Love and Respect, by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs

:: Based upon Ephesians 5:33 and extensive biblical and psychological research, Dr. Emerson Eggerichs reveals the power of unconditional love and unconditional respect and how husbands and wives can reap the benefits of marriage that God intended. (Taken from Booksneeze.com)::


Love and Respect: The Love She Most Desires – The Respect He Desperately Needs, is written by widely known and respected marriage counselor, mentor, conference speaker, and author Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. With wisdom and candor, he draws the reader into learning and understanding a truth that will bring hope to today’s discouraging outlook on the state of marriage by showing that you can be far more than just lovers but best friends that find joy in each day that God gives breath! I purchased my first copy of this book while yet single, and I think that this book is one of several that set me up for two years and going of pure happiness and contentment with the man God had for me. Rather than simply being a formula: he shows love, she shows respect = great marriage, this book will draw you to biblical understanding of the one you are married to, and encourage you and challenge you to cement your marriage in the truth of God’s word.

As I continually discover more about showing Christ’s love to my husband, I must also understand that he is human, and a sinner saved by God’s grace who loves me with all his heart and *is learning*! I’m so glad I’m not the only one! :-) By showing him respect by accepting him as he learns and trusting that God is working through him I am free to be content with how God leads us as a couple. I love being married! :-) I would heartily recommend this book to others and wanted to receive this review copy so that I would have an extra copy to share with friends.

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

Unto the Hills, by Billy Graham

Unto the Hills, is a year-long devotional written and compiled by Billy Graham, the well-known and respected evangelist, famous for his crusades which have been held all over the world and attended by current and past generations. This book is a reprint of the original that was published twenty-five years ago. The reader will enjoy a short and inspiring daily reading from which they will find a text, message, and closing prayer. Throughout the course of the year, this book covers a wide variety of topics and the reader will have much to gain from this beloved pastor who has a long lifetime of experience in ministry and in sharing about the Lord.

I found this devotional to be a good choice for a reader wanting something that will inspire them for the day and provide food for thought that would direct them to thinking of the Lord and His Word. Although the daily texts aren’t especially deep, profound, or new, I did not discover them to be incredibly trivial. The truths given will benefit the reader regardless of age, ethnicity, position, or walk in life. That is the beauty of God’s Word, which will never return void.

I found the short memoir to his late wife, Ruth, to be beautiful as he expressed how she invested in the original compilation of this book and shared his joy at being reunited with her soon in Heaven.

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

The Faith of Ronald Reagan, by Mary Beth Brown

The Faith of Ronald Reagan is a warmly written memoir of America’s 40^th president that offers a glimpse into his faith through his own words and writings as well as supporting interviews with those who know him best. The author is New York Times and USA Today best-selling author who also writes a nationally syndicated column.

I will admit that I am definitely not the most knowledgeable person alive when it comes to being aware of the personal lives of those who have served our country as President or First Lady, so I was intrigued when I first saw this book available and desired to read it and learn more about President Reagan’s life according to this author. I love discussing everything possible with my husband, and whereas he seems to understand and know practically everything, I needed to get up to snuff! :-) Although the book was fascinating in regards to President Reagan’s struggles as an actor, in politics, his first marriage sadly ending in divorce, his opposition to Communism, and his responses to assassination attempts, what I enjoyed most was simply looking at the pictures of him and his second wife Nancy and observing the love and devotion they had for each other as expressed through is words about her and to her.

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

If God is Good, by Randy Alcorn

If God is Good, written by Randy Alcorn addresses a common question that those who seek to share the good news of the Gospel may someday face – if they haven’t already! “Why would a good God create a world where so much evil exists?” or “If God is good, why is He allowing me (or my loved one, my child) to experience suffering?” These can often intimidate as we search for answers!

In this book, Randy Alcorn seeks to disband disbelief with God’s word as he tackles these and other difficult questions posed by those hurting and by Atheists who are seeking to discredit the Lord. His logic is biblical, refreshing, and realistic as he compassionately yet firmly teaches who God is and equips the reader to effectively share their faith more deeply than before.

To be honest, I have a very difficult time with reading some of the examples written of this book. When I read about atrocities committed against children, in particular, I struggle emotionally and have very vivid pictures in my mind. Because of this I need to be careful of what I allow myself to watch or read (I do not believe that this causes me to be naive or ignorant). So for others out there like myself, I would encourage you to have someone who will support you if you choose to read this book (and I will admit that because of the above issue I skimmed pages where I caught on that the subject was to be addressed). It is probably not a book I will read again, although the content and message is excellent.

*This book was gratefully received from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group at no cost in exchange for my agreement to post this review.

Voices of the Faithful, with Beth Moore and compiled by Kim P. Davis

Voices of the Faithful: Inspiring Stories of Courage from Christians Serving Around the World, will open the readers eyes to hardships and joys experienced by countless individuals around the world who daily put their life on the line as they seek to share the good news of the Gospel with the unreached. Many of the stories in this book come from areas hostile to Christianity and to those whom profess belief in it.

As with the second book in this series (which I posted a review about earlier), I would encourage anyone who is desiring to have their prayer life for the unreached and for missionaries challenged, shook up, and set ablaze to read this book. With the ease of life and of worship we typically experience here in America, it is easy to lose realization of the persecution many undergo just to serve God or to be His. With its daily devotional format, this book will assist you to keep the world and large in your prayers and to develop fervency that the Gospel might reach every heart to the ends of the earth. The daily tales are also a reminder to me that these dear people who are overseas aren’t “super Christians” and that is why they are being actively used in God’s work. They simply desire to do whatever God wills for them and to do His work regardless of hardships they come against. Likewise, God can use my life to further His Kingdom when I desire to do all for His glory and be faithful in sharing about Him!

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

 

Slave, by John MacArthur

Slave, is authored by Pastor John MacArthur is an eye-opening book revealing truths of God’s Word and of a critical understanding of our standing in Him which is marred by current biblical translations of the words ebed and doulos. So often in Christian circles we are encouraged (and encourage others) to make Jesus our “personal Savior” or that “He just wants us to be happy” or there is an overemphasis on our freedom in Christ which is wrongly equated with our being able to do whatever we want. In this book, Pastor MacArthur teaches how the words ebed and doulos ought to be correctly translated as slave rather than the common translation of servant or worker.  Although this might at first glance not seem like a major deal, he wisely points out how this can steer us to incorrect theological beliefs of our relationship with God, and displace His holiness and ownership of us in that as Christians we are to be completely controlled by God and His will and doing everything with Him in mind realizing we answer completely to Him and everything about us is in His control and hands. He alone is sovereign. As you read this book, any prior misgivings about being a “slave” of God on historic slavery issues here in the United States or United Kingdom will be replaced with joy as we understand how deeply we are His.

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

UnStuff, by Hayley & Michael DiMarco

UnStuff: Making Room in Your Life for What Really Matters, is co-authored by husband and wife team Hayley & Michael DiMarco, founders of Hungry Planet – a company focused on producing books and media geared for modern generations that share God’s truth regarding issues of faith and relationships. This book is an outflow of their decision to simplify life and alongside with their young daughter, focus on what really matters by taking three months to travel around the United States in an RV (recreational vehicle), visiting homeless shelters and discovering how much freedom less “things” brought along the way as they found stress lifted and their relationships strengthened.

This book addresses the strong attitude of consumerism which controls so many of us, distracting us from the things in life which really matter and becoming idols which separate us from God’s best for our lives as we find our fulfillment in things and business, while at the same time succumbing to the pressures and stress which the same items and activities incur!

I appreciate the message this couple is bringing, however I find their approach to be rather unrealistic. Even “unstuffed,” their life is rather affluent compared to the vast majority of families or readership. I personally would find it more practical and inspirational if they had downsized to a smaller scale of living post “tour,” rather than simply decluttering, taking a 3-month vacation, and then returning to life deciding to purchase used instead of new in regards to clothing and fancy cars and other items. An interesting read, however, it does not rate very high on my bookshelf.

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.”

 

Voices of the Faithful, Book 2, compiled by Kim P. David & created by Beth Moore

Voices of the Faithful, Book 2 is a compilation of devotions for each day of the year that will bring the reader’s attention and prayers to the worldwide spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, particularly to the unreached people groups of Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.  Compiled by former missionary Kim P. Davis along with the series creator and well-known Bible teacher, Beth Moore, your heart will be stirred with compassion and a fervency to pray that the world may come to know the true Redeemer and Savior.

Each daily reading briefly tells the story of a new believer or of one who is sharing Christ, both in regions where religions other than true Christianity have deep strongholds.  As with the previous book in this amazing series, I was challenged  in my own Christian walk and witness, and humbled at the lack of persecution I currently have and yet my failure to witness and share the good news with the freedom I possess. It would be my hope that this book would not only continue to inspire me to prayerful action on my knees, but also that it would do the same for each reader; that as we pray for each individual we read about we would desire to pray more and to be faithful about sharing of how God has changed our lives with those we come in contact with.

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

 

Everything Christmas, by David Bordon and Thomas J. Winters

Everything Christmas is a compilation of various Christmas recipes, songs, and stories. I loved the vintage feel of the stories which spanned a variety of times and ethnic origins. There were many fun aspects of this book, I especially enjoyed reading about how different cultures celebrate Christmas and how this book shared recipes and ideas for incorporating that particular celebration into one your family could enjoy. I do plan on trying many of the recipes, even during other times of the year.  They did look tasty! And I enjoyed reading the various poems and holiday carols which the editors chose to include. Although the book may seem to "jump around" since there is so much material included, I can imagine that that format may seem fresh and engaging, particularly to a generation with a shorter attention span.

The stories were heartfelt and many were tales which I hadn't read before. That is saying something for originality since I adore Christmas books and read every one I can obtain! I particularly enjoyed the story of the Appalachian boy who found family on Christmas Day. I cried - but I'm known for being a bit on the weepy side at times! Oh, well!

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

 

Lies the Government Told You, by Judge Andrew P. Napolitano

Lies the Government Told You, written by Judge Andrew P. Napolitano, is a book written for those interested in government and civic affairs as well as for those who cherish the rights given to us through our Constitution and desire that our government and the laws and regulations they put into order truly protect and honor our rights. Once you begin reading this book, you won’t be able to put it down until you’ve turned the last page!

Although dishonesty and politicians are often assumed to be inseparable, that ought not to be the case. In this book, Judge Napolitano brings to the reader’s attention a variety of ways where the American people have been deceived in order to bring awareness of the truth behind the laws and heart of this land – whether the famous line “All men are created equal,” to the more current Patriot Act, which robs Americans of freedom in their personal lives and homes under the pretense of patriotism and heroicness. Even though I am not the most informed regarding current and past government affairs, I found this entire book to be riveting as a gleaned from a Judge with a passion for history, freedom, and governmental integrity. If only we could elect more officials like him!

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

Seeds of Turmoil, by Bryant Wright

Seeds of Turmoil, written by  Pastor Bryant Wright, is a fascinating book telling of the biblical roots of the crisis in the Middle East. Through historical and biblical illustrations, the reader will discover that although the conflict rages today, it is hardly a new trouble that brews. Beginning with Abraham’s disobedience to the Lord in taking matters into his own hands of means of providing himself an heir, the author skillfully traces through the ages the conflict and God’s hand amidst it all. Not only will you gain understanding of the relationship between the Jewish and Islamic religions, but also of the differences between Shiite and Sunni Muslims.

I found this book to be very well written and appreciate the added insights the author provided through maps and scriptural references. He addresses the issue of Middle Eastern conflict with honesty, respect, and boldness. With a subject that can at times be frightening and unknown, he provided a faith-building narrative that will bring wisdom, hope, and renewed faith that the Lord is sovereign over all the affairs of men. This book will give the reader renewed focus for praying for the nation of Israel and all Jews, as well as for Christian believers and for Muslims as we await the second coming of Jesus Christ.

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

 

The Secrets Beneath, by Kathleen Fuller

The Secrets Beneath, is a fictional mystery novel for girls written by Kathleen Fuller. The story-line centers on Bekah, a thirteen-year-old girl whose family is a part of the old-order Amish and who is known for her curiosity! When strange things start going on in her hometown of Middlefield, Ohio, she can hardly stand it. Why is her new neighbor acting so strange? Why has her cousin Amanda suddenly comes to live with them, without anyone telling Bekah why and what is causing her cousin to be so sad?  In this book, the reader is caught up with Bekah as she determines to discover the answers to her questions, even though she becomes entangled with danger.

I found this book to be mediocre. (However, I am quite critical when it comes to fiction.) I was disappointed by the storyline being as anticipated and of the heroin’s lack of obedience to her parents and thoughtlessness, though I thought the book did an excellent job of portraying their correct response towards her and of the relationship particularly between Bekah and her mother. Another quality of the book that I appreciated, was how it left the reader with an understanding of another’s pain as Bekah grappled with her cousin Amanda’s heartache, and the realization of how crucial it is to always treat others with the compassion of Christ since we can never fully know what they may be facing during that time in their life.

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

 

Truth That Sticks, by Avery T. Willis, Jr. and Mark Snowden

Truth That Sticks: How to Communicate Velcro Truths in a Teflon World, is written by Avery T. Willis, Jr. and Mark Snowden, both skilled communicators with a heart to reach the unsaved world with the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through this book, they present an approach to communicating the truths of God’s Word through storytelling and other means of relating to oral learners, giving the argument that much of today’s American modes of evangelism and church discipleship follow routes viewed as more of a literary approach with linear thoughts and expository preaching. They state that this is necessary, not only for the unreached people groups of the world who are unable to read and often may not even have any sort of written language available, but also for the growing number of Americans who are unskilled at reading and are accustomed to visual or auditory means of communication through movies, etc. or other methods which often allow for a very short attention span.

In the chapters of this book you will find examples of this style of evangelism at work, changing lives as Gospel truths are grasped. It also gives practical helps, questions, and advice for those desiring to implement in the way they communicate to those around them. I found the authors to be excellent teachers, drawing from years of experience in guiding churches, mission agencies, and individuals. I think this is a valuable read for all believers who desire to spread the Good News, and it’s message will assist me in teaching my children as well sharing with others.

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.”

 

Then Sings My Soul: Special Edition, by Robert J. Morgan

Then Sings My Soul: Special Edition, is written by Robert J. Morgan and is a wonderful book for music lovers, appreciators of hymns, and for those desiring to share a beautiful gift with others. Organized in such fashion that each hymn seems to form its own chapter, the reader will discover the stories behind the hymns being read or sung as they learn about the author or circumstances that brought about the writing of that particular hymn. Although I found many of the hymns selected for this particular edition to be familiar, there were some that were previously unknown to me, and I loved the variety of text which the author chose. Altogether there are 150 Christmas, Easter, and oft-favorite hymns and stories included.

The format of the book is clearly understandable and easy to follow, and I liked the special touch that was gained through having the page edging left textured and unfinished (even though I did notice that it often caused the pages to stick). Musicians and vocalists will also appreciate that, rather than simply printing the words to the hymns, the author chose to print them along with the sheet music as if found in a hymnal. I loved having the chance to become acquainted with this lovely book through this review offer.

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

On This Day in Christian History, by Robert J. Morgan

 

On This Day in Christian History, is authored by Robert J. Morgan and is written in a year-long format which will invite the reader to daily be introduced to a preacher, pope, martyr, Christian hero, or saint, as glimpses are caught of their life and devotion to Christ through the text. I found the variety to be fascinating as it spanned church history from the early beginnings to Billy Graham, the beloved preacher. My faith was challenged as I read the trials and joys so contentedly received from God’s hand by these men and women of faith, knowing that the same grace is available to me as I lead up the Lord and look to Him during anything I might face (which pales in comparison to the stories I read).

Some stories are whimsical and some are tragic and heartbreaking, but each one will draw you to emotionally grasp a bit of the thought and motives of historic names oft heard of but often separated from the reality that they were actual people with desires just like yours and mine. As I read I was challenged and inspired as I read of their lives, and renewed with desire to be sold out for the Lord Jesus.

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

 

A Child's Introduction to Tea

This was a charming and simple book in which children will learn some basics of tea and the joys of partaking it with friends. I loved the illustrations! Whether basic etiquette to table settings to conversational skills, this books depicts wonderfully the art of tea. I can hardly wait until my little girl is old enough to share tea parties with her dolls and myself!

This book can be found HERE.

* I received a complimentary copy of A Child's Introduction to Tea as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

I Lift Up My Soul, by Charles Stanley

I Lift Up My Soul, written by Pastor Charles Stanley, is a year-long devotional compiled with the desire of drawing the reader into a deeper knowing of the Lord. Each day you will discover, or be reminded of, truths of God and our relationship with Him as you read an excerpt from one of Dr. Stanley's earlier books. Although I had heard him speak before, I hadn't personally read any of his books, so I was interested in obtaining this particular one and was happy that Booksneeze chose to make it available.

To truly gain the message as the author intends, these type of books are best read slowly in their daily format, but even with quickly reading it through I was impressed by the wisdom, depth (considering each day covers only a page), and variety of topics found within. Each day is based upon a select Scripture reading as well as a key verse. Though these devotionals ought to never take the place of spending time alone in God's Word hearing directly from Him, I see this particular book as an excellent way to draw ones focus onto the Redeemer of our Soul, and will look forward to taking a moment sometime during the day to read the daily passage.

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

 

God’s Mighty Acts in Creation, by Starr Meade

God’s Mighty Acts in Creation, is written by Starr Meade who guides children in exploring the six days of creation as they learn more about their heavenly Father and learn to see Him in the world around them. Written for ages 8-12, this book would be suitable as a devotional to be read to children of any age – I greatly enjoyed it myself! It is an excellent book for every family to own and learn from.

The book consists of forty-five short chapters, each containing a Scripture passage and application questions, and is divided into the six days of creation. I love how the author didn’t just simply stop there, rather, she uses these six days as a springboard from which to explore many passages taken from throughout the Bible, all tying in to that particular day while teaching who God is. For example, your children will discover ways we can serve and love the Lord, truths of His character and provision, ways we can bring Him glory through our lives, His sovereignty (and even creatively shows an example for each day of how God usurped the “normal” to show His power, such as how Daniel was kept safe from the lions when he was cast into the den), and the message of salvation.

I appreciated the author’s obvious heart for children and her concern in teaching them solid truths of God and His Word. She uses descriptive imagery to capture the reader’s attention as she shares her love of the gospel with them through the words she thoughtfully penned.

Check out some other fantastic reviews at www.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.”

Topical Memory System, developed by The Navigators

Topical Memory System, developed by The Navigators here in Colorado Springs, is an excellent tool for helping us to store up the Word of God in our hearts. I was excited about the possibility of reviewing this item because memorization is something I struggle with, and am eager for help! This system includes a 30-week workbook, a vinyl verse card holder, and 60 printed Scripture verses on various topics of importance to a believer such as Living the New Life, Proclaiming Christ, Relying on God’s Resources, Being Christ’s Disciples, and Growing in Christ-likeness.  Each verse is printed on eight separate cards, each one with a different translation. The translations currently included in this system are: NIV, NASB, KJV, NKJV, MSG, ESV, NRSV & NLT.

Although I’ve found that for me, writing the verse down myself on an index card helps me recall it better, the idea and goal of daily memorization and meditation is the same. I really liked how the workbook that comes as a part of this system guides the user as they learn to make this a daily part of their life, and as they experience the growth and joy that comes as you treasure of the Word of God.  It is very easy to understand, and they offer much insight into reflection on the various topics. By using the approach of 1-2 verses a week and having it on an individual compact card, one will find that it is very convenient to simply review throughout the day. Thank you, NavPress, for making this available!

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 Grace of God, by Andy Stanley

The Grace of God, authored by Pastor Andy Stanley (of Atlanta, Georgia), is a study taken from many of his sermons on grace and will allow you to delve into this truth of God as you discover His grace in your life and how it manifests itself through scripture passages, lives written of in the Bible, and in your own heart.  You will encounter many individuals of various backgrounds who experienced the grace of God in their lives in remarkable ways, whether King David, or the Samaritan woman at the well.

I like that - partly due in large measure to the fact that the chapters were derived from sermons - this book is thoughtfully concise and in written with remarkable depth into gaining a heart for the ways of God. My faith was encouraged as I read, and I was challenged to have a heart pure before the Lord, to be a vessel of honor which his grace can pour through, not just for myself, but to those He sovereignly places in my daily life. A wonderful read for every believer, as well as for the searching soul who is wondering if God really can work in a life that is far from perfect – which of course the answer to that can only be a resounding and firm “yes!”

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