A Year with God by R.P. Nettlehurst

A daily devotional that focuses on the importance of immersing your thoughts in the Word of God in order to transform them to match those of the Savior. Rather than following a calendar schedule as many devotionals do, (Jan.1-Dec. 31) this devotional start simply with Day 1, making it feel accessible to begin anytime of year. It is organized into several different topics, including:

Hope and Fear

Love and Hate

Perseverance and Quitting

Faith and Doubt

Loyalty and Betrayal

Companionship and Isolation

Mercy and Judgment

Forgiveness and Anger

Joy and Sadness

Peace and Conflict

Each daily reading begins with a Bible reading which is included in its entirety, making it easy and convenient to study the scriptures each day. I like that the scripture readings are quite substantial, more than the verse or two that are often included in daily devotionals of this kind. The second part of each reading is a discussion of the days scripture and how it relates to the topic under which it falls. While I found some of the discussion sections to be a bit dry, this is overall a useful resource and one that could really promote the practice of spending time immersed in the Word on a regular basis. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

I Lift Up My Soul: Devotions to Start Your Day with God by Charles Stanley

A compilation of readings from Charles Stanley’s multitude of works. As a daily devotional, it’s laid out with a one page devotion for each day of the year, and includes a key verse and scripture passage as well. These Bible centered reflections are a positive and uplifting way to begin the day. As each passage is short and takes little time to read, this devotional would also be an asset to any busy schedule and could be pulled out and read anytime of day. In fact, the only fault I could find with this particular book is that if you are looking for a devotional with very “meaty” daily readings, this might disappoint. I would recommend this as a good devotional for everyday use and as a guide to other works by Charles Stanley that could elaborate on each of the daily topics. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

Really Woolly Bible Stories by Bonnie Jensen

Great book of Bible stories for little ones! Each is actually more like a poem written to briefly introduce these popular stories to children. They are written in rhyming fashion, which is both fun to listen to and to read. The popular stories are each covered: creation, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, David and Goliath, as well as many of the stories of Jesus. There are sixteen stories included in all, plus an introduction and a great little prayer at the end. The illustrations are wonderful. They are colorful and help to tell each story. There is also a reference with each story that directs readers to where in the Bible they can read more about each one. This would be a great baby shower gift or perfect for younger children, as it is a board book with a slightly padded cover. Really Woolly Bible Stories would also work well as a first reader for slightly older children. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review

"Big Red" Holy Bible - Contemporary 3-D Art International Children’s Bible

"Big Red" Holy Bible - Contemporary 3-D Art International Children’s Bible is a good choice for children age 8 and up, especially boys. The cover is attention grabbing as it is an almost holographic looking design. There are quite a few full color, detailed pictures throughout this Bible. Each depicts a scene from a particular Bible story. I love the International Children’s Bible translation, as it empowers younger children by giving them access to God’s Word. It is very readable and understandable. There are a few things I don’t care for in this particular Bible, however. The cover is very flimsy and mine is already crinkled and has edge wear after only a few days of use. The pictures are detailed and interesting, but they are grouped in sections throughout the Bible and don’t appear near the stories they depict. This makes it confusing and also makes the overall presentation seem very plain as there are whole sections with no illustrations what so ever. I would not give this as a gift Bible due to the flimsy structure, but I would use it with my own child as a good resource and a good translation for elementary aged kids. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

The Boy Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews

This is an inspirational story of the lives of several different men and how they each ended up changing the world. The message of each story is that every single thing that each of us do, no matter how small, effects the ultimate outcome of many lives. Like a butterflies wings fluttering can create the tiny breeze that will ultimately end in a hurricane on the other side of the world, we each have a drastic effect on others by the small actions and decisions we make each day. In the case of the men in this book, each made a decision to help someone, and the repercussions of each of those men helping someone was that the world was changed for the better. This concept is a little hard for younger kids to grasp, and therefore some of the story could be lost on a child under the age of maybe eight. The youngest will enjoy the full color pictures even if they might not “get” it. For older kids, this is a fantastic and inspirational tale of how their own life and every choice they make will also change the world. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

God’s Promises for Woman of Faith

A cute little gift book with a fun cover. I could see gifting this little book to a girl friend or female family member. The intended audience is of course Christian woman. I would suggest that, if giving as a gift, making sure the recipient is familiar with the Bible. I say this because the verses used throughout are from the King James Translation and therefore may be slightly less readable than if they had used the NIV. I do think, however, that the use of the KJV does add to the overall beauty of this particular book. This is a nice little book to have around the house to flip through every now and then for a quick faith “pick me up”. Not a thorough study of God’s promises, but not really meant to be. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

The Heavens Proclaim His Glory

What an interesting and awe inspiring book! The Heavens Proclaim His Glory is an apt title for this collection of photos from space. Each picture is brilliant, colorful, and amazing. I like the mix of Bible scripture with facts about the stars, galaxies, and other wonders of the universe featured within. I think anyone who is interested in factual information would find this book to contain quite a bit. I most like the fact that even if you are not necessarily interested in outer space as a science, you can still enjoy the wonders of God as portrayed in the beautiful photos. I have two sons, age thirteen and five, and they were each able to enjoy this book even given the difference in age between them. This would be a great book for the whole family to talk about and enjoy! I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World by Dr. Jeremiah

Living With Confidence In A Chaotic World by Dr. David Jeremiah is the sequel to his previous book, What in the World Is Going On, which I must say I haven’t read. I do think the information in this book can stand on it’s own, however. The author outlines ten ways to stay focused on biblical truth even when the world is falling apart around us. These include staying calm, staying connected, and staying committed, just to name a few. In light of the state of the world today, I think this is an important book for Christians. It would also be a good discussion starter with non-Christians who express fear and anxiety about current events, and could open the door to meaningful witnessing about the peace that comes with knowing Christ. I like the true life examples and stories about people who are trusting in Jesus and His sovereignty to get them through their hardest times. I am no expert on end time prophecy, and therefore can’t say everything the author discusses is right-on biblically, but I can say this book offers a lot of reassurance that those who put all their trust in Christ are indeed on the “winning team”. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

Let’s Do Lunch by Roger Troy Wilson

Roger Troy Wilson lost a significant amount of weight and this book details how he did it. I am giving this book 2 stars because the writing is good, but the diet itself is very questionable. The author states that anyone can lose weight by eating only the foods he has deemed as acceptable…basically no sugar other than that found in fruit, no bread, rice, noodles, potatoes, fatty meats, etc., etc. While the author frequently describes his diet in such a way as to make it seem unrestrictive, the foods he has outlawed are very numerous, and are not all things most people would call “unhealthy”. I do not at all agree with his emphasis on stuffing yourself with certain foods in order to avoid being tempted to eat others. I think overeating any food, healthy or not, is a bad idea and goes against the way God designed our bodies…there is a reason we feel sick when we overeat! At one point the author offers very specific ways to trick your body out of temptations by gorging on one of his recommended foods: “I figured out a way to get by without eating any pizza. If I was still hungry after eating fruit, I forced myself to eat soup until my stomach looked like a balloon that had just been filled with water. Or, I bloated myself with popcorn sprayed with olive oil or topped with little strips of fat free cheese.”. Doesn’t sound too healthy or intelligent to me. I am happy he found something that has worked for him to keep weight off long term, but I can’t imagine this being a healthy and effective life long plan for most people to live with. I received this copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

100 Prayers God Loves to Hear

Beautiful children’s book! A great book full of wonderful prayers for kids. Each and every page features full color photos to keep kids engaged. The book is quite long and would be perfect to read from before bed each night . It contains short Bible stories, memory verses, and songs covering a variety of topics. Also included are two music cd’s with a combination of 100 songs. The cd’s are fun and upbeat…my five year old loves them. Especially nice is that each section of the book notes which specific song on the cd’s coordinate with it. I will be purchasing this book as a gift for all the kids I know! I received this copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

Angel Song by Shelia Walsh and Kathryn Cushman

An uplifting page turner from beginning to end. This is the story of Anne Fletcher, a woman who watches helplessness as her sister is unexpectedly taken from her. During this devastating time, God sends both people, and angels, to help Anne overcome the tragedy and realize the immense love He has for her. The writing is beautiful and the characters nicely developed. I wanted to read this in one sitting it was so good. Inspirational! Share this one with friends and family. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

The Prophecy Answer Book by David Jeremiah

The first thing you should note about this book is that it’s really closer to a pamphlet. It is a “pocket size” book and has very small font, which I found hard to read for any extended time. The content of the book is quite interesting though. Due to it’s limited size, the author covers most topics briefly rather than exhaustively. I thought the information presented was informative and biblically accurate. For someone wanting information on bible prophecy, this would be an easy place to start . It offers a taste of how some of the things going on in the world today line up with prophecy presented in the bible. I was disappointed that more info wasn’t included on fulfilled prophecy, as I believe it is through these examples that we can gain greater faith that the bible is in fact the inspired Word of God. Overall, I would recommend this book as an informative and concise starting point to the study of biblical prophecy. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review of the book.

Hearts Awakening by Delia Parr

A well written love story that beautifully portrays one woman’s deep faith in her God. I was enchanted by the setting of this story and it was easy to get caught up in the characters lives because of it. It is a slightly new twist on the traditional love story, making this story seem fresh and exciting. The Christian themes are not as watered down as you sometimes find in this kind of fiction, and I think this is a very uplifting and encouraging book . I would recommend this to anyone who loves historical fiction and romance without all the smut, and anyone who needs a spiritually uplifting, yet thoroughly entertaining book. I received this book from the publisher, Bethany House, in return for an unbiased review.

She Walks in Beauty by Siri Mitchell

I honestly did not expect to like this book. I went into it expecting it to be predictable and “fluffy”. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The characters were three dimensional and kept my interest throughout the entire novel. The historical aspect of the book was fascinating, not at all boring as I find some historical fiction to be. The main character is likable and interesting, and I found myself really getting into her head. I very much enjoyed this book and am interested in reading more by this author! I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in return for an unbiased review.

Sixteen Brides by Stephanie Grace Whitson

This is a story about several widows who are given the chance to have their own land and homes in the west. Unfortunately, they were tricked. They had actually been advertised as brides and dance partners for some farmers and ranchers in the town of Coyote. When they discover the truth and share it with the others, six of the women decide to stay in the town of Plum Grove where they are welcome and where they have a chance to build new lives for themselves. As they build a place for themselves in the world, there is new love for some, and friendships for all. The overall story is inspiring and a good read. However, the author goes into great detail about the “brides” in the beginning, which was a bit too much in my opinion. I started to get bored trying to keep up with all the different woman. I think focusing in a smaller group in the beginning would have made it more enjoyable. As the story continues and the women go on to build their lives, the pace picks up and the story ends up being quite enjoyable. So, if you can push through the beginning, ultimately the book is worth it. The descriptions of the community and neighbors was uplifting and encouraging. It is a fairly easy read and if you like Historical Fiction, you will probably enjoy it. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in return for an unbiased review.

Somewhere to Belong by Judith Miller

This is the story of two girls, both living in the same colony in 1877, but with very different personalities. Life in the colony is far different than the “simple life” it is meant to be, as secrets and lies abound. I found the characters in this story to be well developed, but the story itself was lacking for me. I felt that the community of Amana described in the book encompassed everything that is wrong with Christianity. The majority of the people seemed to be incapable of giving grace and really showing God’s love. It didn’t leave me with a good feeling, but merely frustrated. I wanted to like the community, but it seemed such an unlikable group. I would be willing to give the next book in the series a try to see where it ends up going. I received this book from the publisher, Bethany House, in return for an impartial review.

Mystically Wired by Ken Wilson

I had a very hard time getting into this book. I was expecting something very profound that could be used to take ones prayer life to new levels. However, the first part of the book was very dry and focused too much on “praying brain research” for my taste. However, if you are interested in how thinking/praying effects brain function, it might be worth your time to read. Toward the end of the book there are some practical applications that I found helpful as far as approaching prayer, such as the use of prayer aids and the concept of praying at intervals. I think much of this information could be successfully used to get out of a prayer rut, or, as the author says, explore new realms of prayer. A lot of boring reading to get through for a little bit of insight. Just not my kind of book. I received this copy from Thomas Nelson in exchange for an impartial review.

The Jesus Series Read and Share Bible DVD, Life and Miracles

This DVD did not hold my almost five year old son’s attention for very long. He started out very intent on watching it, but I think the stories jumped around way too much and ended up being confusing for him. The 30 minute time frame is too short to try and touch on Jesus’ life and miracles. I felt like too many stories were being told way too quickly. If the whole thirty minutes had focused on one or two miracles or specific topics, it would have been easier to follow. I found myself repeatedly having to explain to my son what was going on and why. The animation is good though, and I could see it being more entertaining for an older child who has more background knowledge of these stories and perhaps wouldn’t get confused by the lack of details presented. Overall a good DVD with a great message that would benefit from a more focused approach. I received this DVD, in exchange for a fair and honest review, from Thomas Nelson’s BookSneeze program.

God's Promises for Boys by Jack Countryman and Amy Parker

Cute little book full of God’s word for little boys. This is a very attractive, hardcover book . The illustrations are colorful and eye catching, making it easier to keep the attention of little ones. I like that the book is organized by subjects that make it easy to apply scripture to many given topics. Some of the headings are “God’s promises when you need help”, “God wants you to count your blessings”, and “God’s promises about Jesus; He is your friend”. Each topic starts out with a little rhyme and then includes 3-4 bible verses that coincide with that particular promise. The verses are out of the International Children’s Bible, and are very understandable while still being true to the Word of God. The text is age appropriate for about ages four and up as a read aloud, however, I wouldn’t expect a very young child to be able to read this on there own. Because each topic can be read in as little as five minutes, this would make a great bedtime book. Each topic is illustrated, which is a plus for most children. The pages are high quality and glossy, making it a nice gift book as well. Very nice! I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an unbiased review.

Dad's Bible

Dad’s Bible is a great resource for any father. While it is not an in depth study bible, it is full of insights and practical information for dads. The translation ,(NCV),is very user friendly and easy to read. The print is a good size, and the overall quality of this bible is good. Some of the special features include “walking in authority” articles to guide dads in using the authority God has given them, “passing it on” articles about how to continue and help strengthen the faith of future generations, “building your children” articles about strengthening your own children’s walk with God, and “dad’s in the bible” highlighting the stories of biblical fathers. In addition, there is a helpful question and answer section in the back to assist dads in responding to kid’s tough biblical questions. Overall a nice looking and helpful everyday bible that would make a great gift for Dad. I received this copy free from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an impartial, honest review.

Mind Your Mortgage by Robert J. Bernabe

This is a must read for anyone in the market for a new mortgage, anyone looking to refinance an existing mortgage, or anyone who thinks they ever will be. I wish I had this to read before I committed to a mortgage because it is honest and insightful. There is so much great information in this book, and it takes you from the very first steps (before you ever walk into a bank), right through to how and why you should pay off your mortgage. With the rampant excessive consumerism that has led our country to financial crisis, it is imperative that we educate ourselves about one of the biggest debts most people will ever take on. I know I personally feel bombarded with messages that communicate that I should buy, buy, buy….even those things I can not afford. It is so easy to get sucked into that mentality, and find yourself drowning in debt. And the really sad part is that the “things” that put us in debt fail to provide any level of joy or comfort that could ever compare to the level of stress that living in debt causes. The author of this book is a voice of wisdom in this culture of excess. He provides both basic information on mortgage loans, as well as up to date details particular to the crisis we are currently in. If you already have a mortgage, this book provides great advise and practical tips on how to pay your mortgage off in the most financially intelligent way possible. If you want to be in control of your mortgage instead of feeling like it has control over you, this book will help. I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for a fair and impartial review.

Embracing Your Second Calling by Dale Hanson Bourke

Using Biblical lessons and stories, Dale Hanson Bourke has written a useful and insightful book on purpose and passion. Particularly, this book addresses Christian women who are in the changing years of life when children have grown up and women are left wondering “what’s next”. In our society, this is a time when it’s easy to be made to feel as if the best and most important part of a woman’s life if over. However, the author details why, according to God’s Word, this couldn’t be further from the truth. I love the Biblical references that are used throughout the book. Most especially I find this book practical in that the author has included reflection questions throughout that make it easy to apply the material. My favorite practical application is the “act” boxes scattered about the text that call on the reader to actually do something, such as “let someone go ahead of you in line”, and “if you can afford to, sponsor a child through World Vision”. I think with these kinds of books it can be easy to read the material, but sometimes difficult to figure out ways to actually apply it. However, this author makes that application very easy. A great book full of truly practical ways for women in their “second half of life” to find and embrace God’s purpose for them. I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for a honest and impartial review.

Friendship for Grown-Ups by Lisa Welchel

Friendship for Grown-Ups by Lisa Welchel

Of course I was originally drawn to this book because it is written by an actress from one of my favorite 80’s t.v. shows, The Facts of Life. Lisa Welchel is best known for playing “Blair”, the rich, spoiled, self obsessed one of the girls. However, it quickly becomes clear that Lisa Welchel is not much like the character she played on t.v. In fact, Lisa is obviously extremely self aware and striving to be and do all that God has planned for her. I personally have not seen a book that so specifically addresses the topic of making and strengthening adult female relationships. After reading this book, I am left wondering why this topic is not explored more than it is, especially in the Christian community. Lisa takes a disarmingly raw and honest look at female friendships, what makes them work, and how to strengthen them. She bares the ups and downs of her own struggle with building friendships. The examples she gives of both good and bad relationships in her own life is at times emotional and I applaud her willingness to be so open about them. She analyses her friendships to help the reader be able to do the same. For example, Lisa spends much time on what it means to have a “safe” friend, and what experiences she has had when a friend she thought was safe turns out to be less than. She explains not only why safe friends are important to have, but also how to be one yourself. I think this is a rare gem of a book, especially if you struggle with connecting on a deeper level with the female friends in your life. Best of all, this book is extremely applicable in that Lisa includes both an appendix with a list of “practical steps for developing and growing friendships”, and “conversation prompts” to help take frienships to the next level of intimacy. Disclosure: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

If I Could Ask God Anything by Kathryn Slattery

This is an easy to use and scripturally sound resource for answering kids questions about God, Jesus, the Bible, and more. So many topics are covered, and the text is broken down in such a way that one can easily locate each subject. There are a couple hundred questions that are addressed, some very simple, some more complex. What I really like about this particular book is that it is a tool that a parent, grandparent, Sunday school teacher, etc could use with a wide range of children. There are many questions included that I could see a very young child asking, such as “what did Jesus look like” and “how did Jesus walk on water?” Maybe even better, though, is the fact that there are many questions that even a much older child or teen might inquire about, such as “what does the word catholic mean in the Apostles’ Creed?”, and “if the gospels are all about Jesus, why are they different?”. There are even answers in this book that I didn’t know, such as the explanation of why the use of X-mas instead of Christmas was not considered at all disrespectful by the early Christians. The one thing I don’t love about this book is the cover. It is great if you are looking for a book to answer the questions of a young child, but as I said, one of my favorite things about this book is it’s usability with older kids and teens. However, if I were to try to show my 13 year old son a passage out of this book that I think would really help answer questions he might have, he would be very turned off by the cover, (looks like a children’s book), and any helpful information would probably be discredited as a result. Maybe the author will eventually take some of the more complex questions/answers from this text and offer them in a book geared toward older kids. I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Will the World End in 2012? By Raymond C. Hundley

I must say the topic of this book is not one I have been highly interested in and in fact is a subject that I have often rolled my eyes at when brought up in conversation. I have had people ask me recently if I think the world is going to end in 2012, and as I am not especially familiar with the argument behind this reasoning, I thought this book might be worthwhile. It was not at all what I expected, which was a Christians perspective on why the end of the world in 2012 topic is nonsense. That is not at all where the author goes here. While the author is in fact a Christian, he strives to explore the topic mostly on the basis of fact and reasoning. The book is laid out with a chapter devoted to the 10 most “popular” end of the world views, where they come from, and how much actual evidence supports each. An example of two of the topics discussed are the abrupt end of the famed Mayan calendar and what it really means for the end of the world, as well as the possibility of super storms that could cause such destruction life as we know it would end. I must say I don’t know enough about any of these topics to say if the author covers each fairly or in depth. However, it seems that each is well researched and fairly evaluated. The conclusion the author gives on several of the chapter topics left me very surprised. Ultimately, the author concludes that regardless of when the world ends, there are things we can do to ensure that we face the end of our lives with confidence, peace, and joy rather than with fear and dread. If you are interested in this topic as a Christian I think this book would be informative, but I think this could be especially useful as a reading resource for any non-believer you may know who is interested in, or fearful of, the question “will the world end in 2012?”.

Making Money from Home: How to Run a Successful Home-Based Business by Donna Partow

Anyone looking to start a home based business could gain some insight from this book. It is clear from the text that the target audience is Christian women, particularly mothers, who are looking to be self employed, but the information could be equally helpful to anyone looking to work from home. The advise and guidance offered by the author is both practical and insightful. From the smallest details of setting up a home office, to the more complicated aspects of creating a business plan, there is plenty of solid information to help the reader get started. Particularly valuable are the questions at the end of each chapter for self evaluation of what you learned and how well you applied each of the steps the author outlines. I found that the questions enabled me to go from a passive reader of the text to an active participant in my own success. The author also includes access to her web site which provides even more pertinent information and tips for building a thriving home-based business. While not an exhaustive resource for all topics home business related, this book is certainly a smart and time worthy place to start. (Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in return for an impartial review).

The Voice New Testament

I was completely unfamiliar with this Bible translation upon receiving it. I am personally someone who loves to read and compare different translations. While I have favorites that I use more frequently, I think it is truly beneficial to explore new translations. I know that some disagree, and feel certain translations are not equal, and this is not the Bible for those people. However, if you welcome a fresh interpretation, you will most likely enjoy this work. I found the chapter intros as well as the informational boxes throughout particularly helpful. In many Bibles I have used, the study notes and or commentary is either overly simple and therefore unhelpful, or extremely factual but lacking any emotional connection to the text itself. The background information in this particular Bible is used at just the right places to be helpful. For example, when a particular Biblical figure is mentioned in the verses, an informational box is available as a heads up to place who the person is and a little background. It is just enough to nudge the memory, (oh that’s right, Tamar impersonated a prostitute and conceived twins by Judah…) without being too wordy. I think the characteristic that really sets this Bible apart is it’s ability to help the reader connect with the emotional state of the characters. I have experience with many Bible translations, and I have not come across one that takes such pains to really highlight the beauty of the Word. For that reason alone, this Bible is a valuable resource and worth a look.

The New Living Translation Break Through to Clarity Bible Contest and Giveaway

The New Living Translation Break Through to Clarity Bible Contest and Giveaway

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Greater Love by Robert Whitlow

I am a huge fan of suspense novels, and have a few favorite authors that I am loyal to. It takes a lot for me to branch out and take a risk when it comes to this genre, and so I was very reluctant to read this novel. I am picky and want my suspense to be both believable and thrilling at the same time, a tall order that is rarely lived up to. I have never read a Christian mystery/suspense, so while I was intrigued enough to give this book a try, I wasn’t expecting a whole lot. However, I ended up being pleasantly surprised! It is a real page turner, and the mystery succeeds at keeping you guessing all the way through. The characters are well thought out and believable. I don’t want to give anything away, (I hate it when reviews do that), so I won’t go into the plot any more deeply than the summary does. I will say that I found it very encouraging that a book of this genre with clear Christian overtones did not end up being hokey. I will definitely read all the others by this author, and I will be much more open to other Christian suspense works. I underestimated how nice it is to read the work of an author who shares my own beliefs, even in a work of fiction. Great read and worth the time.

Essentials for Life: Your Back to Basics Guide To What Matters Most By Marcia Ford

Essentials for Life by Marcia Ford is a very valuable little volume. Each of the fifty short chapters outlines one specific piece of the puzzle of what a Christian life is. Each topic is supported my relevant scripture as well as quotes from a variety of people. The use of scripture is encouraging without being overwhelming. I like that so many topics are addressed, such as Bible study and spending quiet time with God. The purpose of this book is not to exhaustively explore any of the chapter topics, but rather to address each one, support it with scripture, and discuss practical ways to apply each to ones own life. While I would recommend reading cover to cover, I also love that this would be a great resource to use at any time for a quick Word about so many issues of the Christian life. It is a great jumping off point that one could use to begin a more in depth study of these topics. The author does a wonderful job of covering each topic in a thorough yet concise manner. In fact, each chapter includes a brief list of “dos” and “don’ts” at the end to sum up the main points, making it even more user friendly. A great resource!

Kaleidoscope Seeing God's Way and Wisdom in a Whole New Light

Patsy Clairmont's book on Proverbs was a very quick and easy read. Each chapter is short and to the point, which I found refreshing. Even though it is a book you could read in a sitting or two, it packs a powerful punch. I recommended this book to a friends who was looking for a personal bible study to work on in between bible studies at church. This would also be a great addition to one’s daily devotion time. This is not an in depth study of the book of Proverbs, but rather the author chooses a few of the wise teachings to focus on. I found the author’s take on some of the Proverbs to be fresh and informative. Personal real life examples make the lessons even more applicable and the timeless lessons of proverbs seem to take on new meaning. Ending each chapter are personal reflection questions that could also be used in a small group setting. This is the first book I have read by this author, and based on it, I am interested in reading her others. It is nice to add some humorous insight to bible study sometimes, an this is just what Patsy Clairmont does with Kaleidoscope.

66 Love Letters A Conversation with God That Invites You Into His Story

66 Love Letters by Dr. Larry Crabb is an awesome book! The author has taken such a unique approach to helping people understand God’s Word. Each of the 66 love letters is a summary of each book of the Bible, written as a conversation between the author and God. From Genesis to Revelation, Dr. Crabb gets straight to the heart of God’s message to his people. Meant to be a tool to use along with the Word of God, not as a substitute, this book helps take the confusion out of even the most difficult portions of the Bible. If you have ever felt like reading the Bible sometimes turns into a chore, something to check off your “to do” list, this book is for you. I am on a through-the-bible-in-one-year reading plan, and I know some days I have found myself reading just to get through. The most tedious parts, such as the requirements for the building of the Tabernacle in Exodus, I often skim over and don’t get much out of. The amazing thing to me about Dr. Crabb’s work is that he has taken even these “boring” parts of the Bible and boiled it down to the bare bones of what God is really communicating to us. I have found that reading this book alongside the Bible has made me reflect so much more deeply on what God is speaking to me. Oh, and don’t skip the Prologue or the “How This Book Can Speak To You” sections at the beginning of the book. The first is insightful and informative, the latter beautifully written. I found myself rereading portions because it spoke to me so deeply. Not a book to sit down and read in a few days, but one to take slowly and saver as the pieces of God’s story come together as your own.

"Mom's Bible: God's Wisdom for Mothers" notes by Bobbie Wolgemuth

I am enjoying using the Mom’s Bible for my daily bible reading and devotions. It offers a nice change of pace from a more scholarly study bible. It is enlightening to try a different translation once in awhile and tends to make God’s word “fresh” after becoming familiar with a favorite translation. I usually read an NIV bible and this NCV is similar but different enough so that I am not anticipating the wording of each verse and it forces me to read more carefully, which is a good thing. I like that this bible, even though it is hardcover, is not too big and bulky to carry to church, yet has a nice size print that is easy to read. While each book does offer an introduction, I would prefer a little more information, such as the date the book was written and the original audience it was written to. I agree with other reviewers who have said it is not one I would use as a study bible. However, the focus of the notes, written by Bobbie Wolgemuth, is to highlight mothers throughout scripture, and it does a good job of this. It is interesting to contemplate familiar bible stories from a different angle. Spotlighting how women both in the forefront of these stories, and sometimes behind the scenes, fit into and contributed to the bible is fun. Also encouraging is to realize none of these biblical mothers was perfect, yet they were loved and used by God. My absolutely favorite part of this bible is the section in the back entitled “Answers to Questions Kids Ask”. This in itself is a valuable resource for moms who face never ending questions about all things, including God’s Word. Included are answers to such questions as “was Jesus really born on Dec. 25th?”, and “why can’t we see God?”. So helpful for a mom who wants to be biblically accurate in what she is teaching her children. Overall a great everyday bible for moms.

How to Reach Your Full Potential For God By Charles Stanley

Book Review

A thought provoking book that requires one to ask some deep questions such as "am I really living the life God has planned for me, or am I just settling?". Stanley pointedly explores the idea of living a spirit led, God glorifying life and going beyond just merely existing. I found myself getting uncomfortable at points with the no holds barred approach Stanley takes, only to realize it was because what he says is so true. So may people accept an "ok" life and don't even dream of the abundant existence that God truly has for us in Christ. Though it can be hard to hear, I think Stanley's points are dead on and require some much needed deeper examination of our true goals and motives in life. To live to your full potential for God is something that takes daily and intentional time and energy. Some of the requirements, as taught by Stanley, are a hunger for God and a willingness to put Him first. If you posses these desires and wish to grow closer to God as you follow His lead to the life He has for you, then this book is for you. The book doesn't stop with outlining the kind of life that is possible, but actually gives some very practical advice on attaining it. This is a book to read prayerfully and return to again and again to make sure you don't stray from the path that leads to the abundant life God has for you.

What's The Point?

Love to read but hate to waste your precious time on a bad read? Want to know if a book is really any good before you spend your money on it? I have been disappointed by investing my time and money in a book that should have been good, but was far from it. Sure, there are lots of ways to find out what a particular book is about. The easiest being to pick it up and read the professional and celebrity reviews on the back. But why is it that so often the book these individuals are praising, the book their review got me so excited about, turns out to be nowhere near as good as they raved? I'm not the only one. These are often the same books I eventually end up talking to someone else about only to find they were as disappointed in the book as I was. So, this is a review site for people who want the bare bones truth, as I see it, about the books I read. Maybe you won't agree, and maybe you will. I hope you may find you have similar opinions as myself and in that case, this review site might serve as a trusted first place for you to check out whether or not that book is really worth your time...