The Wiersbe Bible Study Series: 1&2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon
By far one of the best bible studies of books of the bibles I have used in awhile. This bible study correlates with the commentaries. I like that it uses both the bible and the commentaries as sources of study. This particular study was divided into eight lessons. I found it difficult to complete a lesson in one setting, but this did not discourage me at all. Rather, I was glad that what I did complete in a setting was worthwhile. I never put the study down feeling like I had wasted precious time. I always felt that I had learned something useful. I thought the questions were thought provoking and required you to actually search for truth and reflect on the Word of God. So many book, by book bible studies are weak in this area, getting only to the surface level material. Never pushing one to dig deeper into scripture and search for meaning on one’s own. I would recommend this study for anyone wishing to gain insight and knowledge of the Word of God.
Thank You Cook Communications and B&B Media for providing this as a review copy!
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Faith @ Home Resources
Faith Begins at Home, Mark Holmen
Instead of posting a blog on each of the following individually I am combining them into one group: Faith Begins @ Home Prayer, Faith Begins @ Home Devotions, Faith Begins @ Home Dad, and Faith Begins @ Home Mom. These are small 75 page resource books for the family to be used with or without the rest of the Faith Begins @ Home Material. I am so very impressed with the amount of information jam-packed into the 75 pages of easy to read text. Mark Holmen has a heart for transforming the lives of the family today, placing the spiritually training of children back into the hands of the parents. He recognizes the fact that most of today’s middle-aged generation are sadly equipped to “train up a child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord”. They attend church, participate in church activities, and make sure their children go to the camps and choirs, and children’s activities. However, most feel in adequate at pursuing worship at home. These books give just the needed resource, encouragement and affirmation to help the parent institute learning about God into their family time. The sections are short and to the point, filled with scripture, life application, prayer ides, devotionals, family activities to cultivate the life of Christ. I recommend these and all other resources in this series. I have not found one that has not been worthy of praise. Thank you Mark Holmen and family for putting into writing the tools needed for today’s busy family.
A special thanks to Gospel Light/Regal Publishing for these review copies!
Instead of posting a blog on each of the following individually I am combining them into one group: Faith Begins @ Home Prayer, Faith Begins @ Home Devotions, Faith Begins @ Home Dad, and Faith Begins @ Home Mom. These are small 75 page resource books for the family to be used with or without the rest of the Faith Begins @ Home Material. I am so very impressed with the amount of information jam-packed into the 75 pages of easy to read text. Mark Holmen has a heart for transforming the lives of the family today, placing the spiritually training of children back into the hands of the parents. He recognizes the fact that most of today’s middle-aged generation are sadly equipped to “train up a child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord”. They attend church, participate in church activities, and make sure their children go to the camps and choirs, and children’s activities. However, most feel in adequate at pursuing worship at home. These books give just the needed resource, encouragement and affirmation to help the parent institute learning about God into their family time. The sections are short and to the point, filled with scripture, life application, prayer ides, devotionals, family activities to cultivate the life of Christ. I recommend these and all other resources in this series. I have not found one that has not been worthy of praise. Thank you Mark Holmen and family for putting into writing the tools needed for today’s busy family.
A special thanks to Gospel Light/Regal Publishing for these review copies!
Good Game,
Good Game, Shirl James Hoffman
I will be honest in the fact that this is one book I can not seem to get into enough to finish completely. Although I see the author’s well-intentioned point, I find it a little discouraging instead of affirming to those in the sports world today. I see a lot wrong with many aspects of the world today, but I cling to the grace that God has given me and the message that Jesus himself lived out: Instead of pointing out all the wrong in each situation Jesus simply went to the sinner and sat with him, and preached to him where he/she was. Although not conforming to the world he was in the world, in the dirtiest parts, preaching to the dirtiest people, and seeing those redeemed. There seems to be a new legalism sweeping Christianity that poses itself as pure – this seems to be one. To say we must avoid competitive sports (highlighting football as one of these) is not the answer. I have seen in the public school system alone the ability of the gospel to reach the unsaved on these very grounds easier than the classroom setting. A Christian coach has more freedom to proclaim the liberty of Jesus Christ than the classroom stuff – and that his word is powerful when a believer is praying protection over his fellow athletes. I have been in the locker room and heard prayers not to win a game but rather an opportunity to glorify God. Too bad we do not do that more in our work environments too. I look at examples such as Tony Dungy and Mike Singletary that have influenced countless young men for the cause of Christ. Who could forget Tim Tebow the real deal – sports has given him the opportunity to promote the largest Christian agenda out there and to give praise to the Father God who created Man in his image. What about Colt McCoy?? I could name countless others too. This may have turned out to be a better book deeper into it, but for now I must shelve it and come back to it with more prayer. On top of not really enjoying the message I found it to be wordy and at times difficult to read.
Thank you B&B Media Group for providing this book for review. For author interviews contact 1-800-927-0517 ext. 104, 106, or 109
I will be honest in the fact that this is one book I can not seem to get into enough to finish completely. Although I see the author’s well-intentioned point, I find it a little discouraging instead of affirming to those in the sports world today. I see a lot wrong with many aspects of the world today, but I cling to the grace that God has given me and the message that Jesus himself lived out: Instead of pointing out all the wrong in each situation Jesus simply went to the sinner and sat with him, and preached to him where he/she was. Although not conforming to the world he was in the world, in the dirtiest parts, preaching to the dirtiest people, and seeing those redeemed. There seems to be a new legalism sweeping Christianity that poses itself as pure – this seems to be one. To say we must avoid competitive sports (highlighting football as one of these) is not the answer. I have seen in the public school system alone the ability of the gospel to reach the unsaved on these very grounds easier than the classroom setting. A Christian coach has more freedom to proclaim the liberty of Jesus Christ than the classroom stuff – and that his word is powerful when a believer is praying protection over his fellow athletes. I have been in the locker room and heard prayers not to win a game but rather an opportunity to glorify God. Too bad we do not do that more in our work environments too. I look at examples such as Tony Dungy and Mike Singletary that have influenced countless young men for the cause of Christ. Who could forget Tim Tebow the real deal – sports has given him the opportunity to promote the largest Christian agenda out there and to give praise to the Father God who created Man in his image. What about Colt McCoy?? I could name countless others too. This may have turned out to be a better book deeper into it, but for now I must shelve it and come back to it with more prayer. On top of not really enjoying the message I found it to be wordy and at times difficult to read.
Thank you B&B Media Group for providing this book for review. For author interviews contact 1-800-927-0517 ext. 104, 106, or 109
Monday, February 22, 2010
Raising Up Spiritual Daughters, Susie Shellenberger
An encouragement to mothers and daughters alike. Not a typical "how to" book, but a self-evaluation. I enjoyed the easy to read and down to earth style of Susie Shellenberger as she draws on her experience with youth. I found the book to be extremely informative and at times a little challenging. I enjoyed the scriptural applications, and questions. The added study of 1 John is an excellent opportunity to sit down and really spend "connect" time with your daughter. I encourage readers to take advantage of this added resource.
Thank you Baker Publishing for providing this review copy.
Thank you Baker Publishing for providing this review copy.
Jane Austen, Peter Leithart
Jane Austen, Christian Encounters Series, by Peter Leithart
The author does an excellent job laying out the life of one of America’s most captivating writers. I am a big Jane Austen fan – I am one of those that can’t “leave her characters alone”. At the close of one of her stories I have often found myself wishing the story had not just ended and wondering what happened after that. Jane Austen was a complex and beautiful woman. Her stories are ones that have captivated the hearts of women, men and children for ages. This author does her great respect in the way he exposes the faith of a woman that saw so many different changes in her life-time. I will be using it as a home school resource for my children. I found this book to be easy and quick to read – not filled with dry facts, but well-written aspects of a life of worth and character. It was amazing to see the impact that Ms. Austen had during her life-time on other authors and peers. Their reaction to her style of writing was a little shocking to me. I would highly recommend it to any fan of Jane Austen’s writing and to any home school family looking for a good biography of a Christian woman.
Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing this book for review. Visit. http://booksneeze.com to join Thomas Nelson as a book reviewer.
The author does an excellent job laying out the life of one of America’s most captivating writers. I am a big Jane Austen fan – I am one of those that can’t “leave her characters alone”. At the close of one of her stories I have often found myself wishing the story had not just ended and wondering what happened after that. Jane Austen was a complex and beautiful woman. Her stories are ones that have captivated the hearts of women, men and children for ages. This author does her great respect in the way he exposes the faith of a woman that saw so many different changes in her life-time. I will be using it as a home school resource for my children. I found this book to be easy and quick to read – not filled with dry facts, but well-written aspects of a life of worth and character. It was amazing to see the impact that Ms. Austen had during her life-time on other authors and peers. Their reaction to her style of writing was a little shocking to me. I would highly recommend it to any fan of Jane Austen’s writing and to any home school family looking for a good biography of a Christian woman.
Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing this book for review. Visit. http://booksneeze.com to join Thomas Nelson as a book reviewer.
How God Makes Babies
How God Makes Babies, Jim Burns
The second in the series, geared for ages 6 -9 this book has equally stunning photography and is easy to read. Again, However I don’t find it age appropriate for my 8 year old daughter. I am still not comfortable discussing with her all aspects of sexuality. I do however love the fact that the author supports through this book the aspect of sexual purity until marriage. This is stated more than once. He does an excellent job of addressing the issue of sexual abuse in a non-threatening way so as to teach children that these part were specifically and specially designed for the marriage relationship only. I will be using parts of this book now with my daughter and other parts a little later.
The second in the series, geared for ages 6 -9 this book has equally stunning photography and is easy to read. Again, However I don’t find it age appropriate for my 8 year old daughter. I am still not comfortable discussing with her all aspects of sexuality. I do however love the fact that the author supports through this book the aspect of sexual purity until marriage. This is stated more than once. He does an excellent job of addressing the issue of sexual abuse in a non-threatening way so as to teach children that these part were specifically and specially designed for the marriage relationship only. I will be using parts of this book now with my daughter and other parts a little later.
How God Made Your Body, Jim Burns
How God Made Your Body, Jim Burns
This book does an excellent job of describing in easy terminology the body and what makes boys and girls different and the same. It starts off with the statement that “God made boys and girls”. I think the photographs are wonderfully captivating. The first few pages deal with the similarities of boys and girls. Such as pointing out both have eyes and hair and so on. It then goes into the differences. Although I agree with being open and honest with my children (2 boys and 2 girls) about their bodies I found parts of this book to be a little uncomfortable. I am not sure that the ages of 3 to 5 is the time I want to discuss how “a mommy and daddy come together in a special way called making love”. Nor do I feel comfortable discussing with my toddler the sperm and egg and resulting embryo. I have no problem with telling my children the anatomically correct names of their body parts, though we prefer to call them our “private no touch zone”. My children do know these parts are especially created for marriage and that no one else should touch them there. I am just not comfortable going into great detail at this age as to the function of these parts in that “coming together in a special way”. I do understand the authors reason for writing this book as children are being exposed to these ideas and images at a very early age because of our over-sexualized world. However, I do not feel that I am ready to be so bold and open with all things at this early age. If you are looking for a book that is very matter of fact on all issues of sexuality this is the book for you. If you are not quite ready to show diagrams of the body and have a description of their function this is not the book for you.
I do think that this book is one of the best for this subject as the author approaches it with a biblical view, giving God the credit of His creation. As my children begin to ask questions it will be the one I use with them. I have viewed other books on this subject and have not found them as well thought out. I t is obvious that this author has a heart to educate children in such a way that sex, and their body are not shameful, but to be guarded until marriage and kept pure.
Thank you Bethany House and Baker Publishing for providing this book for review.
This book does an excellent job of describing in easy terminology the body and what makes boys and girls different and the same. It starts off with the statement that “God made boys and girls”. I think the photographs are wonderfully captivating. The first few pages deal with the similarities of boys and girls. Such as pointing out both have eyes and hair and so on. It then goes into the differences. Although I agree with being open and honest with my children (2 boys and 2 girls) about their bodies I found parts of this book to be a little uncomfortable. I am not sure that the ages of 3 to 5 is the time I want to discuss how “a mommy and daddy come together in a special way called making love”. Nor do I feel comfortable discussing with my toddler the sperm and egg and resulting embryo. I have no problem with telling my children the anatomically correct names of their body parts, though we prefer to call them our “private no touch zone”. My children do know these parts are especially created for marriage and that no one else should touch them there. I am just not comfortable going into great detail at this age as to the function of these parts in that “coming together in a special way”. I do understand the authors reason for writing this book as children are being exposed to these ideas and images at a very early age because of our over-sexualized world. However, I do not feel that I am ready to be so bold and open with all things at this early age. If you are looking for a book that is very matter of fact on all issues of sexuality this is the book for you. If you are not quite ready to show diagrams of the body and have a description of their function this is not the book for you.
I do think that this book is one of the best for this subject as the author approaches it with a biblical view, giving God the credit of His creation. As my children begin to ask questions it will be the one I use with them. I have viewed other books on this subject and have not found them as well thought out. I t is obvious that this author has a heart to educate children in such a way that sex, and their body are not shameful, but to be guarded until marriage and kept pure.
Thank you Bethany House and Baker Publishing for providing this book for review.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
...US
IT’s Not About You. It’s Not About Me. It’s About Us. By Daniel L. Tocchini
This book is not like most of the marriage help books out on the shelf today. It is not one filled with self-help ideas, but one that challenges the very way you look at your marriage and life. It address head on the worldly mentality of “me first” and the attitude of changing our spouses to fit our needs. It challenges the reader to align their personal thought process from me first to the biblical based idea of esteeming others greater than yourself. Each chapter takes a couple with a ‘real-life’ issue common to most marriages and applies the biblical standard to correcting the thought process behind the attitude and action. I believe that if a reader takes the time to prayerfully consider the advice you can not help but see areas that need to be corrected – even in a very solid marriage. It is clearly stated in scripture that we are all in a state of becoming what God created us all to be, so there is always room for some improvement! I have not put all the each exercise to practice yet, but I am in the process. Though a view my marriage as solid – I want to follow the standard of always moving forward. This is an excellent easy to read book.
Thank you Cook Communications and B&B Media Group for this review copy.
For an author interview contact B&B Media at 1-800-927-0517 Ext. 104 106, or 109
This book is not like most of the marriage help books out on the shelf today. It is not one filled with self-help ideas, but one that challenges the very way you look at your marriage and life. It address head on the worldly mentality of “me first” and the attitude of changing our spouses to fit our needs. It challenges the reader to align their personal thought process from me first to the biblical based idea of esteeming others greater than yourself. Each chapter takes a couple with a ‘real-life’ issue common to most marriages and applies the biblical standard to correcting the thought process behind the attitude and action. I believe that if a reader takes the time to prayerfully consider the advice you can not help but see areas that need to be corrected – even in a very solid marriage. It is clearly stated in scripture that we are all in a state of becoming what God created us all to be, so there is always room for some improvement! I have not put all the each exercise to practice yet, but I am in the process. Though a view my marriage as solid – I want to follow the standard of always moving forward. This is an excellent easy to read book.
Thank you Cook Communications and B&B Media Group for this review copy.
For an author interview contact B&B Media at 1-800-927-0517 Ext. 104 106, or 109
You Can Still Wear Cute Shoes, By Lisa McKay
You Can Still Wear Cute Shoes by Lisa McKay
With openness that I did not fully expect Lisa McKay puts into words the very things that most pastor’s wives never speak out loud! This was a great an easy read. Her down-to-earth style was refreshing and enjoyable. Lisa explores the unspoken fears and concerns facing most wives of men in ministry. With encouragement to be who we are created to be – individuals. Too often a Pastor’s wife feels pressure to fit a certain mold – you must be able to sing in the choir, play the piano, visit the shut-ins, be a good cook, and have children that are so perfect they seem fake. I haven’t met too many Pastor’s wives that haven’t felt this way. I applaud Lisa’s ability to encourage wives of ministers to be who God created them to be – to hold God as our highest standard and allow him to guide us in our unique talents to best serve in the ministry. If you want to gift your Pastor’s wife and encourage her by acknowledging her as an individual this is a great book to give.
Thank you B&B Media Group, Inc. and Cook Communications for providing this book for review.
For author interviews contact B&B Media Group. 1-800-927-0517 EXT. 104, 106, or 109
With openness that I did not fully expect Lisa McKay puts into words the very things that most pastor’s wives never speak out loud! This was a great an easy read. Her down-to-earth style was refreshing and enjoyable. Lisa explores the unspoken fears and concerns facing most wives of men in ministry. With encouragement to be who we are created to be – individuals. Too often a Pastor’s wife feels pressure to fit a certain mold – you must be able to sing in the choir, play the piano, visit the shut-ins, be a good cook, and have children that are so perfect they seem fake. I haven’t met too many Pastor’s wives that haven’t felt this way. I applaud Lisa’s ability to encourage wives of ministers to be who God created them to be – to hold God as our highest standard and allow him to guide us in our unique talents to best serve in the ministry. If you want to gift your Pastor’s wife and encourage her by acknowledging her as an individual this is a great book to give.
Thank you B&B Media Group, Inc. and Cook Communications for providing this book for review.
For author interviews contact B&B Media Group. 1-800-927-0517 EXT. 104, 106, or 109
Monday, February 1, 2010
Take It Home, Mark Holmen
Take It Home, Mark Holmen
This is an excellent church resource. It is great for any church looking to make the family ministry central in the church. If your church has a heart for the family, as all churches should, this book is a must. Many families feel ill-equipped to present the gospel and lead worship time in their own homes. Many in the current generation have not experienced a home life where bible reading and devotion time is central to the family structure. The families of today are over extended in many aspects, they are rushed to and fro with extra-curricular activities, work and school. This resource offers ways to equip the family as to how to integrate these things into their lives. It presents activities that will inspire families to seek the face of God and pass on a legacy and heritage of a Christ centered life. As I looked through these pages I could not help recalling the story of the eunuch when asked if he understood what he read – His response was simple “How can I unless someone explain”. This book does just that by offering guidance in several areas such as blessing your child, and family devotions, talking to your teen about life issues and using the bible as your source of instruction. Highly recommended.
Thank you Regal Publishing for providing this review copy.
This is an excellent church resource. It is great for any church looking to make the family ministry central in the church. If your church has a heart for the family, as all churches should, this book is a must. Many families feel ill-equipped to present the gospel and lead worship time in their own homes. Many in the current generation have not experienced a home life where bible reading and devotion time is central to the family structure. The families of today are over extended in many aspects, they are rushed to and fro with extra-curricular activities, work and school. This resource offers ways to equip the family as to how to integrate these things into their lives. It presents activities that will inspire families to seek the face of God and pass on a legacy and heritage of a Christ centered life. As I looked through these pages I could not help recalling the story of the eunuch when asked if he understood what he read – His response was simple “How can I unless someone explain”. This book does just that by offering guidance in several areas such as blessing your child, and family devotions, talking to your teen about life issues and using the bible as your source of instruction. Highly recommended.
Thank you Regal Publishing for providing this review copy.
The Daily Discipler
Daily Discipler, Neil T. Anderson
WOW! I am still reading this one. I am using it as my morning devotion. To be honest I have found it difficult to put down! The book is broken down into four quarters for study, each quarter into thirteen weeks, and each week into 4 or 5 days. I find myself reading ahead and sometimes finishing a week in one setting. This is an excellent personal devotional book. However, I would highly recommend it as a resource and study guide for a new convert class, for a mentoring relationship, and for Sunday school. I believe that most age levels would easily understand the information presented. Each days lesson is only a page and half or two pages long. The lesson ends with a question to reflect on. The material is easy to ready, easy to understand and enjoyable.
Thank you Regal Publishing for providing this review copy!!
WOW! I am still reading this one. I am using it as my morning devotion. To be honest I have found it difficult to put down! The book is broken down into four quarters for study, each quarter into thirteen weeks, and each week into 4 or 5 days. I find myself reading ahead and sometimes finishing a week in one setting. This is an excellent personal devotional book. However, I would highly recommend it as a resource and study guide for a new convert class, for a mentoring relationship, and for Sunday school. I believe that most age levels would easily understand the information presented. Each days lesson is only a page and half or two pages long. The lesson ends with a question to reflect on. The material is easy to ready, easy to understand and enjoyable.
Thank you Regal Publishing for providing this review copy!!
Married to a Pastor
Thank you H.B. London for lovingly lifting up the Pastor’s wife, for giving praise where praise is due, and encouragement. This was a refreshing read. Highly recommended! Every Pastor's wife ought to have a copy of this book to read. Filled with rich wisdom and biblical principles.
Thank you Regal Publishing for providing this book for review.
Thank you Regal Publishing for providing this book for review.
Nelson's Complete Book of Bible Maps and Charts
Nelson’s Complete Book of Bible Maps and Charts (third edition)
This is an excellent resource for anyone. I really enjoyed the color pictures, charts and maps. The book is prepared in an easy to access format. It presents an overview of each book of the bible, telling the approximate date it was written, the author and information surrounding that author, a synopsis of the book, and the theme and literary structure. This is very informative commentary. There is also a very helpful chart that lays out the book at a glance: a quick overview of the major themes of the book and chapters. The outline is very helpful as well and makes sorting and finding the exact information you are looking for easy. I thought the color photos of the ruins and modern sites listed in the scriptures were a very neat added feature. This helps the bible to come alive as you study the scripture and are able to see the site that you are studying about. The colored maps are helpful when you are studying a map that is presenting more than one “journey”. This is an excellent personal resource. I would also recommend it to the Sunday school teacher who wants to bring alive the scripture for the class as it has reproducible maps and charts. Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing this for review.
This is an excellent resource for anyone. I really enjoyed the color pictures, charts and maps. The book is prepared in an easy to access format. It presents an overview of each book of the bible, telling the approximate date it was written, the author and information surrounding that author, a synopsis of the book, and the theme and literary structure. This is very informative commentary. There is also a very helpful chart that lays out the book at a glance: a quick overview of the major themes of the book and chapters. The outline is very helpful as well and makes sorting and finding the exact information you are looking for easy. I thought the color photos of the ruins and modern sites listed in the scriptures were a very neat added feature. This helps the bible to come alive as you study the scripture and are able to see the site that you are studying about. The colored maps are helpful when you are studying a map that is presenting more than one “journey”. This is an excellent personal resource. I would also recommend it to the Sunday school teacher who wants to bring alive the scripture for the class as it has reproducible maps and charts. Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing this for review.
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