Thursday, December 22, 2016

Beyond Suffering Bible




We all know someone who is dealing with a disability, chronic illness, pain or some other form of suffering.  The Beyond Suffering Bible is the first study Bible to directly address those who suffer and the people who love and care for them. From bestselling author, singer, and radio host Joni Eareckson Tada and the experts at Joni and Friends Christian Institute on Disability, the Beyond Suffering Bible is filled with thousands of notes and features that invite readers into a conversation about suffering and its place in each person’s life. Each feature has been carefully created to provide readers with valuable information, meaningful encouragement, and challenging applications as they encounter God’s Word.

As I read through Ruth and Philippians, two of my favorite books of the Bible, it was full of notes on how God's word relates to our suffering and to be joyful even when life does get tough.
There are numerous articles such as: Why am I disabled?
                                                            How to be a loving friend to those affected by disability
                                                            Constant distraction - living with chronic pain
are just to name a few.

This Bible is not only lovely to look at and to read through, it is full of practical ways to reach those that are suffering, or for those who are caring for those who are suffering.

How do I know?  I know what it is like to be in the role of the "disabled" In January of 2015 I had to have emergency brain surgery, which I wasn't supposed to survive.  I did, but it cost me part of my vision and some multi-tasking issues etc.  Yes, I was blessed.   

As I read through and use this Bible, it helps to remind me that God has a purpose for what happened and that He will carry me through each day.

This Bible comes with high recommendation and sits on my desk and gets regular use every day.

an excerpt from the Bible:  
“Sometimes fear can cause us to hesitate, but we must remember this: When God orchestrates the events of our lives, understanding is optional, but obedience is always required. God chose Joseph and Mary to be the earthly parents of Jesus, just as he has chosen you to fulfill your responsibilities on the path your life takes, even if you never understand the why—or the how.” (“Mary and Joseph,” p. 1087)

The Beyond Suffering Bible

This Bible comes in hardcover, leather like and soft cover formats that are very attractive.



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.




Getaway With God

Does the busyness and the pressures of the day make it hard?  Maybe you have considered a retreat but never knew how to find one or what type to go on.
oes it seem hard to find time to sit down with God?


In this book, the author Letitia Suk gives the reader options and guidance to discover retreats.  It not only explains how but why we need retreats.

At first look I thought that this book would be a personal retreat for me to do on my own time, but this is a great guide to find a type of retreat that suits you, as well as a guide in the back on how to find a retreat. 

I found this book to be a great help in realizing how important retreats are, and that they are invaluable for us to spend time alone with God.

Kregel Publishers

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.






Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Newton & Polly A Novel of Amazing Grace




This is a fictional novel, based on the famous John Newton and Polly Catlett.  Most people are familiar with the name John Newton, author of  " Amazing Grace"; one of the most well-known hymns that we sing today.

In this novel we are taken back to the the year 1742 when Polly and John meet for the first time.   We are introduced to each character and taken into their lives and read about the history that came to be.

From their chance meeting, into their relationship and through John's struggles to finally have a relationship with God.

Honestly, this is one of the best novels I have read this year.  It kept me captivated and wanting to read more about each character, drawing me into the lives of these two people.

The author has done thorough research and it shows in her writing.   There is also a reader's guide in the back that one could use this book for a group reading and discussion.

I recommend this book for anyone who likes historical, historical romance or would love to learn more about the man who wrote "Amazing Grace", and how the hymn came to be.

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.


Saturday, December 10, 2016

She Reads Truth

This is an amazing book written by two women (Rachel Meyers and Amanda Bible Williams) that gives  the reader real life accounts on why we should depend on God and His Word.

The book will inspire you and let you know that you are not alone out there.  Everyone deals with something every day.

In one part of the book, the authors set the setting in a typical Bible study, where everyone chooses a mug.   Each woman has that mug full of life, and as they ask at the end of that chapter, "what's in your mug?"  A very good question and we know that no matter what life has in that mug for us, God is there with His Word, to help us and to keep us going.

A hardcover book, with an attractive linen cover, I would suggest this book for every woman to read.

You can also visit their website http://shereadstruth.com/ to find out more about the authors and to find a place to go and sit with your mug.


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.

Friday, December 9, 2016

A Fresh Infusion of Joy

Everyone is looking for joy in their life.  What a better way to find joy, than to look into God's word for the joy that we can take and enjoy every day.

This little book is packed with ways to enhance your life with joy.  Well written and a quick 5-minute read, you can find yourself infused with joy.

At the end of each reading, there is scripture to turn to and apply to your reading and your life.

With and attractive cover, and convenient size to carry anywhere.  This is a great devotional either for oneself or it could make a great gift.

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.


James – Faith Becomes Real



The book of James can be inspiring and often perplexing. This verse-by-verse journey illustrates James’s letter with both-modern day and biblical examples. By slowing down and focusing on each verse individually, it allows the reader to better understand what James meant and how it applies to today’s world.

In this book, the author  takes us through the book of James and educates us on how to apply those verses to our lives.



 The author brings a  very slow thoughtful approach to reading James  that lets the reader to completely appreciate all that James said and how it applied back then and how it applies now  in today's world.
A quick an easy read, the author has dissected James into  a verse- by verse section with a discussion at the end of each section.   It could be used as a 5-minute daily devotion.
More of a devotional, less of a commentary


I would use this as a supplement to a commentary, more of a devotional type of reading to help one enjoy the book of James.

The book of James can be inspiring and often perplexing. This verse-by-verse journey illustrates James’s letter with both modern day and biblical examples. By slowing down and focusing on each verse individually, it allows the reader to better understand what James meant and how it applies to today’s world.

In this book, the author  takes us through the book of James and educates us on how to apply those verses to our lives.


 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.



Thursday, December 1, 2016

A Boy Called Christmas







Matt Haig's A Boy Called Christmas gives us a possible story of Santa Claus's boyhood. Eleven-year-old Nikolas' his father; a poor woodcutter , Nikolas has a hard life, but he never complains. Living in the second-smallest cottage in Finland, he spends his time day dreaming of magical things - pixies and elves. Nikolas considers his father’s bedtime story the best part of his day. A small, brown mouse Miika, who dreams of cheeses of all types and forms, often sneaks into the cottage to share in hearing these stories. The two have very little possessions - Nikolas only has a turnip doll and a sleigh.

When the hunter, Anders, convinces Nikolas’ father to join a band of men seeking to prove the existence of Elfhelm and reap a large reward from King Frederick, Aunt Carlotta comes to care for Nikolas. However, her cruelty in forcing Nikolas to sleep outside and in failing to give him enough to eat result in his running away to find his father. Facing danger and bitter cold, Nikolas aids the reindeer Blitzen, removing one of Anders’ arrows from Blitzen’s leg .

. The two succumb to the frigid cold; Father Topo and his granddaughter Little Noosh, two elves, rescue them and take them to Elfhelm. Angered because humans have kidnapped an elf child, Father Vodol, the head elf and owner of the “Daily Snow” imprisons Nikolas and Miika. Sharing their cell, Nikolas meets Sebastian, a troll, and a Truth Pixie, who delights in using hewlip to make other people’s heads explode.

A daring escape allows Nikolas and Miika to track Joel, Nikolas’ father, and the kidnappers. After rescuing the elf child and returning him to Elfhelm, Nikolas makes the decision to remain there. The balance of “A Boy Called Christmas” follows Nikolas’ growth and integration into Elfhelm society, the creation of Santa’s workshop, and the legend of Santa Claus and his gift giving.

Chris Mould’s illustrations complement the story  of “A Boy Called Christmas” and are well done and appropriate for the 8-12-year-old. 


One thing we must remember  is that this is a fiction story based on the real-life St. Nicholas.  It is a suppostion. 

I personally really enjoyed this book.  It brings out to children that good does overcome evil.

Well written and very entertaining.   Any child will love this 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.



Monday, November 28, 2016

Day by Day Walk with Jesus and the Day By Day Bible

The Day by Day Bible is a wonderful way to teach children about Jesus.  Each day has a new teaching from the Bible to help children learn about Jesus and His life.

Great illustrations that children will love.  I personally love using these with my grandchildren and in teaching Sunday School.

The stand-up Day by Day Bible takes  your child through the Bible; from the Old Testament through to the New Testament.   As with the Day by Day With Jesus, the illustrations are something the children will enjoy and well rendered.    I Personally  like to use this with my Sunday School class to help reinforce my lessons.

Great product that anyone can use.

I received this book free from the publisher. http://www.kregel.com 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.”

Sunday, November 13, 2016

Open

A young woman dealing with a break up  with her boyfriend   receives a mysterious envelope that says "open written on the outside".    Curious the woman (Emma) opens the envelope and  reads the message: "For a real adventure with Jesus, go through the nearest open door."  Emma is taken on a mysterious journey which opens her eyes  to what means the most in her life.
Emma is led by Jesus through the gospels to find out what the Christian life is all about.

This is a very interesting book, it makes you think and understand what is the most important thing in your life.  A relationship with Jesus and a love for God.

What would you do if you received this envelope?  Would you open it? Would you be willing to walk through that open door?

Wonderfully written, this book will make you think and reread the gospels and maybe challenge your perception of the Gospels and what it really means to be a Christian.

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.



Saturday, November 12, 2016

Shadow of the Storm




From the back cover:

Having escaped Egypt with the other Hebrews during the Exodus, Shira is now living in freedom at the foot of Mt. Sinai, upon which rests the fiery glowing Cloud containing the shekinah glory of God. When the people disobey Yahweh and build a golden idol, the ensuing chaos gives Shira an unexpected opportunity to learn the arts of midwifery. Although her mother wishes for her to continue in the family weaving trade, Shira's gifts shine brightest when she assists with deliveries. In defiance of her mother, Shira pursues her heart's calling to become an apprentice midwife.

When a delivery goes horribly wrong, Shira finds herself bound to a man who betrayed her, the caretaker of three young children, and the target of a vengeful woman whose husband was killed by Shira's people, the Levites. As contention between the Hebrew tribes and the foreigners fans the flames of another dangerous rebellion, Shira will come face-to-face with the heartbreak of her past that she has kept hidden for so long. How can she let go of all that has defined her to accept the love she's denied herself and embrace who she truly is?


This book was an amazing read,  I could not put it down.   We are taken back to the time and culture when the Hebrews found their freedom from Egyptian slavery.  Now free to worship their one true God.  

In this story we see the struggle of one young woman release the pain of her past, and move forward to living the life and using the gifts that God has given her.

The story also gives us insight into what it may have been like to live in the time when Moses freed his people.

I enjoyed seeing how the main character had so much grace and forgiveness and love in her.  It is something we can all model in ourselves.

I highly recommend this book and look forward to more books by this author.

Note from the Author

The Bible gives few details about the first year at Mt. Sinai, other than the Golden Calf incident, receiving the Law, and building the Tabernacle. My imagination was stirred by considering what it must have been like for Shira’s people; newly freed from slavery, wounded and demoralized from their time in Egypt, and unsure of who they were and who this God was that had freed them in such a miraculous, terrifying way. And throwing in old grudges among the tribes of Israel, the refusal of many to let go of the gods of Egypt, and the stirring of rebellion among the foreign contingent, I have little doubt it was a chaotic, confusing time for the people God was building into the new nation of Israel. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it!

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.

Thursday, October 27, 2016

I Am Bible






This is a Bible that looks directly to God's statements through the whole Bible and gives a commentary for each statement.  For example, in Genesis, it highlights where God spoke and then tells who he spoke to and what it meant.  It is a very unique and helpful way to highlight, and study  the main point of what was spoken and why.

This is a wonderful study Bible.  It helps us study out the passages, and understand who God really is and what He means when He is speaking to us.

This Bible comes with some very detailed maps, a concordance, and a dictionary.  It has an attractive, sturdy hardcover, which makes it durable for much use.

I love Bibles, I own a few, and this one I feel would make a great addition to everyone's library; whether you are a student, pastor, or just a person who loves to study God's word.

I received this book free from the publisher.  ( B& H Publishing) 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.


Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Designed to Lead




Church leadership is dying.  If you are interested in building leaders in your church, this is the book to read.
There are many books out there on leadership.  Most of them are secular and can be used to help aid in leading in a church, but this book aims specifically at making leaders within the church.

e of the key factors in leadership  is discipling our younger members into becoming leaders.  This would be the “conviction” that the author is describing.   Many churches are lacking in discipleship.
The authors give the reader an amazing map or directions on how to make disciples in the church. Three things: Constructs, Culture and Conviction.  If any one of the three is missing, the leadership is lacking.  For example, Constructs without conviction produces apathy.  This means that the church does not have a conviction for producing leaders. 

I feel that every pastor or those in leadership need to read this book  if we are going to build leadership in our churches.
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.


Wednesday, October 5, 2016

He Knows Your Name




It  all began with an evening news report about an abandoned baby being found in a local dumpster.  Little did Linda know that God would forever change her life.
This book written by Linda Znachko, founder of He Knows Your Name Ministries, will tear at your heart.  This amazing woman wrote a book explaining how her ministry began.
God laid upon her heart to do something that none of us would even think about on a day to day basis.   God laid upon her heart to give an abandoned baby a decent burial and celebrate this little one's  short life.   Needless to say, Linda never knew that this would grow into a big ministry that would not only give burials to those who could not but go beyond to helping those who could not afford simple things like headstones.

Not only did she help these little one's, but she also took God's love to the mother's who were wronged by the press, because they had nowhere to turn, but helped them to celebrate their children's lives.

Get out the tissues, and sit back and read how one "yes" changed a woman's life forever.   This book will really make you think about people who cannot afford one of the major things that celebrate our lives, our being, either for us or for our loved ones.   What will happen when you say "yes" to God?

This book is amazing, it really reminded me of things we may take for granted, and what will happen, what good things will happen when I say "yes" to God.  What things will happen for good when others will say "yes" to God?

I received this book free from the publisher. http://www.kregel.com   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.”


Friday, September 2, 2016

TheySay We are the Infidels




  This book is written by  Mindy Belz, senior editor of World Magazine,  who has 20 years’ experience of reporting from Iraq and Syria. Her book focuses on the reality that the Christians in the Middle East went through the in the past 20 years at the hands of people they lived with for thousands of years.  Mindy Belz gives us first-hand reports from her perspective, not from the outside, but on the inside, she is right there and talks to those who have experienced ISIS.  To be a Christian in Iraq and Syria is to live in real danger. Churches are bombed, pastors murdered, children kidnapped. Families whose ancestors have survived two thousand years in the region where Christ and his disciples walked now risk elimination by Islamic terrorists.
This book gives the reader a whole new outlook on what ISIS is doing over in the middle East.  It isn’t just a news story, something that you can ignore.  It’s real.
This was a hard book to read, not that it wasn’t written well, it’s just the topic; once you start reading and get into the lives of the people affected, it hits home.  She gets to know personally the people that have been affected by ISIS and it gives the reader a lot to think about.


This is a good read for anyone who wants to understand what is really happening in the Middle east and the specific threat that ISIS poses to all Christians.

 I received this book free from the publisher (Tyndale). 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.

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Today's Moment of Truth


From the back of the book:  Why do we believe what we believe?   Leading apologists Lee Strobel and Mark Mittelberg present 180 insightful devotions that will give you daily infusions of spiritual truth while deepening your knowledge of the evidence for Christianity.  
Each devotional is based on scientific, historical, or biblical facts that will bolster your confidence in Christ.  You will be inspired, encouraged, and equipped to "give an answer to everyone who asks you to give their reason for the hope that you have"  (I Peter 3:15).  Practical takeaways will allow you to put this confidence and knowledge into action.

You will emerge with a deeper understanding of why you believe what you believe.  In the process you'll find your love of truth - and your passion to share it - growing each day.
Do you struggle with what you believe?  Has someone asked you a question you can't seem to find an answer for?  This devotional will help you understand why we believe.   It answers questions like "Who designed the designer?"  It covers the trinity, loving those that disagree and much more.
Written in a two-page easy to read format, beginning with a verse and ending with a thought that you can take and think on.  The devotional covers many topics from science to theological questions.  
I like this devotional, it is easy to read, it helps answers some of the hard questions we may have or that other's may ask us.   This would be a wonderful devotional for family time, or someone who is struggling with their faith.  I think the author's did a great job on this devotional.
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.







Giant Killers



It seemed a lopsided battle. On one side, a small shepherd with a sling and five stones. On the other, a heavily armored ten-foot giant whose taunts and challenges immobilized an army of seasoned warriors.
The story of David and Goliath has become an almost universal underdog story; but in reality, Goliath never stood a chance.
In Giant Killers, emotional intelligence speaker, consultant, and author Steve Lawson identifies the five vital emotional and social skills David possessed: identity, discipline, graciousness, action, and hope. When combined with the power of God’s grace, these strengths made it possible for David to defeat Goliath, build a mighty army out of social rejects, and establish the greatest kingdom in the history of Israel.
We all face giants in our lives, if not as literally as David did. But like David, we can overcome any challenge, seizing with confidence the opportunities God places in our path. Giant Killers teaches you how to do so, providing a foundation on which you can build success after success. It all begins with you—and your willingness to trust in God’s grace.

My Thoughts:  We all have giants.  There is always some Goliath that we come up against in life, one time or another.  The question is do we run or do we fight like David did?  Sometimes it is hard to pick up that one stone and fire it at our giant, but Steve Lawson does a great job of encouraging us to do just that... pick up that stone and fight your giant.  

I really enjoyed and was encouraged by his "giant killer" examples in the book.  After reading this book you will be motivated to kill your giants, put the bad behind you and start taking those opportunities that God puts in your path.

We all have giants.  There is always some Goliath that we come up against in life, one time or another.  The question is do we run or do we fight like David did?  Sometimes it is hard to pick up that one stone and fire it at our giant, but Steve Lawson does a great job of encouraging us to do just that... pick up that stone and fight your giant.  

I really enjoyed and was encouraged by his "giant killer" examples in 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.










Monday, August 22, 2016

Hearing God in Conversation



From the back of the book:
     Christianity is a relationship with Bod, how many of us would say we have a strong, meaningful connection with him?  After all, it's widely accepted that the foundation of any good relationship is communication-and conversation with God often seems to be one-sided at best.  We may long to hear his voice, but does God still talk to us today? Should we even expect Him to?

From the Publisher

Christians are comfortable saying that Christianity is about a relationship with God. Yet many might also say that they sense  a lacking meaningful relationship with God in their own lives.  What people (Christians) seem to miss is that in order to have a meaningful relationship, one must communicate with the other person.    After all, the foundation of  a good relationship is communication —but  do we actually listen  to hear God?   


Hearing God in Conversation offers simple, step-by-step lessons on how to hear God. Williamson begins with Scripture meditation. He then expands the practice of listening for that voice everywhere—in the checkout line, on the job, in a movie theater, and even in silence. From there, he demonstrates how to hear God's guidance when making any decision. By the end, readers' eyes and ears will be opened to the limitless methods through which God speaks.

My thoughts:
       
I agree that a relationship with God is very important, and yes we do need to pray, read the Bible in order to hear what God has for us. I believe that most people today are so used to an instant society that they do not take the time to listen and do not recognize that God is speaking to them.  Do I believe that God will speak audibly to me?  Probably not, I believe that God speaks through scripture, through praying and through circumstances.

But for those seeking ways to hear God and form a relationship with Him, this may be a good start.

Kregel Publishers

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.





Saturday, August 20, 2016

The Illustrator's Note taking Bible








The Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible combines two hot trends: Bible journaling and adult coloring. Through unique illustrations included on every page spread, readers, illustrator’s, and notetakers alike learn to engage the biblical text in a new way. The exceptional design offers a unique balance for everyone from seasoned artists to the creatively challenged, allowing for guided creativity and meaningful personalization of the Bible reading experience. From filigree, Scripture quotes, and unique images, these line-drawn illustrations are waiting to be brought to life.

Features include:
Over 600 images, including text designs, images, and filigree
Unique illustrations on every page spread

Open margin space for creating new, personalized images

Light grey illustrations allowing readers to add color to each image
Lined margins for note taking


This is a wonderful Bible for those who love to take notes!  I thought the note taking Bible was good, but with the added graphics, it makes note taking more fun and inspiring.  This is good for those who love to doodle and have a creative mind.


Mine came with a sturdy hardcover, which is good for heavy use.  It also has a good concordance and maps.  This Bible takes the fear of marking up the Bible away.  It has wide margins to write in and plenty of room for those artists to put their personalization in.  It comes in the Holman translation which is very easy to read and to use.  The only drawback is, is that the font is smaller than I would normally choose.

All in all a great Bible for note takers.





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.


Thursday, July 28, 2016

Becoming a Woman of Excellence

From the back of the book:

Society beckons us to succeed―to achieve excellence in our appearance, our earning power, our family life. God Himself also beckons us to be women of excellence. But what exactly is He asking? If you’re hungry for God’s perspective on success in a society that bombards you with conflicting demands, feed on the truths of God’s Word that you’ll discover in these pages. You will not only learn to “approve the things that are excellent” but will also experience the joy of becoming God’s woman of excellence. This bestselling topical Bible study has helped over one million women over the past 30 years, and is newly revised and updated so today’s women can discover who God designed them to be in this day and age. Written by Navigator author and Bible teacher Cynthia Heald, the 11 sessions in this Bible study explore what your identity in Christ is and how you can best serve Him.



Becoming a Woman of Excellence is a classic that has come back once again.   This book is suitable for group or individual study, and for women of all ages, either married or single.






There is a Bible Study guide in the back of the book if one chooses to use this in a group study scenario .

One of the things I really appreciate about this book is it brings you into a close look into your own life.   It includes personal thoughts from the author, and you can use these thoughts and reflections to think about your answer and examination into your own life.

The book was written when the author read one of my  favorite books, the book of Ruth, when in Ruth 3:11 Boaz says "all my people in the city know you are a woman of excellence"  What an amazing thing to call someone, and as a woman we can all accomplish what Ruth accomplished.

This book will take you through scriptures that will make you turn inward and become that woman of excellence.



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.


Tuesday, July 12, 2016

God's Beloved Daughters: Daily Discovering the Blessings






Both a daily devotional and an in-depth Bible study, God’s Beloved Daughters is a tool “to strengthen and establish and to exhort and comfort and encourage you in your faith” Merrilynn Grodecki has a passion for seeing God’s daughters step into that grace-enhanced, mountain-moving, peace-filled life that is theirs in Him. Now, after decades of studying God’s ways of doing and being right concerning all of life’s issues, she has written this devotional to help each beautiful daughter of God walk in the fullness of life in Christ and discover the eternal truth of God’s promises. 

I am always looking for new devotionals to help my walk with the Lord.   I picked this one up because it focused mainly on women.  

This one is different as it combines devotional with a Bible study.    

It is always good to study the word for ourselves and not to take any man's or woman's opinion over what the Bible tells us.

The introduction gives us the author's testimony, which you will find interesting.   I think that with Bible in hand that this could be a good devotional/Bible study.  The author is concerned about how to strengthen our relationship 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.



Beyond the Silence







This is the story of Lillian Porter, orphaned as a baby and raised by her wealthy grandparents.  After the death of her grandmother,  her grandfather turns inward and hardened during his grief.   Lillian's desire is to be able to live life; not be trapped in her grandfather’s mansion.

Lillian Porter has always wanted to fulfill her mother's dream of going west, so when she hears about a nanny position in Angels Camp, California, she defies her grandfather and takes a chance on a new future.   
After a long journey, she reaches  the town of Angels Camp and hears the rumors about her employer…
Woodward Colton caused the death of his wife. This accusation doesn't match the man Lillian comes to know--and Mrs. Goodman, Woody's long-time housekeeper, is decisively on Woody's side--but many in town stay far away from Lillian because of her association with the Colton family.

Lillian's six-year-old charge, Jimmy, was there when his mother died, and he hasn't spoken a word since. Gently, Lillian tries to charm him out of his shell, hoping he'll one day feel safe enough to tell her the truth about what happened. But the Colton olive farm is no longer a safe place. Lillian encounters suspicious characters on their land and mysterious damage done to the farm. Will Mrs. Goodman and Jimmy be able to speak what they know in time to save Lillian from tragedy?
This is a wonderful story full of mystery and love.   It takes something tragic and turns it into good.  One thing that I took away from this book,   which is also found in the Bible; the book of James, is that one should watch what they say, that gossip is harmful, and do not be quick to judge.

A lovely read that was hard to put down.

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.

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

American Women's Bible





QUICK OVERVIEW:
The American Woman’s Bible brings to life biblical virtues through the words and actions of extraordinary American women past and present. By this ,we learn the power of the Bible in shaping our blessed American way of life and can develop the same biblical character in our own lives.

Discover how biblical virtues in the powerful words and actions of extraordinary American women past and present have shaped our blessed American way of life. By their examples, you can develop the same strength of biblical character in your own life. Whether you are a daughter, a mother or a grandmother, you will find this Bible an encouraging and powerful companion for daily living.

In this Bible, not only do we learn the Word of God, but we also learn about some very amazing women in history.  Women that loved God and their country.  There are so many  "tid bits" of information, tucked in every space imaginable.  
I truly enjoyed reading, and studying through this Bible, and will be one of my main sources for doing my Bible studies.   
Written in an easy to read version, type size is good, with and with the attractive hardcover, it will certainly hold up to much use.

Honestly,  I am inspired by and love this study Bible.

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.




Monday, June 27, 2016

Notetaking Bible



The Note-Taking Bible contains the full text of the Holman Christian Standard Bible in a single-column setting. Abundant space is provided on each page to make observations, record insights, raise questions, and suggest to yourself additional exploration of the text. The Bible includes a 40-page concordance, eight four-color maps, a one-year Bible reading plan, presentation page, and an introduction to the Holman Christian Standard Bible.

This is a great Bible for those who love taking notes.  It comes with a sturdy cover,  and a good size so you can carry it anywhere and it can take the wear and tear of everyday use.
I enjoy the Holman version, it is easy to read and to comprehend.   This Bible is attractive and has the wide margins for notetaking, or for illustration, which is all the rage right now.
The only thing I would change is the font size.  It is smaller and hard to read for those with weak eyes.
All in all a good Bible.


B&H Publishing


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.