves risk.

In The Faith of Leap, Michael Frost and Alan Hirsch challenge you to leave the idol of security behind and courageously live the adventure that is inherent in our God and in our calling. Their corrective to the dull, adventureless, risk-free phenomenon that describes so much of contemporary Christianity explores the nature of adventure, risk, and courage and the implications for church, discipleship, spirituality, and leadership. (From the back of the book.)

AUTHORS: Michael Frost is an internationally recognized Australian missiologist and one of the leading voices in the missional church movement. His books are required reading in colleges and seminaries around the world, and he is much sought after as an international conference speaker. He is the vice principal of Morling College and the founding director of the Tinsley Institute, a mission study center located at Morling College in Sydney, Australia. He is the author or editor of ten theological books.

Alan Hirsch is the founding director of Forge Mission Training Network. He is the cofounder of shapevine.com and currently he leads an innovative learning program called Future Travelers, helping numerous megachurches become missional movements. Known for his innovative approach to mission, Alan is a teacher and key mission strategist for churches across the Western world. He is the author of several books and his popular book The Shaping of Things to Come (with Michael Frost) is widely considered to be a seminal text on mission.

MY REVIEW: Every review I have read of this book, praises it to the sky. And I only read one review that found anything wrong with it. And that fault was minor. And I too found much to praise about this book. But I also found it hard to read and follow. I kept having to look up words that are new to me and re-read sentences and paragraphs that I couldn't completely comprehend in the first reading. So my review will not be as glowing as others I have read. Now, let me quickly say that I am not as well read in the field of missions as I would like to be and I have never been proud of my vocabulary. However, I am a retired pastor of almost fifty years, have a Masters Degree in Bible/Religion and a large library. So I am not a complete dunce although I admit I am lacking in some areas when it comes to reading this book.

I like the call to a theology of risk, adventure and courage. I learned from the stories of those who have found the courage to venture out and take risks for the cause of Christ and for His glory. I recommend this book to pastors and teachers but I think the "average" Christian will find the same difficulties with reading the book that I did. But I can't end on this note. I must say, I agree completely with the authors that "God is a God of adventure, and a life well lived." Therefore I agree with them that "a life of discipleship, must be one that can take risks as we courageously follow our Lord." This is what they call the faith of leap.

(I received this book from C.Grand and Company for this review.)

TENDER WISDOM

2011-09-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

MEGAN'S SECRETS
What My Mentally Disabled Daughter Taught Me About Life
By Mike Cope

OVERVIEW: She was a beautiful pint-sized girl whose only spoken sentence was, "I'm Megan!" But the best scholars in the world couldn't teach what she did in her brief life. Megan died at age ten. Her short life exposed some of the insanities of the world and revealed some life-giving secrets.

Lovingly written by Megan's father, this unique inspirational book wraps these secrets in stories that will restore hope to those grieving losses and to those living with life's second choices. The first half of the book is about the power of her life--a frail, fragile, broken life. The second half pushes further into themes of loss, joy, doubt, faith, grief, and hope. Through it all, readers will laugh and cry and be blessed by God's incredible wisdom spoken through the life of a disabled child. (From the back of the book.)

AUTHOR: Mike Cope has for many years spoken to large audiences around the country about what really matters. An author of four books, a blogger, a pastor, and an editor of two magazines, Mike currently teaches a class of three hundred university students each semester at Abilene Christian University and works with Heartbeat, a nonprofit company that focuses on culture and religion. Mike and his wife, Diane, live in Abilene, Texas, and have been married thirty-three years. They have two surviving children Matt, a physician, and Chris, a freshman in college.

MY REVIEW: No book, in a long time, has touched me so deeply as Megan's Secrets. I laughed and mostly cried my way from his words of dedication until the final words: "I now await that next kiss. I eagerly await God's final work of new creation. A time to set things right. A time to wipe away all tears. And a time to be reunited with Megan, my daughter and my teacher."

I agree completely with the words of Max Lucado: "The world would look at Megan Cope and her brief little life and see limitations, imperfections, inabilities. Her dad, just like her heavenly Father, saw something else entirely. Joy. Big heart. Love. Wisdom. Raising a disabled daughter, and then saying goodbye after a brief ten years of life, Mike knows the struggles, triumphs, pain, everyday miracles...and the secrets. Secrets God shares with those who care for the least among us. In Megan's Secrets, my friend Mike shares the wisdom he learned from loving Megan."

I recommend this book not just to parents of children with special challenges and parents who have lost children. I recommend it to everybody who needs to hear Mike's words of wisdom on the themes of loss, joy, doubt, faith, grief and hope.

(This book was provided to me by The B&B Media Group Inc. for this review.)

BOOK REVIEW AND GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY

2011-09-13T14:44:00.000-07:00

GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY

STRESS-FREE BELIEVERS SURVIVAL KIT

*Stress-Free Believers Book

*Stress-Free Believers Group Study DVD

*Stress-Free 5-CD Audio Book

*Stress Relief Aromatherapy from Bath & Body Works

*1.6 oz. Filled Candle

*Travel-Size Body Wash & Foam Bath

*Travel-Size Body Lotion

Read the review and leave a comment for a chance to be selected as the winner for the Grand Prize. The winner will be selected September 26.

STRESS-FREE BELIEVERS

Turn Worry Into Faith, Turmoil Into Peace

By Harold Metzel

OVERVIEW: Do you keep a clear head during times of stress? Loss of employment, marital conflict, credit card debt, and other pressure points are managed when you're cool-headed. Here is the battle plan you need to get harmful stress off your back so you can manage the tough times with composure.

You'll learn how to: Convert your thoughts from worry to faith. Develop patience in the midst of chaos. Take control of your thinking, emotions, and commitments. Identify the tools God has given you to overcome stress. Recognize the part you play in God's comprehensive plan. Allow God to work in your life as He did in the life of Jesus.

This step-by step guide shows how to reduce unhealthy levels of stress in each area of daily living. The objective is not just to overcome our ordeals but to do so without anxiety.

AUTHOR: Harold Metzel, a 30-year veteran as pastor, missionary, Bible College president, and VP of a large charitable foundation in San Diego, currently coaches individuals and pastoral staff on ways to become ever better stewards of what God have given.

MY REVIEW: As a minister for forty-seven years I met many, many stressed out Christians. So when I was offered the opportunity to review this book, I was eager to do it. We live in a pressure filled society and nobody is immune to stress. Will this book help? I believe it will. I especially like the fact that it is written in a way that makes it an excellent study guide for small groups. Individuals will profit from studying Metzel's book but small groups will benefit from discussing, questioning and sharing.

I want to recommend this book to my friends but I want to say that I have not personally experienced some of the things that Harold Metzel has experienced in his life. For example: in the Afterward he tells about an encounter he had with the devil. He said, "You may choose to believe this or not. There may not be a lot of theological argument to substantiate it." I appreciate his attitude and I don't believe there is a lot of theological argument to substantiate his story. However, for me, this does not distract from the value of his book. You may believe and appreciate his witness. We live in a stress filled world. Get this book. It will help!

(I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kathy Carlton Willis Communications for this review.)

YOU'LL WANT THIS----WIN IT!

2011-08-29T12:59:00.001-07:00

DR. KEVIN LEMAN WRITES GREAT BOOKS FOR THE HOME AND FAMILY. YOU CAN ENTER A CONTEST TO WIN THIS BOOK AND OTHER PRIZES. CHECK IT OUT HERE: http://www.tyndale.com/blog/?p=1243

A JOURNEY TO FAITH

2011-08-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

SURPRISED BY OXFORD

A Memoir

Carolyn Weber

OVERVIEW: When Carolyn Weber arrived at Oxford for her graduate studies, she felt no need for God. Her childhood in a broken but loving family taught her to reply on reason and intellect--not faith--for survival. Eager and expectant, Carolyn set out to study Romantic literature in one of the most inspiring and beautiful academic environments in the world. She had no idea that she was about to embark on a love story of her own--one much deeper, more colorful, and more surprisingly God shaped than any she'd read before.

From issues of fatherhood, feminism, and doubt to doctrine and love, Weber explores the intricacies of coming to faith with an honesty and insight echoing that of the poets and writers she studied. Rich with illustration and literary and poetic references, Surprised by Oxford is at once gritty and lyrical, humorous and spiritually perceptive.

Documented over the course of her first school year and organized according to the Oxford liturgical academic calendar, Surprised by Oxford tells the real-life tale of a young woman's search for--and eventual discovery of--purpose, identity, and what it really means to be human. (From the back of the book.)

AUTHOR: Carolyn Weber holds her BA from the University of Western Ontario and her MPhil and her DPhil degrees from Oxford University. She has been Associate Professor of Romantic Literature at Seattle University, and has also taught at Westmont College, University of San Francisco, and Oxford University. Carolyn and her husband share the joy of parenting three spirited children in Santa Barbara, CA, and London, Canada.

MY REVIEW: One of the most delightful books I have read in a long time. I agree with Alister McGrath who said, "A hugely readable journey of cultural and spiritual discovery, sparkling with wit and wisdom." This book should be read by everyone who doubts that thoughtful people can be Christian. From the first page to the last this splendid book reads like a fast paced novel that you don't want to put down. Having visited Oxford, and being in love with England, I thrilled at every mention of places and things I remembered from my visit there.

I wanted to read about the author's journey from being an agnostic to becoming a Christian. I also was greatly interested in her journey to faith and her worldview because it was so different from mine. I honestly thought however that I might be bored by it all. I couldn't have been more wrong. Far from being boring this is one of the most engaging and interesting books I have read this year. This is Carolyn Webber's first book but I predict it will not be her last--at least I pray it won't! This woman is a writer!

(This book was given to me by Thomas Nelson Publishing for this review.)

HONOR BEGINS AT HOME

2011-08-19T12:25:00.000-07:00

COURAGEOUS
Honor Begins At Home
A novelization by Randy Alcorn
Based on the screenplay by Alex Kendrick & Stephen Kendrick

OVERVIEW: As law enforcement officers, Adam Mitchell, Nathan Hayes, and their partners willingly stand up to the worst the world can offer. Yet at the end of the day, they face a challenge that none of them are truly prepared to tackle: fatherhood. While they consistently give their best on the job, good enough seems to be all they can muster as dads. But they're quickly discovering that their standard is missing the mark.

They know that God desires to turn the hearts of father to their children, but their children are beginning to drift farther and farther away from them. Will they be able to find a way to serve and protect those who are most dear to them?

When tragedy hits home, these men are left wrestling with their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering. Can a newfound urgency help these dads draw closer to God...and to their children?

Bestselling author Randy Alcorn brings the heart-pounding drama of the sreenplay by Alex and Stephen Kendrick to this inspiring novel that also includes subplots, characters, and backstory not seen in the movie.

AUTHORS: Randy Alcorn is the founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries. Prior to starting EPM, he served as a pastor for fourteen years. He has spoken around the world and has taught on the adjunct faculties of Multnomah Bible College and Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon.

Alex Kendrick is an associate pastor at Sherwood Baptist church. Since 2002 he has been writing,directing, producing and acting in movies. To date he has received more than twenty awards for his work, including best screenplay, best production, and best feature film.

Stephen Kendrick is an associate pastor at Sherwood Baptist church. Kendrick Brothers Productions in association with Sherwood Pictures has released four films. Stephen has cowritten, produced, and held key roles in all of the Sherwood Pictures movies.

MY REVIEW: This is an important book. Very important! Why? Because so many of our homes are in trouble. Not all of them, of course--but many. This book and the movie can help. I like the theme of the book: "Honor Begins At Home." Alcorn and the Kendrick brothers hit the problem dead center. The fathers in this story are "missing the mark" as fathers and they don't seem to even know it. Tragedy wakes them up and leaves them wrestling with their hopes, fears, faith and their fathering.

Trying to write an honest review I have to say that I found this book hard to read. I had to return again and again to reread pages because I kept confusing the characters. Now maybe that's a problem I have with reading novels. However, I don't think so since I have not had this problem with other books. I also had a problem staying interested in the flow of the story. I was pleased to read other reviews of this book and find that the reviewers did not have my problems. That's good. So I will say again, this is a very important book. It is a needed book and I hope many will read it and that our homes will become stronger for God.

(Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this ARC.)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-08-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

WHO IS THE ANTICHRIST?
Answering the Question Everyone Is Asking
By Mark Hitchcock

OVERVIEW: What can we know for certain about the Antichrist? Curiosity about the Antichrist is running high these days. As more and more people sense that we are drawing nearer to the end times, they're asking who the Antichrist is, what he will do, and when he will arrive. Among the more provocative questions are:
* Is it possible to identify the Antichrist before he rises to power?
*What are the signs that his arrival is near?
*What is the significance of the number 666?
*Will God allow the Antichrist to do whatever he pleases?
*Is the Antichrist alive on earth today?
This question-and-answer guide from prophecy expert Mark Hitchcock provides a fascinating tour of all the Bible's key passages about the Antichrist. You'll learn what you can know with certainty and how it affects your life right now.

AUTHOR: Mark Hitchcock is the author of more than 20 books related to the end times, including Cashless and The Amazing Claims of Bible Prophecy. He earned his ThM and PhD degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary and is the senior pastor of Faith Bible Church in Edmond, Oklahoma. He also serves as an adjunct professor at DTS.

MY REVIEW: This is a well written book fully documented with Scriptures on a topic of great interest. But if you read the book hoping to be given the name of a person who is the Antichrist, you will be disappointed. When you read the last page you will not be able to jump up and down and declare with great joy, "I know who the Antichrist is, it's __________ ______________." And then you fill in the blanks. It just can't be done. Mark Hitchcock can't do it, you can't do it, I can't do it---nobody can! Not yet!

If you are interested in the end times you will appreciate this book. Mark Hitchcock is the author of more than 20 books on that subject. If you have an interest in knowing as much as possible about the Antichrist this book will be a great help. If you are fearing and dreading the Antichrist and worrying about things related to him, this book will help you find peace by answering many of your questions and fears.

I like the advice from Kim Riddlebarger that is offered as the last words of the book: "Instead of fearing and dreading the Antichrist and worrying about the latest events in the Middle East or whether the number 666 appears on a household product ID, we should be longing for the second coming of Jesus Christ. For Satan and his cronies have already been defeated by the blood and righteousness of Jesus, although for a short time they will run amuck because they know their time is short. Regarding the fate of our enemy, Martin Luther perhaps said it best: "One little word shall fell him." Amen. Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus."

(This book was given to me free by FirstWildCard and Harvest House Publishers for this review)

THE WAY YOU RELATE TO GOD

2011-08-16T14:25:00.002-07:00

WITH
Reimagining The Way You Relate To God
By Skye Jethan

Skye Jethani has written a book that will help you stop living your life under, over, from and for God and start living in communion with Him.

Skye Jethani is the managing editor of Leadership Journal, a publication of Christianity Today International. Skye also contributes regularly to Catalyst Leadership, Relevant, and The Huffington Post. Skye's blog, SKYEBOX, was awarded second prize for the best Christian blog by the Evangelical Press Association.

Skye has been featured in newspapers around the country and is a frequent speaker at ministry conferences such as Catalyst, Q, and Moody Pastor's Conference.

Skye earned a Masters of Divinity degree in 200l from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He and his wife, Amanda, currently live in Wheaton, Illinois, with their three children Zoe, Isaac, and Lucy.

Jim Belcher, author of Deep Church said, "Cleverly using four prepositions--under, over, from, and for--Skye Jethani convincingly diagnoses the reigning paradigms of life, whether secular or religious, and shows how each one has captured some element of truth but is in the end deficient. With lays out what it really means to know and experience communion with God."

The most impressive quote I have read about this book and one that I completely agree with was written by Scot McKnight. He wrote: "This book will do for our generation what J. B. Phillips, in his classic Your God Is Too Small, did for his. With reveals views of God that can't satisfy and opens up the possibility for exploring a life with God that more than satisfies."

This book has blessed my life. However, I did not just race through it. I found myself returning again and again to reread many passages. I could not with one reading retain in my mind what Jethani meant by living life under, over, from and for God. When I finally did get that I was able to go on and understand clearly his meaning of living with God. That doesn't mean that I find living with God easy--not at all. I now understand it. I just need to learn to do it!

This is a challenging book and one that I believe every Christian will benefit from reading. It will help you see yourself and others differently. I also recommend it to those who haven't had a relationship with God but who want to.

(I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishing for this review.)

UNLEASHING THE POWER OF GOD'S WORD IN YOUR LIFE

2011-08-04T12:33:00.001-07:00

LIFE-CHANGING BIBLE VERSES
YOU SHOULD KNOW
By Erwin & Rebecca Lutzer

OVERVIEW: In this book, Bible teacher Erwin Lutzer and his wife Rebecca have carefully selected more than 100 Bible verses that speak directly to the most important issues of life, and explained the very practical ways those verses can encourage and strengthen you in every possible circumstance. you will find a treasure full of God's truth to guide you and transform you in your daily walk with Him.

AUTHORS: Dr. Erwin W. Lutzer, Senior Pastor of The Moody Church since 1980, is an award-winning author of more than 20 books, including One Minute After You Die. He's a celebrated international conference speaker and the featured speaker on three radio programs heard worldwide. Rebecca Lutzer, an RN, has used her gifts of hospitality, mercy and teaching to minister to many women. She and Erwin coauthored Jesus, Lover of a Woman's Soul. Erwin and Rebecca have been married more than 40 years, are the parents of three married daughters, and have seven grandchildren.

MY REVIEW: The purpose of this book is to bring about real change in your life and it will if you take the time to memorize these Scripture passages and grow in your understanding of the basic doctrines and teachings of the Bible. The discipline to grow in "the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18) lies at the heart of Christian maturity.

I found the structure of this book easy to follow. The verses are listed at the beginning of each chapter and are followed by a commentary explaining the meaning and significance of these passages. There are nearly 40 chapters that introduce you to almost 100 life changing Bible verses.I especially liked the fact that the authors used many stories and illustrations to explain and help you understand the Scriptures you are memorizing.

If you want to know what God has to say about the things that matter most to you, you will want to get this book. Some of the Scripture topics are: Adversity, anxiety, eternal life, grace, heaven, hell, love, peace, and many more.

(I want to thank Harvest House Publishers for providing this book for review.)

THE ROOTS OF OBAMA'S RAGE

2011-07-24T18:10:00.000-07:00

This is a book that every adult in America needs to read. I read and review many books and this is the most important book I have read in several years.

The following is from the back of the book:

"We are living out the script for America and the world that was dreamt up not by Obama but by Obama's father. How do I know this? Because Obama says so himself. Reflect for a moment on the title of his book: it's not Dreams of My Father but rather Dreams from My Father. In other words, Obama is not writing a book about his father's dreams; he is writing a book about the dreams that he got from his father.

Think about what this means. The most powerful country in the world is being governed according to the dreams of a Luo tribesman of the 1950s—a polygamist who abandoned his wives, drank himself into stupors, and bounced around on two iron legs (after his real legs had to be amputated because of a car crash caused by his drunk driving). This philandering, inebriated African socialist, who raged against the world for denying him the realization of his anti-colonial ambitions, is now setting the nation's agenda through the reincarnation of his dreams in his son. The son is the one who is making it happen, but the son is, as he candidly admits only living out his father's dream.The invisible father provides the inspiration, and the son dutifully gets the job done. America today is being governed by a ghost.

Hard to believe! Yes, it is hard to believe and I realize that many will reject this book out of hand. Many will consider it a bunch of crud made up by crazy loons on the right. Dinesh D'Souza is not a crazy man. Not at all. He is the president of the King's College in New York City. He is a former White House domestic policy analyst and research scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and the Hoover Institution at Stanford University.

In this book you will learn:

Why Obama's economic policies are actually designed to make America poorer compared to the rest of the world.
Why Obama will welcome a nuclear Iran
Why Obama sees America as a rogue nation—worse than North Korea
The real reason Obama banished a bust of Winston churchill from the White House and ordered NASA to praise the scientific contributions of Muslims
Why Obama would like to make America's superpower status a thing of the past

This book is stunning, provocative, original, and telling—no one has better diagnosed who Obama is, what he intends to do, and why he poses an existential threat to America than Dinesh D'Souza in The Roots of Obama's Rage.

YOUNG LOVE

2011-07-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

YOUNG AND IN LOVE
Challenging the Unnecessary Delay of Marriage
By Ted Cunningham

OVERVIEW: Pastor Ted Cunningham reveals the secrets to creating a healthy, successful, and lifelong relationship in early adulthood. He explains where the arguments against young marriage often go wrong. Then he offers wisdom on how to know if you are making the right choice and helps you understand what it takes to be ready for marriage.And along the way, he shows you that, far from kissing dating good-bye, the answer to staying pure might be to prepare for marriage. Because it's often easier to say, "Let's wait," when "I do" isn't far away.

AUTHOR: Pastor Ted Cunningham founded Woodland Hills Family Church in Branson, Missouri, where he lives with his wife and two children. A graduate of Liberty University and Dallas Theological Seminary, he has coauthored several books with Dr. Gary Smalley, including The Language of Sex and Great Parents, Lousy Lovers.

MY REVIEW: I agree with Dr. Gary Smalley who said, "Young and in Love is a wake-up call for every generation to honor marriage. This book will inspire you to get married, stay married, and enjoy life together. If you have been raised to fear love or marriage, then read this book for a whole new picture of what marriage should be." When I first read that Cunningham was encouraging young marriage I thought the reference was to those still in their teens. My wife and I got married when she was 21 and I was 23. That is young but we never considered it young for marriage. But of course that was in 1958. Today men and women are waiting until much later to get married and that is what this book is all about. This is a great book and I recommend it with enthusiasm. That doesn't mean that I agree with everything that Cunningham has to say on this subject. For example he believes that maturity, not age, is the better basis for marriage. And I agree with that also. But he is more ready than I am to believe that those coming to him wanting to get married and saying they are mature—really are mature. Maybe I am pessimistic when I feel that our culture today doesn't produce a whole host of mature people. But of course, the bottom line is, the two people getting married will have to make this decision.

Dr. Tim Clinton, president of the American Association of Christian Counselors wrote: "The most important decision you will make apart from your relationship with God is who you marry. I love Ted Cunningham's passion for marriage and making sure that young people are choosing to marry—but also choosing wisely. He is an emerging and strong voice encouraging the church to fight for marriage in the next generation." I strongly agree with this.

(I was provided a copy of this book by The B & B Media Group, Inc. for this review.)

INTO THE STORM

2011-07-16T09:18:00.001-07:00

"What was meant to be a six-week reprieve from Haiti for missionaries Pritchard and Dana Adams, resulted in a 52 day standoff with the forces of darkness. Pritchard, after suffering a brain aneurysm while ministering in Didsbury, Alberta (Canada), hemorrhaged a second time and was given very little hope of recovery...if he survived at all. Locked in a deadly battle for her husband's life, Dana engaged in a spiritual combat that surpassed anything she had ever known. Knowing that Pritchard's life was in the balance with so much at stake, she and a faithful cast of intercessors chose to advance Into the Storm instead of retreating from it."

Pritchard and Dana Adams have been serving in Haiti since January 1983, first as directors of Victory Christian Academy in Port-au-Prince, a multinational, English-speaking day school (1-12), then in a teaching capacity with the Pentecostal Holiness Bible school and with various independent churches in crusades and seminars.

As an independent book reviewer I have all the books I need to review. I usually do not accept the job of reviewing a book I know nothing about. However, when Dana asked me to review her book on my blog I agreed to do so simply out of respect for her work as a missionary. I told her it would be awhile before I could find time for it. But when her small book arrived yesterday I opened it and began to read and didn't put it down until I had finished reading the entire book. I knew then I wanted to make this book known to those of you who read and write for Spiritual Sundays.

In the midst of her storm, Dana longed to hear someone's story of not only fighting for their loved one, but winning! Daring to fight for a miracle and receiving it. After receiving her miracle she knew she wanted to write her book for others, to offer them hope, and to assure them that God is truly a God of miracles.

(Into the Storm is available online at these websites: barnesandnoble.com and amazon.com. Copies may be obtained from their home office address: Rehoboth Ministries, Inc., 333 Hilliard Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28311

for $10.00. )

STANDING ON THE PROMISES

2011-07-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

There was a brief time in my life when I suffered from panic attacks.

One of the most frightening things about those attacks was the loneliness. The feeling of being absolutely alone.

In my sane moments I would recognize how silly that fear was. But when I was beside myself with anxiety I wasn't thinking rationally.

Thinking rationally and clearly I remember with joy:

It is the Lord who goes before you.

he will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you.

Do not fear or be dismayed.

Deuteronomy 31:8

And I like the words of the old hymn, Standing on the Promises: "Standing on the promises that cannot fail, When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail, By the living Word of God I shall prevail..."

I'm also encouraged by the words of another old song I recall from memory but can't find in my song books: "No never alone..., No never alone, never ever to leave me, never to leave me alone."

Others may leave us--forsake us, but God---NEVER!

A WIFE OF NOBLE CHARACTER

2011-07-11T15:14:00.001-07:00

"Who can find a virtuous and capable wife?

She is worth more than precious rubies.

Her husband can trust her, and she will

greatly enrich his life. She will not hinder

him but help him all her life."

Proverbs 31:10

Fifty-three years ago in Norwalk, California, Charlotte and I said our wedding vows and promised to be faithful to each other until death should part us. Fifty-three years is a long time but for us it has gone by fast.

Charlotte and I were in full time ministry with the church for almost fifty years. In those years I performed many, many wedding ceremonies. Most of them that I know about have lasted. Some have not. Couples break up and fail to be faithful to their vows for many different reasons. Others stay together and are faithful for various reasons.

How about the two of us? Why have we stayed together?

Well of course there are the vows we took before God. That always looms large for us. That's first and foremost. But putting that aside for a moment. What, on a practical level, has kept us together?

The answer is: CHARLOTTE!

Charlotte is a good woman. She is. She always has been. I met her when she was just a young girl. She was good then and now in her seventies--she is still good. Charlotte always wants to do what is right--what is good.

You can't live as long as we have without having many trying days. We have been up on the mountain and we have been down in the valley. In all of this, God's grace has been amazing.

"Thru many dangers, toils and snares, (we) have already come; 'Tis grace hath brought (us) safe thus far, And grace will lead (us) home."

JUDGING THE JURY

2011-07-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

The man on trial for murder was black and if convicted he would receive the death penalty. I am a Christian white man and in favor of the death penalty for those convicted of first degree murder. There was no way the lawyers were going to let me be on that jury. But they did.

The man was convicted and sentenced to death. A few months later, while still in prison, he hung himself.

I didn't want to be on that jury but I felt it was my duty to serve. I didn't want to convict him of murder but I felt he was guilty. I didn't want him to be sentenced to death but that was the penalty for his crime. I'm sorry he took his life but that was a decision he made.

That was over thirty years ago. Back then I believed the jury system worked. Today, because of liberalism and everything having to be politically correct, I believe it is almost impossible to convict someone of a crime. Two examples of people getting away with crime is O.J. Simpson and Casey Anthony. In my opinion, they both were as guilty as sin but were considered not guilty. One jurist in the Casey Anthony case said, "Not guilty doesn't mean innocent." But I say that for all practical purposes it does. When that jury said, "Not guilty" they knew they would also be saying, "She is innocent of these charges." You can't have it both ways.

Is it wrong to judge the jury? I don't think so. The old saying, "Stupid is as stupid does" applies here. Get twelve people together today and your chances of getting one or two who are unable or unwilling to make wise, rational decisions are great.

Our Lord got twelve people together to carry out a monumental task and some of them bumbled and stumbled along. Did Jesus do a good thing in giving responsibility to these twelve men? Yes, I think he did. Is it a good thing, then for us to select twelve people to make decisions about a persons guilt or innocence? Yes, I think it is. But we must---absolutely must, do a better job of instructing them concerning how to make decisions and reach verdicts.

If we cannot use common sense and circumstantial evidence we will continue to let the guilty go free and there will be no justice!

BREAKING FREE FROM THE FOUR EMOTIONS THAT CONTROL YOU

2011-07-06T15:16:00.000-07:00

Pastor Andy Stanley has written a book that will help you break free from the destructive power of guilt, anger, greed, and jealousy.

He writes that the difficult circumstances you are dealing with today are likely being fed by one of these four emotional forces that compels you to act in undesirable ways, sometimes even against your will. Each of these destructive forces--guilt, anger, greed, and jealousy can infiltrate your life and damage your relationships. Left unchallenged, they have the power to destroy your home, your career, and your friendships.

In Enemies of the Heart, Andy offers practical, biblical direction to help you fight back, to take charge of those feelings that mysteriously control you, and to restore your broken relationships.

Andy Stanley is a pastor, communicator, author, and the founder of North Point Ministries Inc. (NPM). Since its inception in 1995, North Point Ministries has grown from one campus to five in the Atlanta area and has helped plant more than thirty strategic partner churches globally. Each Sunday, more than twenty-five thousand people attend worship services at one of North Point Ministries' five campuses.

Dave Ramsey, New York Times best-selling author wrote: "Andy Stanley is a master teacher for a generation that loves to be taught. Here is yet more proof of Andy's ability to take us deep in a way that makes us want to go there.This is a great book." I agree and recommend this book without reservation.

(I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.)

LET GOD CHANGE YOUR LIFE

2011-06-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

We hear the term radical quite often today. And most of the time radical is considered to be bad. We talk about radical Islam and radical Christianity. We are taught that if you are radical that you have gone over board and become extreme, which is not good. But it is my sincere belief that radical Muslims and radical Christians are those who understand, teach and practice what their religion teaches. Being a Christian I believe in and encourage radical Christianity because I believe this at the heart of what God wants. I do not believe in radical Islam but I believe that all Muslims who are sincere about their religion are the ones we refer to as radical. Peaceful Islam is a contradiction of what the Koran teaches.

I oppose radical Islam but not radical Christianity. I want to recommend that you seriously consider becoming a radical Christian.

Greg Laurie, best selling author and senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, one of the largest churches in America, has written a book about radical Christian living. The book is: LET GOD CHANGE YOUR LIFE－How To Know And Follow Jesus. In this book Laurie calls all Christians back to radical New Testament living. He says, "The blueprint is simple: Get to know Jesus, follow His plan for discipleship, and share God's truth with others. He expands on these three key aspects of following Christ:

* How to know God－and how He will change your life

*Discipleship－the commitment, the cost, and the spiritual growth

*Making Him known－sharing the gospel and making disciples

In this splendid book Laurie writes: "What often is perceived as the Christian life is, in many ways, not what the Bible teaches. Are you really living the Christian life as Jesus meant for you to live it? If your Christian experience feels dull and unfulfilling, then it's time to seriously examine Jesus' teachings regarding discipleship.

If you want to know Jesus or want to know Him better, and you want Him to change your life － this book is for you.

(Thanks to B & B Media Group, Inc. for providing this book for review)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-06-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

Guest Review by Charlotte Ditmore

Understanding the Angels

by Dr. James Hodges, Ph.D.

About the author: Dr. James Hodges began his ministry in 1978. The early part of his ministry was focused on teaching Christian development and working with young adults. In 1990, he founded Project Word, an acronym for Working on Renewed Determinations, which teaches young adults how to have a successful lifestyle and learning to overcome challenges and failures. In 2002, as a speaker for the International Fellowship of Christian Businessmen at Lake Lure, North Carolina, he taught on prayer. He has taught classes for troubled youth in the Louisiana Court System and travels extensively throughout the United States developing programs in churches.

My Review: Clif knew of my interest in angels and finding out more about them, so when this book came up for review, he asked me if I would like to read it and review it. I said "yes." I have read several books on the subject of angels, but I now understand more about them after reading this book. For instance, I knew there were a lot of angels but using scripture to back it up, Dr. Hodges has calculated an estimated number of how prolific they really are. He has included a chapter on the fallen angels, but most of the book is dedicated to describing the "good" angels. I was impressed with the many scriptures Dr. Hodges quoted to help explain the different categories of angels from the "Mighty Angels" to the Cherubims and Seraphims. Each category has its own special assignments. The author even includes examples of his own personal experiences of visitation by angels. Although these are his experiences and I hesitate to disagree with him I have to say that I found some of them to be a little "bizarre." But, of course, that is just my opinion and other readers will decide that for themselves. Over all, I believe if you are interested in this subject, you will be blessed by reading the book.

ENCOURAGING THE HEART TOWARD GOD

2011-06-08T10:49:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced a deep sense of God's presence in your life?

In Celtic tradition the place where such a feeling is felt is called a "thin place". It is the place where the veil that separates heaven and earth is nearly transparent. It is a place where we experience a deep sense of God's presence in our every day world. A thin place is where, for a moment, the spiritual world and natural world intersect. It can be a sudden momentary awareness or profound unexplainable experience.

Pressing into Thin Places is a collection of stories, experiences, and learned truths expressed through poetry and prose. This book is one rich in the faith experience and in the assurance that God is love. It gives readers permission to be authentic and to acknowledge doubt, questions, even depression. Dr. Wills writes about the importance of prayer in strengthening faith and reminds the readers that Jesus tells us over and over again that we must have faith.

This is a book that will help you to feel closer to God after reading it, or at least it did me. As I laughed and cried my way through this little book I thought to myself, "I know many people who need to read this." I felt like I had joined with Dr. Wills in her own search for peace, hope and meaning in the midst of loss and pain. Her book encourages praise and appreciation at all times, for God's heart toward his children is unchanging. This book will encourage you celebrate in the struggle and ultimate triumph of faith founded in Jesus Christ, the beauty and diversity of creation, and the hope to be had in this life and the next through saving grace.

Dr. Margaret Harrell Wills is dedicated to the ministry of encouragement, helping people experience hope, wisdom, and faith in their spiritual journey. Dr. Wills received her doctoral degree in higher education with a teaching field of history from the University of Arkansas. She taught history at the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She is a writer and poet. She is a graduate of Chuck Colson's Centurion Program for Worldview Leadership.

I recommend this book as the kind you would want to give as a gift of encouragement to someone who is about to give up. It will bring light into darkness and renew hope.

(Thanks to The B & B Media Group for giving me this free book for review.)

THE GOD QUESTION

2011-06-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

Do you believe in God?

If your answer is yes or no, Vincent Bugliosi thinks he can prove you wrong.

Vincent Bugliosi, whom many view as the nation's foremost prosecutor, has successfully taken on, in court or on the pages of his books, the most notorious murderers of the last half century---Charles Manson, O.J. Simpson, and Lee Harvey Oswald.

Now, in the most controversial book of his celebrated career, he turns his incomparable prosecutorial eye on the greatest target of all: God. In making his case for agnosticism, Bugliosi have very arguably written the most powerful indictment ever of God, organized religion, theism, and atheism. Theists will be left reeling by the commanding nature of Bugliosi's extraordinary arguments against them. And, with his trademark incisive logic and devastating wit, he exposes the intellectual poverty of atheism and skewers its leading popularizes--Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris,and Richard Dawkins.

I promise you that you will learn many things when you read this challenging book. Bugliosi is a brilliant lawyer, excellent student and offers many arguments against absolute faith in the existence of God. Did he change my mind? No. No he didn't. But he did give me much to think about. And I am glad I read his book and I will recommend it to many. I will not recommend it to everybody. I do not believe this is a book that every person should read. Some will be more confused and frustrated after reading this kind of book. It's just a fact. That's the way some people are. But again, if you are a person that wants to be challenged to think--you will want this book.

Bugliosi's Divinity of Doubt joins a 2,000-year-old conversation which no one has contributed anything significant to for years and sets a new course amid the explosion of bestselling books on atheism and theism--the middle path of agnosticism. Bugliosi thinks that he demonstrates that agnosticism is the most intelligent and responsible position to take on the eternal question of God's existence. I don't agree! But I do believe that atheists, agnostics and those who believe in God, can all learn something by reading this book.

(Thanks to FSB Associates for giving me a free copy of this book for review.)

CRYING ALL THE WAY HOME

2011-06-04T11:14:00.000-07:00

Most, if not all of us, have been hurt when we were young.

Something happened that broke our heart and it took years if not a life time to get over it.

Dr. Margaret Harrell Wills' father had such an experience. He told her about it. Here's what he said:

"I'm going to tell you a story I've never told before. One Christmas, when I was a little boy in Black Rock, Arkansas, I walked to the Baptist church at the top of the hill. There was a Christmas Eve service, and all the children were supposed to get a present. I didn't know that the presents has been placed under the tree secretly by the mothers of the children. You know, girls, my mother was just a child when I was born, only fifteen. Dad was eleven years older. He always loved Mother, but when she'd get mad, she would take off. That year, she was gone, taken off somewhere with my two little brothers. Well, anyway, there wasn't any present for me under the tree, and I walked home, crying all the way."

Dr. Wills said she held back her tears for fear of losing it all together. But later she wrote her elderly father a Christmas letter and sent him a gift. She told him his Father heard his sad cry and walked with him all the way home. He didn't see Him or feel Him or know that He was there. She reminded him that over the years God had given him gifts a thousand times over more valuable than any he could find under any earthly tree. She told him that his son and daughters respected and honored him and that God is still loving him and seeing him safely all the way home.

When we are hurt as children we feel that nobody cares and that we are all alone.

God cares and we are never alone. (Romans 8:38)

(From Pressing Into Thin Places--Encouraging the Heart toward God by Margaret Harrell Wills, EdD I will be reviewing her book on my blog in a few days.)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-06-01T10:12:00.004-07:00

WE SHALL SEE GOD
Charles Spurgeon's
classic devotional thoughts on Heaven
By Randy Alcorn

OVERVIEW: In what is sure to become an instant classic, best-selling author Randy Alcorn has compiled fifty of the most profound spiritual insights on eternity from the sermons of the world famous London preacher, Charles Spurgeon. He has arranged them into an easily accessible, highly inspiration format complete with his own comments and devotional thoughts.

AUTHORS: Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries. He is the author of more than thirty books, including Heaven, 50 Days of Heaven, and If God is Good, as well as several novels.
Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) was England's best-known preacher for most of the second half of the nineteenth century. he served for thirty years at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London, and it is estimated that during his lifetime he preached to more than 10 million people. His collected sermons fill sixty-three volumes and remain one of the bestselling series of writings in history.

MY REVIEW: Interested in heaven? Do you think about it often? Would you like to think about it daily? Then this book of classic devotional thoughts on heaven is the book for you. Author, Randy Alcorn said, "...Spurgeon's teachings about Heaven are some of the most poignant, moving, and biblically insightful I have ever read on the subject (and I've read over 150 books about Heaven)." This would be a great book if it only contained Spurgeon's sermons. But there is more. I believe Randy Alcorn's comments on the sermons is one of the best parts of the book. Originally he submitted a book to the publisher that was, aside from the introduction, 100 percent Spurgeon. His publisher asked him to supplement Spurgeon's meditations with some of his own thoughts about Heaven. He resisted thinking it would be presumptuous to coauthor a book with a man who was so famous and could not be reached for permission. I am so glad he finally agreed to add his comments and I know you will be too. If you are like me, you don't really need another devotional book. I have several. But this is a book you will read not just for a daily devotion but to lift your spirit, fill your heart with hope and lift your eyes toward heaven.

GUEST POST

2011-05-26T15:20:00.002-07:00

The following is a post by Michelle Stimpson. I am allowing her to use my blog to advertise her new book, Did I Marry The Wrong Guy? I haven't read the book yet but it looks good and it is on a much needed subject. - Clif

Finally, a book for every wife who has ever asked herself the question, “Did I marry the wrong guy?”

Many of us know the Titus 2:4 mandate for older wives to mentor younger wives, but is that really happening. For real? I mean, yeah, yeah, you hear people talk about working together and making sure you keep that “date night” thing going, but there are other issues to contend with in a marriage. Issues like feeling trapped, mourning the death of “single” you, and feeling like maybe you should have married what’s-his-face instead of the man sitting next to you who just misplaced the remote control. Again.

Sure, many Christian wives face problems bigger than lost remote controls. But I believe the smaller, negative “ponderings” wives entertain about their husbands are what catch, snag, and slowly unravel the fabric of a marriage. Larger issues, infidelity and financial chaos, to name a few, are often predicated by these smaller thoughts that create undercurrents of resentment.

To that effect, I was blessed to write Did I Marry the Wrong Guy? And Other Silent Ponderings of a Fairly Normal Christian Wife. Some of the chapter titles include: We Started Off Wrong, I Miss the Thrill of Being Single, and Watching My Parents Messed Me Up. I have had the life-changing experience of marrying all wrong, then watching God completely demolish my marriage before re-building it from the ground up. (Trust me, there was nothing to salvage.) One of the most important lessons I learned during the renovation was to pray about things I never thought God even cared about. I mean, everyone knows you should pray for your husband if he falls into an addiction, but who teaches us to pray about his wall-shaking snoring? Seriously, crankiness due to lack of sleep attributed to somebody’s snoring has probably killed more marriages than in-law issues and bad cooking combined!

In this book, I encourage every wife to pray over even the smallest irritants. I’m not talking about a generic, “God, help us have a nice day,” prayer. I mean, get in that prayer closet and confess, “Lord, I am tired of him leaving his shoes at the door every day! Show me what to do!” God might change your husband, or give you joy while transporting his shoes to the closet every day, or He might teach you how to ignore the shoes—His choice, depending on His lesson objective for you.

It’s been said that every marriage is a foreign land. I trust that Did I Marry the Wrong Guy? will help readers navigate unfamiliar marital roads. And with God’s help, they’ll be able to answer the title question with a resounding “No.”

Keep the faith.

In His Love,

Michelle Stimpson

BIBLE REVIEW

2011-05-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

MOSAIC

Holy Bible
New Living Translation

OVERVIEW: Mosaics are bits and pieces of stone and glass that on their own may be interesting, but only fleetingly so. From the simplest forms to the most complex, it is the combined effect of tiles arranged in their diversity that brings about something much greater than the sum of the parts. Mosaic is not merely the title for this Bible. It also describes its contents and our story as Christians, too. The purpose of this Bible is to provide a way to encounter Christ on every continent and in every century of Christian history. Why? Because when this happens, God's profound and often unexpected work on behalf of his children becomes clear in new and exciting ways. It is important to see that the body of Christ is much bigger than the small piece we each experience in our everyday lives. When the rich and varied ways in which God's people have encountered Christ become clear, a deepening sense of his presence and power will surely be the result. It's not about the individual pieces, as important as they are. It is about the whole picture that emerges when all these pieces come together to form the beautiful mosaic that is God's church.

REVIEW: I have many Bibles. I did not need another one. But this Bible is unique. It is not a study Bible with notes and helps. It is not a devotional Bible with 365 daily readings sprinkled along the way. This Bible offers the complete text of the Bible without interruption, except for a robust cross-reference system and brief book introductions. At the front, you will find an extensive block of weekly meditations that draw on the collective wisdom of the global church across two thousand years of history, which will engage your heart and mind and guide you back into God's life-changing Word. The first and most important element is the weekly listing of five Scripture readings. And then there is a collection of historical and global contributions. This includes art work, prayers, hymns, poetry and quotes from Christian thinkers throughout church history who have wrestled with ideas related to each week's theme. And there is white space for taking notes. This is a Bible that can be used liturgically if that is a part of your tradition. Thematically is another way to use this Bible. It can be used organically. That means you may want to follow your regular plan for Bible reading and this Bible can be used along with it. And a number of ways might be imagined for using this Bible as you say, "I'll do it my way."

Note: I am an independent book reviewer and was not asked to review this Bible. I received my copy from Tyndale House Publishers by submitting my name to the company. I was pleased to be a winner of this splendid Bible. As I said, I have many Bibles and did not need another one. I am happy to have this one and will use it often.

BOOK REVIEW

2011-05-18T07:23:00.001-07:00

THE HIDDEN GIFTS OF HELPING

How the power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get us Through Hard Times

By Stephen G. Post

OVERVIEW: In this moving book, Stephen G. Post helps us discover how we can make "helping" a lifetime activity. The Hidden Gifts of Helping explores the very personal story of Post and his family's difficult move and their experience with the healing power of helping others, as well as his passion about how this simple activity--expressed in an infinite number of small or large ways--can help you survive and thrive despite the expected and unexpected challenges life presents. Post's story is intertwined with supporting scientific research and spiritual understanding. This book can become your companion and guide to the power of giving, forgiving, and compassion in hard times. The Hidden Gifts of Helping will leave you with the unshakeable feeling that the world can be a good place, if we act to make it so.

AUTHOR: Stephen G. Post is professor of preventive medicine and director of the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics at Stony Brook University. He is a leader in the study of altruism, compassion, and love and president of the Institute for Research on Unlimited Love. Post is the author (with Jill Neimark) of the widely praised Why Good Things Happen to Good People.

MY REVIEW: I strongly agree with George E. Vaillant M.D.; professor of psychiatry, Harvard medical School; senior fellow, Center for Positive Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania; and author of Aging Well who said: "Stephen Post...has written a deeply loving and comforting book about the pain and the healing of being uprooted. In the face of the deeply troubling post-2008 world, Post has written a courageous and honest book about his own experience of being a 'castaway' and reaching shore safely by trying to rescue others, not himself. ...It is wise and profoundly healing." I immediately identified with what Post and his family went through when he was suddenly dismissed from his job. My family went through the same kind of heart rending experience. But we too came out safely and soundly by helping and serving others. This is an inspiring book that shows how helping others not only does good for them but as a by-product we also contribute to our own physical and mental well-being. Stephen Post's faith shines through and shows that the way to happiness is in living for and loving others.

(Thanks to B & B Media Group, Inc. for the complimentary copy of this book.)

LOSING SIGHT OF WHAT'S IMPORTANT

2011-05-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

This is our predicament.

Over and over again, we lose sight of

what is important and what isn't.

Epictetus

Ah yes, what is important. I have struggled with this all my life. It's about time I get it right.

When I get to the end of my life and take my last breath, what do I want my life to have been about?

What?

SPIN YOUR WAY TO VICTORY

2011-05-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

Interval training is the way to "Bring It."

My Spin Class at the gym is fantastic.

The loud, intense music, the upbeat, never ending voice of the extravert leader is grating on the nerves of an introvert like me---but I love it. It keeps me grinding away on that cycle and that is what I need.

Maybe the unending voice of the athletic extravert leader reminds me of being back in the ministry and hearing the voices from the pews goading me on. The same voices that cause me to wake up screaming at night even though I am now retired.

Interval training is the guaranteed way to get maximum results from your exercise.

Interval training speeds up your metabolism even when you aren't exercising. It is the best conditioning possible for the heart. It will help you break through a plateau in your weight-loss program. Interval training is challenging and fun.

I'm really enjoying this exhausting class right now but if you don't see a post or hear from me for a few days maybe you better check back to see if I'm still around.

MY CHILDREN'S MOTHER

2011-05-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Mother! My mother passed away when I was just a child. I loved her dearly and have missed her over these many years. But today, as I think of Sunday and Mother's Day, I want to post not about my mother but about my wife, the mother of my children. She is everything a wife and mother should be.

Motherhood is a mysterious, powerful, wonderful thing. God is so good! I like the following words from Jon Walker (Grace Creates Devotional, May 6, 2011) "Wow! the God who spoke the world into existence also spoke me into my mother's womb!"

I am happy to join with my children in honoring their mother.

MOTHER

For such as you, I do believe,

Spirits their softest carpets weave,

And spread them out with gracious hand

Wherever you walk, wherever you stand.

For such as you, of scent and dew

Spirits their rarest nectar brew,

And where you sit and where you sup

Pour beauty's elixir in your cup.

For all day long, like other folk,

You bear the burden, wear the yoke,

And yet when I look into your eyes at eve

You are lovelier than ever, I do believe.

Herman Hagedorn

LOVE STANDS BATTERED BUT UNBEATEN

2011-04-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

"Love never gives up, never loses faith,

is always hopeful, and endures through

every circumstance. Love will last forever,..."

1 Corinthians 13:7-8

We need to love and be loved.

All the news today is about William and Kate. Everybody knows who they are and why they are making the news.

Love is in the air.

The love these two young people have for each other is good. But today I want to center on God's love for an undeserving humanity.

The greatest thing I can think of is that God loves you and me.

"For God so loved the world

that he gave his one and only Son,"

John 3:16

That's it! That's the greatest thing I know. God loves you and me!

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-27T08:50:00.002-07:00

THE FIGHT OF OUR LIVES
Knowing the Enemy, Speaking the Truth & Choosing to Win the War Against Radial Islam
By William J. Bennett & Seth Leibsohn

OVERVIEW: "Crucial." "Timely." "Brave." In this splendid book, William J. Bennett and Seth Leibsohn examine the devolution of America's post - 9/11 tenacity and how this country's well-meaning culture of religious tolerance, coupled with soft and apologetic political leadership, has placed us squarely in the pocket of radical Islamists who have made clear their intention to obliterate everything we value. America's devotion to political correctness has crippled its ability to accurately interpret and respond to the motives of its fiercest enemies. Unless we change course and re-engage the fight, the costs of our tolerance will prove tragic and immeasurable. The Fight of Our Lives helps readers refocus, to reframe and understand the threats we face. By surveying and explaining the current scene, Bennett and Leibsohn point the way to a future in which our enemies are properly acknowledged and firmly opposed.

AUTHORS: Dr. William J. Bennett is a best-selling author, educator, and speaker. Host of the top-ten nationally syndicated radio show Bill Bennett's Morning in America, he is also the Washington Fellow of the Claremont Institute. Serving as secretary of education and chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities under President Reagan and director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy under President Bush, today Bennett is a regular contributor to CNN and has contributed to America's leading newspapers, magazines, and television shows. He is the author and editor of seventeen books. Seth Leibsohn is a Fellow with the Claremont Institute, a frequent commentator and writer on both domestic and foreign policy issues, and a managing partner of Leibsohn and Associates, a Washington, DC based consulting firm.

MY REVIEW: Fouad Ajami, Johns Hopkins university professor and a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, said this: "Bill Bennett has been a brilliant sentry in our nation's cultural life. In this luminous and spirited book, he and Seth Leibsohn sound the alarm on behalf of us all. America can prevail in its struggle against radical Islamism, and they show us exactly how. A book for this moment, written with poise, and suffused with love of country." I agree with him completely! In this excellent book we are called to wake up because we have forgotten the mortal threat to America that is radical Islam.There is something on almost every page I feel a need to quote. But since I can't do that I urge you−I beg you to read this book and share it with others. "Not long after 9/11 we were, as a people, angry. Not vicious or violent, but angry. Today we have become sad and depressed and confused, and too many have replaced our concept of evil with all manner of diagnoses of syndromes and root causes. Too many of us have indeed either whitewashed the Islamic threat, turned our heads away from it, ignored it, or, in some cases, bought the excuse of it−namely that there are serious Muslim grievances with America and they are justified, or that, in the absence of such justification, they need appeasement and understanding." This next quote I consider one of the most important in the book: ""It is not just the terrorist threat that we have to deal with now but also the grievance and apologetic culture under it, the culture that has taken such a strong hold in an increasingly enfeebled West. It may, in fact, prove the greater threat because it steals our greatest protection against terrorism: moral clarity. Where once our law and personal responsibility was commonplace (as well as common sense), a new psychology has taken hold in Western culture. Where once we punished and fought, we now psychoanalyze and debate root causes."

This is a book written by two scholarly men, filled with facts, but written in a way that anyone can understand. I urge you to get this book as soon as possible.

(I was given this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers for an honest review.)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-25T11:09:00.004-07:00

LOVE--Written in Stone

Finding God's Grace in the Boundaries He Sets

By Philip Carlson, MD

OVERVIEW: As both a pastor and a medical doctor, Philip Carlson brings a unique perspective to the connection between following God's guidelines and wellness in our lives. As he demystifies God's expectations regarding family relationships, nutrition, sexuality, the environment and more, Carlson's conclusions--backed up by recent research--may surprise you.

AUTHOR: Philip Carlson (MDiv,ThM, Fuller Seminary; MD, University of Southern California) is senior pastor of Bethany Church of Sierra Madre and practices family medicine in Pasadena. He lives with his wife, Carole, and their four children in Sierra Madre.

MY REVIEW: Since I agree with his words completely and cannot say it better, I begin my review with the words of Preedar J. Oreggio, MD, Medical Director, Sierra Spring Family Wellness Center, Medical Staff Program for Torture Victims, LA, "This book deals with the root causes of the behaviors that leave us depressed, anxious, overweight, and undernourished, and provides motivation to see ourselves as God sees us and to respond accordingly." I strongly agree with him when he says, "This book stands out from the other self-help and behavior modification books that steer clear of values and absolutes and leave us without answers."

I was impressed that Carlson begins by talking about his own struggles with feeling loved. He said, "For years I found it hard to receive love, to believe that I was lovable. I more easily felt that I was defective, awkward, unworthy, that I didn't measure up." Many of us can identify with that. We struggle with trying to find what constitutes the good life. Carlson reminds us that Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10). And although finding our way to such a life is no simple matter, Carlson does a splendid job of pointing to God's law and instructions to demonstrate a Father's passionate concern for our well-being. He points out that God's guidelines for living are not intended to cramp our style or make us miserable. They are shaped by a Father's love. They are there to point us toward the best possible life.

( I was provided this book free by Bethany House Publishers for an honest review)

WINNING---NOT CHARLIE SHEEN---GOD!

2011-04-22T11:34:00.001-07:00

GOD WINS!

Charlie is a mess and he blames everybody but himself.

We often ask who is to blame for our sins and problems.

Paul says, "For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate..." He concludes,"It is not I who does it, but sin which dwells within me" (Rom. 7:15,20).

God does not force miracles in the human heart. He did not create us to be robots. God wants us to love him and when we refuse he does not give up on us.

"And I, if I be lifted up from the earth,

will draw all men unto myself."

John 12:32

Christ was lifted up on the cross. He was lifted up from the grave. He was lifted up into heaven.

Christ is even yet lifted up in the hearts and lives of His disciples.

No, not all have accepted Him. But many have and many more will. And those who come to accept Him are the happiest and most valuable people on earth. I admit that at times it looks like he is losing. But he is not.

HE IS WINNING!

Philip Carlson, in his splendid book, Love, Written in Stone, tells a wonderful story of how God won in the life of a woman who was very lonely and isolated--divorced, alienated from her two adult children, an alcoholic and with no real friends. Eventually she visited the Calvary Chapel near her apartment. She said, "I did this thing they call 'giving your life to Jesus.' " She described the sense of forgiveness that had come over her, freedom from guilt, hope for the future, hope for her relationships with her kids, the beginning of the end of loneliness. God had moved in and everything was different. She had all the same problems and challenges, but a new relationship, a source of strength, a reason for hope. She has been sober for two years and is one of the most delightful people to know.

WINNING!

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-21T13:38:00.004-07:00

THE TEA PARTY GOES TO WASHINGTON

By Rand Paul

OVERVIEW: In The Tea Party Goes To Washington Senator Rand Paul describes how fear over Obama's big government agenda might have inspired the Tea Party, but also demonstrates how this amazing grassroots movement is independent and critical of both parties--and why, to be effective, it must remain so.

AUTHOR: U.S. Senator Rand Paul lives in Bowling Green, Kentucky, with his wife and three sons. Dr. Paul has been a practicing ophthalmologist for seventeen years. His run for the U.S. senate representing Kentucky was his first bid for political office. He is the son of Ron Paul, Texas congressman and 2008 Republican presidential candidate.

MY REVIEW: Rand Paul entered the halls of congress carrying a message from the Tea Party: "We're taking our government back!" If I had the power and authority I would be saying the same thing. I like Rand Paul and I like his book.Will everybody like it. Absolutely not! The Tea Party is the most revolutionary force in politics today and Senator Rand Paul is at the forefront, creating the blueprint for a new America. If you are interested in knowing more about this group and about what they stand for--this is the book for you. If on the other hand if you know you are a supporter of President Obama's agenda and big government then you will despise this book. Don't waste your time and money. Millions of concerned Americans found their voice in the Tea Party movement and have rallied to support one of its most vocal champions, Rand Paul. The Tea Party Goes To Washington is custom-made for Americans looking to the wisdom of their forefathers to address the government and economic madness of our times. If you are a political conservative you will love this book. If you are not, but like to be informed about what is happening in the political world, get this book. It will inform you.

(My thanks to Hachette Book Group for this free book for an honest review)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-20T18:36:00.003-07:00

BLESSED
Living A Grateful Life
By Ellen Michaud

OVERVIEW: In this book Ellen Michaud writes about the blessing you are to your family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, even the global community--and she'll help you see the blessings that surround you. This is a book of stories drawn from every day life. She relates stories about finding meaning, making a difference, celebration of friends and family, quiet time, and reinventing who you are.

AUTHOR: Award-winning author Ellen Michaud has written for the New York Times, Washington Post, Better Homes and Gardens, Health, Ladies' Home Journal, Parents, Reader's Digest, and Prevention, where she was editor-at-large for six years.

MY REVIEW: This is a book intended for women. So why am I, a man, reading it? Because I love to read stories from real life and this book is jammed pack full of them. The stories are about living a grateful life and men need and want to know as much about gratefulness as women do. Well, almost as much! Diane Heavin, co-founder of Curves wrote: "Ellen's vision will help you see the blessing you are to your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, even the global community--and she'll help you see the blessings that surround you." I like that. I like it very much. Ellen Michaud is a fantastic writer. Her words pull you into the story and make you feel that you are "there"--wherever "there" is. When reading her stories I felt like I was in a movie theater watching the stories unfold on the screen before me. When I came to the last words of a story I didn't want it to end. But when it did, I rushed on to the next one with eager anticipation. Many readers will think to themselves,"This is a book to curl up by the fire with in the winter time--and it is. But for people like me who live in Arizona, it is also a summer time book. Oh, I didn't curl up by a fire while reading because we are already running our air conditioner. But I did relax in my comfortable reading chair in the cool house and read and "dreamed" away. I recommend this splendid book to everybody--men and women who want to quiet the mind, still the spirit and hear the whispers of God in some wonderful stories. As Ellen says, "We are so blessed."

(I am thankful to FSB Media for providing this book to me for an honest review.)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-19T13:02:00.001-07:00

LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS
Inspiration For A Ridiculously Good Life
By Nick Vujicic

OVERVIEW: Born without arms or legs, Nick Vujicic overcame his disability to live an independent, rich, fulfilling life, becoming a model for anyone seeking true happiness. Now an internationally successful motivational speaker, Nick spreads his central message: the most important goal for anyone is to find their life's purpose despite whatever difficulties or seemingly impossible odds stand in their way.

AUTHOR: Nick Vujicic is a motivational speaker and the director of the nonprofit organization Life Without Limbs. A longtime resident of Australia, he now live in southern California.

MY REVIEW: If you need to be inspired, this is the book for you. Life Without Limits is one of the most inspirational books you will ever read. I can't say it is the most inspirational book you will ever read. That would be silly. I have no way of knowing. But I can say, without reservation, that this book is one of the most inspirational you will ever read. So again, if you are looking for inspiration--get this book. Nick tells the story of his physical disabilities and the emotional battle he endured trying to deal with them as a child, a teen, and a young adult. He shares how his faith in God has been his central source of strength and explains that once he found his own sense of purpose--inspiring others to make their lives and the world better--he found the confidence to build a rewarding and productive life without limits. Nick offers practical advice for realizing a life of fulfillment and happiness by building trust in others, developing supportive relationships and gaining strength for the journey. Life Without Limits is filled with inspiring stories not only from Nick's life and experiences but from many others around the world. You know I'm going to say it so I might as well get on with it: Nick's faith in God is the thing that inspires me the most. How easy it would have been for him to have railed against God and refused to believe in God's goodness. But he didn't! He believes in God. Trusts God. And lives his life for Him!

(I received this book free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.)

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-18T10:07:00.002-07:00

MAX ON LIFE
Answers and Insights to Your Most
Important Questions
by Max Lucado

"Max Lucado's books just come alive. His lifetime ministry of writing has blessed tens of millions of people around the world, and this book promises to do the same." I want to begin my review of this splendid book with these words from Rick Warren, Senior Pastor of Saddleback Church in Southern California. Rick Warren is right that Max Lucado's lifetime ministry of writing has blessed tens of millions of people around the world. I was pleased when I saw that Max had written a book with his answers to some of life's most important questions. I believe this book will help you find the answers to some of your questions. Max deals with questions about sex, finances, illness, suicide, forgiveness, eternity and many more. The book is divided into seven sections, all beginning with the letter H. My favorite is the first section ﹣HOPE, God, Grace, and "Why am I here?" You may be more interested in the section ﹣HOME, Diapers, Disagreements, and "Any hope for prodigals?" Or maybe ﹣HEREAFTER, Cemeteries, Heaven, Hell, and "Who goes where?" I think you will find help in all seven sections. There is so much good "stuff" in this book that I believe there are answers here for everybody.

(I am happy to have received this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers for an honest review.)

SOME OF US REFUSE TO CHANGE---NOT EVEN FOR GOD

2011-04-16T11:22:00.001-07:00

WE SING LOUD AND CLEAR:

I'll go where you want me to go, dear Lord,

O'er mountain or plain or sea;

I'll say what you want me to say, dear Lord,

I'll be what you want me to be

AND FOR THE MOST PART, WE AT LEAST TRY TO BE TRUE TO THOSE WORDS.

BUT WHEN IT COMES TO DOCTRINAL MATTERS---NOT ABSOLUTES MIND YOU, BUT JUST DOCTRINAL MATTERS IN GENERAL---WE REFUSE TO CHANGE! WE WILL NOT BUDGE!

RACHEL HELD EVANS SAID IT LIKE THIS: "...evolution within the souls of individuals happens every day, whenever we adapt our faith to change. Evolution means letting go of our false fundamentals so that God can get into those shadowy places we're not sure we want him to be. It means being okay with being wrong, okay with not having all the answers, okay with never being finished."

WE HEAR HER WORDS AND AGREE THAT WE FIND IT HARD TO CHANGE OUR MINDS ON SOME THINGS WE HAVE BELIEVED ALL OUR LIVES. BUT THEN WE HURRY ON TO SAY, "BUT WE DO CHANGE." AND I SAY, "YES, YES WE DO. ON MANY THINGS. BUT MY EXPERIENCE OVER THE YEARS HAS BEEN THAT FEW OF US---VERY FEW, WILL CHANGE OUR DOCTRINAL BELIEFS EVEN WHEN WE SEE THAT THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY CALL FOR IT.

"MAMA SAID SO. THE PREACHER SAID SO. MAMA'S GONE. THE PREACHER IS DEAD. BUT I JUST CAN'T GO AGAINST WHAT THEY TAUGHT."

GOD IS ALIVE AND WELL. WHAT ABOUT WHAT HE TEACHES?

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

THE FINAL SUMMIT
A Quest To Find The One Principle
That Will Save Humanity
By Andy Andrews

OVERVIEW: David Ponder is back. This time the fate of mankind is in his hands. This is mankind’s last chance. Centuries of greed, pride, and hate have sent humanity hurtling toward disaster, and far from its original purpose. There is only one solution that can reset the compass and right the ship, and it consists of only two words.
With time running out, it is up to David Ponder and a cast of history’s best and brightest minds to uncover this solution before it is too late. The catch? They are allowed only five tries to discover the answer.
Readers first encountered David Ponder in The Traveler's Gift. Now, in The Final Summit, Andrews combines a riveting narrative with astounding history in order to show us the one thing we must do when we don’t know what to do.

AUTHOR: Hailed by a New York Times reporter as "someone who has quietly become one of the most influential people in America," ANDY ANDREWS is a bestselling novelist and in-demand speaker for the world's largest organizations. He has spoken at the request of four different United States presidents and at military bases worldwide. Andy appears frequently on CNN, Fox News, and ABC's Good Morning America. he is the author of the New York Times bestsellers The Noticer and The Traveler's Gift.

MY REVIEW: This is a book you will not only enjoy reading, but will profit from. Andy Andrews is a marvelous communicator. He is one of the best. He is able to take some of life's most perplexing problems and help us to work through them. I have no way to know this, but I believe that his words change lives. At least it seems to me that this will be true. Do I wish he had pointed to Christ as THE saving principle for humanity. YES, I do! But I believe that "at the end of the day" he will accomplish more for Christ by writing the way he does. I believe that writing the way he does is his calling from God. Doors are now open for him that would not be if he spoke more directly about Christ and used more religious terminology. Bookshelves groan under the weight of books relating directly to Christ and stating clearly that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Andrews is winning friends and influencing people that preachers and theologians are unable to reach. What I love about this book is the way Andrews is able to teach us about the world and cause us to reflect on life. I agree with Zig Ziglar who said: "Every generation or so, God produces a person who can communicate like no one else. His words are like cool water to a thirsty civilization. Andy Andrews is one of the best I have ever seen."

(My thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers for providing me with this book for an honest review.)

THE WOODCUTTER'S WISDOM

2011-04-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

In his marvelous book, In The Eye Of The Storm Max Lucado tells the story of an old woodcutter who spoke words of wisdom when he said: "Life is so vast, yet you judge all of life with one page or one word. All you have is a fragment! Don't say that this is a blessing. No one knows. I am content with what I know. I am not perturbed by what I don't."

Lucado then says: "The old man was right. We only have a fragment. Life's mishaps and horrors are only a page out of a grand book. We must be slow about drawing conclusions. We must reserve judgment on life's storms until we know the whole story. I don't know where the woodcutter learned his patience. Perhaps from another woodcutter in Galilee. For it was the Carpenter who said it best: "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." He should know. he is the Author of our story. And he has already written the final chapter."

And I say: AMEN!

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-06T12:26:00.001-07:00

ARTSCROLL ENGLISH TANACH
THE JEWISH BIBLE
With Insights From Classic Rabbinic Thought

OVERVIEW: All 24 books of the Torah, Prophets, and Writings are now at your fingertips in one magnificent volume, as interpreted by the classic sages of Talmudic and Rabbinic literature. This is a remarkable achievement. It enables everyone to obtain a basic knowledge of the entire Tanach from "In the beginning" to the return to Eretz Yisrael. For home, for office, for synagogue, for gifts this is an indispensable Book for the People of the Book. Edited by Rabbi Nosson Scherman in collaboration with an international team of scholars.

Newly set, accurate, carefully researched Hebrew text
Crisp, clear introductions
New English translation, based on the research of an international team of Torah scholars
Illuminating notes and comments
All Haftarahs clearly indicated
Explanatory charts, illustrations and maps
Full index of topics
Stunningly beautiful page layout
Specially-milled bible paper
Reinforced binding; ribbon place-markers

MY REVIEW: I have many Bibles in different translations. This one is extremely helpful in understanding passages which may not accurately represent the Hebrew nuances in other English versions. This Bible provides background on the Jewish Scriptures from both the Hebrew language and also from over 2,000 years of rabbinic thought and application. For me, the most exciting part of this Bible is the informative footnotes and commentaries at the bottom of the pages. The comments illuminate the text and seems to be from a conservative, orthodox viewpoint. I liked it when I opened to Genesis and read: “In the beginning of God’s creating the heavens and the earth--when the earth was astonishingly empty,…” I like the words, “astonishingly empty.” That’s good. That’s very good. I recommend this Bible for those who are serious students of the Word. You will not be disappointed. However, if you have a translation you like and that you use for general reading, inspiration, spiritual guidance and devotion then you do not need this or any other translation. I am a serious student of God’s Word and I have found this Bible very helpful. My copy is the hardback edition and I am very pleased with it.

LOOKING BACK, REMINISCING

2011-04-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

Memories. We all have them. Some sweet. Some not so sweet.

You don't have to be old to have something to say.

You are alive and you don't know for how long.

I am reconnecting with old friends on Facebook. I love finding them again, knowing about what they are doing and have done. I wish they would tell me more about their lives. Some do. Most don't.

But how can they when there is only room for so many words?

JUST A FEW WORDS AT A TIME!

Why did you move from California to Florida? What do you do for a living? Do you love/hate it?

What's important to you? What are you passionate about?

You don't think anybody cares?

Try us! I dare you.

I'll be waiting and watching.

BOOK REVIEW

2011-04-04T13:56:00.000-07:00

Get Healthy, for Heaven’s Sake

Harvest House Publishers; 1 edition (April 1, 2011)

***Special thanks to Christianne Debysingh and Aaron Dillon of Harvest House Publishersfor sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lisa Morrone, PT, has helped thousands of patients and readers get free from physical and emotional pain. A speaker, physical therapist, and adjunct professor for doctoral programs in physical therapy, she has authored Overcoming Back and Neck Pain, Overcoming Overeating, and Diabetes. She graduated her university PT training magna cum laude and now practices in New York state, where she lives with her husband and two children.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

An overall life plan for restoring readers’ energy and ability and helping them stay strong in usefulness throughout their lives. Morrone’s balanced, practical advice about weight loss, nutrition, posture, strength, flexibility, brain health, and rest fosters effective lifestyle changes that renew readers’ greater purpose of serving friends, family, and God.

Product Details:

List Price: $11.99
Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers; 1 edition (April 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736927042
ISBN-13: 978-0736927048

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Investing in Your Future

Making the Most of God’s Gift of Life

Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord.

Psalm 102:18

It was the summer before I was to begin the fifth grade. On the very same day the world lost Elvis, the king of rock ’n’ roll, I lost my “second mother,” my Aunt Catherine, to breast cancer. She was only 52. And though that loss was devastating for me, God was true to His promise “to make all things work together for good, for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” Within the very hour of my aunt’s death, my uncle—fresh in his grief—drew me into his arms and said, “Lisa, I want you to promise me that you will always take care of your body. Make sure you keep yourself healthy.”

At ten years old, I stood there stunned. Up to that point I had always assumed that sickness or disease was something that just “happened” to people. It had never occurred to me that humans had the power to positively (or negatively) influence their future health. Having watched my aunt suffer terribly throughout my childhood, and having seen how her longing to play a vital role in the Christian community went unrealized, I determined that, as far as it depended on me, I would walk a different road and make the necessary investments to ensure that I had a healthy future.

Investments of any kind are best realized when we use some forethought. As a rule of thumb, the sooner you begin investing, the better off you are in the future. For example, when it comes to finances, if you’re like me, you may feel frustrated with yourself for not having begun saving years earlier. Sooner or later it dawns on us that in order to achieve maximal return on our investments, we need to take advantage of the principle of compounding interest. In giving advice to those who’ve yet to begin investing, financial gurus always recommend that now is the best time to begin.

The same “compounding principle” holds true of your health. In order to achieve maximum returns, you must take care to invest in the wellness of your body today if you expect to reap great rewards tomorrow, next year, and in the years to come. The sooner you start, the more health you can have in the future, and the less disease and disability you will have to deal with.

Healthful changes implemented today will yield fabulous returns in this life—both short-term and long-term. For example, getting a good night’s sleep tonight will not only give you a better outlook tomorrow, but it will also help to prevent aging, improve brain function, and assist you in losing those stubborn extra pounds. Becoming proactive in your own health care is the very best way to preserve and protect your life. If you work at reversing the effects of neglect or abuse and then seek to maintain your physical well-being, you will be poised to do far more for the kingdom of God.

Investing in your wellness will yield great dividends for all eternity. One of God’s most precious blessings to us is the physical body we each have been given. The Bible tells us that we are the only part of God’s creation that was made in His image. Integral to His creation are our physical bodies, with which we worship and bring glory to Him through performing good works—or as my Southern girlfriends would say, “being Jesus with skin on.” With our bodies we serve the needs of other Christians and bring the gospel message to the unsaved. We’ve been created to bring God glory by using our physical strength.

Switching Plans

Before the introduction of sin into the world, the Bible tells us that these bodies of ours did not see decay. Amazing, huh? No wrinkle creams or walking canes were needed; no reading glasses or gray hair to deal with. As we age, however, we become all too aware that we aren’t the same today as we were last year—or the year before, for that matter. Disease and decay are part of Satan’s plan to destroy our bodies, one of God’s most precious creations. The systematic breakdown of a believer’s body effectively, and progressively, reduces his or her usefulness in serving Christ on this earth.

And you know what? From a strategic point of view, Satan has done well for himself. Today, the lifestyles of many of us have left us vulnerable to sickness and disability. At times we are even playing for the wrong side—helping Satan with his own game plan for our early demise. We’re abusing our bodies by overeating, not getting enough sleep, or by feeding our brains a steady diet of health-depleting
thoughts and food choices.

Well, this book presents a different plan, and it brings an entirely different outlook for your future! There is much that can be done to resist, reverse, and reconstruct the aging process. Getting older is irreversible—a result of the original sin—but the way in which we age, and the speed at which we deteriorate, are very much under our control. Because there’s a battle raging, a spiritual one, to participate fully we need to be ready, willing, and most important…able. Has the lifestyle you’ve chosen caused you to lay down your weapon of warfare (your physical body) on the couch to rest or on a doctor’s exam table? Isn’t it time to get up? You and I belong on the battlefield. It’s why we were created!

The Essential Components of Wellness

From the knowledge I’ve gained during my 20-plus years of patient care in the medical field (and my 40-some years of personal and spiritual life experience as a born-again believer), I see six essential components of wellness a person needs to pursue, restore, and maintain optimal physical health.

The first area to address is sleep—that is, the lack of it. Sleep is not simply downtime; it is repair and rejuvenation time for your body and your brain. Seventy-four percent of people report regularly getting less than seven hours of sleep per night, which places them (or you) at increased risk for early brain aging, muscle and joint breakdown—and even becoming overweight. (I’ll bet you never thought your weight problem could be related to your lack of sleep!)

The next two essential health components are the related issues of diet and nutrition. Two-thirds of our nation’s adult population is overweight or obese, and even though we don’t look like it from the outside, many are actually malnourished—living primarily on “empty calories.”

Most every common disease is somehow related to your food intake and weight distribution—so it is critically important that you know the best way to care for yourself in these areas.

The fourth and fifth areas address your body’s bone and muscle health, as these body parts are primarily responsible for moving you around in this life. Acquiring proper posture and possessing adequate strength and flexibility are crucial if you are to recover from, or avoid, many orthopedic-type physical disabilities, such as herniated discs, arthritis, and tendonitis.

Finally, you need to know how to maximize your brain health so you can guard against premature brain aging. I’m sure you want your mind to remain sharp and clear for as long as you live, just like I do. Research shows that brain deterioration actually begins after your thirtieth birthday!

According to studies conducted at Rush Medical Center in Chicago, roughly 50 percent of people who reach 85 will develop dementia. Yet here is the reason to have hope: There are many lifestyle changes you and I can make that are proven to support the health of our brains and positively impact our memory and ability to think analytically long into our golden years. Remember, Moses was 120 years old and he was still governing the nation of Israel. (And if you think that happened only in biblical times, my husband’s grandmother is still as sharp as a tack—and she’s 100.)

Making a Start

If we all could compare notes, we would find that each one of us struggles with different areas of our health—and to different degrees. Someone might need a simple tune-up, while another might require a major health overhaul. Many of you would admit that you could use some help in all six of these health components.

If you are in this latter group, determine not to become overwhelmed by trying to make adjustments in every area of your life all at the same time. To be successful over the long haul, you must view wellness as a journey, not a destination. And no one’s expecting you to turn into an Olympic athlete. Instead, this book is filled with straightforward, easy-to-apply health “nuggets,” which when put into practice, promise to make big changes in your health today, tomorrow, and throughout your lifetime.

In part 2 you’ll find these six wellness areas laid out smorgasbord style. This way you can pick and choose, digging in to the specific areas you wish to improve. As you make gains in one area, turn your attention to working on another component of your self–health care plan. And if an area where you’ve made progress begins to slide (as regular exercise does with me), simply begin again. Past failures do not predict future ones. Truthfully, failure can actually teach you what method doesn’t work for you. Let’s agree right here to not give up on our pursuit of better health!

Are you ready to invest in your future, my friend? Can you be described by the well-known phrase: “sick and tired of being sick and tired”? Or do you want to ensure that—as far as it depends on you—you’ll do everything you can to not become worn out as the years progress? If you are concerned that declining health, a depleted energy level, or a foggy brain might stand between you and what you believe God wants you to do, then take this invitation from me to rebuild and protect your health. I’ll be with you on the journey.

But before we get down to the actual business of rebuilding, let’s first get our firm foundation poured directly from Scripture. This way we can make sure our hearts, minds, and souls are rightly aligned with God’s will for our wellness.

Let’s Review

1. Investing in your wellness will yield great dividends not only in this life, but for all eternity.

2. We are called Christ’s ambassadors here on earth.

3. Yet the church has become indistinguishable from the world when it comes to obesity, disability, and disease-by-choice.

4. The systematic breakdown of a believer’s body effectively, and progressively, reduces his or her usefulness in serving as Christ on this earth.

5.There is much that you can do to resist, reverse, and reconstruct the aging process.

6. Past failures in improving your health do not predict future ones.

7. Are you ready to start taking better care of the wonderful gift God has given you—your body? If so…let’s go!

MY REVIEW: A few years ago I wouldn't have been interested in this book at all. Not at all! No, let me change that. I would have been interested in the subject---but not interested in doing anything about it. Being a Christian I knew that my body was a "temple" and that I should take care of it. Being a minister I knew that I should preach what the Scriptures said about taking care of the body. But I didn't want to preach but not practice. So I kept telling myself that soon--very soon, I would get into shape and then I could properly encourage others. Oh, I dabbled with getting healthy over the years but never seriously. Now, that I am in my retirement years, I am trying to get healthy...for heavens' sake. I am praying that it's better late than never. I'm exercising and eating better. I'm reading more on the subject and Lisa Morrone's book has been one of the bright spots in that reading and my education. This book has been a great encouragement as I endeavor to live strong, love God and serve others.

BUT GOD

2011-03-31T09:52:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite passages in all of God's Word is Genesis 50:20

"But as for you, you thought evil against me;

But God meant it unto good..."

BUT GOD!

Yes, God makes the difference.

What was happening to Joseph was evil. But God meant it unto good.

Another of my favorite Scriptures is Romans 8:28

"And we know that God causes everything

to work together for the good of those

who love God and are called according

to his purpose for them."

I draw strength from these verses everyday.

GOD IS GOOD!

BOOK REVIEW

2011-03-29T08:53:00.001-07:00

GOD'S HEALING WORDS

Health, Healing, And Recovery

By Debbie Marrie, General Editor

OVERVIEW: God's Healing Words demonstrates God's desire to restore your entire being to health. This insightful book full of scriptures, quotations and prayers on healing lets you meditate and then pray for yourself and your loved ones to receive the precious promises that God has given us. You will discover: HEALING words for your BODY, HEALING words for your SPIRIT, HEALING words for GRIEF and DEPRESSION, HEALING for your MARRIAGE and other RELATIONSHIPS, HEALING through FORGIVENESS.

MY REVIEW: This splendid little book is a pocket guide of scriptures and prayers. For me, the greatest value of this book is the pulling together into one place these many scriptures, prayers and quotes on healing. It is encouraging to read scriptures like Psalm 103:2-5 "Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle's!" Of course ever scripture has to be read in context and interpreted with common sense. You may find an example of healing or a story that you do not fully agree with. This is common with any book. But generally speaking, this is a powerful book that will lift you up and draw you closer to a God that cares, filled with mercy and grace. Again, in my opinion the greatest value of this book is that it is so easy to just pick it up and immediately find scriptures to lift your spirit and give you hope. This is the kind of book that you would like to share with someone going through suffering. They need to meditate on these "wonderful words of life."

AM I CRAZY, OR WHAT?

2011-03-28T12:29:00.001-07:00

Are you going through one of those times when you just want to scream?

Do you feel like if you ever had a mind you have lost it?

Some people feel like this all the time.

The Psalmist felt a little screwed up: "Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? Psalm 42:5

As Eugene Peterson translates it in the Message, this is the guy that "...was always at the head of the worshiping crowd, right out in front, Leading them all, eager to arrive and worship, Shouting praises, singing thanksgiving..."

But then that's when he asks himself, "Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues?" And then answers, "When my soul is in the dumps, I rehearse everything I know of you, From Jordan depths to Hermon heights, including Mount Mizar. Chaos calls to chaos, to the tune of whitewater rapids. Your breaking surf, your thundering breakers crash and crush me. Then God promises to love me all day, sing songs all through the night! My life is God's prayer."

Feeling a little crazy are you? There are no simple answers. But read Psalm 42 in the Message. It will help.

PUT YOUR HOPE IN GOD!

AMEN PAUL, AMEN

2011-03-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

The Apostle Paul wrote these words:

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not

crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair.

We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God.

We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed...So

we don't look at the troubles we can see right now,

rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen.

For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the

things we cannot see will last forever.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9,18

No one is exempt from trouble. But God doesn't want you to live in depression. Depression comes sometimes but you can find healing as you call on God, remembering these wonderful words from Paul.