The Truth About the Lordship of Christ, by John MacArthur

This book is second in a series titled "The Truth About", in which Pastor John MacArthur wisely unpacks biblical doctrines essential to confident and God-glorifying Christian living. In it we study the Lordship of Christ.

I love how chapter one begins:
"Christians have many reasons for rejoicing. The primary one is based on who God is - He is sovereign. That is the single greatest truth about God. Nothing is outside His control, and He controls everything to work out ultimately for our good."

Pastor MacArthur then continues a paragraph later, "The believer who doesn't live in the confidence of God's sovereignty will lack his peace and be left to the chaos of a troubled heart. But our confident trust in The Lord will allow us to thank Him in the midst of trials because we have God's peace on duty to protect our hearts and minds."

This little book delves into practical application of this essential theological truth. It teaches how God is both Lord of the Universe AND Lord of our lives. Incredible! Pastor MacArthur guides us to see its application in daily submission, holy living, confession and restoration. Then he ties it all up be redirecting our focus to our ultimate destination - with our King, Lord Jesus, who reigns forever and ever.

*This book was gratefully received by me from Thomas Nelson in exchange for this unbiased review. I am thankful to be part of their BookSneeze program.

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Then Sings My Soul

I received this book free of charge from Thomas Nelson Publishers so that I could review it. I'm so excited about it! Similar in look and theme as the previous hymn story books, each short chapter gives a specific hymn and then gives the background behind it and tells us of the author.

I was captivated my many included in this particular edition. The well-known hymn "It is Well With My Soul" is highlighted, as well as some newer and much-loved hymns by current writers such as the Gettys' "In Christ Alone."

I appreciate how value was given to newer authors as well as to those of generations past because I fear that too often the approach is that only one or the other are an asset and encouragement to today's believer (depending on the circle you run in!). All hymns that ring pure in doctrine and biblical truth are worthwhile and wonderful and I'm so glad the authors captured that with this edition!

The Barber Who Wanted to Pray, by Dr. R. C. Sproul

The Barber Who Wanted to Pray is a book for children by Dr. R. C. Sproul that is sure to delight both young and old. In grandfatherly fashion (one can almost imagine him reading this book to his own grandchildren), the reader and listeners embark into the life of a barber, Master Peter, who learned from Martin Luther about how to pray and then taught his grandson, who in turn taught his own family! As you learn along with the McFarland family about prayer your kids will be guided through the Lord’s Prayer, the Ten Commandments, and the Apostles’ Creed. They will learn to pray through these prayers as they do this hopefully they will develop an understanding of a deepening relationship with our Lord and Savior and how to better share their deepest concerns, hopes, and fears through prayer. Excellent, excellent, excellent! :-)

I read this book to my kiddos and even though my oldest just turned two, they were both highly interested and hopefully, learned just a bit of God’s goodness and love for them. The story is beautifully illustrated with warm pictures and this book is destined to be treasures and oft read. I am so thankful to Crossway for allowing us the gift of this book to share with our babies. This book would make a wonderful Christmas gift for… well, just about anyone! :-)

More reviews can be found at crossway.org/blog! 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway Publishers. 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.”

Give Them Grace, by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick & Jessica Thompson

Give Them Grace, by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick and her daughter, Jessica Thompson, is the best parenting book I have read yet. The results are profound when grace (rather than legalism or condemnation) is applied in a home. I cried often as I read this book as I realized how much failed to receive God’s grace in my own life as well as praying that I would be a grace-endowed mother to my babies, and was deeply absorbed in it while yet on the forward! I would recommend to every parent or individual with a heart for children.

I love how it gave me a thirst for a deeper understanding of the Gospel. Each page resonated in my heart as reflecting what Dwight and I want most for Chloe, Zachary, and lil’ Bitty Baby – that is, for them to love the Lord with all their hearts and to live solely for Him. We want them to desire Him. We also want to reflect His goodness to us by our actions towards them as our children! (I am grieved over how often I show selfishness instead. ) :-(

I appreciate that this book is sensibly applicable as well as theologically sound. Their guidance - while being practical and reasonably wise from experience - is also derived straight from the Gospel, and mirrors the grace that God shows us (His children) moment by moment. If you are quite Covenantly-bent, you may disagree with the addition of charts aiding parents in correct response towards common issues (disobedience, lying, etc.) in which responses differ based upon whether the child is saved or unsaved. Though, personally, I found these to be wonderful! I would also caution parents from straying from grace towards themselves by feeling that they must memorize the charts and apply them word for word. Just receive them as a gift of mentoring, and use them as guidance. :-)

Check out more reviews at crossway.org/blog!  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Crossway Publishers. 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.”

Safely Home, by Randy Alcorn

Although fictional, Safely Home is written by Randy Alcorn in an attempt to share his passion for the persecuted Church with his readers. The many who serve Christ to the point of giving of their lives is certainly not fictional, even though we westerners, unable to grasp the fullness of the horrors occurring even today throughout various parts of the world is hardly fictional at all. Death, torture, pain and persecution is a daily struggle which they view and breathe amidst, for themselves as well as for their loved ones. They have chosen to serve and love God as Savior regardless of the cost. Even though that face deep pain, both physically and emotionally, they are faithful to the end. They love their Heavenly Master with passion and fervor, even as they face fears just like any of us. It is so easy to forget or to gloss over the realism of it all – hopefully this book will be used to build compassionate prayer and expectant hope in each reader.

In this book, the reader meets two former college buddies – the one a successful but emotionally pained businessman who is working in a business liaison with China, the other a Christian Chinese husband and father who serves God faithfully as he works by day at a locksmith shop.  They each come to understand personally what a follower of Jesus may encounter, and of the grace that He always gives freely to those who are His.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Press. 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.”

Spiritual Warfare for Women, by Leighann McCoy

Spiritual Warfare for Women is a practical guide to basically seeing the sinful nature we have from birth, the saving and redeeming grace of our Savior, and the relentless tactics of the enemy to leave us as discouraged, argumentative, and fruitless saints. The author, Leighann McCoy writes courageously and faithfully to her fellow sisters in Christ (that’s us!) to say that there is victory when we cling to the personhood of Christ and the truths of the Gospel for our daily survival and hope, resulting in a joyful life – even amidst the trials and conflicts that will come – as we stand firm in the faith.

I often really struggle with discouragement and feeling like an absolute failure – which is just how the enemy wants me to be! How this must sadden the heart of my Savior, who shed His blood for me and then rose triumphantly! This book has stirred me and reminded me of so many truths, which although I “know” I haven’t clung to much at all lately. I am so thankful for it and pray that as I reread it in the next few weeks that God would really do a transforming work in my mind and life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. 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.”

As Silver Refined, by Kay Arthur

As Silver Refined: Answers to Life’s Disappointments captures some of Kay Arthur’s teaching and brings it to us in written form. To me, it seemed to be a compilation of an encouraging book for women to see God amidst life, a Bible study which brings truth to each day’s circumstances in raw relevance, and a sisterly chat over a cup of tea from a mentor with a heart for God. Not a bad deal!

The truth she shares is true… and often hard to live out. Life is full of happiness, but it also brings much waiting, hurt, and disappointments. When things turn unsure or even sour, do I relish my standing in Christ and lean on Him for strength? Or do I feel alone and angry, despairing in the seeming lack of hope? In this study – designed for thirteen weeks – she embarks the reader on a journey towards habitual cycles of freedom and the realization that God wants to make us as silver refined – a living reflection of His goodness and grace.

This book would make an excellent choice for either personal reading or to be studied as a women’s group. Although I have mixed thoughts on other studies by this author (and need to review and pray about them more before stating anything further!), I found this book to be excellent, thought provoking, and eye opening. I am grateful to have received it for review.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Publishers. 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.”

When God Whispers Your Name, by Max Lucado

When God Whispers Your Name, is another compilation of encouragement to a weary soul through the avenue of storytelling by a master storyteller. Well known for his ability to weave truths into words, Max Lucado seeks to share hope to the reader and knowledge that amidst the weariness and uncertainty of life here on earth, we have a Savior who cares deeply for us – and knows us by name.

This book is a collection of many stories. In some the character are old. In others, they are young. Some are Bible stories, others possibly derived from the neighbor next door.  Maybe on one of the pages you’ll find a story that reflects perhaps a bit of you.

Although I enjoy the stories Pastor Lucado shares, I can’t help but feel that the hope he shares is somewhat shallow. Yes, it is encouraging to know that God knows our name when we are feeling down… but the mailman knows it, too. For lasting hope we need an introduction to our Savior and a good look at the cross – knowing that He suffered and rose to bring us victory in the daily life. Then, we can really appreciate that such a great God knows our name, in fact, He knew it well before we were even born. 

*This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson at no cost in exchange for my agreement to post this review.

The Generals: Pershing, by John Perry

As another addition to the series entitled The Generals, Pershing: Commander of the Great War is a look at the triumphs, legacy, and even love of one whom led our nation’s men amidst the first Great War. General John J. Pershing fought with honor and order and led courageously, yet also maintained a deep love for his family- and was heartbroken when a tragic fire at home claimed the life of his sweetheart and their daughters while he was gone. His son survived, and he strove to maintain a fatherly relationship with him even when separated by distance and war.

I appreciate how each book in this series seeks to offer a reflective and truthful look into the personal lives of each General it presents, while maintaining an attitude of honor. These men gave a great service to our country, and I am very grateful. It saddens me however, how often the reoccurring theme of mistress’s reappears. (Even though in this case it wasn’t until after the death of his wife.) I have seen this more often in the Generals serving in the two World Wars. It serves as a good reminder to pray for those currently serving our country, that God would give them victory on the field, and that throughout their life they would reflect purity and honor in their moral lives. I cannot imagine the horrors they witness and resulting emotional comfort they seek– they need our prayers. 

*This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson at no cost in exchange for my agreement to post this review.

Get a Melissa & Doug 25% coupon When You Take the North "Pole"

I'm SO sorry to say that their "Poll" is now closed, but I wanted to still take a moment to brag about their products! If you are wondering what to gift a child in your life, I'd check them out because:

1: They are quality products. (I.e., in our home this means no lead paint to scrape off, no batteries, and durable wood or plastic)

2: Wonderfully priced. Okay, so I will totally admit that these are worth every penny of their list price. However, amazing deals generously abound! I just bought 2 magnetic sets and then 2 larger puzzles, and paid under $3 for each. Other have even been free (thanks to Swagbucks)

3: My babies LOVE them. That makes for a happy mum and daddy!

Here is the outdated text to illustrate how fun this company can be. (Isn't a "poll" a great idea? I love the word spoof!)

Melissa & Doug want you to tell them which of their educational toys is the best! Just click on the image to place your vote in the north "poll!" You'll get a Melissa & Doug 25% off coupon** to use at MelissaAndDoug.com just for voting!

The Final Hour, by Andrew Klavan

The Final Hour is the fourth book in a series of crime and adventure entitled The Homelanders. It is written by Andrew Klavan, a renowned author of suspense!

Reader o' mine, I must confess that it is Dwight who read this book. I saw enough death and action to realize that it was not for me at a quick initial glance as I flipped through it. :-) So I passed it on to my courageous husband and he shared with me what he thought. Whew. Because quite honestly, Adventures in Odyssey is a bit too much for me at times... ! Give me Miss Potter any day.

He thought that this book was well written even though the plot was easily anticipated. He appreciated that it was a quick easy read and also that it did not contain the foul language so often found in books of similar content and intrigue. He expressed interest in reading the other titles in the series. He practically read this book in one sitting, so that must tell you something! He said that storyline is basically a continuation of the book's hero, Charlie West. as he seeks to confirm his innocence while stopping a vicious terrorist attack from coming to fruition (just in the nick of time!). Once again, wrong is avenged and the right is victorious... The end.

*This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson at no cost in exchange for my agreement to post this review.

Every Single Woman's Battle, by Shannon Ethridge

I received Every Single Woman's Battle: Guarding Your Heart and Mind Against Sexual and Emotional Compromise as a review from Waterbrook Press' Blogging for Books program. What I received for review wasn't the actual book (of that title) but rather the accompanying workbook. With that in mind, here is what I thought:

- Kudus to the author for writing on such a sensitive subject with clarity and grace, while at the same time managing to be straightforward and pointed. Since this book is simply the workbook and intended for personal or group study, I didn't have the opportunity to read the actual chapters, but found the questions and discussion ideas to be very practical. This as an area that the church is not to be niave about and we are to seek to be pure and glorify God through our sexuality, pleasing Him in all areas of our thought and life.

- I believe that rather than having the actual book and workbook be separate, they ought to have been printed as one volume. This is confusing and ends up costing the reader more in the long run. They need both anyways, so why not give them both to begin with?

- There is space for the reader to write in as they go through this study, but I don't feel that the publisher allowed for enough space. Make the book wider, bigger, etc. to allow for this to be usable. For a Bible study one would need to have the book, this companion workbook, their Bible, and then a notebook? Yikes... just too much.

I would like to see this improved upon by the publisher, and I am eager to read the actual book. (And then take another look at this workbook! ;-) ) I can see this being particularly life-changing and edifying for a youth group to go through together (guys doing the guys version and girls doing this one of course!!!!).

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Publishers. 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.”

A Place Called Blessing, by John Trent

A Place Called Blessing: Where Hurting Ends and Love Begins is a novel that takes the concepts taught within the bestselling book “The Blessing,” and weaves them into a story of tragedy, redemption, and hope. I cried as I was introduced to the main characters: Josh, a little boy with a troubled and difficult life as he grows and becomes a man; Mike, a coworker who befriends Josh and becomes like a brother; Anna, who is Mike’s mother and Josh’s landlord, opening her home and her heart to Josh. 

After losing his parents in a drunk driving accident, Josh faced a series of difficult foster homes until tragedy struck and his life became hopeless in his little eyes (at age six). Feeling unloved, worthless, and responsible for the terrible accident that occurred, he grew bitter and angry. But after he was out of the children’s home and on his own at age eighteen, God intervened and Josh received craved for unconditional love.

This book clearly illustrates the power of forgiveness and in giving another hope for their future and a belief in themselves (that is proper and life-giving). Although not a very lengthy book (I read it easily in an evening), it is weighty in sharing through the lives of the characters and its twisting plot  how even when lives are intertwined by pain – God writes the final chapter and can bring hope and even joy at the close. This book was written in hopes of the message grasping today’s generation, and I truly hope that others will take the time to read it. Whereas information (however good) can bring much change and desire to benefit another’s life, there is something about a story that leaves you unable to forget. My prayer is that God will always keep in my mind and heart the need to build up not only my children, but all who He brings into my path as I realize that I may have no idea the pain they have endured or currently face.

Overall I feel this is an excellent way to reach another generation with the message of the blessing which Dr. Trent along with Focus on the Family is trying to accomplish. I do wish however, that the author would have taken the liberty to present a clearer message of the gospel and was also disappointed that the Lord's name was used inappropriately once in this book.

*This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson at no cost in exchange for my agreement to post this review.

Freedom From Performing, by Becky Harling

Freedom From Performing: Grace in an Applause-Driven World, is a Bible study for women based upon the parables of Jesus and is graciously written by Becky Harling. In this book, she has chosen to share candidly of how she discovered joy and freedom as she learned to live for the the approval of One, not the approval of everyone. She desires that each of us women might learn to be content to be us, not some picture of perfection we've drummed up  and placed as an idol of our hearts over being who God has made us to be. She encouraged me to realize that there are times in my life when service to God will simply mean loving my husband and cherishing my children. I don't have to (and ought not to!) run myself ragged leading studies and doing church work, espeically if the reason I am doing it is because I don't want to let others down, or will feel badly about not doing it, or someone thinks that I should be doing it... and so forth. The excuses to be out of God's will while doing God's work are endless! And when you add the "keeping up with the Jones'" mentality of having to have a nice car, gorgeous home in a nice neighborhood, fancy meals, etc. it is a wonder we haven't lost our minds! Sadly though... what we don't realize is how much we DO lose when we get caught up in the spiral of a theatrical life of performance and our family, our health, and our joy suffers.

I believe this ought to be required reading for every one of us wives whose husbands are involved in ministry as a vocation (whether your husband is a pastor or a CPA, like mine!). And I believe every woman who desires to be involved with the local church read it too. And those who wag their fingers and criticize us mamas for not going and going 24/7.... well, why don't I loan you my copy. ;-)

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Navpress Publishers. 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.”

Billy Graham in Quotes, by Franklin Graham

There is so much that I appreciate about the life and ministry of Billy Graham that I was eager to review this compilation of quotes gathered by his son and arranged topically in this anthology work suitable for ones personal library or for a gift. The softcover binding is simple yet attractive and the chapters or topics are easily perused or searched through. In reading this volume which I received as a review copy, I found many of the quotes to be engaging and true, liking this one in particular: 

No situation is beyond God's control. 

Over my wife's desk are these words: 

"Fear not the future; God is already there."

In his work as an evangelist and preacher, Dr. Billy Graham sough to bring the wisdom of God's word to daily life. He believed that Christianity wasn't simply about being relevant, but about having a heart for the Word of God and striving to obey Him in all things. This compilation is an honoring look as the words which he spoke for the glory of God.

*This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson at no cost in exchange for my agreement to post this review.

Connecting in Communities, by Eddie Mosley

 Connected in Communities: Understanding the Dynamics of Small Groups is intended for pastors, church leadership, and small-group point people (hosts/ leaders) but the lessons can be integrated into anyone’s ministry perspective or mindset. The writer sought out to learn (and then engage us in that learning as well!) by procuring wisdom from several well-known church leaders specializing in small group ministry. They each struggles and triumphs, bringing the reader to understand the heart being small group interaction and allow them to not just view small group ministry as “another program” or “Christian thing to do.”

I found an overarching emphasis to be on the need for the church to be in the community, and the belief that this is best procured through the utilization of small groups within the church. Core groups that will strengthen and shape each other, not just come Sunday morning, but as daily life goes on in each family and group member. Each core group is then “assigned” their surrounding neighborhood or community and encouraged to let life happen – hosting block party barbecues, gardening in their front yards and talking with neighbors as they walk by, inviting children over to play (with their own kids), conversing at little league games –intentionally letting their own neighbors know that they care about them and opening relationships so that true Christianity can be lived out and the saving grace of Jesus shared. 

I appreciated the understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all program. The emphasis is simply on seeing the need for small group community within a church and how to go about proactively and intentionally bringing the reality of a small group ministry about in your local congregation. I loved being a part of our small group in Colorado Springs and can only wholeheartedly agree with how important they are! I also appreciated the practical tips and advice on starting a small group if there isn’t one already – with help on childcare, hosting, food, timing, curriculum, etc.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers. 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.”

The Blessing, by John Trent and Gary Smalley

We are each made for and thrive within a healthy relationship. After all, we are made foremost for a relationship with the Lord and to bring Him glory! But there are times when tragically earthly relationships tear down rather than build up; they breed destruction rather than life. They cause one to wilt and to feel downtrodden.

We each long to be unconditionally loved and approved – and we long for that approval and love to come from our parents from the time we are conceived! But how is that practically given? Does it come natural or do we, as parents, need to mold that into our parenting and life? What if we didn’t experience unconditional love as a child ourselves, or as we grew had our self-worth and value stripped away through painful experiences or situations? The authors, John Trent and Gary Smalley, share how we can give and receive the gift of unconditional love and approval coming from healthy relationship – the blessing - in our own lives, in the lives of our children, and in the lives of others God allows to intercept with our own through what they call five essential elements.

Honestly, I cringe when I read anything having to do with a particular amount of “steps” or “elements,” as they have in this particular book. But the reader (as I have) can easily grasp the heart of the message and wholeheartedly agree with the essential need for it in one’s life. It is crucial. And this book offers much practical help for its implementation. I was able to hear John Trent when he spoke to the staff at Focus on the Family and was happy to see this book The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance (which was first published twenty-five years ago!), become available for review so that I could obtain a copy for our family.

*This book was gratefully received from Thomas Nelson at no cost in exchange for my agreement to post this review.

Love & War, by John and Stasi Eldridge

Love & War: Finding Your Way to Something Beautiful in Your Marriage is written by John and Stasi Eldridge, who continue the candid and deep vulnerability readers discovered in their earlier best-selling books Wild at Heart and Captivating. Through personal stories of heartache and humble triumph in their marriage as well as in those willing to share with them, they encourage couples to view each other not as enemies, but as lovers worth fighting for, showing how to win “by fighting for each other, instead of against each other.”

As a woman, I dream of our marriage being like a fairy tale. Yet I am a sinner saved by grace, married to a sinner saved by grace. Furthermore, I am a woman married to a man. We can often be as different as night and day! J In our daily life, however, I am able to glimpse with the Eldridges’ the incredible mercy of God, who loves Dwight and I more than we even love each other. Far more. And he is working a tale for His glory and even our delight!

Although I have many other marriage books that I prefer over this one, I greatly appreciate their emphasis on prayer and on life being a battleground in an unseen spiritual war. Satan truly does want our marriages and families to fail, and we need the cleansing and freeing power of God in the midst. We need to ask for it, to crave it, and to live in it. Hopefully the reader will grasp the heart of the Eldridges’ in this and be further spurred to engulf their own marital relationship in prayer as a lover-team for God’s glory.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Publishers. 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.”

Love Written in Stone, by Dr. Philip Carson

Love Written in Stone: Finding God’s Grace in the Boundaries He Sets, is written by Dr. Philip Carson who is a practicing family Physician in addition to serving as Senior Pastor at his home church in Sierra Madre, California,

Sadly, it can sometimes seem within the Christian community that serving the Lord actively means living outside of our natural ability in a way that tears us down and fails to bring Him glory. What others expect of us and what we view as “ministry” leaves us feeling overwhelmed, tired, and physically ill, and wondering how we will actually be able to accomplish everything on our to-do list while still being a sweet and supportive helpmeet to our husbands, patient mother to our children, encouraging sister to our church “family,” and creative keeper of our spotless home. We feel discouraged (and sometimes are chided) when we are unable to attend (or better yet, host or lead!) that women’s Bible study. We are told that it is far better to leave our babies in the nursery so that we “are free to serve the Lord” in the choir or youth classroom, even though it screams against our natural inclinations. We stay up late (yet again!) working on making the décor for the ladies’ tea or the food for the meal you have invited another family over for “just right,” We push our limits while dropping cliché’s like “all for the glory of God” or “God gives strength to the weary” from our bottomless bag of appropriate Christian statements. But who are we really kidding? Is this “good life” any better than our neighbors down the street who are honest about living life for their own esteem?

With candor and wisdom from his duel-responsibilities in the church and practice, as well as from family life as husband and father to four, Dr. Carson gives biblical perspective on areas such as commitments, health, relationships, finances, and time.  I found this book to be a primer of sorts in setting boundaries and feel that it is more for the new believer or for just the community at large. I wish that it faced head-on the expectations faced within the church. But overall, this book does offer guidelines derived from scripture which when followed, will allow the reader to experience more joy and contentment in their daily life. Trials do come, and temptations and persecutions arise, but often (at least here in America), our stress is often due to issues we brought upon ourselves due to greed or pride. This book will offer some guidance and it is worth reading.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany Publishers. 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.”