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.”