As Silver Refined

What Can You Do When Life Doesn’t Turn Out Like You Planned?

How do you respond when your husband or wife tramples your emotions?  When your boss fires you unexpectedly?  When you lose your life’s savings?  When the child you’ve loved and prayed for turns his back on you and your values?

When disappointments like these smash their way into your life, you may want to scream, “How could God let this happen?”

But what if God didn’t just “let it happen”?  What if the things you call disappointments are really His appointments—events He is using to make you more like Christ?  What if your circumstances are actually the flames of His grace, intended to melt and burn away the undesirable elements in your life, leaving you pure and radiant—like refined silver?

You can be defeated by life’s unavoidable disappointments, or you can become stronger because of them.

Life’s disappointments can send you on a dangerous downward spiral into discouragement, depression, or even despair.  But in this eye-opening book, Kay Arthur guides you to biblical truths that will help you break that cycle and instead embrace disappointment as the cleansing fire God uses to make you—as silver refined—a reflection of His goodness.

In As Silver Refined, Kay Arthur tackles one of the most difficult topics for both new and maturing Christians: disappointments and the seeming contradictory nature of a loving God and the reality of pain.

The book begins with a description of the works of a Silver Smith. He is patient and thorough in removing all the impurities from his silver.  The heat causes the impurities to rise to surface to be removed by the Silver Smith. Arthur did an incredible job at describing the process of refining silver. You quickly realize the way it parallels to our lives with Christ.  Arthur goes on to list five Deadly D's: disappointment, discouragement, dejection, despair, and demoralization.  Through the book, Arthur shows how easy it is to spiral down from disappointment to demoralization if disappointment is not dealt with correctly. Disappointments happen. It's how we handle the heat that matters. She says that we need to look at disappointments as God's appointments. By removing the "D" from disappointment and replacing it with an "H", you change "disappointment" to "His appointment". As the heat increases, God is refining His people by removing their impurities. Fire is required to release the impurities in silver and in the lives of Christians. 

The book has goes into depth on several themes, however the two I most enjoyed were several chapters on meekness followed with a genuine look at what God’s sovereignty really means. Meekness is often coupled with humility and may be seen as being passive or weak   “The opposite of meekness is not strength but rather lack of control, an untamed and unbroken wildness,” Arthur writes. Because meekness is a fruit of the spirit, to be meek is to respond in the spirit. If we’re not acting in meekness, we’re reacting in the flesh. To be meek is to act, not re-act.

If you’ve experienced more of your fair share of pain in life, this book will help locate your struggles in the bigger picture of God’s plan. It is healing, empowering and inspirational.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

It Is Well With My Soul

This is an excellent devotional directed at those who are hurting or going through some trouble in their lives.   This is an essential book for those who are looking for some encouragement in their lives.  By going through this devotional, they can see how God is working through their lives.  Sometimes God uses trials to help us grow, and I feel that this book can help us through those moments in time.  We will be reminded that disappointments will turn into “His appointments” depending on how we look at the situation around us.  That is where this devotional comes into the picture.  It will help keep us in God’s word, as well as showing us that we can beat Satan’s big D’s; such as devastation, doubt, denial. 

This devotional also helps one deal with anger, and the times when God will be stretching us.  I’m sure that all of us have gone through times when we have been “stretched.    There have been times when we have all had to deal with anger in some form or another, a time when we have felt wronged by someone; this devotional will help us see how to deal with those times.

I highly recommend this book, and it will be a staple on my book shelf that will be read and reread.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Ministering to Your Minister

In this book by Mr. Overdorf, he tells us that our ministers need our support; not just financially, but through words and acts of encouragement. He proceeds to tell various stories he has himself encountered or heard. And also relates a lot of those to the Bible and how various prophets and apostles usually would have a person in their corner ready to help face this world as an encourager of the faith.

We hear the word minister, and will often think that it is the job of one person, the pastor. While it is true that the pastor is supposed to minister, we have that responsibility, too. In fact, we need to minister to the minister.

The minister of your church needs your love and support.   This means  he can perform his duties better if he knows we have his back. The author was trying to express in several of the stories contained within the pages of this useful resource that it really helps to have encouragement from those around you.

Throughout the book, ways to minister are giving, including giving examples and anecdotes from pastors who received the love of church members. Many of the ideas are simple, from dropping them a card, to treating them to lunch. It doesn’t take much to show someone you love them.

He goes through eight affirmations that need to be shown to pastors and staff, whether they are coming in, have been there, or are leaving. They essentially show that you support them in their work, and include, among others,  standing behind them, respecting them, and showing that you care about what they are doing.

Though written somewhat specifically about pastors,  Daniel Overdorf also says that the information in the book can be applied to any church staff .

Overall, the book is very helpful, and a needed reminder of something that church members need to do regularly.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Disciples Guidebook

Chance’s step-by-step introduction to biblical scripture breaks down confusing, theoretical concepts—like righteousness and faith—into friendly, interpretable bits.

She reveals very early how Jesus intended for the parables to be used — as a guide to understanding his deep spiritual teachings. Small parables are shown to have been translated word-for-word by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. This “key” is then used to understand the larger more substantial parables and eventually the overall meaning of his message.

In this short, introduction to the innermost texts in Christianity, Chance offers counsel and personal interpretations of applicable passages. Understanding that the messages of the Old and New Testament require an understanding of language’s flexibility, Chance is skillful at of significant moments in the Bible. Divided into seven sections—with names like “The Armor of God” and expositional teaching.  “The Helmet of Salvation”—Chance’s guide offers advice to aid not only first-time readers of the Bible but also seasoned bible students seeking a practical approach to implement the holy book’s teachings. To this end, the book is extensive with illustrations and quickly understood lists summarizing key points and useful tips to help set in biblical teachings into readers’ daily lives. Though the author remains committed to Christian doctrine, she also offers her own moral beliefs alongside quoted excerpts, providing an additional level of analysis to the topics she discusses. Chance’s relatively slim title may only be useful to readers looking for a quick, straightforward version of a religious self-help text. Still, the book’s obedience to scripture—and extensive citations of it—will please devout Christians as well as believers looking for new interpretations. Believers and nonbelievers alike will appreciate this light, modern-day approach to understanding the Bible.

About The Author:

A. Victoria Chance is a resident of Norfolk, Virginia. She enjoys the coastal climate and loves seeing dolphins and ducks in her backyard. Victoria recently moved from Washington, DC, where she finished her internal medicine residency training. As a physician, she encourages everyone to live a pure and healthy life. As a Christian writer, she encourages everyone to fulfill their spiritual purpose.

The Bible Handbook of Difficult Verses.

This handbook would be a great tool for the student , teacher or a person doing a serious study of the Bible. 

While I think that Josh McDowell is a great apologist, this handbook leaves me a bit disappointed.  He handles a lot of the difficult verses really well,  but I do disagree on a few points that he makes.  One is with the head covering issue, and the issue of women teaching in the church is another.   I do like how he deals with the submission in Ephesians chapter 5.

I would certainly recommend that you use this book along with any other commentaries out there while doing your studies.  It is always good to have more than one opinion, and then pray to find the meaning yourself.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

What A Son Needs From His Mom

This is a great book for mothers with sons of all ages.  Cheri Fuller helps guide us and show us how positive reinforcement, encouragement, prayer and letting go of our fears can help grow our boys into confident men.

 Mothers want to know what makes their sons tick and how to be a welcome influence in their lives. And unlike many other books about raising boys, this warm and trustworthy resource is from a mom's perspective.

Through persuasive true stories and solid principles, this book offers a design for what sons need from their moms to become healthy, caring, confident young men. With specific advice for boys' different ages, moms will learn the balance between controlling and letting go, how to develop their son's unique masculinity, how to encourage a lasting relationship with God, and much more.

I highly recommend this book for all mothers to read.

 I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Language of Blessing

This book is definitely going to be a blessing for any reader. It goes into detail about how one can go about finding their true gift and how they are a blessing.  However,t it really does  show a person how they can be a bigger blessing to someone else in their life.

God put each of us on this earth for a distinct reason. Wouldn't it make sense for us to find out each of our own God-given talents and gifts so we can use them for God's purpose? There is no one else in the world like us. God created each one of us so unique with gifts, talents, characteristics and attributes that there can be no other like us!

Too often as parents we focus on the negative instead of the positive.

We want to be careful how we hinder with the gifts and talents God has given our children. Demeaning comments or lack of praise may keep a child from pursuing their God-given talents.   We must demonstrate patience as your child takes time to learn things and praise their success.

Cavanaugh is also quick to note that while we should praise a child for his accomplishments, attributes and talents, we should not over-inflate our child's ego.

Included at the end of each chapter is an "Application Activity" to help gain a better understanding of your God-given talents and abilities.

I found this book to be greatly beneficial and interesting! I would rate it as 5 stars.

Disclosure: I was provided this book to review through Tyndale Publishing. It in no way affected my opinion of this book.

It's Just You and Me Lord

This book, It’s Just You and Me, Lord, takes you through a myriad of situations that could occur in anyone’s life. It is a great book for staying emotionally and personally connected with our Father; the prayers inside show you how to talk to God with a new perspective and see how He is waiting there to help you.

Marion offers heartfelt prayers to inspire and encourage us as women, no matter where we are in life’s journey.  As you can see from those eight areas of our lives, she addresses common issues through her practical prayers;  the scriptures and quotes she uses. 

I am confident that this book will strengthen you in your faith,  and your connection with God.

 I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Spiritual Simplicity

The central theme of the book is God’s love and how this translates into living a focused and simple life.  He writes “whatever you’re doing with your time and your life, you’re wasting it if you are not loving people.” Then he explains how God’s love moves through us into others.

The book is based on scripture and uses many examples of how God reveals His love to us. God interacts in love, and God is love. When we identify and focus on this using the methods detailed in the book, we find a life fixed in simplicity.

"Spiritual simplicity will be achieved by doing less because we love more." Over the next eight chapters --- all bearing titles of popular love songs --- he expands on that one idea in innumerable ways by explaining what it means to truly love others and showing the power that loving others can have on your own life.

Ingram treats the word "love" as a verb, and an active verb at that. Early on, he makes it clear that throughout the book, his use of the word "love" is identical with "God's love" and bears little similarity to the way the word is used in casual conversation or a romantic situation. The kind of love Ingram describes is a gutsy, courageous and insistent act based on a decision of the will. Ingram wraps it all up with a chapter titled "Love Train (Get on Board)” Here, Ingram transforms the image into a picture of God's "love train," which has moved throughout history to bring life and love to the people of the world. He extends the symbol to illustrate how getting on board this train can't help but simplify your life.

Spiritual Simplicity is a must read for everyone.  It will help us rethink why we do things, and to think more of others.   I also recommend the Small Group study, with the DVD.  This will make a great Bible Study and Small group series.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Great House of God

The back cover reads, “God’s greatest desire is to be your dwelling place – The Home For Your Heart. He doesn't want to be merely a weekend getaway. He has no interest in being a Sunday bungalow or even a summer cottage. He wants to be your mailing address, your point of reference, your home…always. He wants you to live in the Great House of God.” Mr. Lucado starts with the fact that we are adopted by God, he is our adoptive father, and will not abandon us whatsoever. Then in Chapter 3 we move on to faith, and how we can trust God. Max breaks down the Lord’s Prayer into detail, using it as a guide to God's House. We are not talking about an earthly house but His house, living within Him! It really is amazing how Max Lucado takes you right through the front door to explore the whole house and even up to the roof, to see how God has built it specifically for you. I really enjoyed this book, especially the chapter “The Hallway” where he once again takes us on that walk of grace and forgiveness. Also included is a study guide in the back of the book.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The 5 Love Languages of Children

This outstanding book addresses how each child expresses and receives love  through one of five main "languages" - quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. Although children need to be spoken to in each of these love languages, there's one love language that meets their deepest emotional needs and should be used often with them. Once we figure out what our children's primary love language is, we will be able to better understand their personal communication methods. Even though children need to feel love through all five of the love languages, their primary love "tank" must be filled in order for the other languages to be effective.

They also offer excellent suggestions with disciplinary methods that won't affect your child's perceptions of the way they feel loved by their parents.

Bottom line - Even if you've read tons of parenting books, you will truly learn something new from this one - something to increase your relationship with your child.

http://www.moodypublishers.com/

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

What the Amish Can Teach Us About the Simple Life

This book contained some solid advice on how we can learn from the Amish lifestyle.   Although the author is not living this lifestyle,   you can glean some interesting information.    I did have some concerns with the author bringing up the rumspringa, as most Amish communities now don’t allow the rumspringa.   

I enjoyed the thoughtful insights as to how to “make do”, something that most people just don’t do anymore; along with the other interesting ideas of homemade cleaners.   I don’t think that the husbandry section was necessary in this book, as most readers won’t be living in that sort of lifestyle.  I would recommend that the author write a second book on this subject alone.

 I have personally used the resources in the back and find that they are helpful to those that are serious about living the plain and simple lifestyle.

All in all this is a good book that will teach you how to live without the world’s influence in your life, and we have a lot to learn from these people.

When Love and Submission Ignite

This was a great little book,  it  comes straight to the point on an issue that most will not discuss in today’s culture.

Blending timely advice with relevant bible passages, the author makes you want to read more. 

The contents describe what submission truly means.  You will be left with no doubt in your mind as to how to behave within a marriage relationship.    The author walks you through bible passages that instruct you as to what is the correct balance, within a partnership.  It is not about one person having full power and control over another weaker person.  It is about compromising, at times, and respecting one another, while you determine the parameters you are both comfortable with, while growing the love that God desires for you.

This is a book that I would recommend to couples who are thinking about marriage, or need advice with their marriage.  We live in a “selfish” society today and this book helps us think about letting go about our selfishness and thinking more about others, which is the key to submission.

I found myself expecting more and wishing the book were longer.  However, it is worth reading; even if only to discover what you could do to improve your own relationship, if needed.

 I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Church Planting Wife

Being the wife of a pastor of a church "replant" I truly enjoyed this book.  It was full of great information for those who may be thinking of starting out and planting a church.  It was full of encouragement, and also gave lots of information on what to do and what not to do.  

I liked how the author dealt with issues of "church envy",  how to deal with criticism, and how not to let the root of bitterness to take a hold of you.

This is a must have resource for any pastor's wife.