Nearing Home by Billy Graham

When you hear the name, Billy Graham, it’s hard not to envision the evangelist, in a huge stadium, calling others to give their lives to Jesus, but in his newest book, Nearing Home, I caught a glimpse of the personal side of him. At the writing of this book, he was about to turn 93 years old and in each page, I could sense the wisdom of the aged and a gentle spirit of a godly man.

Nearing Home is an honest look at aging. Dr. Graham shares the difficulties that are a part of growing older like the loss of strength and the inability to do what you used to be able to do, illness, death of loved ones, ect., but he also encourages his readers to live these remaining years to their fullest. He points out what is truly important in life, and how, even as we get older, we can still influence those around us. He gives practical advice on preparing for this stage in life, including how we should prepare financially, personally, and spiritually, so it won’t take us by surprise.

In the introduction he begins by saying, “Whoever first said it was right: old age is not for sissies”. And as I read his book, I can honestly say, Billy Graham is no sissie! He has lived his life well, and as he nears the time that he will go “home,” God continues to use him to be an encouragement to others through the words of this inspirational book.

I would highly recommend this book to men and women of any age. The older person can identify with much of what he shares, and the younger person can prepare himself for this stage of life by gleening wisdom from this man of faith. Though conversations about aging and death are often avoided, Nearing Home is a book that addresses these issues with courage, grace, and hope.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo

Heaven is for Real is the story of  Colton Burpo's "visit to heaven" during an emergency appendectomy when he was about 4 years old. Todd Burpo, his father, who was pastoring a church in Imperial, Nebraska slowly discovered Colton's story through casual conversations that revealed information that a boy his age wouldn't naturally have known. The process took place over a couple of years and as they shared parts of Colton's story with friends, family, and churches, they were encouraged to write a book about it.

I found Colton's story fascinating. We often talk about heaven and believe we will go there after we die if we have trusted in Jesus as our Savior, but if we are honest, not many of us can say with certainty what it will be like. Scripture speaks about heaven, but sometimes even Scripture can seem veiled.  There is no way to know for sure if Colton actually visited heaven, but his account made me hope that his experience was fairly accurate. His description of Jesus and His love for children made me smile.

The Deluxe Edition, which I received to review, also contains a center section with color picutures of Colton and his family. It was nice to be able to put a face to the names mentioned in the book.  Also included in this edition was a series of questions at the end of the book in a section titled, "Reflecting on Heaven," which could stimulate further thoughts about heaven.

Overall, I found this book to be an interesting and fairly quick read.  It definitely makes you think about heaven in a more personal way.  I personally believe heaven is real and only time will tell if Colton's description of heaven is accurate!

I received a complementary copy of this book through the BookSneeze blogger program in exchange for my unbiased review.

We Shall See God – Charles Spurgeon’s classic devotional thoughts on Heaven

Charles Haddon Spurgeon, born in England in 1834, is considered to be one of the greatest preachers of his time and his name continues to be recognized today. We Shall See God is a 50 day devotional book that incorporates Charles Spurgeon’s sermons on heaven with Randy Alcorn’s personal thoughts and commentary. Because Spurgeon’s sermons were typically very long and at times difficult to read because of paragraph structure and language used from that period of time which no longer is  understood with the same meaning today, Alcorn edited the sermons to be more “readable” to a contemporary audience.  These excerpts were not altered in “content,” just made easier to read and understand. Following the portion of Spurgeon’s sermon for the day, referenced by the sermon title and number, date, and where or for what occasion it was originally delivered, Randy Alcorn then gives his commentary and thoughts on the issues addressed by Spurgeon.

This is not a casual devotional with a simple verse and thought for the day.  To me, they were more theologically deep and thoughtful. It is not what I consider an “easy read.”  I found Spurgeon’s portion a little more difficult to read than Alcorn’s commentary, but perhaps that is to be expected since Spurgeon’s were delivered as a sermon while Alcorn’s thoughts written in more of a devotional way.  One thing is certain though, the truths that Spurgeon speaks about continue to be as relevant to today’s world, as they were in his time.

If you love Charles Spurgeon, or desire to read about what the Scripture says about heaven, then you will find this book helpful and beneficial.  We have the hope of heaven after we die, and this book reminds us of that fact as we make our journey through this sometimes difficult life.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers blogger review program in exchange for an honest review.

Thank You, God, For Blessing Me

Thank you, God, For Blessing Me, is a wonderful little book that is part of Max Lucado’s “Hermie the Catepillar” series that will encourage your child to recognize and be thankful for both the big and little things God gives us each day.  In a simple prayer, Hermie expresses his appreciation for all the blessings he has received, for daily provisions, relationships, and His creation. It's also great that Lucado includes the idea that being kind and obeying are special ways to say thank you to God. In a world that teaches entitlement and greed is good, this little book can reinforce the biblical concept that every good and perfect gift comes from our Heavenly Father and for these blessings we should give thanks!

The book, written in rhyme, is easy to follow and the illustrations capture the essence of the story perfectly.  You see Hermie praying and the things he prays for are things that the child can relate to.  It is colorful and the perfect size to take along with you when traveling.  Since it is a board book, it is sturdy enough for a young child to “read” on his own.  I would definitely recommend this book for the preschool child.  Perhaps it can even lead into a conversation between parent and child about specific things he or she is thankful for.

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

Night Night Blessings by Amy Parker

In today's world, one thing that is lacking is gratitude. We take for granted all that God has provided for us. Night Night Blessings, by Amy Parker, helps a child to recognize God's blessings in the big and little things that are a part of  his every day experiences.  From the time the child in the book opens her eyes in the morning, until she closes them again at night, she expresses thanks to God for everything from syrupy pancakes to twinkly stars at night along with everything in between like friends, pets, toys, family, bubble baths, and bedtime routines. All these blessings let the child know, as the last page states, that God is watching from above. I think it is a sweet book that can encourage a child to recognize God's blessings throughout his or her day. This book, at the end of the day, could provide an opportunity for parents to ask their child what things they are thankful for.

The book itself is a slightly padded board book that is colorful yet subdued. The illustrations, by Marijan Ramljak, have a "soft" almost water colored appearance. The book seems sturdy which would allow a child to "read" this book on his own without fear of tearing pages. The story is written in rhyme which children seem to enjoy.

I look forward to reading it to my own grandchildren the next time they are over. Because it is a board book, I would recommend it for preschoolers. As a bedtime book, it certainly could lead into a bedtime prayer to thank God for the many blessings in that day and maybe begin a new habit of recognizing God's blessings and thanking Him for them all through the day.

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

Stumbling into Grace by Lisa Harper

Spritual truths can often be found in every day situations if your eyes and ears are open to the Lord. Lisa Harper does a wonderful job portraying truths of God's Word through humorous stories and life events that she has found herself stumbling through.  Stumbling into Grace: Confessions of a Sometimes Spiritually Clumsy Women, is composed of personal stories, a passage of Scripture, and thoughts that tie them together. The chapter concludes with Personal Reflection and/or Group Discussion Questions along with a final opportunity to dialog back with God in a "journal entry" applying the truth of that chapter.

Lisa shares stories divided into the categories of "Real Life," "Real Gifts," and "Real Growth."  As Chrisian women, we deal with things like fear, things that bind us, things that hurt us, people who need forgiveness, loneliness, disappointment, and the list can go on.  While some women appear to have it all together, I, like Lisa Harper, am often spiritually clumsy.  Whether we get it the first time, or if God has to pick us off the floor again, we can learn to walk with grace even if we have to stumbling into it occasionally!

If you are looking for an easy read that can also make you think, this book may be for you. Though she sometimes "contemporizes" the Scripture part of the story, the truth remains the same.  Read this book and then allow the Lord to teach you through your every day life experiences!

I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com 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.”

Promises to Keep by Ann Tatlock

Promises to Keep, by Ann Tatlock, is an engaging story written from the perspective of an eleven year old girl named Roz Anthony whose family had recently been uprooted by her mother’s decision to leave Roz’s abusive father. Shortly after their arrival in the small town of Mills River, a stranger, Tillie Monroe, the former owner of the house they had recently purchased, shows up on their front porch determined to live there again – to die in the home that was so much a part of her. This woman, who first was viewed as a nuisance, turned out to be a blessing in disguise as she truly became a part of the family and one who brought love and perspective to their troubled world.

Roz struggled with her desire to have a father that she could trust and love. She wondered if it would ever be possible for her daddy to change so they could be a family again. As a woman of faith, Tillie became a stabilizing force for the family and in her own way, tried to introduce her “Heavenly Father” into Roz’s world. Set in the 1960’s, Promises to Keep alluded to the struggles of that time -- racial issues and the Vietnam War and how they impacted this family.

Though the book had Christian overtones, and the concept of faith and God were seen in Tillie’s life, the book was not “preachy.” The only downside was that the idea of salvation was implied, but not clearly articulated. Ann Tatlock’s writing style was easy and conversational. I liked that the chapters were short and the story was easy to pick up on again, even if it was a couple days between readings. I found the characters to be believable and likeable, especially Tillie. Though the ending was a bit abrupt, it did conclude with a summary of how things turned out in the end. The final few pages of the book contained some discussion questions for either personal or small group use.

Overall I found the book to be an enjoyable summer read and would recommend this book to others.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

Rejoice!

The 2011 Woman of Faith Worship CD entitled Rejoice, is a compilation of 10 worship songs sung by the Women of Faith Worship Team, that give you reason to rejoice in the Lord.  Songs included on this CD are:

                       1.  Beautiful Redeemer
                       2.  So Good
                       3.  Forever Reign
                       4.  Come As You Are
                       5.  Hosanna
                       6.  Our God
                       7.  Glory To God
                       8.  You Brought the Sunshine
                       9.  Greatness of Our God
                     10.  Great Is Thy Faithfulness

I was familiar with several of the songs but a few were new to me.  All were songs, whether upbeat in tempo or slower and contemplative, which pointed to the Lord and gave you reason to rejoice!  It's a CD that I enjoyed listening to as I walked and exercised, and it would also be good listening music in the car, around the house, really anywhere.  The music was contemporary, but melodic and easy to sing with. I just had to be careful not to sing along too loud when I was exercising with my earphones on!

I would definitely recommend this CD if you are looking for one to lead you in worship and rejoicing in the God who loves you.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com 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.”

The Part-Time Vegan by Cherise Grifoni

I have no desire to become a vegetarian, but the idea of "Meatless Mondays" was an interesting concept as my husband and I have started to make healthier choices in our eating habits. I'm all for fresh fruits and vegetables and believed this cookbook might enable us to get ideas on how to use these items in new ways.

The Part-Time Vegan: 201 Ymmy Recipes The Put the FUN in Flexitarian, by Cherise Grifoni, is an attempt to provide recipes for vegetarians, or those who may want to try it "part-time." Though the author tried to take a light-hearted approach in the introduction, I was a little surprised in her use of language in a couple of instances. I also found it interesting that those who are so opposed to eating meat have come up with all sorts of "substitutes" that are served in a meat-like form.

The cookbook was divided into the usual categories like Appetizers, Salads, Soups, Desserts, etc. along with sections for Tofu, Seitan, TVP, and Tempeh. It also included 11 complete Dinner Plans.  Some recipes looked interesting and worth trying, while some of the more "vegan" ones using seitan, TVP or Tempeh will probably be passed on. I was also surprised that there were no photos of any of the food prepared except for the few on the cover.

Will I be able to use any of the 201 recipes in this cookbook?  Yes.  Will it be my "go-to" cookbook, probably not, but it would be a good choice for someone who is more serious about becoming a vegetarian and willing to try to find some of the more unusal ingredients needed to cook as a true vegan.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com 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.”

Max on Life by Max Lucado

Max Lucado's newest book, Max on Life, is a little different from your typical inspirational Christian book. In this book, Lucado tackles 172 questions that he has been asked over the years as he has served as a pastor and as a writer. Some questions were basic, while others were deep and serious. In his typical writing style, he often painted word pictures, in an easy conversational style, to convey warmth and hope for the reader.

The book is divided into seven broad categories of questions relating to: Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Have/Have-Nots, and the Hereafter. There is a helpful Topical Index in the back of the book if you are looking for answers on a particular subject. Though I believe Max Lucado did a good job dealing with many of the questions posed, some were a bit more complex than I believe a simple one-page answer is able to provide. Perhaps his answers could be somewhat of a springboard for further reading/study on these topics.

I didn't find the book engaging enough to read straight through, but I don't know if it is really designed for that. I think it may be useful if you were curious about a particular issue or if you have been asked similar questions and didn't quite know how to put the answer into words. This book could be a helpful resource as you begin to formulate an answer that you could share with others.  

So, will all our questions be answered after reading this book? No. We know some questions we have may never be answered fully here on earth. But this book could be a starting point to lead the reader to search out the answer further for himself in God's Word.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com 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.”

The Final Summit by Andy Andrews

Time is running out. Humanity has gotten off course. What can be done to avert the disaster ahead?  The solution lies in the answer to a question posed by the archangel, Gabriel, to David Ponder and a group of Travelers from the past. David Ponder, a successful businessman from the present, was chosen to lead this final summit meeting composed of historical figures, to come up with a two word answer that would restore humanity's pathway toward successful civilization. They would have five chances to come up with the solution. As each chosen historical figure would share his or her insight, they would try to come up with the correct answer to the question posed. The answers given sounded good, but would it be the one Gabriel was looking for? Would they keep trying or give up?

Author, Andy Andrews drew upon stories from history, as he masterfully wove fact into fiction. Some characters were very familiar while others I knew little about, but their stories inspired me to find out more about these real characters. The Final Summit is a timely book for today's readers. Our country as well as the world, I believe, is heading toward disaster. This book can be a catalyst to encourage us to make a difference in the present world in which we live.

Though "theologically" you cannot take this account literally, there is still much to be learned as you read this book of fiction. Readers were first introduced to David Ponder in the book, The Traveler's Gift, as he traveled through time to obtain the "Seven Decisions" from some of these same historical figures. Though it may give you a better understanding of the main character, it is not necessary to have read this book first.

The Final Summit can be read fairly quickly and drew me in as I read it. I found it fascinating that though the words spoken by these historical figures were for the most part fictional, Andy Andrews researched them so thoroughly that the words they spoke in the book seemed believable. Though I do wish it pointed more to the real solution that restores our pathway to successful civilization, Jesus Christ, I still would recommend this book. Those who love history will especially enjoy it.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com 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.”

A Bug Collection DVD Box Set ~ Vol. 3

By Max Lucado

A Bug Collection ~ Vol. 3 is a boxed set containing 3 DVDs from the Max Lucado Hermie & Friends Series. The DVDs are beautifully animated with memorable characters that are consistent on each DVD. Each DVD is a story with a biblical message that children can relate to. 

The three topics addressed in this set are Prayer, in "Milo the Manis Who Wouldn't Pray;" Behaving, in "Buzby and the Grumble Bees;" and Getting Along, in "Hailey and Bailey's Silly Fight."

Each story begins and ends with Max Lucado and Hermie the catepillar having a discussion about the problem/theme in the upcoming story.  I think the animated portion of the DVD would hold a child's attention, but younger children may get restless during the initial exchange between Lucado and Hermie on repeated viewings.  Each DVD also contain bonus materials including a read-a-long story book, games, sing-a-longs, information of the making of the movie, trailers, ect. and additional materials like games, coloring pages, wallpaper, and screensavers that can be accessed on a computer.

Though children will like these characters and parents will find the message of the videos appropriate, I was a little disappointed with all the "talking" between Max Lucado and Hermie.  The games on the computer portion of the DVD  were trial versions without much instruction and once again long introductions diminishing my desire to try to play them. Overall, this DVD set was good, but did not overwhelm me. 

I received a complementary copy of this DVD set free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com 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.”

 



Deeper into the Word ~ New Testament

by Keri Kent

Words are important. They convey thoughts and bring understanding. But words sometimes can take on a richer meaning if you know the background or original meaning of the word. This is especially important when the words were originally written in another language or in an earlier period of time as in the case of the New Testament. In her book, Deeper into the Word, Keri Kent takes 100 of the most important words in the New Testament and does a word study that explains in more detail each word including it's original Greek form, biblical passages to give examples of it's usage, as well as background information for it's use in biblical times. These things, along with commentary gives the reader a better understanding of the word in a New Testament context.

This book can be used as a reference book to aid in the study of the New Testament. The words are listed alphabetically so users can easily find a word they are looking for. The research and writing style is academic, but not overly indepth so it is easily understood by those who have no knowledge of Greek. This book can be used as a catalist for further study. Keri also includes, in the Appendix, a list of helpful websites available if further study is desired. The book also lends itself to devotional readings if the reader chooses to take one word a day to meditate on.

Overall I found the book to be a helpful resource as one chooses to go deeper into the Word as the title suggests.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an unbiased review.

The Faith of Ronald Reagan by Mary Beth Brown

In her book, The Faith of Ronald Reagan, Mary Beth Brown painted a beautiful portrait of our 40th President and the faith he possessed. This book takes the reader on a journey from the small town of Tampico, Illinois where Ronald Reagan was born, to Dixon, Illinois where he was raised, all the way through to his career in the movie industry and then on to the White House. Throughout his life there were twists and turns and ups and downs, but through it all, Reagan saw the hand of God leading and directing him to God’s higher purpose. He was yielded to his God, and God used him.

Brown uses quotes from President Reagan’s autobiographies, and speeches along with interviews from those closest to him, including his wife Nancy, and his children, to tell his incredible story of faith which began with the influence of his mother Nelle and continued through to the “sunset of his life.” The Faith of Ronald Reagan was a testimony of his life, but also the testimony of the faithful God he served.

From the first page, to the very last, I was captivated by a man who I had heard so much about but never really knew until now. Brown's style of writing was easy to read and it portrayed Reagan's life in a way that most secular history books would not. I was inspired by Ronald Reagan’s life of faith and how God used this humble man for greatness because his life was yielded to Him. 

The book concluded with the five eulogies give at his memorial service on June 11, 2004 by his son Michael Reagan, George Herbert Bush, his daughter Patti Davis, Margaret Thatcher, and George W. Bush. Each person shared his or her personal experience with President Reagan. Though the stories shared were different, the underlying theme was the same. Ronald Reagan was a humble, kind, man of faith whose main purpose was to honor his Lord. I highly recommend this book.

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. 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.”

Walls by Ryan Rush

Walls divide. Walls separate. Walls can be built, but walls can also be broken through.  That is exactly what Ryan Rush wants people to know.  People need to realize that they do not have to remain stuck behind the walls that have been erected in their lives -- walls that keep them from experiencing all that God intends for them to know and experience.

Often people think their problems and circumstances are the walls that hold them back, but Ryan Rush sees it differently.  He believes it's not the circumstances themselves, but rather the mind-set in those circumstances that really is the barrier.  Do we possess a mind-set of faith and belief in God's promises, or are we overcome by doubt, fear, anger, or resentment for example?  Those, Rush would say, are really the walls that need to be broken by using the promises of God that address those issues.  It's believing the truths of what God has said in His Word, that brings us through to the other side.

The author used the analogy of the Berlin Wall as well as his personal testimony of his experiences dealing with the difficult situations involved in raising a daughter who has special needs to illustrate his ideas. He directs his readers to focus on God's promises as they deal with life situations in order to be drawn to a closer relationship with God, rather than allowing walls to go up that will keep them from the very thing that would help them.

Personally, I felt the book was a little slow at the start, as he tried to explain exactly what the walls were not, but as I continued reading, I began to understand the point he was trying to make. He made mention, many times, about a website, http://www.faithbreakthroughs.com/, where more information and people's testimonials could be found, but I was a little disappointed with the limited information found there unless you registered (for free) and logged in, which I did not choose to do. Overall it was a fairly helpful book, though I wish there was bit more "practical" help in providing God's promises that relate to various walls people may be facing rather than continuously pointing the reader to the "testimonials" on the FaithBreakthroughs' website. It almost sounded like an infomercial at times!

If you are reading this book in a small group setting, there are discussion questions following each chapter for personalizing the concepts that were presented.

 
I was provided a free "advance reader copy" of this book from Tyndale Publishers in order to write this review.