Review: Perfectly Unfinished

My most recent book review is "Perfectly Unfinished" written by Andrea Logan White (with Cindy Lambert). BookLook Bloggers gave me a complimentary copy for this unbiased review. I recognize the author of this book, as she has appeared in many "Faith-based" movies with her husband, David White. David White is one of the founders of Pure Flix, a Christian/Faith based movie production company. The subtitle of her book reads, "Finding Beauty in the midst of Brokenness", which made me want to read her book and find out her personal story. Without giving everything in the book away, Andrea talks about how she always felt the need to be perfect in order to be accepted. I know I have felt that way. I know a lot of women feel that way, and I would venture that there are men that feel the same way too. Andrea goes into detail about her childhood, and how there was dysfunction in her family. There will be people that can totally relate to the pain Andrea suffered as a child. I think everyone can relate on some level, even if his/her story is different. Pain is pain, and dysfunction comes in many different forms. Andrea goes on to tell about her teenage to young adulthood years. She talks about how she was a regular guest at the Playboy mansion (I won't give away the details of that story). Andrea shares how she looked for approval in her relationships with men. She was looking for love and validation. During this time, God was drawing Andrea to Himself, even though it wasn't apparent to her at the time. One of Andrea's biggest battles was with eating disorders (Anorexia and Bulimia). She goes into detail about how the eating disorders affected her during her younger years. I believe her sharing about this struggle will help others who are battling the same disorders. Toward the end of the book, Andrea shares how she came to know Jesus as her personal Savior. I love that she talks about the many struggles she faced after becoming a Christian. I think so many people think that their lives will be perfect once they become a Christian, and that is the furthest thing from the truth. Only Jesus is perfect, and Andrea shares about how Jesus loves her in spite of her imperfections. Andrea ends the book with sharing how her life is currently. She has learned to live with joy in the midst of her pain, struggle and brokenness. I think those that read this book will be encouraged. I would definitely recommend this book to others, especially women.

Review: She Reads Truth Bible (CSB)

I was so very pleased to be able to review the brand new "She Reads Truth" CSB (Christian Standard Bible) from B&H Publishing. "She Reads Truth", founded in 2012, is a worldwide community of women that are reading the bible together daily. I love that "She Reads Truth" is committed to equipping women to become students of God's Word. First, I like the translation of this bible. It is the CSB text that is a blend of scriptural accuracy and readability. I also think the Bible itself is pretty (such a girly thing to say :) I absolutely love that it comes with wide margins for note-taking or journaling. I think more people today actually write in their bibles, and many people love to create "art" in their bibles too. This bible will be perfect for both of those activities. As far as aesthetics, my favorite feature is the beautiful artwork with scripture that accompanies each book of the Bible. I like when you turn the pages of the Bible you get random pops of color. Included in this bible also are full color maps, timelines, and charts. The "She Reads Truth' bible also includes a one year bible reading plan. This is perfect for the person that wants to read through the Bible in a year because they do not have to buy a special bible or download a reading plan from a website. A special feature to this bible is the 189 devotionals that are included as well. This bible is a one stop shop, a blessing indeed. A few other features of this bible are the reading plans for each book of the bible, key verse lists, and detailed book introductions. This Bible is perfect for those wanting to go deeper into God's Word. I would definitely buy this Bible as a gift. The "She Reads Truth" bible is a resource that any women would love to receive. I received mine complimentary from B&H Publishing, and agreed to write this non-biased review.

Book Review: Goliath Must Fall

I love being a part of the BookLook Blogger team! My most recent review is of the book "Goliath Must Fall" by Louie Giglio. I have enjoyed several of Louie's books and sermons over the last decade. BookLook gave me this complimentary book, and I in turn agreed to review it. As you might have guessed by reading the title of the book, it is based on the story of David and Goliath. In most books, teachings, and sermons over the years, I have heard teachers say that David represents individual Jesus followers. However, in "Goliath Must Fall" Louie compares David to Jesus, and not Christians. I like this teaching, it rings true. Louie compares Goliath to the "giants" in the life of believers in Jesus. Giants are things in your life that are "diminishing your ability to live a full and free life" (back book cover). Louie discusses the "giants" of fear, rejection, comfort (ouch on this one), anger and addiction. Most of the time, Jesus followers let the giants rule their lives, or they try in their own strength to overcome the giants and fail. Louie reminds us that David (with God's power) overcame and killed Goliath, and we can too. However, it will not be in our strength, but with the power of help of Jesus. Jesus overcame death and rose again to defeat all the giants in our lives. Like Louie's previous books, Goliath Must Fall is an easy read. Louie shares personal stories that draw readers in from the beginning. Louie also retells the story of David and Goliath in this book. I think that is very helpful, if someone does not know this familiar bible story. I would definitely recommend this book to a fellow Christian, but I feel this book could be read and enjoyed by someone that isn't a Christian too. I was encouraged by reading this book. Louie reminded me that I cannot overcome the "giants" in my own life by trying harder. Only Jesus can do the work of slaying the "Goliaths" in my life... I just need to trust in Him.

Review: The Apologetics Study Bible (CSB)

I am always very excited when I get a chance to review a Bible. B&H Publishing has released a CSB (Christian Standard Bible) "Apologetics Study Bible", and I jumped at the opportunity to review it. B&H gave me a complimentary copy of this Bible, and I in turn agreed to write this review. I think the most exciting feature of this Bible are the study notes that are written with an "Apologetic" view in mind. (Quotes from the Study Bible) "Christian "Apologetics" is the practice of giving reasons that support the Christian faith and responding to objections raised against it. Apologetics contributes to the restoration of a view of the Bible as a source of knowledge of its subject matter as opposed to a source of true belief to be accepted by a blind act of the will." I know as a Christian there have been times that people have asked me questions or challenged me in my faith, and I have not always had answers for them. Yes, I know that the Bible is true, and I have always had an easier time believing in God, but I know there are many people that are not like me. Many want to see how the Scriptures actually support what we (Christians) say we believe. There will always be an element of "faith" in our belief, but Scripture also beautifully supports what I say I believe. The "Apologetic" study notes are written so effectively with the intention to support the claims of the Bible. As I read the notes, I was encouraged in my belief, and also felt that the notes were easily written, so that I could share them with others that have questions. Another great resource in this Bible is the "Twisted Scripture" feature. "Twisted Scriptures" are short explanations of the most commonly misunderstood or "twisted" passages in the Bible. What a great addition to this Bible. There are many other features in this Bible that make it a wonderful resource for every Christian to own, but I will just spotlight one more in this review. I absolutely love that this bible has over 140 articles that deal with a broad range of apologetic issues. Articles such as, "Isn't Christianity Intolerant?", "Can Evolution Explain Ethics?", and "Can Something be True for You and Not for Me?". As I read through the titles of these articles, I realized that I too have heard these questions, and have really not known how to answer them from a biblical understanding. The commentary and articles are written by a group of over 90 leading apologists (IE: Ravi Zacharias, Lee Strobel, Chuck Colson, etc). I know today that many of us that call ourselves "Christians" probably have several copies of the Bible, but I do think this Bible would be a great addition because it can teach us how to defend our faith better. I think that in and of itself, would be a good reason to add this Bible to your resources. On the other end of the spectrum, I think this Bible would be a great resource for those that do not call themselves "Christians", but are searching to find out if the Bible is true.

B& H Blogger Review: Absolute Surrender

My latest review from B&H Blogger is of the book, "Absolute Surrender" by Andrew Murray. B&H gave me a complimentary copy and I in turn agreed to write this unbiased review. Absolute Surrender is one of the great Christian Classics written in the early 1900's. I absolutely love the Classics as they are rich with theological truth and based on sound doctrine. Absolute Surrender was written by Andrew Murray, and this edition has been updated to include bible study questions, personal reflection questions, and prayers based on each chapter. I highly recommend this book, and would say that it can be life changing. I have seen many 5 star reviews on this book, as well as people calling this book life-altering. I totally agree. The book in and of itself is not life changing, but the Scriptures the author based his writings on are life changing. I have been a Christian for 30 plus years, and as I read this book, I felt like I had a better understanding of some of the Scriptures I have read a hundred times over. The book is easy to read, but yet one could spend a lifetime applying the Biblical truths from this book. I was amazed how a book originally written in the early 1900's could be applied to the situations of today. AMAZED! I felt challenged and convicted as I read this book. I cannot wait to study the Scriptures from this book more, and learn how to truly surrender all to God, so I can live a different way. Add this book to your Christian library.

Book Review: Do Your Children Believe?

      I love the question from the title of Terence Chatmon's book, "Do Your Children Believe?".   I actually picked up the book in my local bookstore, and put it back because I figured it was for parents of young children.  I was wrong.  It wasn't until I heard Terence Chatmon being interviewed on FamilyLife Radio that I decided I wanted this book.  I was so excited that BookLook Bloggers made it available to me (complimentary) in exchange for this review.

   Basically, the book's main purpose is to challenge all parents, single or married, to become intentional about developing their family's spiritual legacy.  I don't think most parents even think this way, not so much because they don't care, but because they don't feel they know how to accomplish such a task.  As stated before, this book is for parents of young children, as well as, parents of teenagers and even young adults.

  I was hooked from the first chapter of the book, as the author explains the story about how he and his wife came to the conclusion that their children were not equipped to defend their faith in an ever increasing world that can be hostile to those that call themselves Christians.  Mr. Chatmon goes on to tell the story about how his wife challenged him to be the spiritual leader of his house and come up with a plan to lead his children.  Together, they came up with a plan to build a spiritual legacy that would continue with their children long after their children would leave home.

  I think what I love most about this book is that it gives you ideas about how to come up with a plan to strengthen your family's faith, and build a legacy that will last a lifetime. At the same time,  Mr. Chatmon realizes that all families are different and not "cookie cutter".  He encourages parents to come up with their own plans that will work for their families.  I love that!

 My husband and I are reading this book together, and will be utilizing some of the suggestions from Mr. Chatmon's book.  I have been so encouraged by reading this book.  I highly recommend this book for anyone who is responsible for developing and encouraging the faith of someone else.

Book Review: This Is Our Time

  My latest review is of a book from Trevin Wax, titled "This Is Our Time (Everyday Myths in Light of the Gospel)".  I received a complimentary copy of this book from B&H Publishing Group, and in turn agreed to write this non-biased review.

   Trevin Wax is the Bible and Reference Publisher for Lifeway Christian Resources.  He hosts a blog at the Gospel Coalition and has been a regular contributor to The Washington Post and Christianity Today.  In this book, Trevin analyzes our current "American Life" in order to help Christians recognize the myths of society that we may be believing.  His main goal is for us to see the world through the lens of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

  Trevin discusses topics, such as, our smartphone habits, entertainment intake, shopping, sex, marriage, politics and life's purpose.  These are some hot button topics, and I was a little nervous to read them as I was sure I would find myself convicted about my own practices and habits.
  Why did he have to start with the smartphone? Ouch!

 I think one thing I learned from reading this book is that as a Christian I too fall prey to the world's ideology, and see things through what society says is OK, and not through what Jesus says about the world.  Yes, as Christians we live in the world, but we don't have to accept and go along with what society says is OK.  There is a better way, and that is to know the Bible, and live the way Jesus called us to live.

 I especially was challenged and loved the chapter about  marriage.  This is not an easy topic to discuss, and I felt like Trevin did a wonderful job reminding us of what marriage is from God's perspective.

  I do feel like this book is more targeted to those whom identify themselves are Christians. This book is definitely a wake-up call to the Church (Christians) to see the world through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

 

Booklook Bloggers Review: A Spectacle of Glory Devotional

 This review will be simple, sweet and short.  Booklook Bloggers sent me a new devotional by Joni Eareckson Tada (written with Larry Libby), titled "A Spectacle of Glory".  I could not think of a person better suited to write a devotion about God's Glory.  In my opinion, Joni Eareckson Tada's life is one totally lived for God's Glory everyday of her life.  No, she is not perfect, but she strives to live her life for God's purposes and His Great Glory amidst pain, suffering, peace, contentment and joy.

    "A Spectacle of Glory" is a devotional for every day of the year.  It is set up so that you will read a bible verse(s) each day.  After you look up and read the verse, you then will read a paragraph or two written by Joni about the specific bible verse.  Joni ends her devotion with a simple two to three sentence prayer that the reader can pray.

    It only takes a few minutes a day to read the devotion, and it is packed with good theological content.  Joni has written in a way that helps readers focus on honoring and glorifying God.  She too writes in a way that readers will easily understand.  I think this devotional would be perfect for all
ages and stages of life.

 Booklook Blogger sent me this complimentary copy to review, and I in turn agreed to write this review.

Book Review: "You Carried Me"

I received a complimentary copy of the book, "You Carried Me (a daughter's memoir)" and was asked to write an unbiased review.  Melissa Ohden is the author of this memoir. "You Carried Me" is a powerful story of love and forgiveness.  At age 14, Melissa learns she is a survivor of a botched abortion, and in her book she shares how that truth shaped her life.

  First, this book is an easy read.  I read it in two sittings over a two day period.  One reason it is an easy read is that the story is so compelling...you want to find out how Melissa' story turns out.  Melissa is very open and shares extremely difficult parts of her life in her book.  As a reader you get to go on a journey with her to discover the back story of why her biological family wanted to have her aborted.  It it intense and heartbreaking, but filled with so much redemption.

 As a woman of faith myself, I wasn't surprised that Melissa's faith in God played a major role in how she allowed her story to be used for good purposes.  My favorite part of the book is at the end, when after many years Melissa gets to meet her birth mother.  I will not share what happens, but it is worth purchasing the book to find out.

Thank you handlebar Publishing for sending me this book.

BookLook Blog Review: Saving the Saved

  I was super excited to get this book from BookLook Bloggers to review this time around.  BookLook Bloggers gave me this book complimentary, and I in turn agreed to write this unbiased review.

 The book's title is "Saving the Saved (How Jesus saves us from try-harder Christianity into performance-free love)".   What an unusual title, but it struck to the heart of how I have felt for most of my Christian life.  The book was written by Bryan Loritts, a pastor himself.  Not to mention (and Bryan barely does talk about this) he is the son of  well known pastor, Crawford Loritts.   If Bryan Loritts has felt like he had to perform to earn Jesus' love, then I guess I am not the only one.  Actually, there are way too many of us out there to count.

   I am not going to write a chapter by chapter review of this book, but I want to say that it is one of the best books I have read in a long time.  After reading this book,  I feel like things will be different.  Not necessarily because I learned something new, but I was reminded once again that Jesus' saving of my soul is not based on one good thing I ever did or can do in the future.  I grew up in the church and I know it is not my works that earn my way into Heaven, but sadly that is the mindset I have had for most, practically all of my Christian life.

    I felt like Bryan interviewed me for this book.  I have felt so many of the same things that he has felt.  Bryan also shares stories of others who have tried to perform to earn God's love and grace.   Bryan points the reader to the truth of God's Word, and once again reminds those that call themselves Christ followers that we need to accept the truth that Jesus does all the saving of our souls.

  Again, I know this is not my typical review of sharing a lot of what is in the book, but more a plea for you to buy this book if this is at all something you understand.   You will not be disappointed!