Climbing High with your Attitude

Sometimes it’s difficult to read long academic books.  One of the reasons I liked this book is that it was an easy read, filled with little nuggets I can easily apply in my life. 

In his book, How High Will You Climb? Determine Your Success by Cultivating the Right Attitude, John Maxwell leads us on a journey to help us have the right attitude so we can be healthy leaders.

 
The book is broken into 4 sections ~

The Consideration of Your Attitude
The Construction of Your Attitude
The Crashing of Your Attitude
The Changing of Your Attitude

Early in the book he discusses flying lessons he received regarding attitude and pitch of an airplane and at times comes back to these illustrations.  As always, Maxwell gives numerous examples, funny and inspirational about how to become a better leader.

This was a good book, which also includes a study guide in the back to help you dig a little deeper.  This book may be good for a group study as well.

I received a preview copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

A Touching Memoir

Addie Zierman has written a type of memoir about her life growing up in the legalism of the Evangelical Church.  Her book is entitled, When We Were on Fire: A Memoir of Consuming Faith, Tangled Love and Starting Over.

Her book is broken into four sections,
Obsession
Disillusion
Rebellion
Redemption

It's the story about Addie's early love and the control he had over her and the wounds she encountered as she did everything she thought she was supposed to do as a young Christian.  She thought she was supposed to do and act in a certain way and if she didn't, for example, her first love made her do 10 push ups every time she was sarcastic, because Jesus was not sarcastic.

If I had to do push ups when I was sarcastic, nobody would be stronger than me.  Her story leads her to push the organized church away, to use alcohol and a coffee house to find what she thinks is community.  Ultimately, this is a story about a young woman with intuition.  She knows something is wrong, but doesn't believe she can act on what she believes is wrong.  There is power in her story, and we see glimmers of grace and hope as she appears to be moving forward in her faith, spirit, and heart. 

In some ways, it's also the story of what many Christians think they should be doing, following rules as opposed to living a life in which we stand out for Christ and make a real and tangible difference in the world.  Overall, this is a good book, an easy read, which many people, especially women, who grew up in the 1990's very well may relate to.

"I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review."

Being Intentional!!

Robert Crosby quotes J. Oswald Sanders, “We are as close to God as we choose to be.”  That’s a telling and true statement that sets the tone for this book.  In The ONE Jesus Loves: Grace is Unconditionally Given, Intimacy Must be Relentlessly Pursued, he offers a theme which is present in the New Testament regarding the people around Jesus.

The book is broken into 3 Sections, with 2 Chapters in each Section ~
Part 1 ~ Approaching Christ, the Man
1.  The Crowds: Observing the Words and Works of Christ
2.  The Five Thousand: Enjoying the Gifts of Grace of Christ

Part 2 ~ Enountering Christ, the Lord
3.  The Seventy: Serving the Purposes of Christ
4.  The Twelve: Following the Call of Christ

Part 3 ~ Knowing Christ, the Friend
5.  The Three: Knowing the Depths of Christ
6.  The One: Experiencing the Death and Life of Christ

Crosby’s aim is to lead us on a journey as we intentionally choose to have a more intimate relationship with Christ.  He describes this with 6 circles or rings, as we move more and more into a deeper understanding and experience of Christ. 

As you move further in your relationship with Christ, your level of intimacy with Him also increases.  While all the sections within each chapter are 3-5 pages, this is not necessarily a quick read.  Instead, it’s a book which should cause us to take pause and consider the message of Christ. 

It’s not a deep theological book, yet is scriptural and not difficult to understand.  It can be read more like a devotion, since there are 40 short chapters to read.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Discovering Who You Are!

I was not sure what to expect from this book.  I was surprised as I enjoyed and was moved as I read PROTOTYPE by Jonathon Martin.  The book is filled with theological truth, yet written in a conversational manner which made the book feel more personal, like it was written for me, and a conversation, albeit, a one way conversation was underway.

The book is broken into 9 chapters ~ 

• identity
• beloved
• obscurity
• calling
• wounds
• resurrection
• sacraments
• community
• witness
•  

The basic point of the book is one we seem to miss way too often.  God's loves us.  We are His children.  We are His beloved.  There are discussion questions in the back of the book to help the reader or group move through the book.

There is also a DVD series which would help facilitate a small group who meets and reads the book.  
Overall, this was a very good book, which caused me and should cause others to examine who they are in Christ.  

His question early in the book is a haunting question for most people, "Who are you?"  Not, where are you from, or what do you do, etc. but, "Who are you?"  For many that's the big question. 

I received this book from Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for my honest review. No other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.

A Real Solution in the Middle East!

I should be better versed on this topic, but it is so complicated with so many points of view, that it becomes confusing, so I think we stay away from really examining what Caroline Glick is proposing. 

In her book, The Israeli Solution: A One State Plan for Peace in the Middle East, she has examined the difficulties surrounding Israel literally being one single state.  She has introduced the plan, looked at the positives and negatives; and the negatives include the fallout of the Palestinians, Europeans and those who would dissent from this type of epic decision.

Glick is willing to make statements which most people are not willing to make.  What she is proposing is not the popular idea, but she believes the concept is the right one.  She put aside any fear she might have of retribution and negative feedback regarding this book.  I found that very refreshing.

Her belief is to create a one state plan for Israel which would incorporate the Palestinian Arabs.  This would give them a home and rights which they really do not have at the present time.  The goal is to have peace in the Middle East, which is not present.

If you are interested in learning more about this topic, then I would encourage you to read this book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group through the Blogging for Books program in exchange for an honest appraisal.

The Greatest Words is a Great Resource

The Greatest WORDS Ever Spoken is a wonderful resource book.  It can be used by any person who wants to see what Jesus said about a particular topic.   Of course, one must understand that the topics are arranged by the editor, Steven Scott.  You can check out his website here.

You get to read what Jesus has to say about everyday life situations.  Having a book like this makes it easier to understand the fact that Jesus wanted us to live the abundant life.  In some ways this can be a "how to manual." 

 

For those who do Christian counseling and want to incorporate God's Word into their counseling this would be a great resource. 

Again, this is really more of a reference book.  But for some, they may just read from start to finish.  That would actually be a new way to read through the Words of Jesus. 
 

This could be a great book to give to someone for a gift.  When you just can't remember where you read something Jesus said, but you remember the topic, this book will come in so handy.  It would also be great for Sunday School teachers.  

 

I received a free copy of The Greatest Words Ever Spoken from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest review.

 

PRIDE a Poem by Beth Moore

MY NAME IS PRIDE

By BETH MOORE

 

My name is Pride. I am a cheater.

I cheat you of your God-given destiny...

because you demand your own way. 

 

I cheat you of contentment...

because you “deserve better than this.”

 

I cheat you of knowledge...

because you already know it all.

 

I cheat you of healing...

because you are too full of you to forgive.

 

I cheat you of holiness...

because you refuse to admit when you are wrong.

 

I cheat you of vision...

because you’d rather look in the mirror than out a window.

 

I cheat you of genuine friendship...

because nobody’s going to know the real you.

 

I cheat you of love...

because real romance demands sacrifice.

 

I cheat you of greatness in heaven...

because you refuse to wash another’s feet on earth.

 

I cheat you of God’s glory...

because I convinced you to seek your own.

 

My name is Pride. I am a cheater. 

 

You like me because you think I’m always looking out for you.

 

Untrue.

 

I’m looking to make a fool of you.

God has so much for you, I admit, but don’t worry...

If you stick with me you’ll never know.

Enjoying the power of Giving!

Most people have a very difficult time giving away their money and possessions.  We want to receive money and possessions, but freely giving away our "stuff" is so difficult.  Brad Formsma has written a book in which he focuses on the act of giving.  He has entitled the book, "I Like Giving: The Transforming Power of a Generous Life."

As Formsma writes,

There is something incredible about giving when it's our idea.  Opening our eyes and ears to the people around us and asking "How can we give?" is a profoundly life-giving and satisfying way to life.  One of Jesus's ideas was that it is more blessed to give than to receive.  I have found that to be true.  The generous life is the only life worth living.

Formsma has many illustrations which help the reader learn more about the nature of giving and what happens to us when we freely give.  There are times when reading the book that I felt he was being redundant.  At times I was not certain what his point ultimately was.  Yet, in the end, I believe Formsma makes his point about the joy and transforming power we can receive when we joyfully and freely give to others.  

Chapters include ~ 

1. The Power of One Gift
2. Beginnings
3. Try
4. What Happens When We Give
5. The Science of Giving
6. Giving Filters
7. Tactics
8. Family
9. Community
10. Receiving
11. Becoming a Gift
12. A Generous World

You can watch a short video by Brad Formsma, which describes the reasons for the book, HERE.

 Overall, this is a book which can energize people to begin the process of giving.

Heaven or Hell? Fact or Fiction?

It's not often you want to read a book about Heaven and Hell, but I actually enjoyed reading this book by Christopher Hudson, aptly entitled, Heaven & Hell: Are they Real?

The book is broken down into two sections, Part 1 - Heaven; Part 2 - Hell.  Within each part are sections.  As such the book is organized as follows - 

Part 1

1. The Moments After Death
2. Life in Heaven
3. Descriptions of Heaven
4. Residents of Heaven
5. Looking forward to Heaven

Part 2

1. The Reality of Hell
2. Hell as a Choice
3. Descriptions of Hell
4. Hell and the Final Judgement
5. Challenges to the Belief in Hell
6. How Can the Truth about Hell Affect our Choices Today? 

Overall, Hudson seeks to answer 61 different questions concerning heaven and hell.  Since this is not a long book, his answers usually are no longer than 3-4 pages.  He looks at many different topics.  If you are looking for a deep theology, then this is not the book for you.  But if you are looking for some basic answers and hints at some starting points, then this book may be good for you.

The end of the book contains an appendix in which he seeks to give all scripture references pertaining to heaven and hell.  He also speaks about how to know Jesus Christ and avoid the pain of hell.  He comes from a conservative theological understanding.

Other features include

• 30 days of reading on heaven
• 30 days of reading on hell
• Additional content from contemporary and ancient scholars

Overall, this was a nice book, and easy to read.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Olympics -- Good and Bad

Hey Folks - 

Now that the Olympics are over, what stands out for you?

What images are in your mind and heart?  

They can be good or bad, what jumps out first?

Let me know.

Send me an email at mishana826@yahoo.com

To Judge or Not to Judge . . .

I saw this and really loved the picture and what it depicts.  Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 7:1-5?  

Check it our or read below ~ 

¹ "Judge not, that you be not judged. ² For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. ³ Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? ⁴ Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? ⁵ You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.

Have you ever wondered why we often experience such great joy in judging others?

If we were to be honest, we don't like to admit that.  And we try not to judge others.  Yet how many times are we making those small, even subtle judgments about others – what they’re doing or not doing, what they’ve said or what they’re wearing, how they’re driving or acting – and each time we do, for some perverse reason it makes us feel better about ourselves.

I this we do this because we are not comfortable in our own skin.  We are insecure and we think we will feel better if we find fault in others -- if we can look into their heart and cast our 'divine' judgement.  

Of course, this gets us to the center of what Jesus is talking about.  He's interpreting the law for us.  Remember, when Jesus talks about judging, He's talking about looking into one's heart and knowing the condition and motivation of the heart.  Friends, we don't have that ability.  That's for God and God alone to do.  When we do this, we find ourselves subject to God's judgment.

We also struggle with this because when someone does something obviously wrong, we exclaim, "I'm not to judge!!"  But, we have misuderstood what judging is versus holding another accountable.  Accountability is about looking at another's actions, not their heart.

We are to hold one another accountable.  We view the outward actions and help our brother or sister to find redemption through Christ, knowing that we are no better, for we have our own sin issues which we struggle with as well.

Just a thought on a Friday afternoon.

Blessings!

Erase the Negative Chatter!

I have always gone back and forth on how much I like Steven Furtick’s books.  I received this book, Crash the Chatterbox, yesterday and have finished reading it.  I really felt it was an honest and straight forward book.

Pastor Furtick’s premise is that we need to stop listening to the noise, the chatterbox which speaks the negativity in our ears, but which reaches into our hearts, spirits and minds.  This negativity leads us to think and believe we are less than, instead of more than, since we were created in God’s image. 

There’s nothing amazingly new in this book, but it is a great reminder of who we are called to be.  The book is broken into 4 sections.

Section 1: God says I am.
We overpower the lies of the enemy in our insecurities.

Section 2: God says He will.
We overpower the lies of the enemy in our fears.

Section 3: God says He has.
We overpower the lies of the enemy in our condemnation.

Section 4: God says I can.
We overpower the lies of the enemy in our discouragement.

This is an easy read and a helpful book for all people.  I would recommend this book.

No Cape Required Devotion!

I am always on the lookout for devotionals to read for myself, or to read as a family endeavor.  I want something that will engage my teenage sons and this book has a great deal of potential to do that. 

In her book, No Cape Required: 52 Ways to Unleash your Inner Hero, Kristen Parrish provides 52 devotionals, each about 4 pages in length.  They are easy to read and focus on traits found in different characters from different movies, television programs and books.  They range from characters like Katniss Everdeen in the Hunger Games to John Coffey in the Green Mile to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and more.

She also looks at different virtues for each hero.  These include forgiveness, faithfulness, truthfulness, optimism, strong will, leadership, gallantry, courage and more.  At the end of each chapter Parrish ties the story to a passage of scripture.  Sometimes she might be stretching for a link, but overall, this is a fun book to read as a devotion. 

We need to remember that these are fictional characters and we may not always agree with the character used, but the point she is making is what is important.  So, our focus should be on the positive character and characteristics of these heroes. 

I would recommend this book!





I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program.  The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

A Godward Heart by John Piper

Ever since I was in seminary and read John Piper's powerful book, Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist, I became a John Piper fan.  John's style is straight forward, no punches pulled.  I like that style.

In his newest book, A Godward Heart, Piper invites the reader to go on a journey so that they will experience the power of a relationship with God.  I will admit I didn't expect this book to be quite as heady as it is.  Being more of a devotional book, I expected more cute stories about how to grow in my relationship with Christ.

But I was surprised and challenged by the words of Piper.  The book contains 50 chapters which progress from knowledge of God to where will your final destination leave you.  The chapters are short, usually about 4 pages.  But they will challenge you.

If you are looking for a book which will challenge you, and help you to question what you believe, this is an excellent book.  You can read it quickly, but I would suggest moving through it slowly, so that you gain the most from Piper's words.

This book would make an excellent gift.

I received this book for free from Multnomah Books in exchange for an honest review.

Excellent Teen Devotion by Max Lucado

I am a huge fan of Max Lucado.  I really enjoy his ability to tell stories and get his point across in books and in his messages.  In this book, which is really more of a devotional by Max Lucado is called "One God, One Plan, One Life."  It’s specifically written for teens and adapted by James Lund.

There are readings for everyday.  Each devotion is about one page.  So, the readings are short which works when we are trying to do devotions with two teenage boys.  At the end of each day’s reading there is always a “One More Thought.”  It is an extra reminder of what you just read along with a question for reflection, which allows us to go a little deeper in the devotion.  We always have a conversation about what we’ve read. 

The devotion is not preachy, but Lucado and Lund seek to give life lessons which can be applied on a daily basis.  I would highly recommend this devotion for your children.  It especially works for boys. 

The devotional book itself is hardback, 389 pages, with its own orange ribbon bookmark.  At the back you’ll find Notes (a list of footnotes) and 2 different Bible reading plans (30 Days with Jesus and 90 Days Through the Bible.)

I received this book at no charge from Thomas Nelson publishers in exchange for an honest review of this book.

Nick Vujicic is Unstoppable

I have had this book for awhile and never really picked it up to read.  It’s hard not to view the story of Nick Vujicic without amazement at what he has accomplished.  In his book, Unstoppable: The Incredible Power of Faith in Action, Nick talks about adversity.  Obviously he has faced more than I can imagine facing. 

Nick was born with no arms or legs, and ever since his teens, he has committed his life to inspiring others to live an abundant life and to accept a relationship with Jesus as Savior.  In Unstoppable, Nick shares more of his story and he includes stories about people he has met and how they have inspired him.

Appearances are obvious when you’re with Nick, but his personality draws people to him and takes away some of the awkwardness of speaking with him.

The main focus of Nick’s story is that he doesn’t need legs or arms to live the life Jesus offers him.  That’s a powerful testimony from Nick.  Nick explains that there is no medical reason why he was born looking the way he is, but he believes God has a great purpose for him in his life, and he is seeking to fulfill God’s calling.

Nick was not bashful to express the highs and lows he has experienced in life, personally, socially and from a business perspective.  This is not a theological book, so don’t expect great theology, this is simply and profoundly a book of encouragement focusing on one man’s journey and how he has overcome, even to the point of getting married (and his insecurities) and now being a father.



Here is a link to an Interview with Glen Beck and Nick

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 .

MESSIAH: ORIGIN

This book reminds me of a Children's Bible, with pictures and scripture, yet this is much more than a Children's Bible.  This is for adults and children to see the Bible in pictures, as well as reading the Word.

This is the first book in a series of books which seek to illustrate through pictures the story of Christ and the Bible. 

This is not the entire Bible or New Testament.  It is a collection of scripture passages, in which we read about the life of Christ, beginning with John 1, and moving on to stories about Elizabeth and Mary, the birth of Jesus, the arrival of the Magi, the flight to Egypt and more. 

The authors, Matt Dorff and Mark Arey are true to the scriptures, but do some editorializing (not in a terrible way) and the artistry by Kai Carpenter was great!

Overall, I would highly recommend this book, especially for those who look for visual representations of what they read.  This really helps the visual reader.  The book is engaging and would also make a great gift.  It is available as far as I know in paperback only.

I received this book from Booksneeze for free, in exchange for an unbiased review.

Bible Prophecy made real

After becoming a Christian, I read Hal Lindsay’s book, “The Late Great Planet Earth.”  It was my introduction to Bible prophecy.  I have always been intrigued by Bible prophecy but have stayed somewhat removed from it, because it can be so polarizing.  Yet, after reading this book, “The Holy Land Key” by Ray Bentley, I am intrigued once again.

Bentley approaches prophecy from a very personal, real and relevant standpoint.  He has spent many years exploring Israel from within.  He has traveled to Israel, has met people and talked to people who have helped him better understand the scriptures and their relationship to the nation of Israel and the lives of people who are directly impacted by the events in this holy land.

He takes a direct look at the difficult questions and issues that divide the world when it comes to the future of Israel.  Being raised Jewish I appreciated his love and care for the people of Israel.  I also benefitted from his discussion on the Seven feasts and their relationship to Israel and Christ.

This is an engaging book and will force the reader to open their eyes to what Bentley has written.  I believe you need to approach this book with an open mind, not closed minded and you will greatly benefit from his words.  This is not an easy and quick book to read.  Read it slowly and digest the words Bentley offers about the Israelites and Palestinians.

You can listen to pastor Ray ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1E0zBCojHc



I received this book for free through the "Multnomah Publishing - Blogging for Books” reading program.

HUMILITY - A DEFINITE NEED!

I really enjoy reading books about history, as the books are great tools to learn more about our leaders, their successes and failures.  In his book, "Humility: An Unlikely Biography of America's Greatest Virtue," David Bobb has written a book helping us to see the great character in many of our leaders.

He begins this book by looking at history, including a look at the humblest of all, Jesus.  Bobb quotes scripture as he helps us see the beauty and power of humility.  His focus are five of our nations difference makers ~ George Washington, James Madison, Abagail Adams, Abraham Lincoln, and Frederick Douglas.  Prior to his look at Jesus, Bobb begins with a look at Benjamin Franklin.

Bobb is a historian and as such, he understood the challenges and difficulties each person was facing.  This helped me gain a better understanding of their humility and at times how difficult it was to demonstrate.  He concludes the book by looking at the current age and our arrogance and with it, our lack of humility.

This was an excellent book.  It is a short book, but not a quick and easy read.  I would have enjoyed reading about other U.S. historical figures who shaped our nation.  If you enjoy early American history, you will appreciate reading this book.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson, as part of its Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

You can watch an introduction about the book at this link!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wT-NvxyLsi4

Great Story of Grace and Forgiveness

I never read Brennan Manning's most popular book, "The Ragamuffin Gospel."  Now, after reading this book, I think I'll have to go back and read his earlier work.  Manning died in April of this year, so this is his last work.

The Prodigal: A Ragamuffin Story centers on a pastor named Jack Chisholm.  Jack was the pastor of a mega church.  He was called the  "the people's pastor" and brought in 4,000 people to worship and even more watching him on television.  He was famous and popular.  He had written several books and was known for his saying, "We have got to do better!"

Now, he's lost.  Everything he worked for is gone.  He was feeling completely lost, he had lost his wife, his daughter, and his church.  Everything which was important to Jack is gone.  He was drinking and ended up committing adultery with his personal assistant, Sally.

Jack is lost and alone, and now he comes in contact with his estranged father.  His father was dead to Jack.  However, his father, Tom Chisholm, is terminally ill, and wants to have a relationship with Jack.  He calls his son home.  Thinking about his father causes Jack to become angrier and angrier.  He had not spoken to his father in over 10 years.  His memories are mixed.  There are great and terrible memories.

So that I don't ruin the story, and you can picture how the story unfolds, I would encourage you to read it, and see the grace and forgiveness that is available and accepted.

This is an excellent book, with the only caveat being the fact that drinking while being one aspect of Jack's sin is used on a fairly regular basis in the book.

I received this book free of charge, in exchange for an honest review.




This is a wonderfully written book with a strong message of love, grace, and forgiveness - a story that could shape the hearts and minds of many. 4 star rating and I highly recommend.

The Pain and Joy of the Plow

Trials and Pain: The Sharp Blade of the Plow

A.W. Tozer was one of the great Pastors, Christian writers and theologians of the 20th century.  I read a daily reading from Tozer and wanted to share todays ---

Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord, till He comes and rains righteousness on you. — Hosea 10:12

Tozer writes ~

The fallow field is smug, contented, protected from the shock of the plow and the agitation of the harrow.... But it is paying a terrible price for its tranquility: Never does it see the miracle of growth; never does it feel the motions of mounting

life nor see the wonders of bursting seed nor the beauty of ripening grain. Fruit it can never know because it is afraid of the plow and the harrow.

In direct opposite to this, the cultivated field has yielded itself to the adventure of living. The protecting fence has opened to admit the plow, and the plow has come as plows always come, practical, cruel, business-like and in a hurry. Peace has been shattered by the shouting farmer and the rattle of machinery. The field has felt the travail of change; it has been upset, turned over, bruised and broken, but its rewards come hard upon its labors. The seed shoots up into the daylight its miracle of life, curious, exploring the new world above it. All over the field the hand of God is at work in the age-old and ever renewed service of creation. New things are born, to grow, mature, and consummate the grand prophecy latent in the seed when it entered the ground. Nature's wonders follow the plow. Paths to Power, 31-32.

Prayer - "Lord, make me a cultivated field.  I suspect the price will be high, but I long to bear fruit for Your glory.  Do the hard work of the farmer in my life today. Amen."

10 Good Men

We all need mentors and encouragement! Men, women and children need people in our lives who can help us grow spiritually, emotionally, intellectually and physically. Patrick Morley’s book, “How God Makes Men” attempts to give us men some biblical examples of men who can help us in our daily lives.

Morley looks at 10 different men from the Bible ~ Abraham Moses Gideon David Solomon Nehemiah Job Peter, and Paul.

The book is written in an easy to read format. The hope is that the reader will be able to identify with the different Biblical characters and continue in the change process. Morley identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each person discussed. He does not try to sugar coat their faults, but looks at them with realism and then leads us to see their accomplishments and encourages men to move forward from their faults, sins and mistakes.

This book can be read individually or as a group study. At the end of every chapter, Morley includes questions for reflection and discussion, as well as a study guide for a group study at the end of the book.

I believe Morley could have gone a little deeper with some of the characters he wrote about. For example, he really does not touch on Gideon’s shortcomings, which would have been relevant for our time. In addition, while he wanted to discuss Biblical men, he missed talking about Jesus as the ultimate Man

In spite of this, I still appreciated this book, and it may make a nice Christmas present for the man in your life who seeks to grow in all aspects of his life.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

 

From Little Boy to H.E.R.O.

"Raising Boys By Design" by Gregory L. Jantz, and Michael Gurian is a book I wish I had read when my boys were younger.  This is an excellent resource which helped me better understand my role as a father to two teenage boys.  The authors don’t tell you what to do on every aspect of raising boys, since every person is different, but there are great learning tools, in which I could see myself and what I’ve done correctly and what I’ve messed up on. 

Reading this book will help me to be a better father, to encourage and strengthen my boys to become mature and Godly, Christ centered men of God.  The book is broken into two sections.  The goal of the first section is to help the reader understand God’s plan for boys.  They do this by helping us understand boys develop differently than girls.  In addition, they explain what boys learn from moms and what they learn from dads.  They generalize, but are pretty much on target with what they write.

The second section is an attempt to put it all together.  The goal is to have our boys be H.E.R.O.s for God.  They use the acronym HERO, which means ~

Honor: adhering to truth, values and principles beyond self
Enterprise: working at important things whether they seem small or large
Responsibility: carrying important things and people throughout life
Originality: being a dreamer, a thinker, an explorer in the world

The goal, then is to enhance and develop these areas in your boys.  While all of our children, boys and girls have similar struggles, they often go about dealing with them and resolving them in different ways.  Again, the authors seek to explain how to help our boys develop by writing about areas such as — character and self-discipline, protecting their heart, sexuality, school, technology, and move forward into the world.

Overall, this an excellent resource to have.  I hope to reread this book and share it with my boys so they know I am invested in their future, and am trying to be a better father to the boys God has blessed me with.

I received a review copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for an honest review.

The Global War on Christians

I'm not really certain why I requested this book to review.  Reading previews was rather disconcerting, and maybe that's why I wanted to read this book.  In our part of the world, as scary as some things may be, we really have no threat of physical persecution.

In this book, The Global WAR on Christians: Dispatches from the Front Lines of Anti-Christian Persecutions, John Allen Jr. brings this unknown world to reality in ways I had not heard.  Is this propaganda?  I don't believe so.  Yet, we move along remaining ignorant (not always our choice) because this is so under reported by the media.

Yet, interestingly, Newsweek Magazine found it important to release an issue in February 2012, which featured a cover story by Ayaan Hirsi Ali.  Ali has a storied past, and is from Somalia and considers herself an atheist.  Yet the cover of Newsweek in this issue is below. 

It's a poignant reminder of the war which is being waged against Christians outside of the United States. What bothered me is the fact that this is well known, but so little is seemingly being done to help the innocent victims, many who are being tortured and left to live in disgusting conditions.

I can list many, many atrocities being committed against Christians, some because they are preaching Christ, some because they are simply Christian and they are not following the state mandated governments.  Each chapter is separated by region of the country, as Allen gives numerous examples of crimes being committed about Christ followers.

As you read this book, you will also learn that in many of the countries where these crimes are being committed, the authorities of the country's in which these are occurring have turned a blind eye to the crimes.

John Allen offers thoughts about "what can be done."  Yet, it seems so miniscule.  He does recognize that, but adds, 'we have to start with small steps' which ultimately grow into something big.  He recommends starting with prayer, donations in a micro fashion, getting involved and learning more so we can speak about the atrocities, speak out about what is happening, think globally about the church.

Overall, this was not a fun book to read, but I am so glad I read the book, so I can gain a better awareness of how followers of Jesus Christ are being treated.  We spend way too much time in our country bickering about right and left; when people are being killed, as Allen states at the rate of 10 Christians per hour every hour of the day, every day!

I received this book for free from Random Books, in exchange for an impartial and honest review.

31 Days to Happiness

Pastor David Jeremiah has written a very practical book in 31 Days to Happiness: How to Find What Really Matters in Life.  This is an easy to read book which is based on the book of Ecclesiastes.  This is not a commentary, yet can be referred to as a practical commentary.  Jeremiah seeks to lead the reader through the life of Solomon as he looks through Ecclesiastes, chapter by chapter. 

Ultimately, Jeremiah's goal is to help the reader understand what Solomon struggled with in his later years, as he exclaimed, "Vanity is vanities, all is vanity."  There was a profound meaninglessness to Solomon, even though he had it all.

Jeremiah breaks the book down into 31 chapters.  Each chapter consists of approximately 10 pages.  It's a book which can be read in a few days, but I would recommend taking your time and digesting what he had to say and how it can relate to our lives.

Jeremiah uses a great number of examples to help the reader understand the attainment and the failures of other people.  31 Days to Happiness was easy to read and understand, but it would have been great if a Study Guide was included in the book.

I received this book at no cost from Thomas Nelson publishers in exchange for an unbiased review.

The Power of a Half Hour

I can't tell you how many times I have said, "I don't have the time."  Or "I planned on doing this and that, but time slipped away and I never got to it."  Does that sound familiar?  Tommy Barnett attempts to answer our time problems in his upcoming book, "The Power of a Half Hour: Take Back Your Life Thirty Minutes at a Time."

There are 30 short chapters in this book, averaging about 8 pages per chapter.  Barnett split the book into 7 Sections, as follows

• Impact
• Purpose and Goals
• Faith
• Character
• Dreams
• Relationships
• Advancing God's Kingdom

In the back of the book is a Study Guide, as well as a one page synopsis of each chapter, which highlights the guiding principle he wants us to put into practice.  This book struck a chord with me as I seek to prioritize my time and be as efficient as possible.  While it was not possible to put every thought into practice.  There are a great deal of nuggets for the reader to take with him or her through Barnett's personal stories and anecdotes.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book.  The main ideas focus on using our time to effect change in the seven areas Barnett discussed.  It's easy to read, understandable and has principles which can help change a person's life.

Pastor Barnett's book will be available December, and would be a great Christmas present. You may watch a brief video about the book at http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/blog/2013/04/22/video-power-of-a-half-hour-by-tommy-barnett/

I received this book for free from "Water Brook/Multnomah Publishing Group" in exchange for a nonbiased review. 

The REAL Win

The Real Win: A Man's Quest for Authentic Success

Most men attempt to measure success through external means.  We count our coins, our toys, our pride and ego; yet in the end we often find ourselves empty and still wanting more from life.  In this book, The Real Win: A Man's Quest for Authentic Success, Colt McCoy and Matt Carter correctly state,

"The real win means trusting the Lord, walking with Jesus, and living your life in the way he defined it."  They state men can get the REAL WIN in four main areas of their lives ~

Winning at home – by leading your family as you demonstrate your love of Jesus to your spouse and children.

Winning at work – we need to remember that we work for God, and our work does not consume us and become an idol.

Winning the Character game – we turn to Jesus for help which produces greater character within us. 

Winning the future – as we allow God to mold and refine us.  This occurs through the good times and the difficult times of life.

I was not sure I wanted to read this book.  It’s just another sports book, but I was struck by the sincerity of McCoy on his young journey in life.  He was an outstanding college player, but has not hit it big as some thought in the NFL.  Yet, he writes with powerful honesty about his struggles in all areas of life. 

This is an excellent book for men.  Along with that, my wife picked up the book and really enjoyed reading it as well. 

There is also a study guide for a men’s small group discussion in the back of the book.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Fight: Winning our Battles

I’ve read a lot of books for men.  How to be the spiritual leader of the home, how to be the man of the family, how to be a better father, etc.  In his book, Fight: Winning the Battles that Matter Most, Craig Groeschel has written a book about how men were called to be warriors.  He’s pretty clear that this is a book for men, and not for women.  He even encourages women to put the book down.  I didn’t appreciate that, because if this book really applies to me, then it would be great for my wife to read this book.

In essence, Groeschel explains men are designed to by God to be holy warriors.  I don’t really disagree with that thesis, because most men do want to be the warrior and show their mate how they will fight for her.  They (we) want to be the knight in shining armor to rescue our damsel, who’s in distress.

I was surprised Groeschel chose to be base the book on the life of Samson.  While there are many positives we can take from Samson’s life, I find as many negatives and things I should not be doing.  The purpose of choosing Samson is to teach what was right and what was wrong.  Groeschel was able to help me learn more through his study, but I still felt Samson could have been one part of the picture, and he could have used other biblical characters to help bring home the point about what men should be like.

Groeschel pointed out how men usually show emotion by demonstrating anger as opposed to the many other emotions which are within us.  He concludes or surmises that possibly that anger is really self-directed, or directed toward God, and others.  Anger usually is what will drive a man to action.  He also speaks about other issues such as greed, envy, and lust.

This is a pretty short and easy read.  I think most men will see themselves at various points in the book.  Groeschel’s goal is for men to take over the spiritual leadership in their families and to move closer to holiness through self-discipline.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com http://BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.