My Daily Pursuit

 

     BOOK REVIEW:   Daily wisdom for a fully committed walk with God.  Thanks to this treasure trove of teachings from Tozer, you can spend an entire year learning to go deeper in your relationship with our Lord. Each of these 365 devotions includes a passage of Scripture, a short reading, a hymn verse, and a prayer. 

     As Tozer wrote, "The mightiest thought the mind can entertain is the thought of God, and the weightiest word in any language is its word of God." Let this great man of faith challenge your heart and mind to truer worship, greater faith, and a deeper passion for Christ. 

     MY REVIEW:   I always enjoy Tozer's writings, especially devotionals that are compiled from his writings. This book has the unique addition of a hymn title with each day. The writings themselves are taken from his sermons, not his published works. The goal of the book is "to stir up in the hearts of serious-minded Christians such a passion for God. My prayer is that Tozer will inspire you in your daily pursuit."

     I have not read through the book, but paged through and found some quotes to share: 

"We have a mistaken notion that God shows mercy because Jesus died. Jesus died because God is showing mercy.... It was the mercy of God that gave us Calvary, not Calvary that gave us the mercy of God."

"The higher a man thinks of himself, the less he appreciates the grace of God."

"Get to know God, and then you can serve Him in a way that is pleasing unto Him. And brother, if it pleases God, it will certainly please you." 

This book says it's a 365-Day devotional, but it actually has 366 days with February 29. The daily readings are short. The pages are a little smaller than standard books, and about half of each page is taken up with the scripture verse, hymn title, and short prayer. This leaves half of a page for the inspiration from Tozer. 

I received this book from BETHANY PUBLISHERS and was not required to give a positive review. 

Grace-Based Counseling

     BOOK REVIEW:   Many of today's books for Christian counselors focus on how to do therapy. But counseling is so much more than a method or a means to an end. That's why Grace-Based Counseling focuses instead on the person of the counselor. Are you spiritually prepared to counsel? To inspire and illuminate the counselee? To face adversity? And most important of all--are you prepared to be channel of the divine grace that you yourself have experienced? 

     Long-time counselors Rick Fowler and Natalie Ford believe you can't transmit what you haven't received. In Grace-Based Counseling, you'll discover a new model that is drenched in the grace of God. Because only when counselors are awestruck by the gift of grace can they become vessels of hope and healing for those whom God brings their way. 

     MY REVIEW:   I am not a counselor, but I picked up this book anyway because I expected it to focus on how to use grace in speaking/relating to people. I figured it could be useful for everyday relationships, not just in the counseling field. But it is quite a bit more than that. Grace-Based Counseling is a whole method of counseling that comes from a heart of grace, and focuses more on the heart of the counselor than the counselees. What really impressed me about the book though, is how the authors recognize and rely on the work of the Holy Spirit through their sessions. They quote A. W. Tozer saying "Self is the opaque veil that hides the face of God from us. It can be removed only in spiritual experience, never by mere instruction...There must be a work of God in destruction before we are free."  

     GRACE is an acronym that stands for God's Image, Rebellion, Altruism, Connection, and Empowerment.  As made in God's Image, ALL men have innate dignity and value. Sin is an act of Rebellion against God, not because man is evil, but because the sin is wrong. Altruism means that God has blessed ALL men with common grace, but only those who accept Him will receive the grace of redemption. A Connection must be made between the counselee's need for grace and the grace that God is offering. And counselors are Empowered when they rely on the Holy Spirit to guide their counseling. The first section of the book outlines the method of counseling from a heart of grace. The second section gives case studies to illustrate their points. And the third section is full of handouts and assessment templates for counselor use.

     This book is full of guides, examples, and definitions of how to counsel from a Grace-Based foundation. (They can also be used to define the Christian walk in general. It's an extremely relevant book for any Christian.) It all starts with the counselor's heart, and relies on the work of the Holy Spirit. Four standards for Christian counselors who counsel on a biblical worldview are: 

• A Christian counselor must be free from all men. This means we are not bound to a counseling methodology that has to fit the cultural and political correctness of our day. 
• A Christian counselor must be a servant. 
• A Christian counselor must be empathetic and caring, never elevating himself or herself above the counselee. 
• A Christian counselor must realize that the ultimate goal and objective of therapy is to advance the kingdom of God. 

In many instances, a Christian counselor will have patients who are not Christian, and may not want to hear about God. The book addresses this, and points out that counselors are not permitted to address their faith unless asked about it. But they also point out that "We as counselors are not to impose our faith, but rather expose our faith in the counseling setting." "Christian counselors may be the first expression of Jesus that a counselee ever sees."  Again, very true for the Christian walk in general. 

     Several of my favorites quotes from this book are: 

"If our Father in Heaven shows goodness to all, shouldn't we do likewise?"

"God's grace is not dependent on our circumstances nor our behaviors, but on His divine nature."

"The end result of worldly wisdom is futility. The end result of divine wisdom is contentment."

"Grace-based counselors believe that happiness is never the goal of counseling. Happiness is temporary; there is a greater goal that is lasting and fulfilling at a level that happiness is not. Rather, the goal is to be obedient to God, and the byproduct of that obedience often yields joy and contentment. Grace and truth empower obedience."

"Grace first requires an awareness of sin, a need for forgiveness, and the need for God's strength in the midst of weakness." 

"God is more concerned with character than comfort."

     I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone. 

I received a copy of this book from MOODY PUBLISHERS and was not required to give a positive review. 

The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery

 

     BOOK REVIEW:   Present day, Sarah Ashby returns to her childhood home, determined to finally follow her dream of running the family business alongside her mother and grandmother. So when her mother, Rosemary, announces to her that Old Depot Grocery is closing, Sarah and her grandmother, Glory Ann, make a plan to save the store. But Rosemary has worked her entire life to make sure her daughter never follows in her footsteps. She has her reasons -- but she'll certainly never reveal the real one. 

     1965. Glory Ann confesses to her family that she's pregnant with her deceased fiance's baby. Pressured into a marriage of convenience with a shopkeeper to preserve her family's reputation, Glory Ann vows never to love again. But some promises are not as easily kept as she imagined. 

     This dual-time story from Amanda Cox deftly explores the complexity of the mother-daughter relationship, the way the secrets we keep shape our lives and the lives of others, and the healing power of telling the truth. 

     MY REVIEW:   This is Amanda Cox's second book and I enjoyed it as much as her first one, The Edge of Belonging. It travels fast through three generations, and I can't decide if it feels too fast and disconnected. It seems like it should, but is actually done well. While there could easily be a separate book for each woman, you get the essential glimpse of each of them, and they often overlap so you get two at once. But I would say Sarah's present is the most in depth glance we get. 

     The biggest take-away I got from this book is the power of secrets. There are certainly things that don't need to be said, but often we keep in things that hurt us, and sometimes our view of others. Rosemary carries years of hurt because of something she found of her mother's, but since she never brought it to her mother she has lived with a very wrong impression of her and it hindered their relationship drastically. In a roundabout way, this same secret was responsible for more of Rosemary's hurts, including a misjudgment of some of her mother's reactions to her over the years. She felt unloved and insufficient, but Glory Ann was only responding to the reminders of who she had lost. Both sides would have been so much better off if they'd been open and honest about it all. In the present, they all three have various degrees of secrets that keep them on different pages regarding the store's future. Finally, when everything comes to a head, they realize that: "You, me, Sarah--we've worked so hard to fix our brokenness ourselves and then hide the cracks we've left behind......It's high time all three of us come out of hiding and let the light come in." pg 309

     Another big take away is the hurtfulness of unforgiveness. Glory Ann's parents did not approve of her pregnancy, and they did what they could to hide it, and distance themselves from it--to the point of refusing to ever visit and even discouraging Glory Ann to come to them. So while they may have kept up their social image,  they had this dragging them down throughout their entire lives, not to mention having sacrificed their daughter and grand-daughter. On another side, we often suffer from refusing to forgive ourselves for things that aren't our fault at all. Again, years of hurt came because of undeserved self-accusation. 

     One last thing that I enjoyed about the book, is the devotion to community. Glory Ann's husband loves running Old Depot Grocery for the way it ministers to the community and brings them together. And now Sarah loves it just as much, and does what she can to somehow keep its legacy of ministry alive. The simple, generous, serving lifestyle that is portrayed is one that we need more of today. 

      I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes fiction with substance. 

 I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review. 

Under the Bayou Moon

 

     BOOK REVIEW:   When Ellie Fields accepts a teaching job in a tiny Louisiana town deep in bayou country in 1949, she knows her life will change--but she could never imagine just how dramatically. 

     Though rightfully suspicious of outsiders, who have threatened both their language and their unique culture, most of the residents come to appreciate the young and idealistic school teacher, and she's soon teaching just about everyone, despite opposition from both the school board and a politician with ulterior motives. Yet it's the lessons Ellie herself will learn--from new friends, a captivating Cajun fisherman, and even a legendary white alligator haunting the bayou--that will make all the difference. 

  

     MY REVIEW:   I have thoroughly enjoyed each of Valerie Fraser Luesse's books (this is her fourth), and I think this is one of her best. She did an amazing job of setting the scene in the lovely moss-covered bayou town deep in Louisiana. The place sounds utterly breathtaking! A review from the back cover says there is "atmosphere dripping from every page like moss on a cypress tree." And her characters have the same feel to them as the atmosphere. They feel very real and relatable, with so much more to them than what may meet the eye. The town cares deeply for each other--Acadian, Indian, and white alike. 

     Ellie has accepted a teaching position in this tiny town in hopes of finding her place, where she can be free of other's expectations and society's pull. She falls in love with the town instantly, and finds the freedom to pursue her desire to help others. Her heart for the children is tremendous. The story also follows Heywood, an aspiring photographer who is constantly on the move. His restlessness does well to show Ellie's contentedness. I liked that both personalities were portrayed as a good thing. It is certainly a story of finding one's place in life, and accepting it. One character was asked if he was happy here, and he replied "Not happy, but I'm home." When you read the book you'll see how well that describes the tone of the story. Each person has suffered loss, yet they are finding peace in the place they are set. Still feeling a loss, but being comforted by their little part of the world that touches them. I think a beautifully gloomy bayou is the perfect setting for such characters. 

     This book is beautifully written, and while I might not classify it as particularly Christian, there is quite a bit that can be taken from it. I quite enjoyed it. 

I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review. 

     

The Nature of Small Birds

      BOOK REVIEW:   In 1975, three thousand children were airlifted out of Saigon to be adopted into Western homes. When one of those children announces her plans to return to Vietnam to find her birth mother, her loving adopted family is suddenly thrown back to the events surrounding her unconventional arrival in their lives. 

     Mindy's father grapples with the tension between holding on too tightly and letting his daughter spread her wings. Her mother undergoes the emotional roller coaster inherent in the adoption of a child from a war-torn country, discovering the joy hidden amid the difficulties. And Mindy and her sister struggle to find the strength to accept each other as they both discover who they truly are. 

     Told through three distinct voices in three compelling timelines, The Nature of Small Birds is a hopeful story that explores the meaning of family far beyond genetic code. 

     MY REVIEW:   This story is about Mindy Matthews, who came to America from Vietnam in the Babylift operation when she was 4 years old. The book is written from three different points in her life, and none of them are from her perspective. 1975 is read from her mother's eye when she joins the family. 1988 centers on her sister Sonny while they're in high school. And 2013 is set on her father, and read as current day, with Mindy being 42 years old. It is an interesting way to tell a story about a person without having that person be the main character. I think I would have preferred if there was less jumping between the years, or if the chapters had been longer. It was  little difficult to get accustomed to the characters with short bursts of time. But it did keep the story moving. I wish there had been more about Mindy's life when she was first adopted, or even more about searching for her Vietnamese family. In the current setting, she is newly divorced (which was pretty disappointing to find in a Christian book), and this seems like a distraction from that.  Her family is having a harder time being ok with it than they thought they would. This book has a theme of letting go, but also of letting in. Mindy was accepted as an adopted daughter, and now she is encouraged to pursue her birth family. There are a few other instances of people letting others in or letting them go, and some that don't learn. 

     My favorite parts of the story are when Mindy was 4 and learning English, the eccentric lady the girls worked for in high school, and Mindy's grandfather as he sneaks sugar past his domineering wife who insists that coffee must be drunk black or not at all. I would say that there was less of God's involvement in their lives than I wished; it didn't seem like they turned to Him much for guidance in their lives, even really in the big things they faced.  

I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review. 

Jewel of the Nile

 

   BOOK REVIEW:   Raised as an orphan by her aunt, Chariline has only been told a few pieces of her parents’ tragic love story. Her beautiful dark skin is proof that her father was Cushite, but she knows nothing else. While visiting her grandfather before his retirement as the Roman official in the queen’s court, Chariline overhears that her father is still alive, and discovering his identity becomes her obsession. Both her grandfather and the queen have reasons for keeping this secret, however, and forbid her quest. So when her only clues lead to Rome, Chariline sneaks on the ship of a merchant trusted by friends.
     Theo is shocked to discover a stowaway on board his vessel and determines to be rid of her as soon as possible. But drawn in by Chariline’s story, he feels honor-bound to see her safely to shore, especially when it appears someone may be willing to kill for the truth she seeks.
     In this transformative tale of historical fiction, bestselling author Tessa Afshar brings to life the kingdom of Cush and the Roman Empire, introducing readers to a fascinating world filled with gripping adventure, touching romance, and a host of lovable characters― including some they may recognize from the biblical book of Acts.

     MY REVIEW:    Jewel of the Nile continues the story of Theo, who is found in Thief of Corinth, and Daughter of Rome. It also introduces Chariline, a young Cushite orphan who is seeking information about her father. The main theme throughout the book is releasing the lies that bind you and accepting your worth as a child of God. Theo, we know, feels unworthy and betrayed after learning his father's identity and mother's circumstances. And Chariline feels guilt for being alive while her mother died birthing her: a lie expounded by her aunt and grandfather's dislike of her. As the story goes on, both learn to realize they have been believing lies, and that they can be complete and guiltless before God. They also learn to trust their friends with the parts of their lives that feel inferior. Charline says when sharing her life's story with Priscilla and Aquilla: "All my life, my grandparents lied to me. They hid the truth because, from their limited perspective, they were doing me a service. If I have learned one thing from their example, it is this: hiding the truth gains nothing but an invitation for the powers of darkness to multiply. I have nothing to hide. The Lord knows it all. You are welcome to my story." This can also be taken as a reminder to tell the truth, and not play judge and jury with another's life. 

     As Chariline becomes more and more intent on discovering who her father is, she is reminded that it cannot be her most important goal; neither can it take importance over wise, and safe decisions. Priscilla tells her; "It's not the nature of your longing that is at issue. It is the fact that God does not reign over it. Finding your father has become the jewel you refuse to part with. Not even if God asks it. In that part of your heart, at least, your flesh still rules. The problem is that when you are flesh-driven, you cannot be Spirit-led." 

     I really liked that these themes were so obvious throughout the book. The other obvious themes were the budding romance between Theo and Chariline, and whomever is after her. All in all I enjoyed the book and was glad to have the opportunity to read it. 

    I received a copy of this book from NETGALLEY and was not required to write a positive review. 

Miriam's Song

 

     BOOK REVIEW:   From the very beginning, Miriam has lived in her younger brother's shadow. Thrust into the role of protective older sister before Moses was even born, she will grow up into a woman who not only keeps her family's secret but bears the burden of leading a new nation. 

     In her mind, she knows that she is serving both God and her people. But in her heart, Miriam yearns for more. She longs to experience the privilege Moses has---to talk with God face to face. But when God finally does speak directly to her, the outcome is not at all what she expects. 

     With her impeccable research and keen eye for detail, bestselling author Jill Eileen Smith offers this epic novel to fill in the gaps in Miriam's story, following her from childhood to motherhood, obscurity to notoriety, and yearning to fulfilment as she learns that what God promises He provides---in His own perfect timing. 

     BOOK REVIEW:   I was rather disappointed in this book. It spans nearly the entire lifetime of Miriam and Moses---close to 100 years. I enjoyed the first several chapters, and a few others throughout that ran steadily, but much of the story made drastic jumps, often of several years. I found it difficult to stay interested, and it felt like I got a general overview instead of an actual story. I think the book would be better if split into two books, with a steadier timeline applied.

     I like how Jill gets us thinking about Moses' perspective of being raised with Pharoah's daughter. She suggests that his family taught him well of God while he was very young, and he remained true to that teaching while living with the Pharaoh's family. Therefore his time in the palace may have been quite restless and unpleasant as he waited to be reunited with the Israelites. 

     Miriam is called a prophetess in the Bible after the Red Sea crossing, when she leads the women in songs of praise. Of course we don't know how exactly she was a prophetess, but it is imagined that she may have received visions. It is also possible that she felt jealous of Moses' connection with God. Jill did a fabulous job of keeping Moses humble throughout these encounters. He explained to Miriam that no person is worthy of seeing God, including those whom He reveals Himself to. There are several other illustrations of humility in this story--when Miriam and Aaron complain about Moses' Cushite wife, when Aaron creates the golden calf, and an instance with Aaron and his family feeling inferior to Moses and Miriam. 

     While we may not have all the details about Moses and Miriam’s lives, we know enough about the exodus to be sobered by the many times Israel failed to trust in God. They often complained and cast blame instead of remembering that God had delivered them from harsh slavery. Jill shows through Miriam’s possible experiences that to trust is always the right response. Even when God seems to be taking His time or doing strange things, His way is always best. 

     This book is interesting if you are looking for an easy account of the Bible narrative, but as a story about Miriam herself I found it to be lacking. The story simply isn't steady enough to be drawn to the characters or feel them grow through the book. With the right expectations though, it can certainly be a good read. There are several marriages in this story, and while most of them are background characters, there are a few that may not be for very young readers.  

   I received a copy of this book from REVELL PUBLISHERS and was not required to give a positive review. 

     

     

     

When Twilight Breaks

     BOOK REVIEW:   Evelyn Brand is an American foreign correspondent determined to prove her worth in a male-dominated profession and to expose the growing tyranny in Nazi Germany. To do so, she must walk a thin line. If she offends the government, she could be expelled from the country---or worse. If she does not report truthfully, she'll betray the oppressed and fail to wake up the folks back home. 

     Peter Lang is an American graduate student working on his PhD in German. Disillusioned with the chaos in the world due to the Great Depression, he is impressed with the prosperity and order of German society. But when the brutality of the regime hits close, he discovers a far better way to use his contacts within the Nazi party---to feed information to the shrewd reporter he can't get off his mind. 

     As the world marches relentlessly toward war, Evelyn and Peter are on a collision course with destiny. 

     MY REVIEW:   This is the first book I've read by Sarah Sundin. I have had the impression that her writing can be fairly shallow, but this book sounded like it could have more to it, so I gave it a try. I was impressed to see that she managed to find a fresh way to bring the characters together, and I was truly glad to see how she illustrated that relying on God and accepting help from others does not make you weaker---rather it strengthens you. I often have to think to find a good theme to learn from when reading fiction, but this book really portrayed its theme well. Evelyn realizes that she can accept help from others, "not because she wasn't capable, but because he was capable". In her male-dominated career she has learned to be strong and independent---to a fault. She is convicted of turning to God only when she can't see a way out, instead of asking for His guidance on the way in, and seeks to change her approach.

     This book is full of suspense and anticipation. It is set in Germany a year before WWII broke out, when the government's methods look nice from a distance, but those who have felt the effects know better. The Jewish race feels persecution, and the Hitler Youth program is strongly enforced. Additional stress mounts when Evelyn discovers that her American blood is more Jewish than she realized, and Peter finds himself on the very opposite side of his initial approval of the government's tactics. As they find themselves trusting fewer and fewer of their friends, they of course draw closer to each other, and the last third of the book strives industriously to develop the romance that formed casually in the beginning of the story. 

      As far as this book goes, fiction is fiction. But it has character of its own that distances it from the familiar mush that abounds. It is well-written and engaging, with good lessons to learn throughout. 

     I received a copy of this book from REVELL PUBLISHERS and was not required to write a positive review. 

     

 

All That We Carried

     BOOK REVIEW:   Ten years ago, sisters Olivia and Melanie Greene were on a hiking trip when their parents were in a fatal car accident. They haven't seen each other since the funeral. Olivia coped with the loss by plunging herself into law school, work, and a materialist view of the world---what you see is what you get, and that's all you get. Melanie dropped out of college and developed an online life coaching business around her DIY spirituality---a little of this, a little of that, whatever makes you happy.  

     Now, at Melanie's insistence (and against Olivia's better judgement), they are embarking on a hike in the Porcupine Mountains of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. In this remote wilderness they'll face their deepest fears, question their most dearly held beliefs, and begin to see that perhaps the best way to move forward is the one way they had never considered. 

     MY REVIEW:   This book follows two sisters as they hike and work to regain a relationship. Both struggle with knowing what to believe, or whether to believe at all. From Melanie who tries a little of everything in hopes to have the right one, to Olivia who believes only in what she can see and rationalize. This hike pushes them to their limits, and one hiker in particular makes them question what really to believe. Neither sister can connect with how the other looks at life, nor offer much grace. Beyond repairing their relationship, Melanie wants Olivia to forgive the man who was involved in their parents accident---and Olivia will have none of it. 

     I'm not sure quite how to rate this book. I enjoyed the story. Not a lot really happens, as not much time is covered throughout the whole book, but it didn't seem dragging or overly-detailed. The end does throw in some surprises. I did like that there are flashbacks included with memories of their parents and a little of what the girls felt after the accident. They are kept distinct and don't at all confuse with the current storyline. The book is labeled as contemporary fiction, which I'd say is accurate, but marketed as Christian fiction. There is a Christian theme in the last half of the book, but it's not very strong. Basically, it's an interesting, clean story, but carries little by way of lessons to learn. There is a theme of forgiveness that's good, but it's "the right thing to do" more than "through Christ we can forgive". 

I recieved a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review. 

 

Pearl in the Sand > 10th Anniversary Edition

 

     BOOK REVIEW:   This 10th Anniversary Edition of Pearl in the Sand includes new features that will invite you into the intriguing  story of Rahab's journey from lowly outcast to redeemed child of God. 

     Can a Canaanite zonah who made her living by enticing men be a fitting wife for a leader of Israel? 

     Rahab's house is built into a wall, a wall that fortifies and protects the city of Jericho. However, other walls surround her too--walls of fear, rejection, and unworthiness. Years of pain and betrayal have wounded Rahab's heart. She wonders whether her dreams of experiencing true love will ever come true. 

     A woman with a wrecked past. A man of success, of faith . . . . of pride. A union only God would conceive! Through the heartaches of a stormy relationship, Rahab and Salmon learn the true source of each other's worth and find healing in God. 

     MY REVIEW:   Tessa Afshar is one of my favorite authors. She takes ordinary or uncommon bible stories and brings them to life. This story is no exception. Anyone who is familiar with the Bible will know Rahab, the fallen woman who hid Israel's spies and let them down the city walls by a rope. In this book, Tessa lets us imagine what Rahab's life may have been like, and how she came to protect these men. And possibly what may have happened to her after her family was saved from the destruction of Jericho. Since we cannot know the details of her life, this is a fictional story beyond the basic storyline. 

     This book was released several years ago, and is now coming out in an updated edition. The writing has been streamlined, and a few of the Scripture messages improved. It has a been a while since I read the original edition, but I did not see many differences between the two. They are both excellent. 

     The message of redemption and worth in this story is overwhelming. It is assumed that Rahab was forced into her role as a harlot, and with the emptiness in her life and soul, felt the pull of Israel's merciful God. After her rescue from Jericho's demise, she and her family seek to join Israel's ranks. But Rahab struggles to feel worthy of God's love, and of the love of Salmon, the man tasked with instructing her family in the laws of the Lord. The scene Tessa composes of Rahab finally recognizing her worth is fabulously done. The picture of the love God has for every person is very well made.

     I received a copy of this book from MOODY PRESS and was not required to write a positive review. 

Burden of Proof

 

BOOK REVIEW:   A few months before his twenty-first birthday, Ethan missed the chance to save his brother's life. Adrian was murdered on the steps of the courthouse in Jacksonville, Florida. Ever since that fateful day, Ethan has sensed a deep disconnect between the man he should have been and the one he has become. His days play out a beat too slow, his mind rehashing the scene of his failure again and again. 

     When Adrian's widow appears, asking for his help in uncovering what was really behind his brother's death, Ethan is stunned. The legal case they were pursuing was more far-reaching than he could have imagined---it could even threaten the global power structure. 

     Ethan joins the search for answers at the ultimate cost. As he enters into his own past, will he discover a means to redeem the future?

     MY REVIEW:   The option to go back and redo life, to have a second chance and make things right is one that many of us would like to have. But truthfully, it just can't happen. I found this story line entertaining---searching for Adrian's killer and discovering why they were after him. But the unrealistic aspect rather threw the book for me. 

     As Ethan goes back into the past, he is struck by how different his life is this time around. He remembers how it was the first time, but now that he can base his current decisions on that, the results are drastically different. Entire relationships are changed and people he never liked become his closest friends. But his time is limited, and he won't have another whole lifetime with them. What really stood out to me about this is how a single first impression can form a prejudice strong enough to destroy our relationship with that person. Our choices impact our lifetime, and we need to take care in forming them. Unlike Ethan, we can't go back and change things. 

     Davis Bunn's books tend to have a deep political/economic/scriptural theme, full of detail requiring the reader to pay close attention as they read. The deep theme of this book is time and the quantum time field. Someone who enjoys this subject will likely enjoy this book. But as I prefer to live in the realistic realm, it disappointed me. As far as the writing and the story it was well done, but not my style. 

   I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review. 

Workplace Discipleship 101

 

     Workplace Discipleship is a primer on living and sharing Christ in our everyday workings. I was expecting a workbook, and am afraid that lent disappointment to the book. And rather than ultimately devoted to searching out practical ways of witnessing to co-workers etc, it focuses mostly on maintaining Christian principles and ethics in the workplace. Both of these rather threw me off, and I found the book hard to get into. However, it is filled with good advice and applications, some that were new thoughts to me. If one were struggling to keep their Christian ethics/morals while in a non-Christian workplace, this book could be very helpful to them. Many relevant subjects are addressed, such as: remaining constant in prayer throughout the day; being aware of current events to know how to respond to them; realizing that we are here to further God's work, not our own gain; finding ways to bring goodness, wisdom, productivity, etc into our workplace; being an example of an upstanding, honest worker; bringing light to those around us; accepting diversity and building on the strengths of it; finding appropriate ways to share the Gospel without pushing it; dealing with conflict; and so on. 

     An excellent approach in this book is its focus on the whole day, the whole week. Bring these principles home and apply them with your family. The application that stood out most to me is on rest and keeping Sunday to refresh and revive. Even if your church duties, or whatever it may be, keep you from having a day to rejuvenate, make it up somewhere. David speaks from Marva Dawn's book, Keeping the Sabbath Wholly, to say: "Sabbath is about ceasing---stopping from our work, from productivity and accomplishment. It is about trusting that God will take care of the world and our work while we let go for a time." pg 216  It is also a day to worship God and delight in His Word. When we begin to take this wholly, it will positively impact our entire week. The book is divided into three sections: Getting Ready For Our Work / Impacting Our Workplace / and Moving Beyond Our Workplace. While self is not to be the focus, we do need to be in the right place before we can properly impact those around us. And when we have done this we can move on to our workplace and family. 

     All around I found this to be an informative guide (though possibly a little slow), and if I had read it with better expectations I think I would have gotten more from it. It is well-rounded, covering many spheres and applications, and is well-based in Scripture. 

   I received a copy of this book from HENDRICKSON PUBLISHERS and was not required to write a positive review. 

The Greatest Missionary Generation

 

     BOOK REVIEW:   Most of us have heard the inspiring stories of missionaries Jim and Elizabeth Elliot, Hudson Taylor, Adoniram Judson, William Carey, or Amy Carmichael. But beyond these heroes of the faith, there were countless others who also risked their lives to share the light of Christ with the world. This book illuminates their stories---some known, some never told, until now. 

     In this book, former missionary Larry Sharp recounts their remarkable stories. Sacrificing their comfortable lives for the gospel, these trailblazers faced serious cultural, health, family, and linguistic challenges. Although they endured sometimes severe sacrifices, they never regretted being true to their calling. May the stories of this World War II generation--which Tom Brokaw dubbed "The Greatest Generation"--now inspire a new generation to follow God's leading to bring the gospel to those yet unreached across the globe. 

     MY REVIEW:   I enjoyed this book. Larry is right, we know the well-beloved missionaries, but there are so many whom we've never known. This book is divided into several sections on different aspects or locations of missionaries. I liked how that kept the book from feeling like a mere collection of stories. However, it is a book of stories, so the information is not going to be abundant. There is anywhere between a few paragraphs to a few pages on each missionary, giving a well-designed synopsis of what brought them to the field and what their impact was there. As a whole, this book packs a punch for what missionaries faced and how they dealt with it, but each story on it's own is not a full account. But that keeps the book moving and flowing together well. 

     One thing that really stood out to me is the section on family strain. Often children were sent to boarding school at an early age, because there were no schools obviously, and homeschooling was not a popular option. This was quite hard on both parents and children, and brought about various results. This was one of the many sacrifices missionaries had to make. 

     Another section is about missionaries who never left their country, but served on mission boards as secretaries, recruiters, or even those who supported missionaries by sending much needed funds. The home-front people are just as necessary and impactful as those on the field--neither can get very far without the other and it's important to remember that. 

     This book is a fount of incredible stories. Often couples each had a heart for missions, and met their spouses at various mission schools/institutions and went on their life's work together. There were even times when couples married because they could not serve as singles. Each story is inspiring and unique. Other stories of language barriers, and cultural shocks, and primitive jungle life can only cement the love of God and the lost that these missionaries had. They left everything they knew and loved, and devoted years of their lives to bring the gospel to every corner of the earth. Their example is one to emulated. 

    I received a copy of this book from HENDRICKSON PUBLISHERS and was not required to write a positive review. 

The Edge of Belonging

 

     BOOK REVIEW:   When Ivy Rose returns to her hometown to oversee her late grandmother's estate sale, she soon discovers that the woman left behind more than trinkets and photo frames--she provided a path to the truth behind Ivy's adoption. Shocked, Ivy seeks clues to her past, but a key piece to the mystery is missing. 

     Twenty-four years earlier, Harvey James finds an abandoned newborn who gives him a sense of human connection for the first time in his life. His desire to care for the baby runs up against the stark fact that he is homeless. When he becomes entwined with two people seeking to help him find his way, Harvey knows he must keep the baby a secret or risk losing the only person he's ever loved. 

     In this dual-timeline story from debut novelist Amanda Cox, the truth--both the search for it and the desire to keep it from others--takes center stage as Ivy and Harvey grapple with love, loss, and letting go. 

     MY REVIEW:   I quite liked this book. It has been awhile since I enjoyed a book this much. The story was moving and sweet. The dual-timeline was done well and each chapter sported a date to keep the reader on track. It is certainly no mystery novel; as it progresses you can easily predict outcomes, but there were a few surprises thrown in. And the story is not a typical one. It's a story of adoption so you know everyone connects somehow, but the focus is on the people--what they're going through and how everything is affecting them. It's a story full of hurt and healing, sorrow and newfound joy. One of my favorite lines in the book is this one about being there for others and not making any pain insignificant: "It's not about your pain versus my pain. It's about sharing in the human experience and knowing what it is to hurt." 

     When it comes to Christian books, there are two ditches: having too much religion leaving no space for realism, and too little giving the characters a happy ending of their own strength. At the start of the book I thought it needed more of God in it, but as it progressed I saw the strong theme of ''you are precious in God's eyes; He created you and He doesn't make mistakes". It's not a story of redemption and turning your life to God as much as it's a story of belonging, and discovering that God--and those close to you--love you deeply simply because you are you. 

     A huge theme of this book that I really loved is the the practice of helping others. Harvey was one of the most loving, helpful people despite his rough life and appearance. He may not have had the resources to help in traditional ways, but he did some pretty selfless things for those he could help. And in turn, he was helped and given a chance to prove himself reliable based only on the giver's generous heart. So little can be so much to someone who needs it. 

  I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review. 

     

Why Am I Not Healed

       BOOK REVIEW:   Pastor Glen Berteau approaches life-altering events with firsthand insight. In the parking lot outside his church, soon after writing this book, he suffered cardiac arrest and died. Following the lack of oxygen and trauma to his body from the repeated electric shocks that revived him, his chance of survival was extremely slim. For five days his family and friends refused the devastating prognosis.....and prayed the way he taught them to pray. 

     Now, walking out his miracle, Pastor Glen wants to help other believers understand the power we have in the spirit realm to command mountains to move. 

     Do you struggle to know if it is God's will to heal? Let Pastor Glen share his gripping story with you as he counters seventeen hindrances to prayer for healing---and many powerful healing Scriptures and declarations. With the signposts presented here, you can rise up in your God-given authority and declare, "Devil, your request has been denied."

     

     MY REVIEW:   This book is very straightforward: you can pray away any illness. I read the book with some trepidation. There are good solid christians who die of illness; we live in a fallen world with imperfect bodies that are not immuned to disease. How can we declare that we don't have to be sick? Can we really claim to have authority over what perhaps God has allowed to befall us for whatever reason? Glen sounds so sure and gives no backing down, but I don't know that I'd take it to the extreme he does. 

     However, as I reviewed the book, I found many solid principles: 

1. We cannot use the power of prayer as a mere tool at our disposal. We have to be in constant communion with God and His Word. "You must rise with the Word in your life." -pg 16
2. When the four men brought their lame friend into the house where Jesus taught, the way was crowded so they entered through the roof. Miracles don't come on a platter, "if you want to get your miracle, you have to make a great effort, and that means you may be inconvenienced." -pg19
3. Jesus didn't just heal physical ailments, He began with spiritual ones. But here is one of my biggest hiccups with the book: Glen goes on to say "sin is connected to physical sickness."-pg 23   I don't believe that the wealthy healthy man is always the christian, and that the poor sick man always is not. God says that He blesses the just and the unjust, and we do live in an imperfect, fallen world. That's not to say that sickness is never the result of sin, but it's an area I need to study more myself. Glen writes, "Jesus wants to heal you, but first He wants to forgive your sins.... I need to look at not just my physical body but all the areas in my life that God needs to adjust."-pg 31   Yes, but then he writes, "it will be easy to receive your physical healing when you get your life right spiritually... if there are issues in your spirit, it will eventually show up as some form of physical illness."-pg 32    I believe that illnesses can often be the result of sin in one's life, but to put such an unswerving point on it feels overstepped. 
4. We have to put the majority of our time and efforts into our relationship with God, because that is what will stand for eternity. I really needed this reminder: "The spirit world is more real than the physical world. It is eternal. It has always existed and it will always exist."-pg78    If we do not know what God's word says, we will be easily led astray by good-sounding, but false, doctrine. 
5. Often God promises us something and it takes a good long while to come about. Did we hear God wrong? Did He change His mind, or did I do something to affect it? There will be in-between times in life when we just have to trust God and wait. "We all go through the in-between times. You may never understand, but one day we will get to Heaven, and we will get those answers."-pg131   There are usually obstacles to overcome in our lifetime, obstacles that would overwhelm if we knew them before they came. Often it is a blessing not to know what is ahead. At the end of it all, if we turn from God where else can we turn to? So trust, and stick it out. 

     All in all, I give the book a good review, for although I think it does overstep in instances, the material is good and well-written. The subject of prayer is one that can never be over-studied, and no one single book (excepting the Bible), can be an absolute guide to it.  One of the later chapters has a list of seventeen reasons why we may not be healed. While I may not agree that there is always something we can change to be healed, it is a good list to consider for any person, as it contains common pitfalls to every Christian. 

I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review.    

An Appalachian Summer

     BOOK REVIEW:   In 1933 Louisville, Kentucky, even the ongoing economic depression cannot keep Piper Danson's parents from insisting on a debut party. After all, their fortune came through the market crash intact, and they've picked out the perfect suitor for their daughter. Braxton Crandall can give her the kind of life she's used to. The only problem? This is not the man---or the life---she really wants.
     When Piper gets the opportunity to volunteer as a horseback Frontier Nursing courier in the Appalachian Mountains for the summer, she jumps at the chance to be something other than a dutiful daughter or a kept wife in a loveless marriage. The work is taxing, the scenery is jaw-droppingly gorgeous, and the people she meets along the way open a whole new world to her. The longer she stays, the more an advantageous marriage slips from her grasp. But something much more precious---true love---is drawing ever closer.

     MY REVIEW:   Ann Gabhart's books are a step above most of the Christian novel genre. Her romance isn't as cheesy and overwhelming, and there is a bit more depth in her books; though they are still light novels.
     I really enjoyed the concept of Frontier Nurses. These women lived in the mountains and ministered to the people living there. Much of their job was midwifing. Piper's job was to courier supplies and such between bases, either by foot or horseback. These delicate city girls spent the summer mucking stables, milking cows, and riding through the mountain mazes.
     The secondary characters in this book were fun: there is the charming young boy in the hospital, the grouchy mountaineer with rifle ready, the steady nurses, and the fellow couriers. The main characters were good to. But despite this the book was just a bit on the dry side. It seems like many pages were used to get little done. More could have been said for the time Piper spent in the mountains, more about the situations she ran into and the people she met. While I enjoyed the aspect of the nursing system, my attention wasn't always held.
     This book did bring out faith better than some novels do: traveling in the mountains calls on more faith than most plot lines, and Piper had conversations with several people who illuminated the difference between knowing Jesus from going to church, and having Him in her heart.
   
  I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to write a positive review. 

The Key to Everything

     BOOK REVIEW: Peyton Cabot's fifteenth year will be a painful and transformative one. His father, the heroic but reluctant head of a moneyed Savannah family, has come home from World War II a troubled vet, drowning his demons in bourbon and distancing himself from his son. A tragic accident shows Peyton the depths of his parents' devotion to each other but interrupts his own budding romance with the girl of his dreams.
     Struggling to cope with a young life upended, Peyton makes a daring decision: he will retrace a journey his father took at fifteen, riding his bicycle from St. Augustine, Florida, all the way to Key West. Part declaration of independence, part search for self, Peyton's journey will bring him more than he ever could have imagined--namely, the key to his unknowable father, a longed-for reunion, and a calling that will shape the rest of his life.

     MY REVIEW:   Valerie Fraser Luesse had me with her first book, Missing Isaac, and I've read each of her books as they've come out. This is the third one, and I liked it equally to the rest, but had to admit that for one reason they are not the quality of books I consider them to be. Valerie writes Southern tales of love and loss and picking up and going on. But while many good core lessons can be applied from her stories, she doesn't put the stock in God's being the Redeemer as ought to be. It's been over a year since reading her previous books, so I may be remembering wrongly on those, but for this book it's true. So while I will continue to pick up her books for that true Southern grace which each expounds, I cannot give them quite the rating I would first wish.
     This book is the tale of a fifteen year old lad who suffers loss, and great loneliness with it. Feeling distanced from his father, he takes off on a bicycle trip mimicking one taken twenty years before, from St Augustine, FL to Key West. I looked up the distance after reading the book and its 470mi, the last 7 of which are crossing the Atlantic. One thing about this book is the characters' "just knowing", for instance, Peyton just knew it was time for this trip, and later just knew his parents had been at the old abandoned homestead he stumbled upon. It adds to the Southern charm, but I don't know that I'd consider it very realistic or reliable. Anyways.
     On this trip, Peyton came across various helpful people who put him up for the night, and made a deep impression on his trip; some of them he remained lasting friends with. That was a highlight for me, that people were so hospitable and gracious and just loved whomever they met. The book is set in 1947 so such a thing would not be as unusual as it is now. I think that is why it's so becoming. It's not just something that should be, it's something that was but has been lost.
     And I can't forget this important vein of the story, the Peyton and Lisa vein. At the end of his trip whom should Peyton find there but Lisa. Of course. But we knew that would happen, because his father first met his mother on his trip so we can't be too surprised. The love story in this book is different from many others. It has the genuine Southern feel to it that makes you root for the characters and know that they are going to face hardship but get through it anyways. While it has its flaws (for starters, these guys are only fifteen years old) it's endearing.
     In the end, I enjoyed the book. It is light, and probably won't leave you feeling like God has worked great things in another life, but the steadying that Peyton found is reassuring. In a day when everyone is on the hunt to 'find themselves' we realize that such things only bring out our selfishness and the desire for others to change around our characters. There are those who really do not know where they are meant to be, or even who they are meant to be. They do not need to 'find themselves', they need to turn to God. And perhaps, sometimes, they may benefit from doing that unusual something that bonds them to the one they've felt distanced from. 

  I received a copy of this book from REVELL and was not required to give a positive review. 

One Small Step

     BOOK REVIEW:   Change your world one small act of compassion at a time.   Can ordinary people make a lasting impact on the world around them? Matthew Barnett’s answer is an emphatic Yes! In One Small Step, the founder of the Dream Center shows that it is not as daunting as you think. It all starts with a heart open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and a willingness to do as He asks. These small steps—most often very simple acts that can be done by anyone, anytime—require only our obedience and follow-through.
     With inspiring stories and scriptural insight, bestselling author Matthew Barnett calls you to set aside your fears and boldly embrace the life-changing adventure of becoming the hands and feet of Jesus to the broken people right outside your front door.
     You will soon discover that “random acts of kindness” are not so random after all.

     MY REVIEW:  Matthew Barnett pastors the Dream Center in Los Angeles, CA; a place of refuge and second chances for anyone who comes to their door. They help thousands of people each week. In the introduction he writes: “Do I have all the answers? No! Not even close. This book is not about solutions; in fact, it is about something greater. It is about doing good and having no clue how to make sense of it. It is about the Holy Spirit, the encounters we face daily and the willingness to break free from a me-centered world to embrace the messy life of someone who is willing to step out. It is about taking risks for people who most others would say deserve their fate, dreaming for people who have lost their dreams and refusing to give in to reasons that hold back compassion.”
     I got so much good insight from this book—I could fill this whole review with quotes from it. I consider the book to be as much about change in yourself as in doing good for others. Thirteen chapters—Thirteen ‘steps’, each with a page at the end to record ways you can follow God's nudges.
          Follow the Nudge. We are often nudged to do a small deed of kindness, etc, that is out of our comfort zone, habit, or schedule. Get into the habit of acting on them—don’t let fear keep you back. Even if it seems unimportant. The smallest things can make a huge difference.
          A Life-Changing Step. Being willing to take a step that requires giving up all that we have and are, and leaves us vulnerable and relying completely on God.
          The Steps You Think You Cannot Take. Take the big step that looks unattainable. Rejoice in each small win. Rely on God to give you the strength for each step of the way.
          Make Everything A Big Deal. Every step forward is a win—celebrate it, in yourself as well as others. Never underestimate the power of encouragement, for it can turn a person’s resolve around.
          The Small Steps That Change Lives. Those who are falling, or have already fallen, do not need judgment, but love. Rather than holding what they have done against them, give them a reason to rise again.
          Step On Toes. Be willing to call out talent or potential in those who can’t see it for themselves. Graciously accept others calling you out when you don’t realize your own potential.
          Step Out Of Yourself. Lose the selfish focus and look to serve others.
          When You Feel You Cannot Move. Sometimes we come to the end of our capacity to move forward and God calls us to rest. We may need to gain strength for the way ahead. It’s not failure, it’s maintenance.
           One Small Thought. Don’t dismiss that thought that seems out of the box or impossible—yours and other’s. Try it out, see where it goes. Just because it hasn’t been done doesn’t mean it can’t be.
          The Attitude of A Servant. Be so full of serving others that you have no time to wallow in self.
           The Risk-Taking Step. Be willing to step out before you have all the answers. Be brave despite your fear.
             Step To The Future. It’s not too late. You’re not too far gone. You can still turn your life around and live in hope for the future.
          Leave A Local Legacy. You don’t have to be a celebrity to leave a legacy. Be the one who is remembered for always being there, always loving, always giving.

     I really enjoyed this book. It was a good read, but also an easy one. It didn’t bog down, overwhelm, or stall out. Matthew wrote in a very honest and down to earth way that revealed his own humanness which only strengthens the book.

I received a copy of this book from CHOSEN and was not required to write a positive review. 

Daughter of Rome

     BOOK REVIEW:   When the daughter of a prominent Roman general meets a disinherited Jewish immigrant, neither one can dream of God's plan to transform them into the most influential couple of the early church. Nor can the anticipate the mountains that will threaten to bury them. Their courtship unwittingly shadowed by murder and betrayal, Priscilla and Aquila slowly work to build a community of believers, while their lives grow increasingly complicated thanks to a shaggy dog, a mysterious runaway, and a ruthless foe desperate for love. But when they're banished from their home by a capricious emperor, they must join forces with an unusual rabbi named Paul and fight to turn treachery into redemption.

     MY REVIEW:   This is the most recent of Tessa Afshar's books, her eight one I believe. She chooses less prominent biblical characters to explore stories of, and this book is written around Aquila and Priscilla, the couple who gave shelter to the Apostle Paul at some point. There is so little known about this couple, thus this book takes great liberties with the story. I enjoyed the story though, imagining what this couples' life may have been like, the fears and trials they may have encountered.
     Priscilla is portrayed as a young woman who's father had died, leaving her in the care of her wealthy, though selfish brother who left her to live as a pauper in his illustrious home. She had made friends with Christians Jews and through them met Aquila, who had recently been disinherited by his father because of his belief in Jesus. Her unfailing love and care of those around her -- even those who wished her harm -- is an image of the love of Christ we ought to portray.
     I wish we knew more about Aquila and Priscilla--theirs would be a tale to behold. We know that they were Christians, and would possibly have been persecuted in some manner because of it. We know that they were tent makers. And we know that they were friends of Paul the Apostle, who gave them credit for strengthening the Christians around them. They seem to be strong, devout followers of Jesus. We today miss something by the ease of our lives. We don't have to chose life or Christ, we get both.
     This book was interesting, as it gave a potential glance into the lives of the early Christians. It is a novel of sterner stuff than most, but remains one just the same. The relationship of Aquila and Priscilla is a dominant theme, with the lessons of love and forgiveness towards everyone to be gleaned around it. 

 I received a copy of this book from NETGALLEY, and was not required to write a positive review. 
   

From the Grave

     BOOK REVIEW:   Lent is a time for recalling our death to sin and life to God. From the Grave aids in that by combining A. W. Tozer's best reflections on faith, suffering, and spiritual progress. Each daily reading is paired with Scripture to guide hearts in the way of the cross, the "pain-wracked path" to life.

     MY REVIEW:   Lent is not a season I know anything about, beyond its being a season of remembering and preparing for Easter. I picked up the book mainly because it was Tozer.
     The book is a compilation of daily readings taken from A. W. Tozer's books and sermons about various related topics. The index will tell where each reading was taken from. Many are from his book "The Root of Righteousness". Each reading is accompanied by a Bible verse selected by the publisher. The book is technically written by Tozer, though I would love to see how it would be written had he compiled the devotional on his own.
     The chapters are divided between seven weeks, Monday-Saturday. The subjects are such as: 'The Uses of Suffering', 'True Faith Brings Commitment', and 'Raised with Christ'. I really enjoyed the book. It is full of convicting passages, yet always brings out the hope and joy we have when we truly die to self and live in Christ. Perhaps the most convicting passages to me were those on the Cross. One line says: "So we talk a lot about the deeper life and spiritual victory and becoming dead to ourselves---but we stay very busy rescuing ourselves from the cross". We as Christians know we have to die to ourselves and live in Christ, but we don't always understand how completely we have to die--we try to find a compromise that allows us to remain in partial control. This book really challenged me to surrender completely.

I received a copy of this book from MOODY PUBLISHERS and was not required to write a positive review.