Book Review: The Cow Said Neigh!

 My latest review is of the book, "The Cow Said Neigh! A Farm Story", written by Rory Feek.  This review will be short and sweet.  I love this delightful book!

 The illustrations in this book are absolutely beautiful!  They are so colorful and pleasing to the eye.  Children will be captivated by the pictures, and what child doesn't love to look at animals?  I think my favorite thing about the book is how fun it is to read out loud.  It is a rhyming book, and the words just roll off your tongue.

 I am a preschool teacher, and my class would love this book.  I actually plan on reading it during our Farm theme week.  The story is about a farm full of animals that decide they would rather be different animals.  So the cow, thinks the horse has it better and he decides to be a horse too.  The end of the story ends up with the Farmer joining in on the fun.  Such a silly story!

 I recommend this book for teachers and parents of young children.  Toddler and preschool age children will love this story.  Thank you BookLook Bloggers for the free copy of this book (I agreed to write this review in trade).

Book Review: God Bless You and Good Night

 My latest review is of the book, God Bless You & Good Night (a touch and feel book).  I received a complimentary book from BookLook Bloggers, and in turn agreed to write this unbiased review.  I do not have little children at this stage, but I am a Preschool teacher and wanted to read this book to my class. 

 The board book is adorable and super colorful.  The book is about 9 different animal families, and their routines before they go to bed.  On every page, there is touch element for the kids to feel.  Basically, the book is about how kids get ready to go to bed, and all the special things they do before they go to sleep.  From getting a snack, to saying nighttime prayers. 

 This book would be wonderful to read to a young child before they go to bed.  The child could go through the same routines that the animals perform.  I would definitely recommend this book to parents of young children, 5 and under.  Thank you BookLook Bloggers!

Book Review: God's Blessings Day by Day

BookLook Bloggers sent me a complimentary copy of God's Blessings Day by Day Devotional, and I in turn agreed to write this review.  It is a 52 week (daily) devotional for young children. I feel it would be good for Preschool age children to about age 10 (although younger and older children may enjoy reading it as well).  Tommy Nelson publishing released it, and it is a collaboration of devotions from pastors, children ministers, and other church leaders.

 The book is adorably illustrated with the cutest little animals on every other page.  Children will be drawn to the pictures in the book. However, I think the parent, or whomever is reading the devotion with the child will love that the devotions are short and to the point.  Each devotional contains a bible verse, short devotion, a prayer, and a take-away point.  In today's world it is hard to hold the attention of children for a long time, and this devotion can easily be done in 5 mins or less.  In saying that, a parent (or another adult) could easily expand on this devotional for as long as they wish.

 This is definitely a resource that can be used over and over, as the lessons and topics covered in the devotional are ones that children (and adults) need to hear repeatedly. I would recommend this devotional to parents of young children.  I love that it was written from pastors and ministers that work with children.

Book Review: I Can't Believe You Just Said That!

BookLook bloggers sent me a copy of "I Can't Believe You Just Said That!" by Ginger Hubbard.  I in turn agreed to write this review. 

 I love this book!  Ginger Hubbard is a sought after speaker and author.  I actually read one of her books when my children were younger.  I love the principles that are presented in her newest book, "I Can't Believe You Just Said That!".   As a parent, I think I have said or thought that same line when my children blurted something inappropriate or selfish out loud.  Ginger explains, that as parents we need to reach a child's heart, not just get them to perform the right action.

  This book is written from a Christian perspective, with an emphasis of reaching a child's heart with Scripture.  The behaviors that are discussed in this book are, whining, lying, manipulating, teasing, bragging, arguing, interrupting, bickering, as well as other inappropriate behaviors.  Ginger devotes a chapter to each misbehavior.

 (For ease, I am using the words "Good" and "Bad" to describe behaviors)
 Ginger gives examples of bad behaviors, and then gives examples of "heart-probing" questions to ask your child when he/she misbehaves.  She finishes up with what she calls (taken from the Bible) "put on" behaviors.  Most parents will use discipline to stop the child's bad behavior, but they don't help the child replace it with a good behavior.  Ginger uses Scripture to show parents how to help their children replace "bad" behaviors with good ones.

  I so wish I would have followed these principles when my children were younger.  I believe that the plan laid out in this book is a great one to reach a child's heart, and help them accept responsibility for his/her behaviors.  As a Christian, I love that Ginger's approach is based on the Bible.   I highly recommend this book, especially for parents of younger children. 

Book Review: Live Fearless (A Call to Power, Passion and Purpose)

My most recent review is of Sadie Robertson's new book, Live Fearless.  Sadie is the daughter of well know Duck Dynasty star Willie Robertson and his wife.  Duck Dynasty launched Sadie into the public spotlight, but she also gained recognition through her "Dancing with the Stars" stint.  Sadie is an author, actress, and speaker.  I received this book from BookLook Bloggers and in turn am writing this review.

    Live Fearless is geared more toward an audience of preteen through young adulthood years.  However, I am in my 40's and I loved it!!! I read through it in about a day.  I would say the book definitely deals with the topic of overcoming Fear (and anxiety), but it goes deeper and talks about the attitude of living fearlessly with God's help.  However, someone that doesn't deal with the issue of fear would love this book as well.

  I love that Sadie shares personal stories about different life situations, and she oevrcame them with the help of God, and her family.  I didn't really know much about Sadie Robertson until I read this book.  I gladly recommend this book without hesitation to all women, especially teens and young adult women. This book is a must read!!!

  This book is set up like a study that you can work through to overcome fear, in whatever form that takes in your life.  Sadie has included features in which you will do some personal reflection  (IE: Here's a Question, Here's a Challenge, Here's Some Encouragement, Take Note and Work the Word-working you through Scripture). 

 Buy this book for the young women in your life, but read it first :)

Book Review: Stronger than the Struggle

My most recent review is of the book, "Stronger than the Struggle" written by Havilah Cunnington. BookLook Bloggers gave me a complimentary copy of this book, and I agreed to write this unbiased review. This review will be shorter than my typical reviews, because I am cautious to fully endorse authors that I do not know well (not personally). After reading the book, I think that the author and I have some different theological viewpoints. So, as with any book that you read, it is always a good practice to know what the author believes. "Stronger than the Struggle" is a book about fighting spiritual warfare. The author lays out uncomplicated and practical ways that Christians (believers) can "fight" their spiritual battles. I did like the way she shares many personal stories from her own life, and how she gave examples of fighting her own spiritual battles. I did not see any glaring biblical untruths, but I think we may have differences in our belief system (at this point I do not think they are foundational truths). There were many things I liked about what Havilah taught in this book. However, until I can do more research about her beliefs and teachings, I am cautious to fully endorse. It is always a good idea to read every book with caution, and make sure that the author lines up with biblical teaching. In the future, after doing some research about this author, I may come back and edit this review. In my life, I know Christians do not always line up with how they interpret Scripture. I have friends on both sides of some issues. However, Christians need to line up with the truth of who God is. Who Jesus is. The Gospel. There cannot be any compromise on those Truths.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Review: NKJV Study Bible

   

Book Look Bloggers sent me a complimentary copy of the NKJV  (New King James Version) Study Bible (Signature Series) and I in turn agreed to review it.

  First of all, I think this bible is beautiful.  I absolutely love the colors! The two tone, blue and turquoise colors look so great together.  The pages are lined in silver and make this bible look very expensive.  The picture above doesn't do it justice.

    My favorite feature of this bible is the study notes.  There are over 15,000, verse by verse notes included.  When I am wanting to go deeper and learn more about the content and context of the bible, I prefer a study bible.  I am used to reading my NIV (New International Version) version, so I was excited to add the NKJV to my collection.  When I do my personal bible study and readings, I like to compare the different versions of the bible.

   Some of the features included in this bible are Word studies with Strong's numbers, In-texts maps and charts, book introductions, timelines, outlines, Thomas Nelson's complete cross reference system, and many more.  One of the features of this bible is a chart that list the prophecies of Messiah that are fulfilled in Jesus Christ.  I love when you are able to tie the Old and New Testament together.  Sharing prophetic fulfillment is a powerful tool one can share with those that don't know about Jesus, and it will strengthen the faith of those that do know Jesus as Savior.

   I highly recommend this bible to anyone that is wanting a NKJV. On the cover, it is labeled as the most comprehensive study bible available, and I totally agree!  This bible is so beautiful and has so many helpful features to study the bible with that I may have to gift it to someone.  Thank you Book Look Bloggers!

How to Live in Fear BookLook Blogger Review

 I jumped at the chance to get my latest book for review, How to Live in Fear by Lance Hahn.  Why you ask?  I know you really didn't ask why, but I shall tell you anyway.  Fear has been something I have struggled with since I was a child.  My early memories are often ones of fear and worrisome, anxious thinking.  So, the title about how to live in fear got my attention right away.

  How to Live in Fear was written by Lance Hahn, the senior pastor of Bridgeway Christian Church in Roseville, California.  Lance also struggled with a severe anxiety disorder during his childhood, and he continues to battle the disorder today.  Lance's goal in writing this book is to let those that suffer with fear and anxiety know they are not alone in this battle.  He offers hope that with God people can overcome and deal with their fear and anxiety.  He offers practical insights and concrete methods to fight fear and anxiety.  Lance can offer hope because he has been in the fight and come out on the other side.

  As I read this book, I felt like Lance had insight into my soul and the way I think.  Many people do not understand  how crippling fear can be, but Lance does because he lived it...he lives it.  He shares many personal stories about his anxiety and how he works through it.  As a Christian woman, I appreciate the many examples of how God helped him through his battle with fear.

  To keep this review short, I will wrap up by saying this is one of the best books I have read about fear and anxiety.  I highly recommend this book to those that deal with fear, and to those that know someone who is dealing with fear.  It is a quick and easy read because you will not want to put it down.

I received this book from BookLook Bloggers, and in turn agreed to write this review.  Thank you BookLook Bloggers!

BookLook Bloggers Review: The Comeback

     My latest review is of the book, The Comeback by Louie Giglio.  I received this book complimentary from BookLook Bloggers, and in turn am writing this review.

   First of all, I was drawn to the book because Louie wrote it.  I have come to really like Louie Giglio after watching him preach at the Passion conferences. I too heard him on a TV program, and he was being interviewed about this book, The Comeback.  He shared a story about his struggle with anxiety for a season in his life, and I wanted to read more about it in his book.  Louie does share about his season of suffering from anxiety and panic in his book, but The Comeback is about so much more.

    On the back cover of the book, it reads, "God is the God of the Comeback, and God is creating a Comeback especially for you".  Louie shares how God offers everyone a chance for a "Comeback" no matter how many mistakes he/she has made.  I think in today's culture that is a message that people are dying to hear.

   Louie's book is a combination of personal testimonies (his included) and examples of biblical characters that have had a "Comeback".  Some of his examples from the bible included the stories of Joseph, Peter, Lazarus, Mary and Martha.  Louie writes in such a way that helps the reader to understand the details of how these biblical characters had failures and disappointments, but God offered them a chance to have a Comeback.  You will be encouraged in your own life that God can offer you a chance to comeback after you have failed.

  This book is an easy read and is loaded with helpful, biblical insight.  I think anyone would benefit from reading this book as it was a very encouraging read.  Thank you BookLook Bloggers for giving me this book.

 

 

The Word of Promise New Testament (Audiobook) Review

 My latest review is of the "Word of Promise New Testament (Audiobook) in the NKJV translation.  I received the product complimentary from Book Look Bloggers, and in turn I agreed to write this unbiased review.  I love this resource and I give the highest rating I can...5 out of 5 stars.

 Why do I love it so much?  The first reason is that it helps the Bible come to life.  This resource doesn't replace reading the bible, but offers another way for people to engage with the Bible.  This audiobook is not just one actor reading the New Testament word for word, but a scripted dramatization of the NKJV bible.  One of the things that sets this resource apart is that it features a star-studded cast of actors.  Some of the actors featured are Jim Caviezel (actor from Passion of the Christ) as Jesus, Stacy Keach as Paul, Louis Gossett Jr. as John, and many others.

  Another reason I love this resource is the beautiful music and realistic sound effects that are in the background as you listen to the bible being read (acted out).  It truly helps to connect you to what was going on at the time.  I love to listen to the "Word of Promise NT" in my car.  It is great for those times when I am in the car for longer periods of time.  It would be awesome to listen to these CDS in the car on a road trip.

 This resource is great for all ages and stages of life.  I highly recommend this resource, and it is well worth the price to own it.  Thank you Book Look Bloggers for giving it to me to review.

 

"Anything" (Jennie Allen) Book Review for BookLook Bloggers

   I was super excited to read Jennie Allen's newest book, "Anything".  Actually, it is an updated edition of her original book, "Anything",  with a brand new bible study included in the book.  I LOVE IT!   I was introduced to Jennie Allen about 4 years ago when I was given her first bible study, "Stuck".  Immediately,  I fell in love with her teaching style, and her contagious passion for Jesus.

 "Anything" (The Prayer that Unlocked my God and My Soul) tells the story of  what happened after Jennie and her husband prayed a simple, but courageous prayer, "God, we will do anything. Anything".    Jennie shares that the next morning she got up to her normal everyday routine, but she knew that something radical had changed in her heart.  She was totally surrendered, to God and would be willing to say yes to God's Will for her life whatever the cost.

  One of Jennie's passions is to equip and encourage the body of Christ to live a surrendered life to Jesus.  He is real, and He deserves our everything.  I don't want to share too many details about the book, because it is such a precious gem, and I don't want to spoil any of it for you through this review.  However, I will say that this book although easy to read, is not an easy read.  I believe God can use Jennie's book to awaken the soul of Christians to live surrendered lives. Courageous lives. Lives that will count for eternity's sake.

  The beauty of this little book is that it is also a bible study, and Jennie created teaching videos that to complement the book.  I cannot say enough good about this book, so go right away and purchase it, and gather a few of your friends to go through the book and bible study with you :)

Thank you BookLook Bloggers for giving me a complimentary copy of this book to review.

BookLook Bloggers: Henry Hodges Needs a Friend

 My latest review is of the book, "Henry Hodges Needs a Friend" written by New York Times Bestselling Author, Andy Andrews.  I do not normally review children's books, but the preschool teacher in me couldn't pass up the chance.  BookLook Bloggers sent me a complimentary copy, and I in turn agreed to write this review.

  First of all, I have to say that the book is beautiful.  The illustrations were done by Colleen Madden and they are just perfect for this book.  I love color, and this book is filled with all the colors of the rainbow.  I love the little details that Colleen adds to each page as it helps to tell the story of "Henry" and his search for his perfect friend.

  Andy Andrews tells the story of a lonely little boy, named Henry Hodges, and how his parents are going to find him a one of a kind friend (pet),  Henry imagines what kind of pet would be perfect for him.  A few examples of Henry's friends are a joke-telling beaver, a goldfish with antlers, and a cat that barks.  Again, you will love the illustrations of the animals that Henry imagines might be his perfect friend.

  I also love that the story is written with rhyming words on every page.  It reminds me of a Dr. Suess book, which I always find so enjoyable to read aloud.  This book is appropriate for younger children as it doesn't have a large amount of text, as well as for your young readers.  I highly recommend this book, and I hope to read it to my preschoolers very soon.

BookLook Bloggers Review: Every Bitter Thing is Sweet

   I was very excited to read the latest book I received from BookLook Bloggers. The book is titled,  Every Bitter Thing is Sweet, and it was written by a new author, Sara Hagerty.  Sara is well known in blog circles, but this is her first book.  After seeing that Katie Davis, Jennie Allen, Dee Brestin, and Jen Hatmaker were some of the women that wrote endorsements for the book I knew that I definitely wanted to read this book.

     I loved this book, and would recommend it to anyone, especially those that are going through challenging and difficult circumstances.  Sara talks openly and candidly about her difficult journey through prolonged infertility.  She shares her pain in such a way that you feel like you are looking deep into her soul, and I am sure that many readers will shed tears right along with Sara.

   My favorite part of this book is how Sara draws her readers into her story, and we get to see how her relationship with her God develops.  After reading Sara's story,  I realize that there is a deeper relationship with God that is available to His children.   Sara came to know God in a deeper way through the pain and trials in her life. Through her story, I see that if I turn to God in my pain instead of running away, there is a connection with God that is beyond anything I could imagine.

    Sara also writes about her marriage and the growth that she and her husband went through, individually and together, in regards to their relationship with God.  She is very vulnerable and shares stories from the deepest part of her heart.  I have been through similar circumstances in my own marriage, and it was encouraging to read how the Lord worked in Sara's marriage as well.

   A good portion of the book is dedicated to telling the story of how Sara and her husband adopted 4 children (not all at the same time) from other countries.  Outside of reading about how Sara's relationship with God grew deeper, I loved hearing the stories about how she adopted her children, and the many miracles that God performed in bringing her children home to her family.  Sara openly shares the joys and the heartaches that adoption brought to her family.   Again, readers will probably want to celebrate and cry right along with her as she shares special stories about her children.

   I could go on and on about how good this book is, but it is best if you pick up a copy of this book today and read it.  You will love it and want to pass it on (I already gave my book away).  

BookLook Bloggers gave me a complimentary copy of this book, and I in turn agreed to write this review.

BookLook Bloggers Review: Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary

    My latest review is of the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary (New and Enhanced Edition).  I received a complimentary copy of this dictionary from the Book Look Bloggers, and in turn I agreed to write this review.  I have never owned a bible dictionary, so I was very happy to review this resource.  I wanted a Bible dictionary to add to my tools for personal bible study.

    On the back cover of the dictionary, it states that it is the "most comprehensive one-volume bible dictionary available".  If the weight of the dictionary has anything to do with it, I totally would agree :).  This dictionary is jammed pack with wonderful information and special features.   It includes over 500 full color photographs about specific Bible subjects, and also includes many different charts, maps, tables and a Visual Survey of the Bible.  I like that this resource includes outlines of each book of the Bible that will help me as I do my own personal bible study.

 (Taken from back cover) This Dictionary contains over 7,000 individual entries on the people, places, things, and doctrines of the Bible.   This resource is a great tool for individuals, and any kind of teachers of the Bible.  I too love the alphabetical thumb index that is in this dictionary, as it makes it easy for me to find the definitions of the words.

    I would totally recommend this resource for anyone that is looking to do a deeper study of the Bible, as it will enhance and aid his/her learning.  Thank you Book Look Bloggers for this wonderful resource.

Book Look Blogger Review: Move On (When Mercy Meets your Mess)

  My latest review is of the book Move On (When Mercy Meets Your Mess) written by Vicki Courtney.    Vicki is a national speaker to women and a best-selling author of  several books and bible studies (Ever After and 5 Conversations You Must Have with Your Daughter/Son).   I have known about Vicki for years, and have read her books and completed one of her bible studies as well.   I love how she writes and I have learned many things from her bible studies through the years.  I was aware that her new book was going to be released and so when it became available to me through Book Look Bloggers I jumped at the opportunity to review it.

 In my opinion, Move On is Vicki's best book of all the ones she has written.   Vicki has always been open and authentic in her previous books, but even more so in Move On.  She is vulnerable and honest in a way that draws a reader in from the very first pages of the book.  Vicki shares about an experience with her oldest son that will make you connect with her instantly.  As she recounts the story there is no pretense or pretending, Vicki just lays it out there for her reader to experience with her.  As her title states, God's Mercy met her mess, and God's Mercy will meet us in our life's messes too.

  Vicki pulls no punches in this book, but goes right to the heart of the matter.  She challenges her readers to quit pretending and putting on a facade that all is perfect and right in their lives because they are Christians.  We need to stop being hypocritical and fake,  and start getting real with each other.

 Vicki writes chapters about the need for approval, struggles, broken dreams, shame, legalism (GREAT CHAPTER HERE), Christian snobbery, and idols.   As stated above, I believe this is Vicki's best book yet.   I will end with a quote from the back of the book, "Once we face our messes, God, wit his sweet mercy, can help us get real, deal, and truly move on.  Then with Mercy by our side, we are able to break free and experience the grace and freedom God intends."  Perfectly stated.

I received this book complimentary from Book Look Blogger and I in turn agreed to write this review.