HOLY ROLLER Finding redemption and the Holy Ghost in a forgotten Texas
church By Julie Lyons ISBN 978-1-4000-7495-2 Waterbrook Press
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Julie was a white crime reporter for a Dallas newspaper. What she was
searching for was a good story, a church in dangerous South Dallas that made a difference in the violent, drug-infested
mostly black neighborhoods. She found not only a story, but also new life—and a church home.
With the title HOLY ROLLER, not usually a positive description of a pentecostal
phenomenon, I expected an examination, more likely a critique of some kind. But this book is, instead, Julie's personal
journey not only into the darkness of South Dallas, but into the healing, saving power of Jesus Christ and how it not only
changed a neighborhood, but also her life.
THE WOMAN OF MYSTERY Unveiling the secret of true romance Hayley
DiMarco ISBN 978-1-4143-2468-5 Tyndale House Publishers Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
THE WOMAN OF MYSTERY sets forth the belief that all women seek mystery
and romance in life and that these longings can only be satisfied in the context of relationship with Christ. It encourages
women to spend their lives focused on this true romance, rather than expending all our energy on seeking earthly romance and
to become women of mystery by living life in such a way that we reflect Christ.
In this context, the book tackles practical subjects such as modesty,
the words we speak, the attitudes we hold, and the way we relate to others, suggesting that these things and more are all
part of cultivating a God-centered lifestyle as a woman of mystery. Scripture is sprinkled in lightly, with the main focus
on sharing advice and stories of real-life women.
The chapters are focused and easily readable, each concluding with some
ideas for application of the topics discussed.
Since this book is geared toward women, at times it gives an imbalanced
picture—for example suggesting if there are problems in a marriage, the woman needs to change.
Therefore I propose some caution in reading it. If you take it as intended—a
guide for women seeking to live a Christ-like lifestyle rather than a complete picture of the dynamics of a healthy lifestyle
then you will likely benefit from the tips and stories shared.
MISPLACING GOD (And Finding Him Again) By Joanne Heim ISBN 978-0-8254-2759-6 Kregel
Publications Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
In today’s world, life is busy, and constant demands drain both
time and energy. All too often, we fail to make room for what’s most important: God. Joanne Heim provides a powerful
reminder of this in MISPLACING GOD. She shares her journey from being a believer that kept God low on her priority list to
being a believer that made room for quality time with God each day and learned to “practice his presence” even
through the most difficult days.
Heim doesn’t simply stop at pointing out a problem and detailing
the solution, she also gives practical pointers on how to make God the center of daily life. She starts with intentionally
making God a priority, and covers topics such as how to make the time and how to delve into the Word and prayer once you have
set aside the time. An abundance of Scripture throughout supports the whole work.
A solid resource, especially for new believers.
LIFE ON PLANET MOM A down-to-earth guide to your changing relationships By
Lisa T Bergren ISBN 978-0-8007-3365-0 Revell Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Want a practical guide on how to handle the relational changes motherhood
brings? I suggest trying LIFE ON PLANET MOM, an easy-to-read, encouraging book on the importance of relationships to a mom
and how to rightly handle them when raising small children.
Lisa T. Bergren tackles six areas of relational change for new moms:
relationship with God, yourself, your husband, your parents, your friendships, and your community. Each chapter delves into
one of these topics, starting with a short fictional illustration, then moving to practical advice, words from other moms,
and helpful tips. Questions for further thought conclude the chapters.
While I am not yet a mother, I found much of value in LIFE ON PLANET
MOM and will keep it on hand as a reference for the future. Moms with small children will benefit from the frank discussion
on the joys and hardships of motherhood, and the helpful suggestions this book contains.
FAITH SET FREE Pray for Yourself with Reckless Abandon By Will
Davis Jr. ISBN 978-0-8007-3247-9 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Praying for ourselves? Imagine. It’s easy to pray for others. Most
of us do it all the time. But does God want us to seek him for our own desires and needs?
According to scripture He does. Even going so far as to tell us we can’t
live this life without praying for ourselves. So how do we do something we aren’t used to doing?
FAITH SET FREE is a handy, easy-to-read guide that will lead us on a
journey of self-discovery and worth. Will Davis Jr. uses humorous examples from his life as examples. FAITH SET FREE is much
more than just a book on prayer; it will show you how to burst into a new relationship with God.
Within these pages are exactly what God tells us to pray, and what the
prayers mean. And, yes, the prayers are centered around us as individuals. This guide is a must have for anyone who believes
in the power of approaching God’s throne, and for those who are still seeking. A ten on the faith scale.
CHRISTIANITY IN CRISIS: THE 21ST CENTURY By Hank Hanegraaff ISBN
978-0-8499-0006-8 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I recently finished a book dealing with problems with the theology of
Emerging Church Movement, Open Theism and other serious departures from Biblical Christianity. In this book, author Hanegraaff
tackles another part of the drift away from Biblical faith, something that holds many desperate people in it's grasp. It is
the radical Faith "Name it and Claim it" Movement.
I had no clue how far off-base some of these proponents have become,
elevating man to a god-like status while sublimating the sovereign God to the status of beggar, loser and puppet.
Well known faith proponents such as Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, and TD
Jakes hold radical views of faith, the cross and the finished work of salvation. It was a wake up call for me. I've read works
by each and never realized how far off base they and other faith teachers had become. Though couched in spiritual terms much
of what they teach has roots in paganism, New Age, and Scientology.
Hanegraaff doesn't just point out the errors, but points the reader to
the truth, to Biblical reality, to Christ and how to discover truth from error. He quotes liberally from the works and teachings
of the faith movements teachers and drills home his points in a heavy and detailed volume.
Recommended study for every Christian.
SHE STILL CALLS ME DADDY By Robert Walgemuth ISBN
978-0-7852-2170-8 Thomas Nelson Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
Building a new relationship with your daughter
after you "give her away" is one of the hardest things a man must do. It takes faith, faith that you've instilled everything
she will need for her new role as wife and eventually mother, and faith that God will fill the low places she may face, as
you walk her down the aisle and answer that milestone question: "Who gives this woman to be married to this man?"
It's
a turning point, a moment of relinquishment. Robert Wolgemuth knows what he talking about. He has given his two daughters
to the men they had all been praying for from the time the girls were born. And he guides the reader through the roller coast
of emotions a father (and mother) feels at this turning point in life.
I wish I had known this sage advice when
we :"gave away" our daughters . . . and sons. But having read it "after the fact," I can still put his guidelines into practice
as I see my sons- and daughters-in-law in a new light. This book will bless all parents. Period. Even new parents, because
now you can faithfully pray for your children's future mates.
Faith element: high.
MAKING WORK AT HOME WORK Successfully growing a business and a family
under one roof By Mary M Byers ISBN 978-0-8007-3275-2 Revell Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Those of us who've juggled family and a work-at-home business know just
how hard it is to balance our priorities. When we're at home, it is hard to shut out the conflicting obligations that, at
times, seem to assault us.
Using her own and the experiences of other stay-at-home entrepreneurs,
Byers takes us on a journey of discovering how we can be home with our children and run a business. But there are some definite
guidelines to follow.
Of course, we need to be flexible (we're Moms, after all). We need
to realize one size does not fit all and our solutions might be different from another stay-at-home business woman. We need
to realize we can't “do it all” which means we need to schedule our time around priorities we've already decided
upon in advance with input from other family members involved.
We need to get and stay organized, regularly plan for the next month,
year, etc., setting down our goals and objectives. Then be honest and open about what we can actually achieve while leaving
time for ourselves, our husband and our kids. There needs to be constant communication with our family and our clients.
We need to learn to say “no,” even if that no means a client is not happy.
Of course, we need to treat our work at home like a business, keeping
accurate records. (The tax man will be in this mix.)
Don't forget, says the author, to network with other moms and stay-at-home
women and others, recognizing our need for advice and support. A positive, never-give-up attitude is also important.
Pg. 117 “Act like the person you want to be.”
Most of all, found your life on the best support and advisor possible—Jesus
Christ.
Finally, from page 110, Byers advises, “I've come to the conclusion
that I often make things harder than they need to be.”
Good advice from a stay-at-home entrepreneur who's been there. I wish
I'd had this book when my kids were small and I was juggling my writing and my career. Recommended.
Faith element: Low to medium
THE DISAPPEARANCE OF GOD Dangerous beliefs in the new spiritual openness By R Albert Mohler Jr ISBN 9780-1-60142-081-7 Multnomah Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Our society has gods. Those gods haven't disappeared. They are more in
evidence than ever. What has disappeared, is disappearing, and is being twisted and morphed into an “acceptable”Jesus
and legislated and criminalized out of existence, is GOD, the God of the Bible. This all-knowing, all-present God who gave
His life that we may live and who offers life to those who come to Him, but death and Hell to those who don't, has been marginalized
by many of the very ones who sought to make Him more relevant.
From the Open Theists, who don't believe God knows the future (doing
away with most of the Bible), to those who've shifted away from the foundations of the faith in many other ways, our culture
is in a crisis of faith. Many churches no longer believe or teach the gospel message and are little more than social or self-esteem
parlors and with about as much long-term positive benefits.
Many are led away, not realizing the very ones who should be upholding
Biblical truth (such as those in the Emerging Church movement) no longer believe in knowable truth, some are ashamed to be
known as Christians, and way too many so-called “Christian” leaders are leading their people down a path of quicksand
to the very Hell they no longer believe in.
This book helps God's people realize what is happening, recognize the
signs of apostasy, and become pro-active personally and within the church to restore the faith of our fathers.
This is a small, easily read and absorbed book. Highly recommended for
every Christian and every seeker both individually and in Bible study or discussion group settings.
THE AMERICAN PATRIOT'S BIBLE General Editor: Dr. Richard G Lee ISBN 978-0-4185-4153-8 Thomas Nelson Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
This Bible is much more than a family keepsake, for it is a keepsake
with pages to record family genealogy and records of births, deaths, military service and more. It is also a piece of art
with careful attention to detail and appearance as well as attention to functionality and readability.
Scripture is taken from the NKJV version and THE AMERICAN PATRIOT'S BIBLE
has maps and a very nice concordance as well as a subject index. But, what makes this Bible unique is the juxtaposition of
Bible principles alongside the values, quotes of both founding fathers and other great American leaders.
Included are such things as "The Bible and American Presidents," "Christianity
in Colonial America," "The Bible and American Education," and many more inserts tracing each subject to it's Judeo-Christian
source.
Size harks back to those hefty Bibles every family treasured and passed
down from generations to the next. <I have two such family Bibles--both in Swedish.> This is a new generation of family
Bible, one carefully crafted for the American family.
This would make a wonderful family keepsake, a great source for families,
especially homeschooling families, and have a valued use for personal or family devotions.
As a journalist, I've already gotten several article ideas from this
Bible.
Beautifully and reverently done.
EXPERIENCING THE SPIRIT By Henry & Melvin Blackaby ISBN
978-1-59052-911-9 Multnomah Christian Living/Spiritual Growth Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
It’s all about experiencing Jesus; when the Spirit comes, He reveals
The Messiah to us. It’s not about us getting gifts, but having the giver of gifts within us. It’s not about going
out on assignments for God, but going out with Him on His assignments and watching Him work miracles--through us.
To give our best—what we can do in our own strength, is to cheat
the world of God’s best—what the Holy Spirit desires to do through us. God asks us to serve outside our areas
of strengths, so that His strength is what others see. Without the Holy Spirit, the world sees the church doing good things
for God, not God doing what only He can do through us.
"Are you content merely to give the world your best? Or do you want people
to experience the power of the Holy Spirit when they encounter your life? What a difference!" Jesus is actively at work in
the world, and He gives you the gift of the Holy Spirit so you can join Him in that activity.
I encourage you to read Blackaby’s book, along with his companion
books, "Experiencing the Cross," and "Experiencing the Resurrection." It’s all about a relationship with God. How awesome
is that?
PLANTING CHURCHES THAT REPRODUCE By Joel Comiskey ISBN 978-0-9790-6769-9 CCS Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
For too long, Mega-Churches have gotten most of the attention in the
Christian community. But another movement has started to gain ground. One that doesn't depend on enormous outlay of funds
or programming. House and cell churches, small gatherings begun in homes, are gaining ground for a culture disintegrating
and people, tired of church as usual, who desperately need to connect with others and God.
But many of these small cell churches fail. Others thrive and become
the foundation for growth, spiritually and into other home/cell gatherings. Of course the basic is prayer and God's leading,
but other factors also play a part.
PLANTING CHURCHES THAT REPRODUCE is a practical, common sense, easy to
read manual of the principle of multiplication and how to grow into a vibrant community of believers who continue to reach
out.
Every church should use this book in a study to kick-start God's people
into understanding the basic principle of the gospel—reproduction. My copy is all marked up. (And I'm part of a church
plant.)
THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON JOY A Revolutionary Program for Balancing Mood, Restoring Brain Health, and Nurturing Spiritual Growth By
Dr. Earl Henslin ISBN 978-0-7852-2873-8 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
In today’s society, Depression is everywhere. Postpartum blues,
negative thinking, fatigue, and just plain brain weariness. We’re bombarded by it. Sometimes even glorifying it, saying
this is normal in today’s world. Dr. Earl Henslin asks, “What does your brain have to do with experiencing joy?”
THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON JOY uses science and biblical truth to guide us
to true joy; to help us overcome depression and experience joy as we were meant to. Dr. Henslin gives readers books, movies,
and scripture to lighten our hearts. He gives us reasons for being unjoyful and ways to pull out. For anyone suffering from
depression, anxiety, or working in the psychology field, this book should not only sit on your bookshelf, but be tattered
from flipping through the pages to find a way to help yourself or someone else.
Faith element 8
GO BACK AND BE HAPPY A devastating brain injury left Julie at the gates of heaven By Julie Papievis as told to Margaret
McSweeney ISBN 978-0-8254-6276-4 Monarch Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Julie had her life planned out, though she hadn't planned on the divorce.
But that was the least of her problems when a young man ran a red light and crashed into her car. No one thought Julie could
survive. She had massive head and body injuries that included traumatic brain stem injury.
So began a long, long journey back to life, but was the life she'd be
living post accident worth the struggle—especially after getting a glimpse of Heaven? Julie discovered that even in
the depths of despair, God is there and with His help she not only survived—she has thrived. That's not to say, she
doesn't struggle, she does. But Julie has learned that in the midst of problems, life is precious.
From someone who went from health to a wheelchair due to Juvenile Rheumatoid
Arthritis, I could identify with her humiliation at needing help for even the simplest of personal needs, her struggle to
regain independence, and her triumph. A story of hope that we need today when it is too easy to pull the plug and turn off
the machines.
DANGEROUS DEVOTIONS FOR GUYS Dare to Live Your Faith By Tim Shoemaker ISBN 978-0-7644-3734-2 Group Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Guys don't do well sitting around listening to lectures. They usually
tune out the speaker and begin to get into trouble, poking the person next to them, moving around, etc. Young men don't sit
still. In fact, when they do, there is probably something wrong. Something wrong is the problem with lots of programs and
devotions for teens, especially young men. Young men like to be active, at least have something in their hands, and are drawn
to danger and excitement. DANGEROUS DEVOTIONS FOR GUYS builds on that reality.
Using exciting and often rather risky experiments (if safety isn't of
primary importance), these devotions graphically illustrate important Christian concepts from God's plan for our lives and
how to treat others, to avoiding temptations such as premarital sex and porn.
The book is clear about safety protocols while giving guys opportunities
to “get” the point with hands-on illustrations. There are suggestions as to how to make these devotions more effective
and drawing the young men to Christ.
The devotions are focused on those with some foundation of the Christian
faith. I'd like to see a book like this for those who do not yet know Christ.
DON’T LET ME GO What My Daughter Taught Me About the Journey Every Parent Must Make By David W. Pierce ISBN
978-0-30744-468-4 Waterbrook Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
David Pierce and his daughter Chera climb many mountains and run many
marathons together. When Chera first approaches David with this desire, he realizes she is growing up and decides to hold
on to her for as long as possible. Even if it means miles of climbing. What they learn through the process is priceless. Not
only does David write of their exploits; he writes a love story. One between him and his daughter.
The relationship between a father and a daughter parallels how our relationship
with our heavenly Father should be. In DON’T LET GO, David gives us deep, sometimes humorous glimpses into the love
he has for his daughter and takes us with him when he must “let her go” and give her to another.
Most parents don’t literally climb high mountains, but there are
obstacles to raising a child. DON’T LET GO helps us through our own climbs; our own marathons, gently nudging us to
hold on and then let go when the time is right.
DON’T LET GO is not preachy, not full of scripture, yet interlaced
with nuggets of God’s love and wisdom. A great read for any parent.
DRED SCOTT'S REVENGE A Legal History of Race and Freedom in America By Judge Andrew P Napolitano ISBN 978-1-5955-5265-5 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The author is obviously distinguished, educated and intelligent. He has
also done his homework on this issue. And, there is much in this book that we as Christians need to know about our own history,
and the need for repentance for horrific acts of violence against our fellow human beings.
However, I had problems as well. At times there were assumptions made
that were not backed up. He sees “government” as a single entity, whose policies have been enacted specifically
against African-Americans at almost every turn. However, he focuses on the race issue from such a narrow perspective that
he can't seem to see there might be broader reasons for certain political leanings that have nothing with race. Coming from
my perspective, this seems to be jump. Government has never been one entity even as Americans are not one entity, but a conglomeration
of individuals, sentiments and beliefs. For all the evil, there has also been much good. That aspect is missing in this book.
From his perspective, policies of both right and left have devastated
African-Americans. Yet, he seems to have sympathy with men such as Jeremiah Wright. But while slavery imprisons the body,
hate always imprisons the soul.
What is missing in this book is the Christian perspective, not just man's.
Nonetheless, this is a valuable resource in a continuing growth and education for each of us in treating one another with
respect.
LIVE YOUR JOY By Bonnie St. John ISBN 978-0-446-57925-4 FaithWords Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
She is Afro-American and female, has dealt with childhood abuse,
surgeries and relearning not only to walk but ski with one leg, has dealt with divorce and being a single parent...and yet
she has found joy. St. John finds joy comes not from outside, but from deep within. It is a well we draw from when our resources
are low. Joy is not pleasure or happiness. It is accepting who we are and where we are and moving forward. Joy is a choice.
If St. John can know joy and accomplish all she's accomplished with what she's gone through, so can you and I.
In chapters that deal with such topics as confidence, hope, humility,
authenticity and friendship, St. John builds the foundation for joy in our lives. She uses personal examples as well as the
examples from others to point us in the right direction.
But while joy comes from within and is a choice, the real joy is built
on a solid foundation of faith in God and prayer. LIVE YOUR JOY is motivating as it is freeing.
THE POWER TO CHANGE TODAY
Simple Secrets to the Satisfied Life By Gregory Dickow ISBN 978-0-446-50414-0 FaithWords Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Unhappy with your life? Think that if you were smarter or had a better
background, education, a better job or more money things would be better? They won't. As Dickow points out we will never be
successful or satisfied if we spend our time living in the past or desiring a different future rather than living with and
dealing with the here and now.
A satisfied life begins with viewing ourselves as God sees us and building
a foundation on the truth of who He is and who He created us to be in Him. With God as our foundation we can let go our fear
of failure to cultivate a positive outlook of friends, goals and lifestyle.
THE POWER TO CHANGE TODAY takes us from fear to faith with practical
information, anecdotes, and real-life stories. A positive contribution to a life of faith, joy...and satisfaction.
MAMA’S GOT A FAKE I.D. How to Reveal the Real You Behind All
That Mom By Caryn Dahlstrand Rivadeneira ISBN 978-1-4000-7493-8 Waterbrook Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Before our bundles of joy came along, we “were” something.
A secretary, a CEO, a teacher, an artist, etc. Then came baby, and we became Mom. Our college degrees, our talents, our dreams,
are often set aside and our new role consumes us. But is this what God intended for Moms? Were we to set aside our identities
and “become” something else?
Christian women are often stereotyped, losing who we used to be. Relabeled
into something new. But what if this “something new” isn’t exactly what we want? What if we feel lost in
the process?
God designed us. With all our quirks, our gifts, our dreams. He doesn’t
intend for these to be tossed aside when we take on the role of Mom. Instead, we are to add this new facet to our many others.
In, MAMA’S GOT A FAKE I.D., Caryn Dahlstrand Rivadeneira uses practical
advice from God’s Word to show us our true identity. Who we are in Christ, and how to let others see the “real”
us.
HERO Becoming the Man She Desires By Fred Stoeker & Jason Stoeker
with Mike Yorkey ISBN 978-1-4000-7109-8 WaterBrook Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Pg. 78 Alex had a serious stronghold of thought. ...strongholds are sympathetic
attitudes toward sin, or buying in to the wisdom of this world...
Both men and women have bought into the world's idea of love. Myths abound
that undermine relationships and that lead to perversion and lifelong addictions. The myths devalue women and encourages women
to devalue themselves while almost deifying sexual expression and experimentation. Who cares that hearts and lives are destroyed
in the process.
HERO tackles the myths head on with facts, figures, and examples from
real people. The foundation of this book are the stories of father Fred and son Jason and the different paths they took. Fred
was a child who bought into the 60's “free” love idea until he realized if something didn't change, he'd pass
on to his son the heartbreak his father passed onto him. Jason took the path of purity and, despite rejection and ridicule,
came to his marriage whole and pure—and it made all the difference.
Pg. 172: Respecting boundaries is an act of love.
An eye-opening look at truth. This book should be a must for every father
talking to his son about “the facts of life,” every youth group dealing with the subject of dating, husbands and
wives and men and women in general.
Don't let your kids leave home without a grounding in the truths presented
in HERO. Highly recommended.
Faith element: high
REAL SOLUTIONS FOR BUSY MOMS Your Guide to Success and Sanity By
Kathy Ireland ISBN 978-1-4165-6318-1 Howard Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
What can Kathy Ireland tell me about being a mom? She's famous and wealthy
and seems to have it all together. Appearance isn't reality. The more visible the person, the more open to often scathing
criticism. Only she has learned to deal with the many hats in her life with confidence and balance.
No matter how high profile her life, Ireland doesn't have all the answers.
She has built a solid foundation of faith and family and speaks to moms from a platform of experience about those things that
matter mos--like how to stay sane and raise responsible kids in today's culture. What hit home to me was her sharing that,
now as a mom, she wishes she'd said "no" to certain photo shoots.
Ireland is not afraid to be transparent as she shares strategies for
dealing with finances, health both physical and emotional, safety, letting go, taking care of yourself as well as your family,
and learning to lean on God.
She says... Pg 91 Your family interactions will be most effective
if everyone strives to meet three goals: communicate clearly, communicate directly, communicate with love.
Pg 183 Figure out what you value, and put boundaries in place to
protect you and your loved ones from time-eating, compromising, or dangerous situations.
She also includes practical do-able suggestions and checklists. A winner
for that mom in your life.
Faith element: High
THE LIGHT AND THE GLORY By Peter Marshal and David Manuel ISBN 978-0-6007-3271-4 Revell Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
America was a safe haven for those willing to sacrifice for their faith.
But as the authors of THE LIGHT AND THE GLORY reveal, from extensive research, was that the founders saw America not just
as an escape, but a mandate to build a nation of, by and for God and God alone. America was to be a Light to the rest of the
world, a City on the Hill of people who put God first.
This mandate dimmed and brightened with revivals and complacency, but
it is clear from the written records that God had a hand in forming and maintaining the United States of America. THE LIGHT
AND THE GLORY reveals the revisionist secular historian position that America was not founded on the Christian faith for the
blatant lie it is.
A revealing look at America, warts and all. This should be mandated reading
for every high school and college student and for every Christian.
Time for Christians to get back on their knees in repentance.
Faith element: high
A POEM A DAY By Philip Comfort and Daniel Partner ISBN 978-0-8254-6278-8 Monarch
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This devotional contains a year's worth of some of the choicest poetry
written in the last several hundred years. You'll find the more well-known authors, Longfellow, Keats, Milton, Byron, and
one of my personal favorites, William Blake (The Lamb, The Tyger), authors whose verse ended up as well-known hymns and many,
many others. The opposing page takes the poems, clarifies the spiritual aspects, adds interesting information about the authors
as well as an appropriate Scripture verse.
Each day, the reader can experience the depth of human expressions as
the poetry leads to a deeper walk with Christ.
Making sure each book is completely read before a review is to be written
is a mark of an ACR review. With this volume, I am breaking this rule. To get a review out in a timely manner, I'd have to
gallop through this beautiful, uplifting, sometimes haunting and always challenging book of poetry and devotional thought.
Though I am a speed reader, hurrying through this volume would be a crime. Such poetry, even those with which I am well acquainted,
needs to be read out loud and savored. And though I am certainly reading more than one a day, I am savoring this book.
So while I have not finished this fat volume, I am writing my review.
For all who love poetry, this devotional makes a delightful and thoughtful start (or end) to each day.
LIFE EQUITY Realize your true value and pursue your passions at any
stage in life By Marsha Blackburn ISBN 978-1-5955-5159-7 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In her book LIFE EQUITY, US Congressman Marsha Blackburn shows we women
our potential. Using practical helps and information along with her story and the stories of other women, Blackburn helps
us evaluate our skills in the light of reality. (Mothers learn leadership, management and negotiator skills in mothering,
in volunteering, in surviving the childhood of our children with sanity intact.)
Blackburn has much to share. Pg 4: “It's not about demanding our
rights. It's about displaying our gifts.”
Pg. 191: “While some vestiges of glass ceilings still exist here
and there, the most formidable barriers to our our achievement now lie within our own minds and hearts.”
Pg 171: “I believe women instinctively know that you manage things
but you lead people.”
Too often we women do not value what we've learned by life expediences or recognize
them for skills that can be transported into a work environment. We downplay strengths and undervalue our achievements and
skills. We tend to magnify our weaknesses or use them to keep us from reaching our full potential.
Blackburn encourages us to focus on the possible positives not just the
negative outcomes. To reach our potential we need to be bold, look failure in the face and be brave even when it isn't at
all how we feel inside. We also need to be women of integrity, honesty, stick to our commitments and be willing to stretch.
It isn't about comparing ourselves to others, but focusing on our unique gifts, skills and abilities. Be intelligent risk
takers, confident that we have something to offer.
Blackburn's book gives us the focus and courage to do just that. Recommended.
Faith element: N/A
Click picture to read first chapter
NEVER GIVE UP By Joyce Meyer ISBN 978-0-446-58035-9 FaithWords Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
We often sabotage our lives by giving up, not letting go the past. We
play the blame game, making our own and everyone else's life miserable, instead of appropriating God's promised forgiveness
and freedom.
Meyer tackles the things, like fear, that undermine our relationship
with God and others and keeps us from living the life of freedom and abundance God plans for each of us.
As always, Meyer's book is practical, readable and solidly based on God's
truth. It certainly hits home as it enlightens, opening that door so we can step confidently into a future of hope.
Of all Meyer's books, this really meets a huge need for every one of
us. My copy is all marked up. Highly recommended.
LEFT AT THE ALTAR My Story of Hope and Healing for Every Woman Who Has
Felt the Heartbreak of Rejection By Kimberley Kennedy ISBN 978-0-7852-2878-3 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Love is patient; Love is kind, the Bible tells us. But what about the love
between a man and a woman? What happens when one is rejected, cast aside, unwanted, by the person you’ve given your
heart to?
Using her own painful example, Kimberley Kennedy shows a path to healing
and moving forward. In an often poignant, sometimes humorous guide, we are given an insight to her pain and the experiences
of others who were also rejected. She also helps women see into the heart and mind of men. They are not always the cause of
pain and hurt, but often experience the same for themselves.
What are some of the reasons love is rejected? How can we prevent this?
How can we recover? LEFT AT THE ALTAR helps us not to dwell on what might have been, but on what can be. Kennedy uses scripture
to give the reader strength while traveling the difficult road to recovery.
ESCAPING THE DEVIL'S BEDROOM By Dawn Herzog Jewell ISBN 978-0-8254-6165-1 Monarch
Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
They are the men and women we try to pretend don't exist. We don't frequent
their hang-outs and even when we believe in God's amazing grace, we somehow don't think it extends to those in the prostitution
industry. But the truth is, these are hurting people often forced by sexual exploitation and circumstances into something
that binds them as it destroys their souls.
ESCAPING THE DEVIL'S BEDROOM is a book about second, third, fourth chances,
about restoration and hope and about those rescued and those who rescue. It is an eye-opening glimpse into a world of degradation,
fear and hopelessness. It is a book about patience and a God who, unlike us, doesn't give up on those He loves.
Warning note: some language has not been cleaned up, but such expressions
are not pervasive.
Christians need to read this book and reach out.
A CELEBRATION OF MOTHERS Featuring the verse of Helen Steiner Rice ISBN
978-1-60260-299-1 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This gift book combines the heartwarming verse of Helen Steiner Rice,
with short, sweet devotionals, vignettes of lessons learned from family. Add in appropriate Scripture and soft-focused background
pictures and you have a book that is both encouraging and inspiring. It will become a classic gift for that beloved mother
in your life.
Beautifully put together. I plan to give a copy to my daughter-in-law
for Mother's Day.
PRAYER POWER 30 Days to a Stronger Connection With God By Peter
Lundell ISBN 978-0-8007-3263-9 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Do you feel like your prayers touch the ceiling and never go any further?
Do you feel like God isn’t listening? That what you’re asking doesn’t count or matter?
In PRAYER POWER, Peter Lundell gives us practical and biblical tips on
how to be more effective in our prayer life. The Bible tells us that God hears all our petitions. But there are ways to be
more effective in our communication with Him.
Like praying scripture, praying out loud, writing our prayers, etc. These
are only a few of the ways Lundell uses as examples. How can we have passion in our prayer life? This, and many more questions
are answered in an easy to read guide. This book is a must read for all Christians. Especially those new to the walk. An invaluable
resource for any Christian library.
ULTIMATE PRODUCTIVITY A Customized Guide to Discovering Your Personal
Path to Success By Jim Stovall ISBN 978-0-7852-2888-2 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Why aren't we working up to our full potential? What steps can I take
to make success happen?
Stovall provides broad principles to help each of us find our ULTIMATE
PRODUCTIVITY. He explores what we think we're doing as opposed to what we're really doing in terms of communication, activity,
motivation and more.
He points out that activity is not the same as productivity. We can work
less hours if we work with more efficiency. We need to realize productivity isn't a group sport and what works for someone
else may not work for you.
Pg. 111 To communicate skillfully and effectively, you must communicate
in a manner that is appropriate to the message's content, using the best avenue for the receiver's needs and preferences.
Pg. 22 Have a personal missions statement....
Pg. 98 Ultimate Productivity profile: www.UltimateProductivity.com The code to take this test free is in the book. Well worth the price.
ULTIMATE PRODUCTIVITY is about learning to develop and use skills and
abilities. It is about both motivation and implementation.
Stovall is more than a motivational speaker without a clue. He is a creative
businessman, who did not allow his blindness to keep him back, and who now helps the rest of us to "see."
MERE CHRISTIANS: INSPIRING STORIES OF ENCOUNTERS WITH C. S. LEWIS Edited
by Mary Anne Phemister & Andrew Lazo ISBN 978-0-8010-7184-3 Baker Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I can't recall the first time I was introduced to C. S. Lewis. I do know
I am a life-long fan. In college I read his Space Trilogy and other works. When my children were young, we read through the
Narnia series every Winter for years. It has made my son also a life long fan of Lewis. (I will be giving him a copy of this
book for his birthday this year.)
This particular work is a compilation of contributions from authors,
pastors, professors and more, including many eminent scholars and Christians, who've been profoundly influenced by C. S. Lewis
and how. It is a revealing work not just about the contributors, but also about the heart of Lewis himself and his influence
on Christian thought, talk and walk.
This book is intriguing and very readable. Lewis aficionados will want
to add this book to their collection, while those who don't know Lewis's works will be drawn to check them out.
CRUEL AND UNUSUAL PUNISHMENT The Terrifying Global Implications of
Islamic Law By Noni Darwish ISBN 978-1-5955-5161-0 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Noni was like a prisoner of her country simply because she was female
in a Muslin country. She didn't know anything different. She didn't realize it wasn't normal for men to be able to beat their
wives for any provocation or that it was ok to rape a woman who wasn't completely covered. She didn't know that Jews and Christians,
in fact anyone other than Muslims, were loved by God.
What she discovered is that Muslim women are seen as just one step above
the pigs and dogs, as Muslims refer to non-Muslims. There is no freedom in any country ruled by Sharia law, the Muslin system
of government. It is basically a survival of the fittest that harks back to another time and place when might was the only
way to hold the desert land.
Once she escaped to the West, Noni discovered freedom for women, freedom
of worship and a looming crisis of ignorance and apathy. The West has no clue of what Islam really is. In her book, she clearly
shows how Islam is not a religion of peace. In fact, with Sharia, it is a complete and total governmental system of enslavement.
It is a system that cannot survive in a free society.
Muslim terrorists are not extremists, but adherents actually following
the violent, anti-women, anti-freedom methods taught by their scriptures, by their laws, and by both secular and religious
leaders. Moderate Muslims either aren't always aware of their own history or scriptures and try to put a positive face on
a system that has destroyed nations and peoples for hundreds of years.
It is a system with adherents bent on destroying the West anyway it can,
intermarriage with American women, intimidation, violence—anything. And we need to beware.
A book that should send us to our knees and to doing what we can to protect
our country from an invasion that would enslave us all. Highly recommended.
PRAY BIG FOR YOUR CHILD The Power of Praying God's Promises for Your
Child's Life By Will Davis Jr ISBN 978-0-8007-3246-2 Revell Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Parenting is stressful, to say the least. We worry about our kids, where
they are, their friends, their future. What can we, as parents, do to help our children make wise choices and become all that
God created them to be? PRAY BIG FOR YOUR CHILD takes our concerns and channels them into positive prayer for our children.
Things we can do. Model the faith and attitudes we want our kids to have.
Teach God's promises to our children and pray God's promises over them. Pray God-centered, Biblical prayers.
The author says, “Let God direct your praying for your child. Seek
a vision from Him for your child's future, and then pray that vision.”
There is so much practical information in this book. It empowers parents,
taking us from fear to boldly coming to the throne of grace for our kids. A must have for every parent.
SHOCKED BY THE BIBLE The Most Astonishing Facts You've Never Been
Told By Joe Kovacs ISBN 978-0-8499-2011-0 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Unfortunately, we live in an era of abysmal Biblical illiteracy. The
author is correct to point out many, even of those who consider themselves “Christian,” have little knowledge
of Scripture. What knowledge many do have is little more than tradition, hearsay and speculation with little real basis in
the very real Bible.
As a life-long student of the Bible, little of what Kovacs revealed was
new to me. While he was dead on with many of his conclusions, I did not agree with all of them. Sometimes things left out
of would have put a little different spin on the picture presented. Some conclusions reached did not adequately differentiate
between Old and New, Jew and Gentile requirements. It did bother me that at some points the author implied that if the reader
did not accept his particular take on a subject, the reader was most likely deriving his/her point of view not from Scripture,
but from pagan beliefs. Not necessarily so.
However, Kovacs has done his homework. In SHOCKED BY THE BIBLE, he explodes
certain common concepts, brings shocking stories and revelations to light and gives the reader motivation to dig deeper into
the the very Word of God. A valuable resource for today's jaded but Biblically illiterate audience.
IN STEP WITH GOD Understanding His Ways and Plans for Your Life Charles
F. Stanley ISBN: 978-1-4002-0091-7 Thomas Nelson Reviewer: Elisabeth H. Bantz
I understand that God
can and does speak to us directly, but sometimes he uses a brother. At the time I began reading this book, I was about to
have a small spot removed from my right lung. I already knew that this spot would prove to be cancerous, and I already knew
the treatment they were going to prescribe for the other spots they had discovered.
Charles Stanley's words
leaped out of the page at me: "God [is] saying, 'The more you trust Me; the more I will do for you.' . . . God says to open
your mouth wide, that is: 'Expand your faith, trust Me in a big way, and watch what I will do in your life.' And I wonder
if God is saying this to someone reading these words: 'Oh that you would walk in My ways. If you knew what I had planned for
you; if you understood that the best lies ahead of you; ...If you knew that My plans and purposes are far greater than anything
you could do on your own for yourself; I HAVE ALL THE RESOURCES AT MY COMMAND.'"
Somehow I have been prepared
to face this very situation, because I already knew I was not going to go the chemo route. God had a different path for me
to take, and He had been showing it to me in various ways over the years. I knew He was going to heal me in a natural way,
building me up with the nutrients He created, which are powerful enough to defeat and expel the intruders from this
Temple of the Holy Ghost. And Charles Stanley's words confirmed that God would indeed use all the resources at His command.
The best is yet to come.
No matter what your circumstances look like, this book will bless you as you hunger
for intimacy with God. I recommend it.
BILLY The Untold Story of the Young Bill Graham And The Test of
Faith That Almost Changed Everything By William Paul McKay & Ken Abraham ISBN 978-0-8499-2067-7 Thomas Nelson Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
From the time I was a child, I was aware of Billy Graham. My parents
admired and prayed for him. I think they may have met him since they, too, were from the Minneapolis area and my father was
a pastor. I've heard Billy preach on TV and saw his impact for Christ. I've read books and articles and news stories about
him.
But BILLY isn't so much about his ministry, but an intimate portrayal
of those younger years that gave him foundation for his ministry. BILLY contrasts his life and ministry with that of his friend
Charles Templeton, who turned his back on God and the ministry God had for him. It is a story that grabs the heart of the
reader. Reads like fiction, unlikely fiction at that, but with the truth and impact and depth of the gospel. This book stays
in the heart and mind long after the last page is reached and the book closed. Highly recommended.
WORDS TO WRITE BY Author Devotionals Compiled by Robin Bayne ISBN
978-1-932695-79-3 Treble Heart Books: MountainView Publishing Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
How do authors write, get their ideas and inspiration, keep going when
problems—family or otherwise—overwhelm? Authors are as different as the books they write, each offering a different
perspective on writing and being an author. This book brings together the experiences of a host of authors (many very well
known), giving the reader not only inspiration, but also very real “how to's” as they struggle in that dream to
become an author.
Each author does one thing more, brings us to the heart of their inspiration—Jesus
Christ.
A good book to give that budding author, bring hope to a discouraged
author or new inspiration for the author further along on the journey. With the scripture for each short chapter, this book
makes a nice devotional to start the day.
Note of bias. I contributed to this book. Truth is, I am asked to contribute
to any number of projects. Many never get to the publication stage. This one did. It did because it is good. That I don't
know until I read it cover to cover. This one indeed is a book of value to inspire an author.
COME ALONG 10 Illuminating Encounters With Jesus By Jane Rubietta ISBN
978-1-4000-7352-8 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
The busyness of life can easily distract from the most important thing—knowing
God and loving Him. COME ALONG is an invitation to set aside distraction and enter into deeper intimacy with God.
In this devotional book, each chapter illuminates portions of Scripture,
incorporates personal experiences, and challenges the reader to sit in the presence of God and hear what He has to say. Topics
covered include transparency, healing, relationship, and hope. At the end of each chapter there are prompts related to the
subjects discussed that encourage the reader to focus on Jesus, renew their minds by dwelling on Scripture, and become transparent
in the place of prayer.
While geared toward women, COME ALONG contains encouragement for the
journey of every believer that seeks to walk in greater intimacy with God.
REFUEL An Uncomplicated Guide to Connecting With God By Doug Fields ISBN
978-0-8499-2054-7 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Ever tried to have a daily quiet time with God, but gave up in frustration
that you couldn't follow some book or follow the example of some super (in your eyes) Christian? Author Fields takes the formula
and frustration out of connecting with God. As he shares, our time with God has nothing to do with a formula and everything
with pursuing a relationship.
I don't have time. Pg 41: The truth is, there is always enough time to
do what God's wants us to.
I don't know how. Pg 81: Connecting with God isn't about mastering a
formula; it's about a heart that desires to be closer to God. It's an attitude...
Fields shares several simple steps. Stop. In our busy scheduling we need
to stop, a few seconds, a few minutes or more and focus on God.
Seek moments of silence. Turn off the TV, ipod, radio. A moment before
the next student, client, patient. A moment in the car. Hide away in the bathroom. We know our schedules and where we can
seek those fleeting moments.
Make a connection by coming with an attitude of thankfulness and trust.
Pursue God. Share your heart, give thanks, and, in those moments of silence, listen to His still small voice.
Yes that close connection includes time in God's Word for that is one
way He speaks to us. Keep His Word handy--in a purse, online, on that PDA or ipod.
We all need to refuel in our relationship with God or, like a car without
gas, we'll be running on empty, empty of God's love, peace, hope and grace.
Need to REFUEL in your faith walk. This small, pocket-sized book might
just be the key to finding the way to do just that.
Make a good gift. Questions for each chapter also makes this good for
discussion groups.
THE POWER OF A MAN Using Your Influence as a Man of Character By
Rick Johnson ISBN 978-0-8007-3249-3 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
What makes a man? Is it a macho attitude? A lot of money in the bank?
Or a true love for Christ and a desire to follow God’s will?
Today’s culture expects men to go along with the flow, having low
expectations. A man will rise to what is required of him, given the chance. God gave man power. But where can he obtain it?
The role of man is to help others, even if they fail when stepping out in faith. It is better to strive to do good, than not
to try at all.
Rick Johnson has given the men of today an easy-to-understand tool to
lead them to be the men of romance novels. The men of hero novels. The men God has called them to be. And to show them how
to lead others along the same path.
High on the faith scale.
LET GO Live Free of the Burdens all Women Know By Sheila Walsh ISBN
978-0-8499-0135-5 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Be thin, be beautiful, wear designer clothes, stay home, juggle work
and family. Women today are bombarded with rules and regulations about what we are supposed to be. But what does the Bible
say? God wants to set us free from the world’s view and make us His.
With Biblical scripture and Godly wisdom, Sheila Walsh gives us a book
full of positive enforcement. A guide to help us see who we are in Christ. Who we are meant to be by God’s standards.
LET GO uses women from the Bible as examples, showing us their role in history and God’s grace in their lives.
LET GO is a must have for the modern woman. A ten on the faith scale.
Without being preachy, and in easy to understand examples, we are led to a closer relationship with our Father.
ONLY NUNS CHANGE HABITS OVERNIGHT 52 Amazing Ways to Master
the Art of Personal Change By Karen Scalf Linamen ISBN 978-1-4000-7400-6 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Most people desire change in some area of life, yet dread making it or
find themselves unsure how to approach it. For those seeking to make difficult changes, large or small, Karen Linamen offers
tools to master the art of change.
Linamen takes a practical approach to change, but her humorous tone prevents
an otherwise serious subject from becoming overwhelming. Each chapter explores dimensions of personal change—becoming
aware of harmful habits, forming new habits, letting go of past hurts, and similar topics, along with specific principles
to implement the topic under discussion. Reflection questions at the end of each chapter provide the opportunity for greater
personal exploration. Most importantly, Linamen highlights the ultimate “change agent” in our lives—God—and
explores the power of His transforming work in our lives.
By the end of the book, you will have a wealth of information on how
to tackle changes in your life. If you are dissatisfied, or struggling with needed change, ONLY NUNS CHANGE HABITS OVERNIGHT
will be an excellent resource.
I'M NOT YOUR FRIEND, I'M YOUR PARENT Helping Your Children Set the
Boundaries They Need...And Really Want By E D Hill ISBN 978-0-7852-2810-3 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Too many parents have just given up or they seek to be a buddy instead
of a parent. Others just can't imagine little Johnny or Jane doing anything wrong. Others figure if you can't beat them, join
them. But that isn't parenting.
As the author of I'M NOT YOUR FRIEND, I'M YOUR PARENT, when we abrogate
our responsibilities as parents we raise monsters or losers rather than well-adjusted children. How we raise our children
does make a difference not only for their future, but often for their friends and many, many others influenced by your children
and your style of parenting.
Yes, parenting is both a blessing and a responsibility and there are
some very specific ways we can help our children grow into self-confident, responsible adults. ED Hill shows us how through
information as well as examples from her life and the lives of other parents. In fact, after I read the introduction to this
book I told my husband the introduction itself was worth the cost of the book.
If you are a parent, especially if your children are elementary or teen
age, this is an absolutely MUST READ!!! Highly recommended.
THE TODDLER BOOK By Rachel Waddilove ISBN 978-0-8254-6274-0 Kregel:
Lion Hudson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Advice for parents for the 21st century. Not that the basics change.
Parenting is about affection, firmness, faith and lots of common sense. It is taking time for yourself, working with your
spouse, and enjoying this exhausting but satisfying stage of your child's life.
The author deals with schedules, feeding, potty training, siblings and
pretty much whatever else comes up during these years.
There is more emphasis on paid help than most books I've read, but that
seems a more British thing than for the average American. Still, the information is solid and, from a mother of two and grandmother
of three and the author of HELP! I'M A NEW MOTHER, this book is a valuable resource for the confused, exhausted parent of
a toddler.
Recommended.
SUZI ORMAN'S 2009 ACTION PLAN By Suzi Orman ISBN 978-0-385-53093-4 Spiegel
& Grau Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When I first had the opportunity to download Suzi's new book, I put it
off until another author recommended it. I didn't need it. I'm very on track with Dave Ramsey. And yet, this was brand new.
I've watched Suzi on Public TV and Oprah and liked her common sense approach, not that different from Ramsey's. So I got the
book and was glad I did.
The information is practical and doable and must if we're going to survive
in today's economic environment. Orman deals with credit, income, college expenses and debt, retirement, investing and much
more. Her plan of action is both simple and difficult, because as with any change in life, commitment is the path to success.
What does the plan include? Financial honesty Make a reasonable
plan and stick to it Don't rob Peter (retirement) to pay Paul (college or credit card debt) Save, not spend Pay off
debt. And that's just the beginning.
Orman says, “Crises force us to take a clear-eyed view of what
went wrong and compel us to make necessary adjustments to avoid the same pain and suffering again.” (pg. 207)
I recommend this practical volume.
CHRISTIAN WRITER'S MARKET GUIDE 2009 By Sally Stuart ISBN 978-0-30744-643-5 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Received my copy and began to look it over. It is thicker than ever and
yet the print version doesn't carry some of the resources we're used to. Why? Because they are on the accompanying disk, making
accessing them easier and keeping the print version manageable. I do like seeing the resources in print as well, so I plan
to print out these resources and keep them in a notebook by my desk.
More resources, new markets, new updates. What's not to like about the
new CWMG?
With all the changes in the publishing business, this is one book that's
a must for both would-be and the serious author.
AURORA An American Experience in Quilt, Community, and Craft By
Jane Kirkpatrick ISBN 978-1-4000-7428-0 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Quilting as long been a pastime and way of living for people across America.
In AURORA, historical author, Jane Kirkpatrick, takes us into Oregon’s history, primarily the Old Aurora Colony of the
lush Willamette Valley. With photo and facts, Kirkpatrick brings to life this period of America’s west. Full color photographs
of handmade quilts decorate the pages.
With such an accurate depiction of early Oregon life, the reader is taken
into the early colony with each flip of the page. AURORA is a beautiful coffee table book for historical lovers everywhere.
This book is sure to please someone who loves beautiful books or someone wanting to research the time and place. A wonderful
gift no matter what season! AURORA isn’t an inspirational book in the traditional sense, but as the reader turns the
pages, we see what a difference faith makes in the founding of a colony.
THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE MORAL DILEMMA By G R Evans ISBN 978-0-8254-6250-4 Kregel:
Lion Hudson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
In today’s politically correct world, we are bombarded by choices
of right and wrong. Not only personally, but pertaining to the world around us. Will my choices hurt someone else? Will it
hurt the environment? What about the financial stability of our economy? Questions abound from as small as a white lie to
whether war is moral. How is the best way to discipline our kids?
In THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE MORAL DILEMMA, Evans asks questions throughout
the book to prompt us to think through these issues ourselves. To dig deep inside to find out what is right for us and our
world. Evans doesn’t give personal opinion, but rather leads us to finding the answers by looking at scripture.
Although the book reads similar to some text books, it is full of mind
probing information to many of life’s questions. A nine on the faith scale.
I DO AGAIN How we found a second chance at our marriage--and you can
too. By Cheryl & Jeff Scruggs ISBN 978-1-4000-7445-7 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When we say “I do” we believe our love will take us through
anything—together. But what happens with it is all surface and the soul begins to starve for something deeper? I DO...AGAIN
is the story of a real-life couple who loved, betrayed, divorced, found real love—and each other again. It is a story
of love that perseveres with a real life couple with all their faults and failures who, nevertheless, find healing in Christ
and begin extending forgiveness to each other.
This is a book that every couple should read, not only once their marriage
begins to crumble, but long before, when safeguards can be put in place and when there is still hope. Even so, I DO...AGAIN
shows that God can bring hope and love into the most hopeless of situations when the couple seeks not their will, but His.
A must read for every couple.
UNCENSORED GRACE Stories of Hope from the Streets of Los Vegas By
Jud Wilhite with Bill Taaffe ISBN 978-1-60142-146-3 Multnomah Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
As Christians, we know we are to hate the sin, but not the sinner. But
in many of our churches what plays out when someone comes through our doors, is a cringe if that person is different, is grungy
or does not measure up to our standards of behavior or lifestyle. Often, we turn our backs on the very ones that need Christ
the most. In turning our backs or forcing a person to clean up before acceptance, we're adding to the simple message of the
gospel our traditions, our works, our efforts. And it isn't what Jesus called us to do—extend grace.
UNCENSORED GRACE does just that. The stories and basic principles of
the Word take us back to the basics of salvation by grace, God's grace and a people to who reach out no matter what. It doesn't
take much imagination to have an idea of the stories contained within this book, since they take place in, of all places,
Los Vegas--stories of broken lives made whole by God's grace as played out in a caring Christian community. The stories draw
us to rejoice in God's love and power and force us to our knees in repentance for not reaching out beyond our own comfort
zone.
A sobering, yet joyful read. Recommended for discussion groups and Christ
followers who wish to make a difference.
Faith element: high
THE ECHO WITHIN Finding Your True Calling By Robert Benson ISBN
978-1-4000-7434-1 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
From the time we're young we're constantly being asked what do we want
to become when we grow up. Sometimes we know. Sometimes we desperately seek direction. In THE ECHO WITHIN, Benson takes us
on his journey of discovering his calling. Along the way he shares a concept of calling that isn't all about education and
knowing, but about listening to what God breathes within. The keys are prayer and listening.
Pg. 89 Our search for our calling leads us to listen deep within ourselves...But
we are not meant to stay withing ourselves forever. We are meant to be given away, to sound our word in the world, to give
it to others...our calling is about something considerably larger than our own fulfillment.
Pg 88 We church folks sometimes do things in the name of ministry and
vocation for a host of other reasons. Just because it is done in and around a crowd of church folks does not mean it is a
ministry. Just because we think God approves of what we're doing does not mean it is a calling.
We need to ask, “What can I do that no one else can do, write,
say...?” It is living your life, not someone else's life.
As for writers we need to learn our craft and find our voice, know what
we want to say...and say it.
A valuable resource for those who haven't quite found their calling,
have doubts or are just plain discouraged. Just don't expect a simple answer—just an encouraging one.
Faith element: Medium to high
WIN THE DAILY BATTLE By Steve Goss ISBN 978-0-8254-6190-3 Kregel:
Monarch Books Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
As Christians, we are in a war as real as any battle involving guns and
tanks. We fight a spiritual war. One in which we must choose sides and fight. Not to, leaves us open to attack from Satan’s
army. With repentance, prayer, and God’s word, this is a fight where God gives us the tools necessary to win the battle.
In God’s strength, the war has already been won.
Steve Goss has given us, in addition to the Bible, a soldier’s
handbook. One that clearly draws the lines and gives us the weapons needed to stand firm. We have the tools to stand against
the physical world, and the supernatural.
WIN THE DAILY BATTLE is one of four books in Goss’s Freedom in
Christ series. Each book is written to stand alone, or be used with the Freedom in Christ course. These books rank a ten on
a faith scale and should be in every Christian’s personal library.
DOG BLESSINGS Poems, Prose and Prayers Celebrating Our Relationship
with Dogs By June Cotner ISBN 978-1-57731-616-9 New World Library Reviewer Carolyn /R Scheidies
Those who've had dogs know how they crave attention. How they like nothing
less than to be hugged and petted and, in turn, shower affection. Puppies are all wiggles and run. Old dogs are sedate and
wise. In between are years of friendship and unconditional love. Dogs love their owners to distraction. They lend an ear when
we pour out our hearts, because the heart of a dog is huge. The rewards of dog ownership are so much more than the drawbacks.
Cotner's book takes us on a journey, reminding us of all stages of ownership
and a dog's life from that first puppy kiss to letting go. Poems are silly, sad, poignant and profound. From many different
authors, the poems, prose and prayers in this book show us God's love through the eyes of one of his special friends to humankind—the
dog.
“PARENTING IS YOUR HIGHEST CALLING” AND EIGHT OTHER MYTHS
THAT TRAP US IN WORRY AND GUILT By Leslie Leyland Fields ISBN 978-1-4000-7420-4 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
How many of us have bought into one or more of our society's beliefs
about child rearing: having children brings happiness and fulfillment; good parenting leads to happy children; if parenting
is difficult, you aren't following the right plan; you will always feel love for your child; your success as a parent can
be measured by your child's behavior? Each of these has spawned whole methods of child rearing with numerous books and adherents
that swear the method works.
Unfortunately, these parenting myths effect the way we parent. When we
don't always feel warm and fuzzy toward our children, we feel guilt. In the book “PARENTING IS YOUR HIGHEST CALLING”
AND EIGHT OTHER MYTHS THAT TRAP US IN WORRY AND GUILT page 94, the author says, “It is possible to spend ourselves in
the preserving our children's happiness only to have them grow up weak, unable to withstand life, seeking their immediate
happiness over lasting holiness and blessing.”
Parenting is realizing we're raising human beings with their own ideas
and will. Children aren't perfect and neither are we, their parents. What we can do is keep the long-term goal of raising
loving, caring, strong children that have a solid foundation of faith. God calls us to let go the guilt, do the best we can
and leave the results to Him.
This book helps us do just that. It should be a must read for every parent.
Faith element: high
FOUNDATIONS OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION A Community Approach to Becoming
Like Christ By Paul Pettit Editor ISBN 978-0-8254-3469-3 Kregel Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
We, as Christ followers, were never meant to walk alone. The message
of the gospel is one of relationship between the individual and God and between God and a fellowship of believers—community.
It is through community we grow, stay on track (accountability), and know the fullest joy of security in fellowship.
FOUNDATIONS OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION takes the academic reasoning behind
our need for community and, using the foundation of Scripture, shows us how and why community is a vital element of our faith
walk. The varied, learned authors deal with their respective aspect of community in different styles—some more academically
than others. But the whole work provides a solid foundation for what is so needed in our individualistic, self-centered culture—each
other.
Pg. 275: ...Christian spiritual formation consists of knowing your identity
in Christ, so that you can make yourself known to others in the Christian community, so that you can pursue a lifetime of
integrity in the context of community, so that you are fully equipped to glorify Christ by serving others in ministry.
My copy is now well marked and there is so much, I will be going back
for a second go-over.
Recommended.
GROWING TOWARD GOD Life Lessons Inspired by the Wonderful Words of
Kids By Doreen Wright Blomstrand & Barbar J Kosher ISBN 978-0-8254-4186-8 Kregel Publications
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
How many lessons have we learned from our kids? Too many to count. Somehow
they manage to get to the heart of an issue, our rationalizations and our petty hypocrisies, leaving us with new insight into
ourselves and the heart of God.
GROWING TOWARD GOD uses anecdotes from children to share spiritual truths.
The short devotionals based on childrens' comments and/or actions start with a verse and end with prayer.
What better way to begin a day than with spiritual lessons gleaned from
kids, just being their honest, observant selves.
Faith element: high
THE SENIOR My Amazing Year as a 59-year-old College Football Linebacker By
Mike Flynt with Don Yeager ISBN 978-0-8499-2063-9 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
He was 59 and trying out for his college football team, the team he got
kick off of so many years earlier for one fight too many. Mike regretted his actions leading to that life-altering situation.
He went on, made something of his life, found Christ and returned to make a difference.
He'd kept in shape, even coached and he wanted a chance to make things
right at his alma mater. This is the story of one man and what happened when he faced his past. As Mike says, “..the
past does not have to define your future; step out in faith and become someone you like and admire.” (Pg. 181)
Moving, entertaining, challenging and inspirational—for any age.
WHISPERS OF WISDOM FOR MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS A Year of Inspirational
Readings ISBN 978-1-60260-138-3 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Being a mother is one of the most daunting tasks a woman can undertake.
Being the mother of a preschooler is even tougher. In today’s modern world of hustle and bustle, we can find help for
our struggles as a mother in God’s word.
With 365 nuggets to help busy or harried mothers of preschoolers, this
devotional keeps the readers eyes focused on the goal of heaven, and riveted in the blessings of motherhood.
I no longer have small children at home. Mine are mostly gone or entering
the turbulent years of teens. But, within the pages of this book, I found many sources of encouragement. A must-have for any
mother.
A BELIEVERS GUIDE TO LEGAL ISSUES By Stephen Bloom ISBN-10: 0-89957-031-3 ISBN-13:
978-0-89957-031-0 Living Ink Books Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Most likely everyone will have some interaction with the legal system
in their lifetime, even if it is in a matter as seemingly simple as estate planning or creating a will. However, not everyone
will know how to evaluate the issues they face from a Biblical perspective and make informed decisions. That’s where
A BELIEVER’S GUIDE TO LEGAL ISSUES comes in.
Stephen Bloom, a Christian lawyer, shares from his years of experience
how to evaluate common legal situations from a Scriptural perspective. He takes the often complex world of law and makes it
understandable, then holds up the legal situations to the lens of Scripture.
Each chapter of the book explores an issue—such as living wills,
litigation, prenuptial agreements. In every chapter, lists of Scriptures are given, alongside a thoughtful analysis of the
issue at hand. To give a fuller understanding to readers, Bloom also uses examples of fictitious individuals faced with legal
circumstances, contrasting what happens to those who use a Biblical approach with what happens to those who go their own way.
A valuable resource for those seeking to live all aspects of their lives
according to Biblical principles.
FREE TO BE YOURSELF By Steve Goss ISBN 978-0-8254-6189-7 Kregel/Monarch
Books Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
The Bible tells us that in Christ we are a new creation. The old is cast
away. But the world tells us different. We must conform, perform, and model what society says is acceptable. Being ourself
is not something the majority seeks. God tells us not to conform to the world. But when we follow the guidelines the world
gives us to follow, they can not only take us away from God?s will, but make us miserable living a lie.
FREE TO BE YOURSELF is a book about freedom. About searching for God’s
will. Seeking God’s expectations. Finding out who we are. There is only one we need to please, and that is God himself.
Imagine a life free from worldly restrictions and expectations. A life where we are FREE TO BE OURSELVES. A life of security.
Steve Goss gives us godly guidelines to help us achieve this freedom
in a short, easy to read format. A ten on the faith scale.
MORE PAGES FROM THE RED SUIT DIARIES By Ed Butchart ISBN 978-0-8007-1904-3 Revell Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
The spirit Santa Claus is real and he spent 18 years being a professional
Santa at Stone Mountain, Atlanta, Georgia. Ed Butchart has written another book of Santa stories that will make you laugh,
cry, and be fully convinced Santa Claus is alive and well.
He also shares stories of reaching out to those with physical, mental
and spiritual needs through the organization, Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC) he start to do just that--reach
out in a very real way.
But Ed does more than simply portray Santa. He also shares the real story
of St. Nicholas and draws us back to The Christ of Christmas.
A Perfect complement to Christmas.
Faith element: Medium to high
WHISPERS OF WISDOM FOR BUSY WOMEN A Year of Inspirational Readings ISBN
978-1-60260-137-6 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In our busy days, sometimes we just don't take time for what is most
important—time with God. This volume gives incentive to take that time to start the day out right with a verse, a short
devotion and a prayer. WHISPERS OF WISDOM FOR BUSY WOMEN covers those topics that make up the days of women from all walks
of life who have one thing in common—we're busy.
It also helps us slow down, take time for God, for ourselves, for our
families.
Prayer from Day 51: Lord, correct my thinking and clear my clutter. Help
me to work a margin into my day so that Your plans, last-minute notes, corrections, and additions can find a place in my life.
Let me not be so busily focused on my own agenda that I miss Yours. Amen.
This prayer is a good summary of this book. Recommended for busy moms
everywhere.
HEAVEN HAS BLUE CARPET A Sheep Story by a Suburban Housewife By
Sharon Niedzinski ISBN 978-0-8499-2004-2 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
What happens when a city family buys a farm? What happens when the wife,
Sharon, decides a farm needs idyllic sheep on the pasture land? Sharon discovers, though sheep are usually docile and innocent,
they are also self-centered, greedy, frustrating and often totally disgusting.
Sharing incidents sometimes poignant, sometimes sad and often humorous,
Sharon draws in the spiritual insights she learned from being a shepherd. She came to understand why God likens us to
sheep and just how like sheep we are. She knows from experience.
I like non-fiction, and expected HEAVEN HAS BLUE CARPET to be an average
read. Instead, it was so delightful and had such spiritual depth, I found it difficult to put down. Though HEAVEN HAS BLUE
CARPET reads like fiction, it is grounded in reality and truth.
This one is for all God's lambs.
PROJECT PEARL By Brother David with Paul Hattaway ISBN 978-0-8254-6195-78 Kregel:Monarch
Books Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
After being saved at a Billy Graham crusade, Brother David asked God
to use him to draw others to Him. A former football and marine, Brother David had only a small inkling of what that prayer
would entail for him. While working in Manila for a broadcasting company, Brother David became introduced to the plight of
Chinese Christians hungry for the word of God. In PROJECT PEARL, we read a first person accounting of the trials taking the
word to China entailed.
In an act of insurmountable bravery and trust in the Lord, Brother David,
with a handful of servicemen, sail a barge into Chinese waters to deliver one million Bibles to the starving Chinese people.
When life throws one trial after another at this amazing man, he continues on the path God chose for him. China will never
be the same. Even after Brother David’s death, his legacy lives.
A ten on the faith scale.
THE WOMAN WHO OUTRAN THE DEVIL The extraordinary story of one Woman’s
search for real love. By Shirley Baskett ISBN 978-0-8254-6095-1 Kregel: Monarch Books Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Shirley Baskett grew up in the shadow of a mentally-challenged brother.
Her over-zealous mother had no time for a rowdy, constantly questioning little girl. Thus began Shirley’s search for
love.
She begins her search in church, but the immediate satisfactions available
in the world draw her into its clutches. For many years she lives a lesbian lifestyle, drowning her guilt and pain in bottle
after bottle, and living in one slum after another. During her down-slide, she turns periodically back to her childhood faith,
only to be lured away again.
It isn’t until Shirley contemplates ending it all in a final act
of desperation that she truly turns to the Living God and receives the strength to pull her life out of the gutter. She finds
more than an earthly love when she turns back to God’s arms.
THE WOMAN WHO OUTRAN THE DEVIL is an amazing story of one woman’s
redemption and God’s powerful mercy. High on the faith scale.
THE GREATEST WORDS EVERY SPOKEN Everything Jesus Said About You, Your
Life, and Everything Else By Steven K Scott ISBN 978-1-4000-7462-4 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Sometimes we want to know what Jesus said about a particular topic. Pretty
difficult to wade through the entire New Testament searching for Jesus' thoughts on certain issues. Many of us turn to the
lists in the back of our Bibles, but these are not complete.
But what if there was a book that contained all
of Jesus' words in an easy to find topical reference? That day is now.
THE GREATEST WORDS EVERY SPOKEN has done
just that. What does Jesus say about sin? Look it up. About faith? Find the topic and every single verse, laid out in this
handy, if weighty, volume. In fact it contains over 1,900 of Jesus' statements under 200 topics.
What a blessing.
What a handy tool for Bible study and group discussion.
As the author put it "As you study the words of Christ
on the matter of faith, you'll discover that faith always includes an act that demonstrates that faith." (Pg.444)
"...true
faith is founded on the Words of God." (Pg.445)
THE GREATEST WORDS EVERY SPOKEN is a great resource to help us
know the Words of Jesus--and follow them.
Highly recommended.
MOM, YOU MAKE IT ALL BETTER Encouraging words from real moms Edited
By Elisa Morgan ISBN 978-0-8007-1910-4 Revell Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Pg 108 Moms are the best at creative problem-solving, conflict resolution,
motivational training, bringing out the good in others, multitasking and delegating to name just a few.
Pg 85...the journey of motherhood is more like a choose-your-own-adventure
novel than a fairy-tale story in which the ending is always known.
Such is motherhood and such is this fat, little book that inspires and
encourages moms with short, poignant, inspiration and/or humorous devotional stories with an “aha” moment of hope,
Scripture and inspiring quotes. As a reviewer I tend to speed through books, but this book forced me to slow down and savor
the stories and learning, growing moments between moms and kids. I was reminded of all those moments with my own two and how
we all grew in the process.
Need a lift or feeling overwhelmed, check out this book. MOM, YOU MAKE
IT ALL BETTER shares the very real joys and struggles of motherhood and helps us all to realize we can do it with God's help
and a sense of humor. Makes a beautiful gift, not just for that new mom but for moms of older kids as well.
LIFE IS MOSTLY EDGES A Memoir By Calvin Miller ISBN 978-0-8499-2057-9 Thomas
Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This autobiography is no small volume. All Calvin Miller, the writing
is rich and thoughtful and personal, drawing the reader into the story of his life and leaving the reader with deeper understanding
of Miller and his faith. Miller does not shy away from the topics that make Christians uncomfortable, ie sex, the emerging
church, dissension within the church, and yet writes with understanding about the all too human foibles of people, Christians
and churches. The more I read, the more I wanted to read until I was reluctant to close the last page. While this may be an
autobiography, it is so much more with insights into faith and walking the walk each moment.
Well worth the time and effort to read, especially for Miller fans. LIFE
IS MOSTLY EDGES might bring his other books new fans.
Pg. 318: ...good teachers teach what they are, more than
what they know.
Faith element: High
PATHWAYS THROUGH DEPRESSION By Sue Atkinson ISBN 978-0-8254-6260-3 Kregel
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Many of us think someone deep in depression can simply “Get over
it,” but depression is more than having an off day or two. It effects every part of a person emotionally, spiritually
and physically.
But even in the worst of circumstances there is a way out of the maze.
PATHWAYS THROUGH DEPRESSION, written by one who has been there, takes the reader on a journey of discovery and hope. It is
small, purse-sized book that provides real answers and practical help that can be read over and over as depression overwhelms
and as healing begins.
RECOVERING ME, DISCOVERING JOY By Vivian Eisenecher ISBN 978-0-9814871-5-1 KTW
Publishing Reviewed by Elisabeth H. Bantz
At birth, some of us are given a deck of cards to play that seem
stacked against us. How does one recover from her mother's suicide? How does one recognize the presence of social anxiety
and depression? Vivian didn't, and turned to alcohol in order to just get by. But the remedy turned into a nightmare.
The
author takes us lovingly through her climb back out of the black hole she found herself in, and up to a place of triumph.
The process is an ongoing one, and not easy, especially if you think you can do it alone and by your own strength, but joy
is definitely possible. There is hope for those who seek it, hope in God.
This spiritual, physical, and mental
journey is for everyone seeking freedom from addictions. Faith content: high.
COUNTDOWN TO THE APOCALYPSE Learn to read the signs that the last
days have begun By Grant R. Jeffrey ISBN 978-1-4000-7441-9 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Jeffrey takes a new look at Daniel, interpreting Daniel's prophecies
in the light of today. Is it the end time? Certainly could be. Certainly Daniel's prophecies have proven remarkably accurate
over the years. And why not, God himself gave Daniel a glimpse of the future.
But will anyone listen as our world disintegrates around us? Whether
or not, we're in those final days, COUNTDOWN TO THE APOCALYPSE cautions us to draw near to God. Though carefully researched,
this book is easy to read and comprehend. For those serious about the future, this book is a place to start. A definite discussion
starter for small groups.
WHEN GOD GOES TO STARBUCKS A Guide to Everyday Apologetics By Paul
Copan ISBN 978-0-8010-6743-3 BakerBooks Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
As Christians, we are faced every day with questions tackling today’s
tough issues. Sin, lying, homosexuality, miracles, wars, poverty…the list goes on in an endless stream. From the beginning
of history, people have questioned the foundation of Christianity, and many Christians try to clarify their beliefs with apologies.
In WHEN GOD GOES TO STARBUCKS, Paul Coban uses biblical references and
research books to back up what Christians believe. He points those who question in a direction where they can find the answers
themselves.
WHEN GOD GOES TO STARBUCKS is not an easy read.
Instead, it is a thought provoking book that will take time to go through,
often having the reader thumb back through the pages to gain more insight. For those who are questioning, or want to be able
to answer tough questions in a more insightful way, this book is a valuable resource.
GETTING THE BLUES What Blues Music Teaches Us About Suffering &
Salvation By Stephen J Nichols ISBN 978-1-58743-212-5 Brazos Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Is it possible that blues music that bemoans the problems of life has
a spiritual component? Yes, according to Nichols who takes us on a journey into the deep south from early in the last century
to the present and into the lives of those who sang the blues. In sharing the lives of many of these men and women, he makes
a case for the spiritual roots that infiltrated the music of gospel and blues.
Some of these musicians waffled back and forth in their musical preferences,
singing songs of both faith and blues that still touches our hearts today. He shares how the enslaved people saw themselves
in the story of Moses and in the suffering Jesus and in redemption through Him and shows how the blues cannot be separated
from this influence.
Though not an easy read, this book, filled with history most of us have
never heard, plays a vital role in the musical history of America, opening our eyes in ways history class never did. A well
researched book that should take it's place on the shelves of libraries and those who love music.
IN THE BEGINNING: THE ART OF GENESIS By Chuck Fischer ISBN-13:
9780316118422 Little, Brown & Company: Hachette Book Group Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Wow! That's my response to this unique creation. Yes, creation. IN THE
BEGINNING: THE ART OF GENESIS is so much more than a mere book. And, though it is a pop-up book, it is not really for the
little kids—though they will enjoy the pop-ups.
Using the main themes of Genesis from the creation to Joseph in Egypt,
IN THE BEGINNING: THE ART OF GENESIS takes the reader/viewer on an informational and visual journey. Each double page three
dimensional spread opens to a magnificent, colorful, intricately detailed pop-up image. It is flanked by mini-books on each
page filled with pictures of classical art and a synopsis of the Biblical story as well as further details. (Some classical
art, as we all know, features semi-nude depictions and so must carry a parental caution for the little ones.)
This is a visual experience that will grace a coffee table or shelf with
room enough to keep the book open to one or another page spreads. A definite conversation starter. (I have mine open to Jacob's
ladder.)
Beautifully executed.
48 DAYS TO THE WORK YOU LOVE By Dan Miller (Foreword by Dave Ramsey) ISBN
978-0-8054-3188-9 Broadman & Holman Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Whether you are a stay-at-home Mom, wanting to use your abilities to
bring in some extra income, an out-of-work employee, a worker unhappy on the job, or someone just entering the work force,
this book is for you. It takes you to the core of who you are, your abilities and capabilities and helps you shape them into
into positives for the work force.
This book helps you realize doing work that empowers rather than drains
is important to health for yourself and your family, and good for business. But it does more than send you off with high-sounding
rhetoric. 48 DAYS TO THE WORK YOU LOVE gives you the tools needed (assessments, samples, examples, information, etc.) to re-assess
and find work that best suits YOU!
This book should be taught in every high school, college and as part
of every financial course.
Highly recommended.
SATURDAYS WITH STELLA How my dog taught me to sit, stay and come when
God calls. By Allison Pitman ISBN 978-1-60142-139-5 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
In SATURDAYS WITH STELLA, Allison Pittman gives a glimpse into her life
and her interactions with her beloved dog, Stella. After many attempts to train Stella with no success, Allison enrolled her
in a six week obedience school—never suspecting that through the sessions, God would speak to Allison about His heart
for her.
As Stella learns new commands, such as sit, stay and come, Allison reflects
on the importance of sitting at Jesus’ feet, running to Him when He calls, and abiding in His presence. Through all
the difficulties of working with Stella, Allison’s affection for and delight in her dog never wavers—a parallel
to how God feels about us, even in our times of disobedience or difficulty. Allison weaves together anecdotes from Stella’s
training, personal testimony, and Scripture to create an inspirational testimony of God’s heart for His people.
While most will benefit from the Scriptural principles contained in SATURDAYS
WITH STELLA, dog-lovers will appreciate and identify with this book more than others.
PRAY BIG FOR YOUR MARRIAGE The Power of Praying God’s Promises
for Your Relationship By Will Davis Jr. ISBN 978-0-8007-3145-5 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Prayer is the most powerful tool Christians possess. In PRAY BIG FOR
YOUR MARRIAGE, Will Davis Jr. gives us practical guidelines to enable us to make our marriage all that God plans for it to
be.
With humble examples from his own life, Davis gives us simple prayers
to introduce us to the practice of following this daily advise from God’s word. Whether you are a newly-wed, or a couple
who’s approaching a fiftieth anniversary, there is much to be learned within the pages of this book.
Learn to pray together in all circumstances, in all situations, and obtain
an intimacy in marriage you never dreamed possible. Christians are not immune to the disaster of divorce in this century,
but prayer can keep us from becoming a part of the statistics. Whether your marriage is floundering, or healthy, PRAY BIG
FOR YOUR MARRIAGE is an invaluable tool to keeping this sanctified union healthy or set you on the road to recovery. A great
tool for every engaged or married couple.
WILD GOOSE CHASE Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God By Mark
Batterson ISBN 978-1-59052-719-1 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
The phrase “wild goose” chase often has negative connotations,
suggesting an unpredictable pursuit with no guaranteed end. Yet in WILD GOOSE CHASE, Mark Batterson suggests that truly following
the Holy Spirit is similar to such a pursuit—we chase after that which we cannot physically see or touch—but different
because though we don’t know the ending, God does, and we are therefore guaranteed of its goodness.
The Celtic name of the Holy Spirit, An Geadh-Glas (the Wild Goose), inspired
this book, which explores both the need for whole hearted pursuit of the Spirit of God as well as the things in our lives
that hold us back from following him. Batterson gives six key areas or “cages” which restrain us: responsibility, routine, assumptions, guilt, failure, and fear. In the exploration
of these key areas, he shares tips for freedom, testimonies, stories from the Bible that illustrate his point, and encouragement
for the journey. At the end of each chapter, there are questions to provoke further thought.
WILD GOOSE CHASE invites believers to go on the adventure of a lifetime—following
the Wild Goose wherever He may lead.
HAVE A NEW KID BY FRIDAY How to Change Your Child's Attitude, Behavior
& Character in 5 Days By Kevin Leman ISBN 978-0-8007-1902-9 Revell Reviewed by Melanie Jones
The author of MAKING CHILDREN MIND WITHOUT LOSING YOURS has packaged
parenting tips broken down into daily segments for HAVE A NEW KID BY FRIDAY, subtitled "How to Change Your Child's Attitude,
Behavior and Character in 5 Days."
Despite the days reference, don't think this is an easy fix. Some of
Dr. Leman's advice makes NANNY 911 look like a walk in the park. Why? Because before the children can change, the parents
have to. If you really want changes in your household, I'm sure Dr. Leman's advice can help, if you're willing to follow it.
And that means sticking to one foundational truth that everyone knows
but few follow: Be 100 percent consistent.
If you believe you can stick with that one, you're ready for the rest
of the book, but he does warn that, depending on your children's ages, things may get worse before they get better as the
children try to force you back into old patterns.
This book isn't about easy parenting, it's about successful parenting.
Faith element: Dr. Leman doesn't cite chapter and verse throughout the
book, but being a good parent is scriptural. Besides, it makes life easier for all of the Sunday school teachers out there.
OVERCOMING EVIL GOD'S WAY The Biblical and Historical Case for Non-resistance By
Stephen Russell ISBN 978-0-9816569-0-8 Faith Builders www.christianlearning.org Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
No one will dispute that today’s world is full of evil and that
staying true to God’s Word is difficult. Yet, as His followers, we are not of this world. We have been called to a greater
purpose. Can we, as Christians, succeed in a fallen world ravaged by war and violence while maintaining our dignity and being
ambassador’s of peace?
In OVERCOMING EVIL, Stephen Russell takes us back to Jesus’ day,
and through history, to our point in time, giving us guidance and spiritual help to keep us on a path of peace. God has given
us a blueprint. He has shown us the way. Unfortunately, His way may not always be the easiest.
In Russell’s book, though it does read somewhat like a textbook,
we are pointed toward scripture to tackle the problems of our modern life. Russell teaches of the path of nonresistance. An
honest seeking of what Jesus and the church’s teachings are.
How do we succeed in this fallen world? The Bible and Stephen Russell’s
OVERCOMING EVIL.
THE MAN WHISPERER Speaking Your Man’s Language to Bring Out
His Best By Rick Johnson ISBN 978-0-8007-3197-7 Revell Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
There are horse whisperers and dog whisperers, and some say ghost whisperers.
Now, Rick Johnson has written a book that encourages women to be a men whisperers. Giving traits of what females look for
in males, and why men act the way they do, Rick lists helpful tips on how we can love our man into being what we, as women,
desire. The world is inundated with men not living to their full potential. A lot of this is the fault of the women in our
society who are often willing to settle for a man’s second best. When women learn to step up to the plate, men will
follow in their desire to be what we need.
Men want to please, be respected by, and provide for their women, but
often, it is our very actions that prevent them from reaching their full potential of masculinity. There have been many books
written on the differences between men and women. THE MAN WHISPERER gives us easy to remember ways to bridge these differences
with Bible verses to support each issue.
Whether you are married, or searching for the “perfect” mate,
THE MAN WHISPERER is a great guidebook to help you on your journey. Although not preachy, this self-help book definitely shows
God’s hand in designing his people.
NO SMALL SNAKES A Journey into Spiritual Warfare By Gordon Dalbey ISBN
978-0-8499-1984-8 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Most Christian churches and Christians have abandoned the battlefront
of the Christian faith for comfortable pews and a faith that tries not to offend anyone. The trouble with this scenario is
that we are in a very real battle with a very real enemy that will do anything to stop and silence us—even providing
cushioned seating and teaching that won't rock our little world too very much. It also makes our faith little more than a
comfort blanket with very little real substance in time of need.
The author of NO SMALL SNAKES didn't believe in this battle either...until
God got a hold of him and he discovered his preconceived notions were not only wrong, they were dangerous. NO SMALL SNAKES
takes us on a journey of discovery that is not easy, not something we even want to tackle, but must if we're to be truly victorious
in Christ.
Pg. 159: “A true soldier fights not out of hatred for those ahead
of him,” as G. K. Chesterton noted, “”but out of love for those behind him.”
The author is careful to stay Scriptural even when some of what he deals
with is still controversial in some sectors of Christianity—the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit and the gifts still
being practiced today as well as the very real problem of demonic activity.
The book is not always an easy read and at times bogs down in technicalities
that are nonetheless necessary for the exposition of the subject with the result of a body of fully submitted servants of
Jesus Christ.
365 GOOD CLEAN JOKES Perpetual Calendar ISBN 978-1-60260-173-4 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
We all have those people in our lives who love telling jokes, often bad
jokes, that make us groan even as we laugh. Well, now you can have jokes to tell as well. 365 GOOD CLEAN JOKES supplies a
whole year's worth of jokes that won't make you blush, but may make others groan.
March 20: Why did Mozart sell his chickens? They kept saying,
“Bach, Bach, Back.”
August 13: What vegetable was not allowed on the Mayflower? The
Leek.
A fun gift for the jokster in your midst, or for yourself—in self-defense.
(And a good way to start the day.)
MOMMY-TO-BE Devotional Journal By Randi Morrow & Janice Thompson ISBN
978-1-59789-641-2 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Those months leading up to the birth of that precious child and after,
we mom's have all sorts of thoughts, fears, and every emotion possible running through our minds. We may read every book out
there or rely on the advice from our doctor or female relatives or friends. We wonder about our relationship to our husbands,
God and that new little being for which we are responsible.
This beautiful blue and red leather-look devotional journal for mom's-to-be
may be the answer. Not only does it contain lots of information to calms those fears, it also includes lots of room for journaling
those thoughts, ideas, fears, prayers and insights.
The book includes short informational passages on mothering, taking care
of, preparing for and bonding with that little one. They also draw the mom-to-be into a closer relationship with God and undergirds
the relationship between husband and wife. The book also includes Scripture, prayers and insights.
A great gift for that mom-to-be.
21 REASONS BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE By Dave Earley ISBN
978-1-60260-219-9 Publisher: Barbour Reviewer Melanie Jones
We've all been there. Those dark places where it seems God can't reach.
The aching soul that longs for answers.
Dave Earley recognizes that becoming a Christian doesn't create a life
without suffering and sorrow. And it isn't against the rules to wonder why.
So Earley has asked why and searched
through the Bible for answers. The result is 21 REASONS BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE.
At first glance, some of the topics may sound like the same meaning reworded,
but Earley delves into each one and provides supporting Scripture, making each topic unique.
Working primarily from Job and Paul's letters, as well as from the life
of Christ, Earley provides Biblical examples of bad things happening to good people — in the case of Christ, the ultimate
good — and points out ways we can learn from them.
For example, in reason number five, To Produce Greater Intimacy with
God, he reminds us the God as Christ is very familiar with suffering, having endured more than most of us will ever have to.
He is a God who knows our suffering, and if we take our heartache to Him, we can grow closer to Him.
The faith factor is through the roof because the book is all about faith,
the kind of faith required to come out of suffering with our hope in Christ intact.
POWER PRAYERS FOR TEACHERS By Denise Shumway ISBN 978-1-60260-192-5 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Sometimes it is easy to think we don't make a difference. Teachers, especially
in a culture that has all but banned God from public education, can struggle with their purpose. This devotional brings those
fears to light and encourages with twenty one short chapters with a lead in to the subject (Ex. My Faith, My Calling, My Students,
My Fears, etc.) and 14 days of short but appropriate devotions with Scripture for each devotion. Starting a busy day with
a devotion wouldn't take a great deal of time, but would start the day out with Scripture and a thought that just might positively
impact the whole day.
Though I'm not a public school teacher, the devotions were incredibly
uplifting, thought provoking and encouraging. Not only is this a must for that teacher in your life, it also would be a good
guide for those who pray for our teachers.
CHRIST, MY COMPANION Meditations on the Prayer of St. Patrick By
Marilyn Chandler McEntyre ISBN 978-0-8010-7159-1 Baker Books Reviewer Elisabeth H. Bantz
Reflecting
on the prayer attributed to St. Patrick, "Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ
beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me. Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ in quiet, Christ
in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger," McIntyre makes some profound statements.
For instance, she says: when referring to God, things we usually regard as nouns are actually verbs. So I made myself a list,
and sure enough: Peace, Light, Life, Love, Bread, and Word (to name a few), really do denote an action. Cool!
I
also jotted down a few memorable quotes I want to remember: "When I am aware of Christ within me, I become more aware of Christ
within you." "Receive all guests as [you would] Christ." "Only in quiet can we be released from the tyranny of habit . . .
[and] change our point of view to God’s. We must lay aside our agendas for that to happen."
I was amazed
at how many scriptural references there were to "Christ before me, Christ behind me," like Exodus 14:19-20, and I Samuel
14:13. "Christ in the lead" sets the pace for us, and "Christ in the rear" encourages stragglers. What a picture!
And
her final paragraph was like icing: "God awaits us everywhere. Christ accompanies us. The Holy Spirit puts words in mouths
of friend and stranger. That is the point of St. Patrick’s prayer. . . . If we listen with willing hearts, we will hear
him."
Do I recommend this devotional? You betcha! Faith element: off the charts.
CASTAWAY KID One Man's Search for Hope and Home By R B Mitchell ISBN
978-1-58997-434-0 Tyndale House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Robbie Mitchell was three years old when his mother dropped him off an
orphanage. Confused and scared, he spent the next fifteen years of his life looking for someone to love him. Someone who cared.
Being a “castaway kid”, he encountered scorn from people he met. People who expected him to be nothing when he
grew up.
In the heart-wrenching spirit of A CHILD CALLED IT, Mitchell takes us
deep into the emotions of a child searching for a home. Time-after-time, God places a role-model, a loving person in Robbie’s
path, only for Robbie to test their patience. Why can’t someone love him? Why won’t one of his relatives step
forward and give him a place of permanence?
Through tears and groans of agony, CASTAWAY KID makes the reader aware
of how society often views these “unwanted” children. Despite a troubled and difficult path, Robbie Mitchell embarks
on a path to his “real” home. His “real” father. No person is ever unwanted or unloved. They just
need to know where to look to receive it. R. B. Mitchell brings this fact to life.
Having been a foster parent for nine years, I encountered many children
with Robbie’s outlook on life. I recommend this book to every teacher, foster parent, social worker, youth leader, and
child psychologist. This book should be a required read before anyone takes on the daunting task of working with troubled
children.
A real eye-opener.
Castaway is definitely a 10 on the faith scale.
GIFTS OF PASSAGE What the Dying Tell Us with the Gifts They Leave
Behind By Amy Hollingsworth ISBN 978-0-8499-1920-6 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Losing someone we love is difficult. No matter how you look at it. The
grieving process is long and painful. How does one get through this difficult time? Do our loved ones leave something behind?
Something we can see or touch?
In GIFTS OF PASSAGE, Amy Hollingsworth uses real life accounts from her
loss and others to show us how to find, and hold on to, the gifts our loved ones leave us.
Hollingsworth has written a guide to help those who are grieving see
the beauty in someone’s passing to heaven, and to show how to see what we often can’t find through our sadness.
Some gifts are physical things we can touch; others memories, feelings,
a love for God. GIFTS OF PASSAGE not only helps the reader discover a gift left behind when a loved one passes, but also leaves
us thinking…what will we leave behind when God calls us home?
BRIDE TO BE—Devotional Journal By Randi Morrow & Janice
Thompson ISBN 978-1-59789-640-5 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Many of us love to journal, writing down our thoughts. What better time
than those months/weeks leading up to that big day...our wedding. BRIDE TO BE offers lots of room to journal those thoughts,
doubts, joys and prayers in a beautiful leather-like two-toned cover with pages that look like they came out of a wedding
album.
BRIDE TO BE offers much more. Think about all those issues that come
to mind as you plan for that big day and for marriage. This book addresses issues from those before to those after you say,
"I do.” It also includes appropriate Scripture and short prayer as well as room to journal after each subject addressed.
A thoughtful gift for that special friend.
THE BIBLE PROMISE BOOK FOR WOMEN New Life Version ISBN 978-1-59789-682-5 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Ever feel overwhelmed, too exhausted to search that worn Bible beside
your bed, but still need answers? This book just might help. Set up much like BIBLE ANSWERS FOR STUDENTS (See Teens/YA) with
an alphabetized list of subjects and verses under each, providing, through selective verses, the Biblical answer to the subject.
Easy to look up just the verses needed on any number of issues.
However, the list of subjects is geared more for women than students.
Unlike the simple paperback for students, this small, purse-sized volume is packaged beautifully with a soft, leather-look
cover and thin Bible-like pages. Each subject also includes an appropriate quote such as this quote for FAITH from Corrie
Ten Boom. “Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable, and receives the impossible.”
THE BIBLE PROMISE BOOK FOR WOMEN would make a precious, keepsake gift
for yourself or a friend.
365 FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES Perpetual Calendar ISBN 978-1-60260-172-7 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Have kids? Have bored kids? Have kids who spend too much time watching
TV or playing video games? Too much time on the cell? Are you just plain out of ideas? Then check out this perpetual calendar.
Every day offers a different activity the family can do together.
Some are fun, some education or informational. March 24: Draw your
children's attention to people with disabilities, whether physical or mental. Plan a family activity to reach out to someone
who is “differently-abled” in your neighborhood, church, or school. September 16: Go for a walk and pick up
different rocks. Sort them into igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. December 26: Make a scrapbook page about Christmas
using leftover wrapping paper, cards and pictures.
Bring the family together with fun things to learn and do. Would make a
great gift for the family.
VIRTUAL INTEGRITY Faithfully Navigating the Brave New Web By Daniel
J Lohrmann ISBN 978-1-58743-234-7 Brazos Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
We're solid, we have standards and we live by them—in the real
world. But what happens when we get online? Who wouldl know if we surf “those” sites. And my Avatar isn't real
so why not do all the things in a virtual world, I wouldn't do in real life? My online screen name doesn't really connect
with who I am, so when I get ticked, I spout language I would never use in real like.
We have become an online world and with that world, too often, we've
separated our integrity to the real and the virtual world. Anything goes in the virtual world. What we don't seem to “get”
is that how we act online, can and will influence how we act in “real” life.
We've all heard about marriages breaking up over online porn or relationships
that get acted out in real life. How long if you're unfaithful or dishonest online will it come home to roost? Potential employees
have lost jobs because of online postings. (Employers DO check.)
VIRTUAL INTEGRITY takes us from what is to what can be the future. The
author, an expert in his field, takes us beyond security for ID theft to the more vital integrity theft---and this we do to
ourselves. But there are ways to keep ourselves people of integrity and it starts with commitment. This book offers
any number of practical ways to secure our ID, ensure our children's safety and keep our selves faithful to our faith and
family.
An excellent book with lots of practical suggestions, helps and links.
TRESSPASSERS WILL BE BAPTIZED The Unordained Memoir of a Preacher's
Daughter By Elizabeth Emerson Hancock ISBN 978-1-59995-708-1 Center Street/Hachette Book Group Reviewer Cynthia
Hickey
Growing up Southern. Growing up Baptist. Growing up Southern Baptist.
What a combination! There’s no other way that’s as fun and wholesome as growing up GRITS (Girls Raised in the
South).
TRESPASSERS WILL BE BAPTIZED is the memoir of Elizabeth Hancock’s,
detailing the riots and trials of being the “perfect” preacher’s kid. Using real accounts from her childhood,
Hancock presents a hilarious coming of age story that is much more than growing up. It’s growing in the Lord as only
a child can see it.
How can a girl be perfect when she has a daughter that won’t speak,
unless it entails “preaching” to her toys? How does a child question life without sounding “sassy.”
With quirky, true-to-life people, TRESPASSERS WILL BE BAPTIZED is a joy to read. Laugh out loud funny. True and honest, as
seen through the eyes of an innocent child.
Having grown up Southern Baptist myself, with a little Presbyterian and
Church of God thrown in, I enjoyed this book immensely. I had two uncles who were pastors and could completely relate. For
anyone who is searching, or just wants a laugh, this is a curl up with a cup of soda book. Be prepared to laugh your heart
out.
REFLECTIONS OF GOD'S HOLY LAND A Personal Journey Through Israel By
Eva Marie Everson & Miriam Feinberg Vomaosh ISBN 978-0-8499-1956-5 Thomas Nelson
Like Liz Curtis Higg's personal journey through Scotland MY HEART’S
IN THE LOWLANDS, REFLECTIONS OF GOD'S HOLY LAND is Everson's moving and descriptive journey through Israel. The difference?
This is God's anointed land where every rock, mountain and stream has Biblical history.
REFLECTIONS OF GOD'S HOLY LAND uses a mix of stunning photos, scripture,
legends and personal reflections to draw in the reader.
Pg. 96: My senses—physical and spiritual—have come alive
in ways I didn't know possible. My eyes and ears are treated to a wonderland of sights and sounds. My soul is stirred to a
particular plane, understanding worship and its best and its worst.
Each place she visits, Everson describes the landscapes in detail as
she shares with the reader her physical highs and lows, emotional responses and spiritual insights until the reader sees and
feels the experience. The reader comes away with a deep sense of awe and worship. God is real. He does move in history. And,
He cares for me.
DEEPER Living the the reality of God's love By Debbie Alsdorf ISBN
978-0-8007-3215-8 Revell
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Over the years, I've probably read hundreds of inspirational books, many
of which have offered new insights or took me back to basics. DEEPER, the story of Debbie's faith walk from the wife of a
pastor to unexpected divorce to healing as she got real with God, is one that had so much to offer I kept pen and paper handy.
How hard we try to be enough, be accepted, work hard, be a good person.
Debbie points out what should be obvious to those of us who claim the name of Christ, we are not enough. We will never be
enough. If we could be enough in and of ourselves, we wouldn't need Jesus. Knowing that is a relief.
Makes the difference in application: Pg. 91 It's not what you know that
makes a difference, it's the choices you make based on what you know and believe.
Pg 152 Even though we are part of His glorious plan, we are still under
construction. (Why do I have to learn this over and over?)
Pg 154 Believing we have value is a faith choice. ...It is recognizing
a value that is not based on conditions but in God and God alone.
Pg 199 He (God) knows me. He protects me. He made me. He values
me.
Believing these principles leads me important choices. Taking His
side.
Loving what He loves and hating what He hates. Choosing to live
differently.
Like Debbie, we often live a Christian life on what we think others expect,
rather than get real with God, recognizing our value, His love for us and loving and living for Him. This book helps
us refocus on Him. Recommended.
HEAVEN WITHOUT HER A desperate daughters search for the heart of her
mother's fath By Kitty Foth-Regner ISBN 978-0-7852-2744-1 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Though raised in a Christian home, Kitty Foth-Regner was swept into the
culture of the late 1960s and became an ardent feminist and a determined agnostic. The values that drove her life were pleasure,
success in her career, and preserving her independence. For years, she found satisfaction in her way of life, suppressing
any thoughts that there could be more.
Despite the differences between her lifestyle and that of her godly mother,
they maintained a close relationship, and Kitty’s mother continued to share of her faith and live it out in a way Kitty
found difficult to ignore. When her mother became fatally ill, Kitty began to feel that there might be flaws in her current
worldview.
A promise made to her mother on her deathbed sent Kitty on an exploration
of the world’s major religions. She investigated historical and scientific evidence for various religions, and consumed
a copious amount of reading material from people in a variety of professional and religious fields. In the end, she came to
the conclusion that Biblical Christianity was truth, and found in it the answers she yearned for.
Once she accepted this truth, her entire life changed as God moved powerfully
in her, transforming her, taking away her anger at the world, and giving her the peace and freedom from fear she so desired.
No longer did she fear death, and she could rest confident in the knowledge she will be with her mother again one day.
This memoir testifies of one woman’s journey to faith and the power
of God to change lives.
FIGHT God's Man Series Are You Willing to Pick a Fight with
the Enemy? By Kenny Luck ISBN 978-1-57856-988-5 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Melanie Jones
FIGHT is a hard read. The writing is engrossing, entertaining and informative,
but it contains hard truths. In fact, author Kenny Luck's warnings that reading the book and taking it to heart places you
square in Satan's bull's-eye could be enough to make you put it down.
But don't. By reading FIGHT, you may be issuing a challenge, but the
book helps equip you for battle.
The men's pastor at Saddleback Church, Luck knows his audience well.
He peppers the pages with military history, sports and even a bit of rock-and-roll. But everything furthers his message that
God will give you everything you need to fight the battle — but the tools Satan will use most likely lie within you.
To win, you have to root out every shadow of darkness within.
IT'S POSSIBLE Turn Your Dreams into Reality By Derrick Moore ISBN
978-0-8254-3359-7 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Have you given up your dreams, found life's challenges too difficult?
Moore takes us on a journey, showing how we can go from nothing to being everything God wants us to be.
Using Biblical stories and his own story of rise to the NFL, Moore explains
God's principles of success. He cautions those who believe the idiom about trusting God and waiting shouldn't use it as an
excuse for inaction. Nor should we get discouraged and give up when our lives don't unfold as we plan. Our lives should be
all about trusting God and stepping forward as God opens doors. We'll never get anywhere if we don't act on the opportunities
presented.
An interesting and readable book, firmly grounded in God's Word. For
those who dream, those who've been discouraged and for those graduates just starting the journey.
THE BAKER POCKET GUIDE TO WORLD RELIGIONS: What Every Christian Needs
to Know By Gerald R McDermott ISBN 978-0-8010-7160-7 Baker Books
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This is a small volume, easily tucked into a purse, that packs a whole
lot of information. The book takes the main religions of the world and compares and contrasts them with Christianity. It also
covers Christianity, giving believers, in a short chapter, the reason for their faith and the reality of Christ and following
Him.
As Christians we often dismiss religions as demonic and not worth our
time to explore or understand. In doing so, we do several things: show our ignorance and arrogance, keep ourselves from discovering
better ways to witness using the person's own concepts of belief, and we fail to do what is the core of Christ's approach—loving
and reaching out to others where they're at.
I found this book a valuable learning tool and a good resource for beginning
to comprehend why someone believes and responds as they do to the “typical” Christian witness.
(I would like to see a format where the sidebars were in a print large
enough not to make me squint or use a magnifying glass.) Recommended
HOLY FOOLS Following Jesus with Reckless Abandon By Mathew Woodley ISBN
978-1-4143-1630-7-3 SaltRiver a division of Tyndale House Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
A holy fool. Not a very attractive or desirable term. Nobody wants to
be called a fool. But what was Jesus, besides the Son of God? Not a man who stood back and kept his mouth shut, but rather
a man who preached the Word without abandon. A Holy Fool. The bible is full of such people. Do we want a tepid spiritual life,
or one shouting to the rafters with Christ’s love?
Mathew Woodley takes us from mundane to outrageous. Our faith from lukewarm
to fiery hot. But first, he makes us look to see exactly where we stand in our religious indifference. Are we a wall flower
for Jesus or a fool that tells everyone we meet about him?
HOLY FOOLS makes the reader think, an often painful but necessary process.
Awaken your spiritual passion with surrender and discernment. Set your soul on fire for Christ and become a holy fool.
WITH THIS RING Promises to Keep: An intimate, line-by-line look at
traditional wedding vows By Joanna Weaver ISBN 978-1-4000-7476-1 WaterBrook Press
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Taking the wedding vows line by line, Weaver expands on them. Using Scripture,
quotes, anecdotes and stories of love even through adversity, we all come to a realization of the depth of what we promise
when we make our commitment before God, each other, family and friends. Some of the stories made me laugh, some brought a
tear...all showed me the depth of love possible between husband and wife.
She adds ample pages for writing down memories to keep about love, wedding,
life.
Vows are sacred and meant to be forever, as God's love is for us. This
small volume brings us back to the core of love and what marriage is all about. A great gift for the soon to be wed as well
as those already married. Recommended.
BIBLE ATLAS AND COMPANION By David Barrett and Christopher D Hudson ISBN
978-1-59789-779-2 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
As you read the Bible, do you have trouble visualizing the locations,
where and when things happened or their context on the map, in the Bible and in the chronology of history?
BIBLE ATLAS AND COMPANION sets all this out in an easy to see, read and
visualize format, from stunning full color maps to pictures of the area explained in the text. And not just any old maps,
these were based on the latest NASA imagery.
The book includes lists and Bible passages and makes a wonderful companion
to Bible study.
An excellent discovery for any Bible student.
THE WORLDS GREATEST BIBLE PUZZLES—STORIES OF THE BIBLE ISBN
978-1-60260-029-4 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Puzzles. Some can't help themselves when it comes to doing puzzles. Some
will do any puzzle. Others, like me, have their favorite types. I learned some fun new ones going through this book. No, I
didn't do every puzzle, but I did some and figured out how to do all of them. Some took more figuring out than others, and,
I was delighted they had my favorite type of puzzle. There were also some nice twists on some common puzzle styles
Each puzzle encourages digging into God's Word for answers, though there
is an answer key when completely overwhelmed. These aren't puzzles for the younger set. Think in terms of tweens on up. But
for those who like puzzles, this makes a great gift for oneself or a friend.
THE PRESENCE OF A HIDDEN GOD Evidence for the God of the Bible By
D. James Kennedy PhD & Jerry Newcombe ISBN 978-1-60142-077-0 Multnomah Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This book is a wonderful last book from D. James Kennedy, delineating
the deep and abiding faith by which he lived his life, and by which he died.
In clear, easily read chapters, Kennedy and Newcombe take us from the
accusations against Christianity to the reality of life in Christ. Chapters include Evidence for God, Is God Truly Hidden?,
How to Know God, Doubts About God, If God is Love, Then Why... and many other thought provoking chapters.
Pg. 15 ...this world was made with a purpose and that purpose was mankind.
Pg. 39 Atheism not only makes life cheap, but it derives it of any meaning of significance.
This book is for those who need to be reminded of who we are in Christ,
for those who are questioning, for those who witness to others and for those who are searching. Makes a good gift and a good
addition to any library.
MAKE TODAY COUNT John C Maxwell ISBN 978-1-60024-180-2 HachetteAudio Reviewed
by Elisabeth H. Bantz
If you'd rather listen to a book on SUCCESS than read it, this is for you. True success
is based on wisdom from God, and the decisions you make based on that wisdom.
The first CD begins: "Your agenda
determines your success," and continues with simple yet profound words of wisdom like, remove negative words from your mouth,
and replace them with the appropriate ones. And express gratitude always. The second CD expounds on the wisdom of putting
your family before success in the workplace. Instead of giving THINGS to your family, devote your TIME to them. And invest
your money wisely. Maxwell suggests 10% to God's work, 10% to investments, and 80% to live on. The third CD discusses faith
and success. We all have faith in something, but is it faith in the truth or untruth? A weak faith will be weakened by catastrophe,
but a strong faith will be strengthened by it.
The purpose in this life is not "to have and to hold," but "to
give and to serve." Our purpose is to add value to others. Treat everyone with respect. In doing so, it adds value to ourselves,
for we cannot give what we do not possess. Be generous before you become prosperous; THAT'S SUCCESS.
A modern
Book of Proverbs, I recommend this faith-filled and Bible based audiobook.
LIFE IS A GIFT By Bob and Judy Fisher ISBN 978-0-446-19636-9 FaithWords
Reviewer Melanie Jones
I confess. I didn't want to read LIFE IS A GIFT. Face it, with a subtitle
like INSPIRATION FROM THE SOON DEPARTED, you know it isn't going to be a happy, fun read. But within one chapter, I got
over it.
The Fishers interviewed 104 hospice patients and their families for this
book. They make it clear from the outset that none of the 104 lived to see the book's publication. Yet the book isn't about
death and dying. The book is about living. The hospice patients talk about regrets — or the lack of them. They talk
about the importance of loving your family while you can. About the importance of forgiveness. The promise of Heaven.
That's not to say I didn't leave the book with a few soggy pages. In
fact, to confess again, there was one element I couldn't make myself read: Lyrics written in honor of a 5-year-old girl dying
of a painful nerve disorder.
The faith element is strong with Scripture to back up much of it. However,
some portions are presented in the interview subjects' words, which left me with concerns about a message of works-based salvation.
LIFE IS A GIFT comes with two warnings: One, some parts may break your
heart; two, the whole book will change your outlook on life.
TWO WARS One Hero's Fight on Two Fronts—Abroad and Within By
Nate Self ISBN 978-1-4143-2009-0 Tyndale Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
He won medals for heroism and yet returns home conflicted, not about
his duty or loyalty, but with the immense difference between being a soldier at war and a citizen at peace. Where does faith
fit when men, young men, died under his command, when a mission goes horribly wrong, when one as a Christian must not hate,
but wage war and kill nonetheless? This is his story.
Nate is a young man with dreams of the military. He graduates from West
Point, marries his teen sweetheart and begins his life as a soldier. He is good. He's a ranger, the best of the best. Nate
seeks to be the best at what he does as a soldier and commander, as a husband and eventually a father and as a Christian.
For any soldier it becomes difficult to switch between war readiness and the normalcy of family life. But after 9/11 everything
changes and Nate finds himself in Afghanistan leading his men into battle to rescue a Navy SEAL. The battle that takes a toll
on both body and mind makes him a hero to his government and the media. But the battle doesn't stay on the battlefield.
Eventually, weary of war, Nate closes down to the still small voice of
God inside and ends his military career. It is then he wages another war one he fears will drive away his wife and family,
the war against Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Only his wife and family don't abandon him. He discovers God hasn't either.
Broken, Nate, with Julie at his side, begins the road back to healing for himself and their marriage.
A close up of war and the men who fight not only for their country, but
for their very soul. Definitely well worth the read.
CRAZY LOVE Overwhelmed by a Relentless God By Francis Chan ISBN:
978-1-4347-6851-3 David C. Cook Reviewer Kay Tira
Challenging, refreshing and face-slapping, CRAZY LOVE is Francis Chan’s
postmodern wake-up call to the American church. Chapters begin with “Stop Praying” and conclude with “The
Crux of the Matter,” alerting the reader to the need to replace lukewarm religion with pure relationship and worship
of the Creator Who loves with a crazy love.
“I wrote this book because much of our talk doesn’t match
our lives,” writes Chan (p. 166), in his fresh but ancient message that calls his readers to a genuine response. With
Scripture, straight talk, on-line videos and mini-biographies (profiles of the obsessed) Chan presents a winning combination
of challenge and encouragement.
Great read.
WHERE DID I LEAVE MY GLASSES The What, When, and Why of Normal Memory
Loss By Martha Weinman Lear ISBN 978-0-446-58059-5 Wellness Central Publishing Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
What a relief to discover that walking into a room and wondering why
you are there is a normal part of the aging process! Who is that woman across the room? Should I know her? What is her name?
With humor, statistics, scientific facts, and clarification from doctors,
Martha Weinman Lear leads us through the reasons our memory lapses after the age of thirty. WHERE DID I LEAVE MY GLASSES?
gives us practical and fun ways to stimulate the memory part of our brain. With exercises, both mental and physical, we can
learn how to retain the information our brain stores in order to prevent “overload.”
Although not classified as “Christian,” WHERE DID I LEAVE
MY GLASSES is a thought-provoking, informative resource book written in layman’s terms. A wonderful read for anyone
approaching the magic age of thirty and beyond.
MOVING FORWARD Taking the Lead in Your Life By David Pelzer ISBN
978-1-59995-065-5 Center Street Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
If there is someone who has the right to tell us how to get on with life,
David Pelzer certainly does. If you haven't read his story which began in the book A CHILD CALLED “IT” you are
missing out. That book begins his story of incredible abuse to finally rescue and learning to live life. In this book he shows
the reader how to deal with the past, leave it behind and move on.
Wallowing in the past, in abuse, in mistakes, in guilt, in bad choices,
leads no place. At some point if we want to become the person God created each of us to be, we need to decide to deal with
the crud and move on. If Pelzer can do it, anyone can and that includes each one of us.
Told with honesty and humor as well as slices of his past, Pelzer helps
us reach for the life we can live, are meant to live, a life that inspires as it satisfies. This might be my favorite book
of his, though it wouldn't have had the same impact had I not read most of his other books. Nevertheless, this book does stand
alone. Worthwhile read.
For those who prefer the audio version. I recommend, MOVING FORWARD Taking
the Lead in Your Life By David Pelzer ISBN 978-1-60024-228-1 HachetteAudio
Though the text may be the same, different things "jump" out when I listen rather
than read. In the audio version over and over the message was clear. Deal with your problems, with counseling if needed, but
don't use your problems as an excuse not to let go and move on to do something positive with your life. Don't be a victim.
Your have the power to choose. Choose to move on, be kind, reach out and help others. Don't waste your life. Good advice!
SEW U: HOME STRETCH The Built by Wendy Guide to Sewing Knit
Fabrics By Wendy Mullin with Eviana Hertman ISBN 978-0-316-11837-8 Little Brown and Company Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
Love those T-Shirts? How about T-Shirts and other comfortable, stretch
knit clothing that actually fits and is fun to wear? Think you can't create them on your own. SEW U: HOME STRETCH shows just
how wrong that assumption can be.
With a few included patterns and some basic and practical information
and directions, the author shows how to created a whole lot more than the basic T-Shirt. With her instructions, some basic
equipment (though a sewing machine will do, a serger works better) and a creative mind, even the novice sewer can go from
T-Shirts to hoodies to a variety of tops, skirts, dresses—all with a few basic patterns. And, I repeat, those patterns
are included.
The author also shows how to recycle those comfortable knits and fleeces
you already own. Get this book today and have a whole new wardrobe in a very short time.
This book is a keeper for anyone with that itch to stitch.
ACTS THRU 2 CORINTHIANS Vol 10—WHAT ABOUT THE CHURCH Quick Notes:
Simplified Bible Commentary Series Dr. Peter Barnes & Dr. Mark Stauss ISBN 978-1-59789-776-1 Barbour Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This isn't some heavy, hard backed, hard to comprehensive, exhaustive
treatise on God's Word. This is an overview that helps us understand the basic message of the passages and provides practical
applications as well as thoughtful questions.
This series makes wonderful Bible studies for Sunday School or other
discussion groups as the book brings us back to the authority of THE WORD. I used it during my morning quiet time and found
it helped give a good start to my day.
As in other books in this series, the format helps the reader stick with
it by breaking up information into “bites” such as overview, explanation of the passage and broken up with Critical
Observations and Demystifying the passages, finally a Taking it Home section providing the key observations from the passage.
This series is a winner for those who want more than a shallow knowledge
of God's Word.
MILLIONAIRE BY THIRTY The quickest path to early financial independence By
Douglas R Andrew, Emron D Andrew, Aaron R Andrew ISBN 978-1-60024-149-2 Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
There is lots of information on these CDs. The Andrews go through any
number of scenarios for building wealth, many counter to prevailing wisdom. Do they work? According to Douglas, he didn't
give his sons wealth, just a good start and information. According to him, using this system, they became millionaires—and
neither has reached 30 yet.
I do like that he balances monetary wealth with what he calls the “real”
wealth of family and giving back. The system certainly seems to work for some, but it does have its detractors (http://www.dougthorburn.com/reviews.html). Truth? I don't know, but I'm not an expert. I do think some of the ideas
have merit. But, like any “big” decision, financial decisions need examination and competent advice.
If I have a problem with the CDs, it is the almost constant suggestion
to get further information from the web site. That said, this book might at least get the younger set to realize that saving
and investing may have more long-term merit than squandering money on things gone tomorrow.
MIDLIFE MANUAL FOR MEN Finding Significance in the Second Half By
Stephen Arterburn and John Shore ISBN 13: 978-0-7642-0423-4 Bethany House Publishers Reviewer Michelle Levigne
The midlife crisis doesn’t have to be a crisis – for men
or the women who love them. With humor and insight, the authors attack the different phases of a man’s life, the different
mental images all men carry about themselves (He-Man of the Universe), and give them guidance on what to discard (Good Riddance)
and what to embrace (Pure Gold).
Men are Human, and so are the women who love them. That’s something
we often forget in the mis-labeled battle of the sexes. That means we all make mistakes, all have fears and insecurities,
and all have needs. We can fill each other’s needs. Things that we think the other side won’t like, that men think
they should keep hidden from their wives – like a penchant for sitting in the garage, playing and writing rock music
– might just be things their wives would enjoy sharing with them. The authors--gasp--counsel men to actually talk to
their wives/girlfriends/significant others. Communication features strongly in the advice and analyses they hand out throughout
the book. Relating everything to a man’s relationship with God is also an important element.
For instance, what happens if Batman decides he wants lots of PR for
all the heroic things he does? A man walking with God goes about his heroic work and doesn’t demand talk show appearances
and parades. All men are heroes for the everyday heroic things they do – helping with cleaning, remembering to do chores,
picking up the kids at school – but how many men realize that they are heroes to their wives and children? They need
to be reminded of that, and to keep things in proper perspective before God.
The old adage (ala Mary Poppins) is that a spoonful of sugar helps the
medicine go down – laughter makes it easier to swallow some bitter or simply downright uncomfortable truths. Arterburn
and Shore will make you laugh, or just give a crooked, embarrassed grin, and think about the things that need fixing, whether
it’s in your mind and heart, or the mind and heart of the man you love.
FIRST COMES LOVE THEN COMES WHAT? Challenging your assumptions on
dating, love and commitment By Kimberly Beair, MS LPC ISBN 978-1-58997-448-7 Tyndale Publishers/Focus on the Family Reviewer
Elisabeth H. Bantz www.bantzbooks.com
Where was this book when I was dating? I know; the author wasn't born
yet. Well, anyone of dating age (which is pretty much any age these days) will benefit from this intuitive look at how we
make our choices, and how we might do better.
First the author challenges our false assumptions about mate-finding.
Then she disects love into three parts, for our own good, of course. It won't hurt, believe me. She teaches us how to proceed
with caution, to look at ourselves more accurately, and to deal with problem areas in our relationships. The chapter on recognizing
Red Flags is worth its weight in gold if it steers you away from a wrong choice. And if that's not enough, she concludes the
ever-helpful Ten Commandments of Dating, and Ten Commandments of Engagement that's like frosting on the cake. Hopefully a
wedding cake that heralds a lifetime of joy (with a bit of work thrown in).
Happy mate-hunting. But read this book first.
DR. GOTT'S NO FLOUR, NO SUGAR COOKBOOK By Peter H Gott, MD ISBN
978-0-446-58250-6 Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
No flour. No sugar. Makes complete sense. But what will it taste like?
Will it work?
Dr. Gott goes into the reasons why we overeat, and why most diets fail.
He assures us success and the ability to keep off the weight we lose. He goes on to explain how the Glycemic index works and
how food pertains to science.
Although I haven’t gone on the doctor’s “diet”,
the menus are delicious and attractive. It is easy to see how many have succeeded by following the simple plan Dr. Gott lays
out. THE NO FLOUR, NO SUGAR diet allows “cheating”, with weight results continuing. Dr. Gott stresses everything
in moderation, knowing how deprivation is the leading cause of diet failure. It’s amazing how cutting out simple, not-needed
ingredients, affects the taste of foods very little.
While giving the reader a summary of his diet, the cookbook is a tool
to help achieve success.
Don't expect to hurry through this book. It is an in-depth look at Intelligent
Design (ID), clarifying its scientific basis as well as the very real differences from creationism. Those espousing ID may
be creationist, but don't have to be, since ID doesn't go that far. It is simply a theory that includes other than the prevailing
box in which evolutionists have placed themselves.
Pg. 224: Intelligent Design is primarily a historical science. It studies
present-day causes and applies them to the historical record to infer the best explanation for natural phenomena. Intelligent
Design uses uniformitarian reasoning, based upon the principle that “the present is key to the past.”
If something looks like it was designed and didn't just happen, ID scientists
will accept that premise. (How archaeologists differ an arrow from a rock uses ID principles.) ID scientists keep an open
mind, unlike evolutionists who, despite evidence to the contrary, will contort their theories into incomprehensible knots
just to be sure they stay within their “It has to evolve” box.
Using the scientific record and historical research, the authors deal
with the problems with evolution and the many different elements of ID. Why is this important? If we embrace a purely evolutionary
outlook, then life, and we, have no meaning. What we say or do has no meaning? Right and wrong have no meaning. However, if
earth is the product of an intelligent design, everything changes. Life does have meaning and opens the door for none-tangibles
such as caring, compassion and love.
GOD'S UNDERTAKER Has Science Buried God? By John C Lennox ISBN
978-0-8254-6188-0 Kregel Publications/Lion Hudson Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Where is God in today’s world? There are as many opinions as there
are people. He once was, but is no more. He never was. He hasn’t made his appearance, etc. Science is the biggest murderer
of God. Humankind as been torn asunder over theories of Creation vs. Evolution with more questions arising with each passing
decade.
John C. Lennox, takes apart the theory and provides the evidence, leading
the reader to the conclusion that science could not exist without God.
GOD’S UNDERTAKER HAS SCIENCE BURIED GOD? Is not light reading but
for those who are truly searching. Those who want to compare thoughts and theories and come to their own conclusion. Those
who want answers to age-old debates. Is God real or a figment of those not intelligent enough to know the difference?
FAMILY SQUEEZE Tales of Hope and Hilarity for a Sandwiched Generation By
Phil Callaway ISBN 978-1-59052-916-4 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
FAMILY SQUEEZE is aimed at those who have reached middle age. When mid-life
hits, often pressure increases from all sides. At this stage in life, both parents and children may require care and attention,
financial burdens can increase, and life can heap on burdens.
Phil Callaway delves into what he calls the “family squeeze”
of the “Middle Ages” with a lively humor, despite the seriousness of the subject. He explores such topics as how
to deal with aging parents, how to let go of adult children, and how to keep your marriage strong and fresh. The book abounds
with real life stories and practical advice, all filtered through Callaway’s lighthearted lens of life. Short chapters
make this a quick and breezy read, but there are plenty of solid Scriptural principles throughout.
Recommended for families being “squeezed.”
WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT MONEY ISBN 978-1-59789-992-5 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Don't think the Bible has much if anything to say about money and finances.
Buzz! That answer is incorrect. Truth is, the Bible has quite a bit to say about money, what it is, how we should treat it,
how to stay out of debt, budgeting, being accountable, earning a living, not being lazy and being good stewards of what God
has given by giving back to Him and others.
While Scripture is the primary focus of this pocket-sized, handy book,
each chapter has an informative intro and a list of what/how to lists at the end of each chapter. A great start to getting
one's finances in order. Would make a good discussion starter for a couple, family or class.
WHAT YOUR DOCTOR MAY NOT TELL YOU ABOUT DIABETES By Steven V Joyal,
MD with Deborah Mitchell ISBN 978-0-446-69774-3 Wellness Central Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This is one common sense book that every person with diabetes and those
with loved ones who deal with this should read. Though mainly aimed at those with pre-diabetes and type 2, information is
solid on cause, on how much of what passes as common knowledge about the disease and treatment may not be so correct after
all, and how diabetes can be handled sometimes simply with non-medical intervention such as diet (including how to prepare
food, not just what should be avoided), supplements and exercise. But this book also is good for those dealing with inflammatory
diseases and heart problems.
WHAT YOUR DOCTOR MAY NOT TELL YOU ABOUT DIABETES reveals the latest research
about diabetes, new methods of treatment—including natural methods, new drugs and new information of which even your
doctor may be unaware.
Take charge of your life by taking charge of your health. This book may
be a good place to start.
I'M NOT CRAZY, BUT I MIGHT BE A CARRIER By Charles Marshall ISBN
978-0-8254-3419-8 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
A little bit crazy, Marshall must be a riot in person. As it is, his
short, anecdotal chapters start with humor and end with a scriptural point that goes down easy, but with truth.
His chapters provide an inkling of the content. Some the titles are as
follows... Going to the Dogs, A Salute to Pants (Who knew men won't talk about pants to each other.) The Dangers
of Sauntering Tough Guys Don't Need Novocain A Man's Approach to Valentine's Day.
A fun book with a message to gives that slightly off-kilter guy in your
life. (Father's Day is coming.)
WELCOME TO COLLEGE
A Christ-Follower's Guide for
the Journey
By Jonathan Morrow
ISBN 978-0-8254-3354-2
Kregel Publications
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
OK Moms and Dads and relatives
of those going off to college in the near future, this is the book to send them off with, whether they plan to attend a secular
or a Christian college. Of course, you can't be sure they'll read it, but if they will, they will find reasons to keep and
grow in their walk with Christ, stay pure and learn how to live and share their faith.
This isn't your average “gift”
book for the college-bound. It isn't a gift book at all, but a book that actually makes the reader think and reason and use
the mind God gave to steer a course to a fulfilled college experience. The author stands on the rightful claim that God never
asked us to check our brains at the door, something, unfortunately, too many Christians have done. Now we have a generation
that has a feel-good faith with little substance and certainly nothing to hold onto once the secular professors start. This
book shows that college student how to build a solid foundation of faith and to meet the objections to Christianity head on,
yet with respect.
That said, this book is far
too valuable to keep just for those in college. This is one of those books that parents and other adults also need to read
and study and keep on the shelf. My copy is all marked up as I highlighted areas that will draw me back as I write about my
faith in bothChristian and a secular environments. This book manages to coalesce
the foundation of faith from worldview and the existence of God to morality and how to negotiate college (and life) without
losing health, morals or mind. Buy two, one for your college student and one for yourself.
HOW NOT TO LOOK OLD
Fast and Effortless Way to
Look 10 Years Younger, 10 Pounds Lighter, 10 Times Better
By Charla Krupp
ISBN 978-0-446-58114-1
Springboard Press
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Getting into your forties,
fifties and up yet dressing like a twenty something? Maybe you've given up and you're already dressing for the retirement
home. Krupp shows us how to look Young & Hip without looking cheesy or out of sync with our bodies or our age.
The book has lots of information
and pictures as well as lists of what to and what not to wear, what are the old rules and what is ok for today. Find your
perfect shirt length, how to put together an outfit (and don't make that a match head to foot), makeup, shoes and so much
more.
There are good tips in this
book and it was a fun book to read. However, if you aren't a black tie sort of person or live in a large population center,
then you might need to scale back some of the suggestions to your particular life style.
Need a nudge to go through
your closet and learn what works for you today? Check out this book.
HOW TO MAKE LIFE WORK
The Guide to Getting It Together
and Keeping It Together
By Michelle McKinney Hammond
ISBN 978-0-446-58062-5
Faith Words Publishing
Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
HOW TO MAKE LIFE WORK. We’d
all like to know the answer to this question. Where do we look for this answer? How do we make the Bible fit our life in the
twenty-first century? In His Word, God gave us a blueprint for our life. Often times, trying to live by His plan seems daunting
or unachievable. Michelle McKinney Hammond shows us life in all its quirks, twists and turns.
In HOW TO MAKE LIFE WORK, Hammond
shows us practical, fun ways of doing just that--making our life work. Starting with our relationship with God, and moving
on to ourselves and others, the author gives us the tools we need to prioritize our to-do list, take care of our spiritual
and emotional needs, and strengthen the relationships in our lives without losing anything that really matters.
Hammond goes on to show us
how hardship makes us stronger, joy in the Lord prepares us for life’s journey, and sorrow can be turned into something
positive. This book is a must read for everyone, male and female. A ten on the faith scale. A job well done.
ROME UNABELLAVISTA
How To Tour Italy
By Anthony Capozzoli
ISBN 979-4552-0-0-0
Bella Industries Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
A couple of years ago, my sister
and my sister-in-law took a trip to Italy and Germany. They came back with thousands, yes thousands, of pictures. They came
back with information,calendars and other mementos. How fascinating to go through
all the pictures and to see what they saw. But I wasn't there. I do know about the hours and hours before the trip my sister-in-law
spent online trying to dig up this or that information needed.
This book just might have cut
that time down to a more manageable level. ROME UNABELLAVISTA contains an unbelievable amount of practical as well as interesting
information on Rome. There are lists of what is available to the tourist, when it is available, the best time to tour and
how much, though to understand you need to be versed in Euros.
There are diagrams of the buildings,
maps and lots of of beautiful photos of the priceless sculptures, paintings, etc that grace this city along with background
information on both the art, the artist and the circumstances of the creation as well as meaning.
For those planning a trip to
Rome, this book would be invaluable. For those not yet going, this is a wonderful introduction to Rome and makes the armchair
tourist feel they just might have actually walked the streets of Rome and beheld it's many wonders.
QUICK NOTES VOL. 9: LUKE & JOHN
Life that Lasts Forever
Simplified Bible Commentary Series
By Dr. Mark Strauss with Dr. Stephen Leston and Robert Deffinbaugh
ISBN 978-1-59789-775-4
Barbour Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I've read through and studied these two books in a lifetime of study and yet, this book
brings new dimensions to the table. Suitable for both the novice and the Biblical students of long standing, QUICK NOTES VOL.
9: LUKE & JOHN takes us on a journey to Jesus's time and ministry.
The format helps the reader stick with it by breaking up information into “bites”
such as overview, explanation of the passage and broken up with Critical Observations and Demystifying Luke/John, finally
a Taking it Home section providing the key observations from the passage.
Though I would have preferred
a darker and somewhat larger print, this was a valuable and solidly Biblical addition to my knowledge of Jesus gift of grace.
NEVER SAY DIET
Make five decisions and break
the fat habit for good
By Chantel Hobbs
ISBN 10: 1-4000-7449-5
ISBN 13: 978-1-4000-7449-5
Waterbrook Press
Reviewer Michelle Levigne
We’ve all heard the slogans:
You are what you eat. It’s all in your mind. Mind over matter. And the different mantras about discipline and counting
calories. The battle is over whether it’s fat you need to cut or carbs or something else. Somebody is doing something
wrong, otherwise the weight loss industry wouldn’t be such a million-dollar proposition. We would all be trim and weigh
a lot less than we do.
Looking at the author, smiling
and trim on the cover of the book, it is hard to believe she was 200 pounds overweight when she started her weight loss journey.
She didn’t depend on a weight loss clinic or diet pills or pre-packaged food or any of a dozen new schemes that come
out every year. She created her own program, using common sense, and changing her brain before she changed her body.
What struck me about this program
is that it’s so do-able. Flexible. Easy to personalize for each person. Yes, it includes the dreaded E-word: exercise!
Yes, it means watching what you eat. Yes, it means cutting down what you eat. But Chantel explains how different foods work,
how different types of exercises do different things to your body. She doesn’t require you buy her exercise equipment
and pre-packaged meals and designer diet pills and vitamins. She shares her diet and exercise journey, including her mental,
emotional, and spiritual journey that worked in tandem with her physical journey.
The bottom line is that changing the way you view food, exercise and health changes the
rest of your life. Make these changes, and you’ll never have to think about dieting ever again. That sounds good to
me!
CLOSER THAN YOUR SKIN
Unwrapping the Mystery of Intimacy
with God
By Susan D. Hill
ISBN 10: 1-4000-7382-0
ISBN 13: 978-1-4000-7382-5
Waterbrook Press
Reviewer Michelle Levigne
Hill takes us through her journey
– and it is an ongoing journey, for her and for all of us – of learning to hear God’s voice and see Him
working and feel His presence. Not just in the high emotions of worship or great need, but in ordinary, everyday things. And
yet, when awareness of God comes, how can anything be ordinary?
Brutally honest about her pain
and failures, the near-shattering of her marriage, her flaws and searching, she goes back to her childhood and discovers those
moments when God was present and she was either too busy to notice or not yet spiritually aware enough to realize it. I loved
her references to the “blue-green days” of simple living in a Canadian forest cabin. The night when a “crazy
rabbit” by the side of the road ended up being God’s instrument to save her life will make you shiver …
and pause to wonder if maybe you’ve had some moments like that, and completely missed them.
Along with the feeling of envy,
wanting to have an awareness an intimacy with God, you’ll also feel that shiver of burden, obligation, and knowing your
life is going to be changed. There’s always that fear that all-out surrender to God will mean doing something you’d
rather not do, something you don’t like. But if you’re surrendered to God, do you really think your heart won’t
be changed so you can face those once-dreaded things, events, people, with gladness? An interesting journey, a challenge,
this book is worth reading – and not alone. Share it with others in a reading group, with the guide provided.
GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE A Couples Guide to Keeping it Together By
Tricia Goyer ISBN-10: 1590529103 ISBN-13: 978-1-59052-910-2 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Take the cultural experiences and mores of a generation and the insight
of many couples of that generation. Add Scriptural wisdom and counsel, statistics, and reference materials. Bind all this
together with chatty and insightful narrative, and you have GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE, a handbook on marriage for Generation
X.
Targeting members of Generation X (born between the 1960s and the 1980s),
GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE abounds with practical tips and advice that will help a floundering marriage or strengthen an already
excellent one. Not only does this book include some commonly discussed aspects of marriage such as communication and lovemaking,
it addresses other issues that play an integral role such as media and relationship role models.
The format is pleasantly casual and authentic, with real life experiences
abounding throughout. Interspersed in each chapter are quotes from other Gen X couples, Scriptures, statistics, and reference
materials. In the back of the book, study questions and Scriptures related to each chapter invite couples to delve deeper
into the material.
Coming from a Generation X wife Tricia Goyer, rather than a professional
counselor or clergy, makes GENERATION NEXT MARRIAGE a fresh and unique look at what strengthens and grows a marriage. GENERATION
NEXT MARRIAGE shares hope for excellent marriages marked by love, commitment, and care as well as the means to fulfill that
hope.
THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR By Stephanie
Wood & Kitty O'Callaghan ISBN 978-0-446-69804-7 Wellness Central Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
When the blurb on the back calls this baby boot camp, that is no lie.
THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR book is 478 pages of practical, solid information that takes a balanced
view on most subjects and handles them with depth and humor. The style is informal, as though the authors were sitting across
the table sharing tea and advice, the basic of which is “You can do this.”
They dissipate guilt that comes from having no clue what to do and being
confused by all the differing advice, overloading already exhausted Mom-circuits. THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST
YEAR helps the new mom steer through the minefields of how best to feed, handle, and take care of the baby as well as how
to handle medical problems, what equipment to buy and even deals with multiple and preemie births as well as dealing with
a baby with disabilities. The authors don't forget Mom or Dad and includes tips on taking care themselves and their relationship.
This is, quite frankly, THE book on baby care to buy a new mom whether
that mom is a first time mom or already has a child or two. (Some things do change.)
A few years ago, my book HELP! I'M A NEW MOTHER was released that focused
on Mother to Mother advice for that first time mom. It is a small volume that fits easily in the purse. THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S
GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR won't fit unless that diaper bag is good sized. I do recommend keeping it handy on a table or counter,
for no matter what the problem is with the baby, this is probably the first place to check for an answer.
I already have THE BABYTALK INSIDER'S GUIDE TO BABY'S FIRST YEAR on the
list of gifts to give at a shower I'll be attending in the next few months. Do a new mom a favor—give her this book.
365 MOMENTS OF PEACE FOR MOM Perpetual Calendar ISBN 978-1-59789-950-5 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
January 25: On a cold day, snuggle up and read a book with your child.
Both your feet and your heart will be warm.
February 18: You can learn many things from children. How much patience
you have, for instance.
As the above samples show, this perpetual calendar has a wealth of tips, suggestions,
inspiration and encouragement for moms--as well as a dash of humor. The quotes help Moms start the day out on the right note.
Let's face it, we moms need all the encouragement we can get.
This perpetual calendar makes a better gift than
fattening chocolate and gives pleasure and comfort a whole lot longer.
Great gift idea.
HOPE'S WISH How one girl's dream made others' come true By Stuart
and Shelly Stout ISBN 978-1-5955-5158-0 Thomas Nelson
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
She was twelve, just on the verge of those teenage years when she was
diagnosed with bone cancer. What follows is the story of her family's journey through Hope's last battle. Crisis illness effects
the whole family. Many don't survive intact, even when the crisis passes. As a survivor of a childhood illness crisis, I know
the hurts and conflicts that assail a family. I also know, as the Stout family discovered, God is there in the darkness. It
wasn't by accident they named their daughter Hope. She was an inspiration to all who knew her. Why?
Hope didn't just focus in on herself. When the Make-A-Wish Foundation
came calling, Hope's wish was, not for herself, but to grant the wishes of all 155 kids on the waiting list. Her unselfish
wish changed the lives of countless people across the nation. An inspiring story of faith and...Hope.
LIFE'S LITTLE BOOK OF WISDOM FOR GRANDMOTHERS ISBN 978-1-59789-960-4 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
A small purse-sized gift book with wise sayings, quotes, thoughts and
Scripture to encourage those most wonderful of women—our grandmothers.
Page 77: It is as grandmothers that our mothers come into the fullness
of their grace. --Christopher Morley.
Page 81: Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents
sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children. --Alex Haley.
Can be used to start the day with an encouraging word. Great gift idea.
LIFE'S LITTLE BOOK OF WISDOM FOR MOTHERS ISBN 978-1-59789-955-0 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
If there is someone who often needs encouragement, it is mom. This little
book is filled with uplifting Scripture, sentiment and encouragement.
Page 16: The mother's heart is the child's schoolroom.
Page 100: When you get into a tight place and everything goes against
you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and that
the tide will turn. --Harriet Beecher Stowe
Page 185: Children have more need of models than of critics.
UNLIMITING GOD Increasing Your Capacity to Experience the Divine By
Richard Blackaby ISBN 978-1-59052-941-6 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Do you have a vision for experiencing a greater degree of God’s
presence and power in your life? If not, UNLIMITING GOD is a great place to attain that vision. And if you already do, UNLIMITING
GOD will further encourage and challenge you. This book explores the desires God has for relationship with us, and the limits
we as Christians put on our relationship with Him.
Five key areas in which Christians often limit God are examined: hearing
God’s voice, allowing Him to work through us, knowing Him on a deeper level, experiencing greater measures of His power
in our lives, and unlocking greater measures of joy in Him. Means to grow beyond these limitations and allow God to expand
our capacities in these areas and other aspects of relationship with Him are examined.
While Blackaby emphasizes growing in faith, prayer, and closeness to
God, he is careful to avoid “name it and claim it” theology. Rather he suggests that we must choose not to let
complacency cause us to live on a spiritual plateau and that we should believe that God wants to continually grow us in Him
and take us into deeper, more powerful revelation of who He is. Through that belief, we are compelled to seek Him with tenacity.
Blackaby shares personal stories, and a wealth of Scripture in these
pages. Each chapter ends with questions meant to help you examine your relationship with God and draw closer to Him.
A thought-provoking read that challenges the reader to draw closer to
God.
DECEPTION Book #2 Growing Up in an Amish-Jewish Cult By
Patricia Hochstetler ISBN 978-0-9787316-5-6 Baker Trittin Press www.bakertrittinpress.com Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
The first book in this trilogy was fascinating. This second book was
supposed to continue the story until Patricia was taken from the cult at age 16. Unlike the first book, this book suffered
from an impressive array of, often unnecessarily picky, details of cult life that bogged down the story. The story was also
slowed by an arrangement that left me confused as to what happened when. Too much time time was spent on rehashing information
from book one as well as repeating stories and information. Unfortunately, the story got lost in the details, rehashing and
repeats. However, I am looking forward to the last in this trilogy that I'm hoping will return to the simple chronological
telling of Patricia's deliverance from the cult.
However, for those researching or whose interest is cults and how a people
who wish to serve God can get so twisted under the direction of one leader, the detailed information might well provide enlightenment
rather than tedium.
RULE THE WEB How to Do Anything and Everything on the Internet—Better,
Faster, Easier By Mark Frauenfelder ISBN 978-0-312-36333-8 St. Martin's Griffin Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Have a book coming out and want to publicize it? Other authors advise
you to have a web site, start a blog. But a blog or a web site becomes one of millions. How can the average person get their
web site/blog noticed in order to publicize not only the web site, but what is on that site?
RULE THE WEB is the ticket to answering these questions and many more.
This book helps you find freebies, helps you put together a dynamite site and shows how to get the word out about it. You
learn about shopping and auctions, financing and productivity and a whole lot more.
This book really open my eyes to what I was doing wrong with my web sites
and changes I needed to make. There is so much about the Internet in this book. The book is a valued resource and well worth
the cost. Highly recommended for authors trying to use the Internet for publicity purposes. (But it is isn't only for authors.)
THE WORD OF PROMISE ™ NEW TESTAMENT AUDIO BIBLE Zipper Case
with bonus behind-the-scenes DVD ISBN: 978-0-7180-2424-6 $49.99 Thomas Nelson, Inc. Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
THE WORD OF PROMISE ™ NEW TESTAMENT AUDIO BIBLE is a superb
presentation of God's Word based on the idea of radio drama. But this is so much more. Using the best technological advances,
along with the award-winning actors (including James Caviezel as Jesus) and music, this audio extravaganza doesn't just draw
in the listener, but also seems to transport back to the time Jesus walked the streets of Jerusalem. We listen to the words
and we hear the sounds in such a way as to make it real.
Over the years, I've read the Bible many times. I've seen many films
depicting Biblical stories. THE PASSION moved me as it did so many others. Yet, after one of the over 20 CDs (all in a very
nice zippered case), ended, I couldn't move. Stunned, I just sat as the message took hold in my soul. I doubt a visual presentation
could do as much as this audio version of the greatest story of all—the story of a Savior who loved enough to come,
live, die and live again to save the very ones He'd created. Told in the New King James Version, the narrative is rich and
deep.
What better way to use that time we often waste as we travel back and
forth from place to place. Highly recommended. (Also includes a DVD of the background of this overwhelming project.)
365 FAVORITE QUOTES FOR DAD Perpetual Calendar ISBN 978-1-59789-951-2 Barbour
Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Every day in this perpetual calendar, Dad can be encouraged in one of
the hardest job a man ever undertakes, that of being a father. The short sayings quote everything from Scripture to Ogdon
Nash, Chinese Proverbs to Florence Nightingale.
As I read through the pages, I kept looking for sayings to quote as an
example of what's in this calendar, but there were just too many good nuggets of truth (as well as humor).
I settled for this quote from February 10th: In bringing up children,
spend on them half as much money and twice as much time. --Unknown.
Makes a great gift for that special Dad in your family.
HIS BRAIN, HER BRAIN How Divinely Designed Differences Can Strengthen
Your Marriage By Walt Larimore MD & Barb Larimore ISBN 978-0-310-24028-0 Zondervan Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Why does a man stand in front of the refrigerator with the door open
and apparently not see anything? Why can a woman do something and know about the four other things going on around her? Because
God created male and female uniquely different, yet both in His image. And they were good!
Walt & Barb Larimore show us God’s creativity in designing
men and women by using scientific studies, examples from their own marriage, and good old observation skills. Anyone who has
been married knows the differences in men and women when it relates to sex. The Larimore’s show why and how couples
can work together in this area and many others. They help couples understand how men and women are different, and why, explaining
how men and women are hardwired per God’s plan.
In HIS BRAIN, HER BRAIN, we are shown God’s divine design for two
very different creations and how they were designed to become one. This book is a must for any married couple, pastor, or
marriage/couples counseling. Everyone should read this as preparation for marriage.
ON THE WINGS OF THE WIND A Journey to Faith By Patricia
Eytcheson Taylor & James C. Taylor ISBN 1-880292-33-5 Langmarc Publishing
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Patricia was a California girl when she met and fell in love with John.
When they married, he took her back to his home, and her roots, with the Amish far away from California beaches. But just
as she settles into life in Indiana, she and her husband move to Texas where they must eek out a living. So begins Patricia's
journey of life and faith.
ON THE WINGS OF THE WIND is Patricia's story of life, heartache and ultimate
faith that God is in control. Along the way, she learns the value of family, of the military and of listening to the voice
of God.
An interesting story, high in Scriptural context, and personal anecdotes.
RATTLED: SURVIVING YOUR BABY’S FIRST YEAR WITHOUT LOSING YOUR COOL By
Trish Berg ISBN-10: 1590529138 ISBN-13: 978-1-59052-913-3 Multnomah Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
Are you a new mom? Or a mother of more than one child who has a baby
under a year old? If so, then this book is for you. RATTLED covers a lot of ground, including experiencing pregnancy, nurturing
your marriage while caring for an infant, and growing in your spiritual life as a mom, all with the focus of providing
wisdom and encouragement to moms who have young babies.
The structure of RATTLED – lots of sections, plus breaks in the
main part of the chapters – lends itself to being read by moms who are pressed for time, and may only have a few minutes
here and there. In addition to the primary topic for the chapter, every chapter includes Water from the Word (Scripture),
Food for Thought (facts and statistics of interest to mothers), Faith on Fire (a prayer), Shelter from the Storm (stories
and advice from other moms), First Aid Kit (practical tips), and SOS (a short devotional). Every chapter blends practical
and spiritual in a way that provides an uplifting and heartening read.
While I am not yet a mom, I can see returning to this book whenever my
first child comes along. Full of practical tips, hope, and spiritual insight, this is a recommended read for the target audience.
I BECAME A CHRISTIAN AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY T-SHIRT By Vince
Antonucci ISBN 978-0-8010-6818-8 Baker Books
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I approached this book a bit hesitantly. Was it another book slamming
Christians? No. I BECAME A CHRISTIAN AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY T-SHIRT has both depth and wisdom as well as a challenge
for Christians who've grown too comfortable. He challenged me when he explored one of our sacred cows—that Christianity
is a relationship. Is that all?
A relationship, he points out, often fades when friends aren't in close
proximity. A relationship is a handshake, but Jesus wants much more than a relationship. He wants us to abide in Him and He
in us. It is giving him control. In this abiding with Christ, God keeps us immediate and challenged, stalls boredom that settles
in when we live the Christian life in standby mode. He explores the tendency to get so comfortable we forget we're supposed
to reach out and touch those who are less than lovable. Would a weary, dusty Jesus be welcomed in our sanitized churches?
I BECAME A CHRISTIAN AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY T-SHIRT is easy to
read and digest, yet delves beneath the surface of our comfortable Christianity to the heart that beats for Christ. Highly
recommended.
THE PERFECT PASTOR Understanding and Relating to the Life and Work
of a Pastor By D Thomas Owsley ISBN 978-1-60266-656-6 Xulon Press Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Ever wonder what a pastor goes through to shepherd his flock? Think just
because your pastor is following God’s leading that it will be easy? Is your pastor above being human?
In THE PERFECT PASTOR, D. Thomas Owsley uses a combination of book reading
and Bible study to lead the reader through prayer and example into what makes a pastor a man of God. Owsley uses scripture
and experience to show us what is required of a pastor. Owsley tackles the difficult job of pointing out how churches and
denominations are the same and different, and what the Bible calls the Body of Christ to be. A perfect pastor? Only one man
walked this earth who could be called "perfect."
THE PERFECT PASTOR, will lead pastors, those aspiring to become a pastor,
or just a searching soul, closer to what it means to be “perfect” in this world. This book is for more than pastors.
It is for those seeking a closer walk with God and feel a calling to lead His people.
DELUSION Book #1 Growing Up in an Amish-Jewish Cult By
Patricia Hochstetler ISBN 978-0-9787316-4-9 Baker Trittin Press www.bakertrittinpress.com Reviewer Carolyn R Schiedies
Patricia had little say when her father decided to join an off-shoot
of the Amish community led by a man who seemed to speak with the voice of God. But when the families in the community had
cut themselves off from the outside world, the idealistic community became anything but paradise.
Fearing both their leader who controlled every aspect of their lives
and the God he claimed to speak for, those in the community did things they would have never done if not mesmerized, controlled
and deluded. Patricia, whose name was changed to Lois, began to grow up in this dysfunctional community, fearing the leader
and fearing the God he served. What happens when the dream becomes a nightmare?
This true account is the first of a trilogy exposing the dangers of cults
and how they tear those entrapped to pieces. I am looking forward to the next step in Patricia's journey.
PHILIPPIANS AND COLOSSIANS An Ironside Expository Commentary By
H.A. Ironside ISBN 13: 978-0-8254-2920-0 Kregel Academic & Professional Reviewer Michelle Levigne
Biblical insight and wisdom is truly ageless, as this Bible commentary,
originally published in 1920, clearly proves. Taking only a few verses at a time, H.A. Ironside expounds on the background
of the Apostle Paul in relation to his readers, his circumstances, and the events surrounding the writing of the two epistles.
Then, he expands on the meanings of key words and phrases, giving new insight into application of Paul’s teaching, and
the challenge and joy of living the Christian life. It is interesting that the author makes references to various cults and
schisms that were causing the Church and Biblical scholarship trouble back in his day, and these same groups or their philosophical
heirs are causing the same problems today.
This book is meant to be taken in small bites, just like the lessons
deal with only a few verses at a time. There is a lot to think about. The old-fashioned language is lovely to read, just for
the poetry or music of Ironside’s style. For some, that might get in the way of understanding what is being taught.
For others, just appreciating the lovely language might slow down comprehension. So read it again. Or a third time. It will
be well worth it.
MOUNTAIN IN MY REARVIEW MIRROR A Guide to overcoming Overwhelming
Obstacles By Bill Butterworth ISBN 978-1-4143-1567-6 Tyndale House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Have you read books on how to deal with major disasters from someone
who doesn't really have a clue? This isn't one of them. Butterworth knows what it means to be slammed, to feel like the mountain
is falling and there is nothing a person can do to stop it. His divorce came at a time he taught about marriage and had no
clue his own was disintegrating. His whole world, his identity, even how he earned his living was tied up in living for God,
being a man of God, which meant being a good and faithful husband. But though Butterworth never goes into much gritty details
about why the marriage failed, he is clear about the devastation it had on his life and that of his children. If there is
one thing he learned it was that healing doesn't come from quick fixes or without heartache and time.
Butterworth doesn't try to sooth or convince with platitudes and nice-sounding,
easily accomplished “To do” lists of overcoming. His book is written from where he's been, his journey and where
he's going. It is a journey of pain and faith, healing and hope.
Using stories from his own life, Butterworth pulls out practical applications,
and often not the most obvious. This book provides a starting point for hope, for rebuilding a shattered dream, life, or relationship.
It sure isn't about keeping that “stiff upper lip” or refusing to acknowledge need.
In fact, he shows the first steps to healing are to acknowledge disparate
need and powerlessness before the Lord. We need to realize our situation isn't about us and that the battle is God's
and we can't fight it successfully on our own. It also means we need to worship Him and trust him enough to do things in His
timing, His way and use patience—no matter what. If we cling to Christ, we will know blessing in His time.
Though a small, easy to read volume, MOUNTAIN IN MY REARVIEW MIRROR is
uplifting and well worth the read. Also makes a great gift for a hurting friend.
TAX DECDUCTIONS A TO Z (Writers, Artists and Performers) By Anne Skalka,
CPA with Janice Beth Gregg ISBN 978-1-933672-17-5 Boxed Books inc. http://www.TaxDeductionsAtoZ.com Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
As authors we have to face taxes every year on our writing, our computer,
our supplies, on books bought and sold, maybe on a home office. I find all the hoops we're forced to go through so the government
can squeeze the last little bit of our profit from us frustrating and overwhelming. While this book isn't the end all in information,
it does put things in alphabetical order from property tax to postage, from that briefcase to book promotions.
Easy to find, with easy to understand information, this book just might
be what you need to help you figure out about those deductions. The time to get this one is now. (Includes a handy log for
expenses.)
HOPE AFTER BETRAYAL Healing When Sexual Addiction Invades Your
Marriage By Meg Wilson ISBN 978-0-8254-3935-3 Kregel Publications Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Meg Wilson was drawn into starting Healing Hearts Ministry at her church
for women struggling to survive their husband’s sexual addictions. Her world is rocked when she finds herself relying
on the women she’d offered to help; living in her own nightmare of betrayal.
In HOPE AFTER BETRAYAL, Meg uses her story, and the stories of others,
to lead hurting women to the True Healer. She takes the reader from the horror of discovery into steps of healing using God’s
word as medicine. Through journaling, support groups, scripture, and prayer, Meg shows us it is possible to survive and move
one, even to forgive after betrayal.
Meg Wilson has written an invaluable and practical guide to dealing with
something horrifying enough to throw even the strongest of women into despair. HOPE AFTER BETRAYAL should be on every counselor’s
bookshelf.
CULTURE SHIFT Engaging Current Issues with Timeless Truth By R
Albert Mohler Jr. ISBN 978-1-59052-974-4 Multnomah Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Though compact, this small volume offers a wealth of information for
Christians engaging their culture and raising children in a very post-Christian era. Make no mistake, we live in a post Christian
era. Mohler deals with the issues that touch our lives: morality and politics, science and theology, dishonesty, abortion
and more.
The author shows how ultrasound technology has changed the abortion landscape.
No longer can pro-abortionists claim a fetus is not a baby. The technology has saved the lives of untold babies and
kept mothers from a lifetime of regret. The change is so significant that pro-abortionists want to ban pro-life clinics from
using it.
Truth has become a casualty of our culture until those who insist on
truth are considered old fashion and out of the mainstream. These are just some of the issues dealt with in a practical and
scriptural way.
My copy is underlined and ripe with notes. I'm keeping this volume. It
will probably be a resource for any number of my newspaper columns in the new year. This one is a winner.
INSIDE PRINCE CASPIAN A Guide to Exploring the Return to Narnia By
Devin Brown ISBN 978-0-8010-6802-7 Baker Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I was anxious to read this book and excited about having the opportunity
to do so. I've been a fan of the Narnia series since I first read it, it won't say how many years ago. Our children were brought
up on the books. In fact, every Winter from the time they were toddlers to long after they were in elementary school, our
children enjoyed returning to Narnia as we read through the books together.
This book is no shallow analysis of the story. It is a thoughtful presentation
of both the deeper and wider meaning of Lewis's story. He brings in samples from other books of the series, from the Lord
of the Rings trilogy as well as other classic references. It is a well-balanced and readable volume that enhances the PRINCE
CASPIAN story. For this analysis alone, the book is worth reading.
There is added benefit. The writer and teacher will find this book invaluable
at a whole other level. INSIDE PRINCE CASPIAN delves into the development of character, the arc of storytelling that provides
insight into Lewis' ability to give fiction, especially fantasy, solid believable roots. The author reveals the figure eight
plot structure and how to mesh two narrative strands. This book is a great “how he did it” revealing in depth
how Lewis manages the magic of a story that endures to become a classic.
This book is a winner on so many levels. Great book to read before the
PRINCE CASPIAN movie is released.
THE INVISIBLE WAR What Every Believer Needs to Know About Satan, Demons
& Spiritual Warfare By Chip Ingram ISBN 978-0-8010-188-4 Baker Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This is the book along with the Bible, of course, that will help you
battle the enemy Satan and win. The author lays the groundwork for the battle, shows that it is real and how we can put on
the armor to defeat the enemy who seeks to destroy us and everyone around us.
The author reveals the myths that many, even Christians, have bought
into, shining the light of truth on them and shows how we can steer clear by knowing Christ and by following practical, Biblical
principles. Take for example the idea that love is a feeling. On page 129, the author says, “Love is not a feeling;
it is giving someone what he or she needs most when it is least deserved.”
Satan is defeated, not by using his methods, but on the power that comes
only from God...and God is power, God is love and God is good. This book should be a must-read for today's Christian.
PUTTING JESUS IN HIS PLACE: THE CASE FOR THE DEITY OF CHRIST The Case
for the Deity of Christ By Robert M. Bowman Jr. and J. Ed Komoszewski ISBN 10: 0825429838 ISBN 13: 978-0-8245-2983-5 Kregel
Publications Reviewer: Sarah Sawyer
Who was Jesus? Our culture today has a plethora of answers for this question,
most of which do not even consider what the Bible teaches. In contrast, PUTTING JESUS IN HIS PLACE provides a clear, reasoned
argument for the deity of Christ based on Scripture that counters many of the arguments put forward by both scholars and the
culture at large.
Using the acronym HANDS, five lines of argument are advanced and then
summed up at the end to provide a cohesive biblical analysis of the nature of Christ. Using both Scripture and scholarly research,
Bowman and Komoszewski show that Jesus shares the Honors due to God, the Attributes of God, the Names of God, the Deeds of
God, and the Seat of God’s throne (HANDS) and explain how these factors prove the deity of Christ.
Not only does PUTTING JESUS IN HIS PLACE offer sound analysis, but it
also provides a clear layout that lends itself to study and understanding of this topic. For those who desire to delve deeper,
extensive end notes are provided. Tables given both at the end and throughout the book, along with an index of the many Scriptures
used in the book give easy reference tools.
While deep and complex, this book does not get bogged down in theological
or scholarly terms, but rather it is accessible to any who desire a clearer picture of who Christ is. PUTTING JESUS IN HIS
PLACE provides more than just Biblical, scholarly proof for the divinity of Jesus, it extends the reminder that life is short
and what we choose to believe on this question will impact our lives for all eternity. And that is the most valuable point
of all.
Faith content: High
THE NEXT LEVEL A Parable of Finding Your Place in Life By David
Gregory ISBN 978-1-4000-7243-9 Waterbrook Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Logan enters the work force as an organizational analyst. Only he didn't
figure on the strange way the company was organized. His job was to figure out the problems at each level and report back
to the Director once he finished each level. Along the way, Logan learns some very interesting things about organization,
the company and his life's purpose.
This is a small, easy to read book and would be easy to dismiss, if it
didn't so accurately portray how many misunderstand their purpose in life. Great discussion starter.
HOW DID I GET SO BUSY? The 28-Day Plan to Free Your
Time, Reclaim Your Schedule, and Reconnect with What Matters Most By Valorie Burton ISBN 10: 1-4000-7319-7 ISBN 13:
978-1-4000-7319-1 Waterbrook Press Reviewer Michelle Levigne
This is the perfect book to start the New Year with. The
title says it all. If you’re like me, you get through the week by dropping things on your “weekend” pile/list
– and when you get to the weekend, it’s gone, lost under the to-do pile/list before you clock out on Friday evening.
Chopped into 28 days of readings and exercises-- don’t
panic, these are short, and actually help you reduce your to-do list instead of adding to it--Valorie Burton walks you through
discussions of how you got to where you are, what your possible motivators and problems are, and how to prioritize and figure
out what you really want to do and need to do, as opposed to what you “gotta” do. As a reformed “sinner”
herself, she tells pieces of her life story that everyone who struggles with too much to do can relate to. She even adds some
scripture to each day’s lesson to apply to your life. This is a book about your spiritual and emotional health, not
just uncluttering your schedule.
One interesting lesson--being busy does not equal being
productive, or fruitful. Which would you rather be? Which would God rather you be?
365 FUN KNOCK-KNOCK JOKES Perpetual Calendar ISBN
978-1-59789-949-9 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
We all know someone, probably more than one, who delights
in telling the most awful jokes. And still we laugh. 365 FUN KNOCK-KNOCK JOKES gives the joksters a whole year of knock-knock
jokes to share, many of which, I admit, will make you groan.
Example from December 1st. Knock, Knock. Who's there? Snow.
Snow who? Snow skating today—the ice is thin.
This is a perpetual calendar that will not be out of date
any time soon—or ever. Want to start your day with a joke? Check out 365 FUN KNOCK-KNOCK JOKES and enjoy.
CREATING STORIES THAT CONNECT A Pastor's Guide to Storytelling By
D. Bruce Seymour ISBN 978-0-8254-3471-0 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I was interested in this book, thinking I'd read it, review
it and check it out as a possible gift for my pastor. What I discovered was a book that is invaluable to me and other authors
on what a story is, what it does, the parts of the story and how to put these pieces parts together to form an effective story.
The author deconstructs the story, especially the parable
form, then shows us through information and actual stories how to construct stories that inform, educate, unify, share, explain,
teach, or whatever the author seeks to convey through the story told.
While the author's focus is in helping pastors, this book
is a valuable guide to authors as well. In fact, this small volume contains so much good, solid information, my copy was marked
with highlighter and my own insights by the time I finished. Though I've written and published for years, this book taught
me some new things about the story.
This book is also invaluable for those who believe fiction
has no place in a Christian setting. As the author points out, Jesus told stories to get his points across. I usually tell
others, non-fiction tells us how; fiction shows us through practical application.
Run, don't walk to get your copy of this book, for yourself...and
for your pastor.
8 STEPS TO CREAT E THE LIFE YOU WANT (Print) Anatomy
of a Successful Life By Creflo A. Dollar ISBN-10: 0-446-48070-8 ISBN-13: 97-0-446-58070-0 Faith Words Reviewer
Kay Tira
A bit leery of a potential name-it-claim-it and prosperity
imbalance, I read Dr. Creflo A. Dollar’s 8 STEPS TO CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT with a critical eye and Scripture in hand.
However, I found Dollar’s book filled with sound, Biblical principles, and an overall encouragement to make God’s
Word the final authority in life. Dr. Dollar stresses that doing so will allow God’s Word to produce in us thoughts,
emotions, decisions, actions, healthy habits and godly character. No disagreement there. He stresses a resulting freedom to
live life with the confidence that God will take care of the rest.
Dr. Dollar includes a recap of each chapter, along with
scriptural basis and practical application through journaling.
Challenged and convicted by God’s Spirit to address
the areas Dollar outlines (my words, thinking, emotions, etc.), I found 8 STEPS TO CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT to be quality,
recommended reading.
8 STEPS TO CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT
(Audiobook) By Creflo A. Dollar ISBN-10: 0-60024-064-X ISBN-13: 978-0-60024-064-X Hachette Audio Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
Dollar lays a foundation by making it clear Christianity
is much more than simply standing on a promise and expecting God to answer our demands just because we make them. God is not
about “naming and claiming.” He is much more than our personal magician. He also is clear that we need to make
our decisions not with a base of emotion, but on the base of God's Word.
We know abundant life, he says, when we base our actions
on the Word of God and love of God. We need to strive for purity in what we put into our minds. With a solid foundation in
Scripture, Dollar leads us step by step into how we can have the abundant life God promised His children.
NEBRASKA KITCHEN COOKBOOK ISBN 978-0978936402 Nebraska
Life Publishing http://www.nebraskalife.com Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I admit to not being much of a cook. However, I love this
cookbook. True, as an historian, I enjoyed reading how each recipe came to Nebraska. One recipe even hails back to the 15th
Century.
The recipes are an eclectic mix from main dishes to dessert
and everything in between. Each recipe has a full color photo of what the product SHOULD look like. (My creations seldom look
like they should.) Whether or not you have Nebraska ties, if you like food, if you like to cook, you'll like this offering
from Nebraska Life Magazine.
101 BIBLE CROSSWORDS Vol. 1 Created by N Teri
Grottke and David K Shortess ISBN 978-1-59310-883-0 Barbour Publishing Reviewer Michelle Levigne
It has been years since I worked on crossword puzzles –
and then, most often it was helping my father work the puzzle in the paper. I enjoyed the puzzles that I worked on, and they
didn’t take too much time and effort. Translated: No excuse to put the book down and leave it for later.
These puzzles have the benefit of touching on familiar
territory – the Bible. Think of it as a private Bible Drill. Sometimes you have to look up the referenced verse, other
times you know what the answer is. And for those times where you don’t have the specific translation in the reference
or you’re not quite sure of the word, you can either guess, or wait until the words intersecting that one fill in. Most
of the questions and answers refer to the King James translation, but the puzzles also draw on the NIV and several others.
That could be a problem if you don’t have an extensive Biblical library in your house. Or, take it as a challenge and
an excuse to visit your local Christian bookstore.
The nice thing about crossword puzzles is that you can
work them alone, or with a partner, or even with a group. Enjoy this book, and take advantage of a chance to test your knowledge,
and expand it at the same time.
THE ONE YEAR® WOMEN OF THE BIBLE By Dianne Neal
Matthews ISBN 10: 1-4143-1194-X ISBN 13: 978-1-4143-1194-4 Tyndale House Publishers Reviewer Michelle Levigne
I like the words on the back: Do-Able. Daily. Devotions.
Start Any Day The One Year Way.
Divided up into small bites, with a scripture passage,
a contemporary story that ties into it, and a scripture quote at the end, this book is about women, for women. Sort of your
daily spiritual vitamins. This is something that will prod you to think more deeply and apply to yourself a passage in Scripture
that you’ve probably read a dozen times and never really thought about.
Sometimes the woman of the Bible being focused on takes
a week of devotionals, such as the story of Esther or Ruth and Naomi. Other times, just one day. Some of the women have no
names, just a label depending on the story, such as the Widow of Nain. Sometimes the example is negative, such as the woman
prophet who opposed Nehemiah’s project to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Their stories were still important enough to mention them
in the Bible, so we need to know about them and learn from them. It’s interesting to see the important, though often
overlooked, role that women played throughout the entire Bible and course of Jewish and Christian history. I liked the observation
that Priscilla was probably mentioned first when talking about Priscilla and Aquila, because she was most likely the stronger
personality in the marriage.
Dianne Matthews provides interesting insights to make us
think. For this review, I read this book in large chunks, a few weeks at every sitting. I look forward to reading one day
at a time and devoting more time to each thought and story during the next year. Faith element: High
NAKED ON GOD'S
DOORSTEP
A Memoir
By Marion Duckworth
ISBN 978-1-59052-956-0
Multnomah
Marion felt abandoned
as a child when her father left her, but not through death, divorce or desertion. Due to mental illness, he had to be put
in a home. Young Marion didn't understand why her father couldn't decide to be OK, come home and be the father she needed.
She felt a disparate need to please her mother, also in ill health, fearing she might otherwise lose her as well. What she
didn't see where the many ways God the Father was there even when she didn't know Him or what she was looking for until later
in life. She didn't know her true father.
Marion's
story is the story of many women who grow up with holes in their lives and hearts from abandonment or abuse. Over the years,
God has used her story to help other women around the country find wholeness in Him and with good reason. This is not a “I
found Christ, now everything is fine” story. It is a story of a woman struggling with hurts from her past finding healing
as she learns and grows in her walk of faith. A book to give a friend struggling with hurts.
YOUTH RELATED
ISSUES, Vol. 2
Sermon Outline
Series
By Charles R.
Wood
ISBN 13: 978-0-8254-4176-9
Kregel Publications
Reviewer Michelle
Levigne
Anyone who has
to come up with a speech or paper will agree that the outline is sometimes even more important than the research. Nothing
makes sense until you know where you’re starting, where you want to end up, and how you plan to get there. The author,
along with his son, a former youth pastor, presents 30 sermon outlines in a clear format that the speaker can then “personalize”
to the audience and situation. The introduction and conclusion provide the starting and ending points to guide the path of
thought. I was a little daunted when I opened up the book, wondering how anyone could use someone else’s outline for
a sermon or lesson. Then I read the outlines and everything made sense.
Quite a few of
the lessons focus on the Prodigal Sons – that’s right, sons, plural. Because when you think about it, both sons
had attitude problems and needed to learn something and be forgiven. The sinners and the self-righteous. And don’t we
have both in our youth groups? Other topics covered in more than one lesson include temptation, forgiveness, controlling the
tongue, friendship (good and bad) and hardness of heart. I look forward to giving this book to the youth pastor at our church.
I’m sure he’ll be interested in using it – if he doesn’t have a copy already.
SKYDIVING FOR
PARENTS
Raising Amazing
Kids Without Going into Free Fall
By Jane Bullivant
ISBN 10: 0-8254-6124-3
ISBN 13: 978-0-8254-6124-8
Monarch Books
Reviewer Cynthia
Hickey
Skydiving is
an apt description of parenting. In today’s world, you need a license for everything, except being a parent. In SKYDIVING
FOR PARENTS, Jane Bullivant uses humor, discipline, wisdom, and God’s word to give parents the tools necessary to live
life, not just live.
The reader is
given useful tools to enable them to connect with their children, even in today’s fast-paced world. Is it really necessary
for your child to have out-of-home activities every night of the week? How can a parent raise a well-rounded child without
overbooking the schedule? How does a parent prioritize what is really important?
Jane Bullivant
helps answer these questions and more. SKYDIVING FOR PARENTS is a useful and fun guide to parenting.
Faith scale –
low but appropriate.
DETHRONING JESUS Exposing popular culture’s quest
to unseat the Biblical Christ By Darrell L. Bock & Daniel B. Wallace ISBN 10:0-7852-2615-X ISBN 13:978-0-7852-2615-4 Thomas
Nelson Publishers Reviewer Kay Tira
Taking a close, critical look at recent trends in religious
perspective, authors Darrell L. Bock, Ph.D., and Daniel B. Wallace, Ph.D., provide effective arguments in the discussion of
Christianity vs. what they’ve coined as “Jesusanity.”
The premise of their book, DETHRONING JESUS, is that two
contrasting views of early Christianity are prevalent in our culture. One, Christianity, takes into account the anointing
of the Messiah and the salvation provision of Jesus, whereas the other, Jesusanity, lends itself strictly to the human, leader,
teacher aspect of Jesus. These two perspectives are worlds apart, and deserve the close attention the authors provide.
With academic flair in Christian theology and apologetics,
Bock and Wallace offer simplicity in their arguments refuting six claims. These claims boast of corruption by copyists, secret
Gnostic gospels, a newly revealed “hybrid” Gospel of Thomas, a political and social focus challenging global powers,
and the denial of a physical departure at the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The author duo exposes the cultural efforts to dethrone
the Biblical Christ, to focus on minor issues at the cost of major issues, and challenges the reader to look critically at
current paradigms. While not leisure reading, Bock’s and Wallace’s work in DETHRONING JESUS is captivating, well
researched, and recommended.
101 CUPS OF WATER Relief and Refreshment for the Tired,
Thirsty Soul By C D Baker ISBN 10: 1-4000-7399-5 ISBN 13: 978-1-4000-7399-3 WaterBrook Press Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
101 CUPS OF WATER is a book of devotional vignettes that
draw us closer to God. After all, faith isn't about using God to make us feel better or to lift us up, but faith is something
that should be focused in Christ. Submission is the place we need to be.
I found my self marking pages and underlining passages
that spoke to me in new and fresh ways.
While scripture is used throughout the book, I would have
liked a scripture passage for each reading. Other than that omission, I found the book inspiring and faith building.
HOW WOULD JESUS VOTE A Christian Perspective on the
Issues By Dr. D. James Kennedy & Jerry Newcombe ISBN 10: 1-4000-7406-1 ISBN 13: 978-1-4000-7406-8 WaterBrook
Press Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Though I have great respect for the late Dr. Kennedy, I
had misgivings about this book. I didn't need to. The authors do not spend time trying to destroy either party. They do go
to the Word and share the basics of Christianity and how that should influence us as we decide for whom to vote. God is for
life. God is for truth and righteousness. He is for families and marriage. In a clear, concise format, the authors deal with
the issues of the day and seek to give historical context as well as a scriptural basis for their conclusions. A insightful
read I hope is repackaged after the election to reach a wider audience.
KNIT TOGETHER (AudioBook) Discover God's
Pattern for Your Life By Debbie Macomber ISBN 10: 1-59483-945-X ISBN 13: 978-1-59483-945-0 Hachette Book Group Reviewer
Rachel Farlin
KNIT TOGETHER (audio) is an undemanding way to explore
what God’s purposes for human lives can be. Have you ever dreamed about being something, but never thought it was possible?
Debbie Macomber explores the routes she took to becoming a writer and all the obstacles standing in her path. In telling about
those experiences, she is able to explore the purposes God had and continues to have for her life.
In this book, Debbie Macomber talks about her dreams and
how time after time God, through her perseverance, allowed them to be realized or another dream substituted. She uses scripture
throughout her book to show ways God’s purposes can be seen in his word. In listening, I began to be challenged to process
and think about my own life and goals I want for myself. It is a book that allows you to examine your life in a straightforward
fashion.
As Debbie Macomber goes through different purposes, she
uses examples and anecdotes from her own life. Some made me laugh, some made me ponder, some seemed more applicable to my
life, and some seemed they would only work for her. Through the laughter and the stories, Debbie Macomber does bring some
jewels of thought to be analyzed and utilized.
THE JOY OF FELLOWSHIP A Study of First John By
J. Dwight Pentecost ISBN 978-0-8254-3468-6 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
1 John is one of my favorite books of the Bible. I have
read it numerous times, studied it and even memorized it a few years ago. There is so much in this short book that I couldn't
wait to study it one more time using THE JOY OF FELLOWSHIP.
The author divides the book up into manageable bites as
he focuses on the messages conveyed. The author delves into the study of 1 John and its message of fellowship with God and
others with a readable style of writing and with insightful questions at the end of each chapter.
There is no fear in love, and this study connects love
and fellowship and a heart for God in an easy to study book. Faith element: High. Excellent resource.
UNSEEN FOOTPRINTS Encountering the Divine Along
the Journey of Life By Sheridan Vosey ISBN 978-0-8254-6168-2 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This is not the book for those smug in their faith, their
beliefs or unbelief. This is a book for those willing to think, search, find truth, for those willing to find the divine presence
in strange places, for those willing to look beyond the “God in a box” mentality of so many today, both within
the Christian community and without.
The author, instead, leads us on a journey of discovery,
of finding out God is so much more than we ever imagined. The journey to Christ is not pat, nor simple, nor shallow—or
shouldn't be. Our real journey is challenging because encountering the real Christ means change and, most of all, it means
surrender.
Have someone who has turned their back on Christ
(and organized religion) because of cultural influences, of those playing church, of educational influences? This is the book
to hand them. Then stand back, ready to answer the questions as their journey begins.
NEW DAY NEW YOU (AudioBook) By Joyce Meyer ISBN 10: 1-60024-034-8 ISBN 13: 978-1-60024-034-8 Hachette
Book Group Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I have enjoyed Joyce Meyer for sometime and this AudioBook version of her words is no exception.
As always, no matter what subject Joyce addresses (and she touches on many that greatly impact our lives), she brings us back
to Scripture and back to God. There is something not only challenging about her words, but also restful and comforting, knowing
that after all, it is all in His control. Recommended.
THRILLED TO DEATH By Dr. Archibald D. Hart ISBN 978-0-8499-1852-0 Thomas Nelson Publishers Reviewer
Cynthia Hickey
In today’s society, pleasure becomes more difficult to obtain. And, when we do feel
we’ve obtained the elusive gem, it isn’t enough, spurring us into the search for more, bigger, better. Thus leading
us into an addiction to chasing pleasure.
In THRILLED TO DEATH, Dr. Hart explains the reasons pleasure is so often unobtainable and
gives us insightful tips, along with possible medical explanations for why we often feel this way.
Dr. Hart shows us ways to enjoy the simple things in each day. Our child’s smile, God’s
glorious sunset, the feeling of a job well-done. Slow down, fix yourself a glass of your favorite beverage and learn what
pleasure really is.
ANY DAY WITH HAIR IS A GOOD HAIR DAY By Michelle Rapkin ISBN 978-1-59995-705-0 Center
Street Publisher Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Never complain about having a bad hair day again! Michelle Rapkin has brought cancer victims
a down-to-earth practical guide to living through the difficult days of chemo and recovery. With practical tips for pre-baldness
to hair growing back, this book will walk you through each step, interjecting a touch of humor in what could otherwise be
a bleak period in someone's life.
Cancer victims need never suffer alone. ANY DAY WITH HAIR IS A GOOD HAIR DAY
not only tells the reader of the bad side-effects to expect, but the glorious results of surviving This book should be handed
by a doctor to every cancer patient they encounter. What a well-done way to help someone through a traumatic experience.
ANA'S STORY: A JOURNEY OF HOPE By Jenna Bush ISBN
978-0-06-137908-6 HarperCollins Children's Books Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Ana had a secret, a secret her grandmother, with whom
she lived, told her to keep no matter what. The secret, she was HIV positive and both her parents died of AIDS. Her illness
is just the first of secrets that binds Anna as she grows up in a Latin American country.
A continuing story of heartbreak and triumph for Ana,
and others like her, who live with HIV. A compelling narrative that draws in the reader and makes each of us ask, “What
can I do?”
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: INSIGHT EDITION By Jane Austen ISBN-10:
0-7642-0388-6 ISBN-13: 978-0-7642-0388-6 Bethany House Publishers Reviewer Sarah Sawyer
The enduring classic PRIDE AND PREJUDICE has received new life with
Bethany House’s Insight Edition. For those unfamiliar with the story, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE follows the life of the Bennet
family in Regency era England, focusing in particular on the complicated love relationships of Jane and Elizabeth, the two
oldest daughters in a family of five girls. The Bennet estate will be entailed away one day and before that day comes, Mrs.
Bennet is determined to find husbands – preferably wealthy ones – for her daughters.
The whole family is richly drawn, but Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy take center
stage as they overcome their pride, their prejudice, and their family’s peculiarities to find love with one another.
The novel explores social and family life with wit and humor while at the same time chronicling the sweet and enduring love
stories of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, and Jane and Mr. Bingley.
The Bethany House edition focuses on enhancing reader enjoyment of the
classic story by means of notes on topics from faith themes to historical details and by discussion questions in the back
of the book. For those who have long enjoyed PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, the sidenotes will provide new twists on the novel, and
give the feel of sharing the story will a fellow Austen fan. For new Austen readers, the notes will allow greater understanding
of the characters and the time period in which they lived. And for book clubs, the discussion questions will provide an excellent
starting point to delve deeper into this classic. In short, there is something here for everyone, and this edition succeeds
in its mission of providing an enhanced, enjoyable read.
FEAR NO EVIL Shining God's Light on the Forces of Darkness By
Steve Russo ISBN 10: 0-7642-0455-6 ISBN 13: 978-0-7642-0455-5 Bethany House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
In a culture fascinated by the occult, symbols of paganism, New Age
and the Occult are injected into the media, books, TV shows—even those aimed at children. Even children from Christian
families can be drawn in to Satan's lair, and make no mistake, dabbling in these things is a trap that separates from God,
from truth, from hope and from a future with our Heavenly Father.
Russo takes no prisoners as he hits the subject head on explaining the
problem in the first part of the book. Some chapter titles are: Satan's Targets; Do You Know Your Enemy; The Battle for Your
Mind; Paganism, Wicca and Witchcraft; Satanism, New Age and the Occult. He shares how we can defeat Satan in the latter chapters,
some of which are: Take Control; Our Defender; Combat Ready; Choose Your Weapons and Freedom From the Power of Darkness.
Included are appendixes of Satanic/Occult symbols, holidays and terms.
If you want to be prepared to meet this assault on our families head
on, read this book. The writing is easy to understand, the author very knowledgeable, and the information is invaluable. Recommended
for families with older children and for church youth programs...or anyone dealing with this topic.
YOU'RE ALL THAT (AudioBook) Understand God's Design for Your Life By
Paula White ISBN 10: 1-60024-032-1 ISBN 13: 978-1-60024-032-4 Hachette Book Group Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Her father was her whole world, a world that collapsed when he committed
suicide, leaving Paula without security or safety. When Christ beckoned, she pictured herself running to Him and throwing
herself into His arms where He held her as her father once had. Paul learned to replace negative, destructive memories, deliberately,
with images such as the one above.
Paul White repackages some of the things many of us have heard, but
maybe out of fear not quite accepted for our own lives. While we can't always control what happens to us, we can choose how
we will respond. We can also change our responses to our past through choosing to put something positive in place of a negative
memory. Through anecdotes and stories of her life as well as practical application suggestions, Paula shows us how we can
come to know who we are, become the best we can be and live confident lives.
THE PREACHER AND THE PRESIDENTS (A second review.) Billy Graham
in the White House By Nancy Gibbs and Michael Duffy ISBN-10: 1-59995-734-5 ISBN-13: 978-1-59995-734-0 Center Street,
a division of Hachette Book Group USA Reviewer Kay Tira
Providing amazing coverage of Evangelist Billy Graham’s interactions
with U.S. leaders from Truman through Bush, THE PREACHER AND THE PRESIDENTS captures glimpses of history and humanity. Reading
Gibbs’ and Duffy’s book was like taking a walk through four generations, and getting a nice taste of politics,
history, and the impact of a godly man’s influence on our nation.
It’s amazing to realize the opportunities and access Billy Graham
had with presidential elections and key officials throughout his lifetime. A man of integrity and humility, Graham experienced
temptations and struggles in his political and religious interactions, but played a part in nearly every presidential election
over a near-50-year span. His friendships and spiritual counsel with the presidents of our nation are impressive.
Nancy Gibbs and Michael Duffy did an outstanding job of researching
and presenting the story of THE PREACHER AND THE PRESIDENTS. A great gift for pastors, history or political buffs, or the
general populace, this book is an enjoyable and informative experience.
THE HOMESCHOOLER'S BOOK OF LISTS (With CD) By Sonya Haskins ISBN 10: 0-7642-0443-2 ISBN
13: 978-0-7642-0443-2 Bethany House
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Wow! That's all I can say about this book of encyclopedia information. There isn't much you
won't find in this book from historical information to computer definitions. The text covers almost every area of study and
lots of extras for those who choose to home school. I wish this book would have been available last year when my daughter-in-law
homeschooled our oldest grandchild. It would have saved so much work.
Trying to collect the information, charts and lists in this work would take an enormous amount
of time. Yet, it is here in THE HOMESCHOOLER'S BOOK OF LISTS. Further, a CD is included to make accessing the information
even easier. While this book should be on the shelves of every parent who homeschools, the value of this book goes far beyond
the home school market. I'd recommend this book for regular schools as well. That isn't all. Authors will find this book a
valuable resource.
Exceptionally well done.
MOMENTS OF PEACE FROM THE PSALMS ISBN 10: 0-7642-0420-3 ISBN 13: 978-0-7642-0420-3 Bethany
House Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I am a naturally quick reader and usually this isn't a problem as I read through book after
book. However, there are times I wish I could take time to savor a book instead of zipping through it because I can't wait
three or ten months to review a book.
MOMENTS OF PEACE FROM THE PSALMS is one such book. The book fits the hand nicely and the devotionals
are pertinent to life's journey. The passages and vivid photographs capture the essence of the passage as well as the heart
of the reader. What a beautiful way to begin a day—with Scripture, a short reading and a breath-taking illustrative
photo that draws us to God.
This book will definitely be added to my list for what to get for friends/family for Christmas.
I’LL BRING THE CHOCOLATE Satisfying a Woman’s Craving for Friendship and
Faith By Karen Porter ISBN 13: 978-1-59052-957-7 Multnomah Reviewer: Michelle Levigne
Face it – men just don’t understand the physical and psychological and spiritual
need for chocolate in women’s lives. But other women do. Especially the friends who, as Karen Porter explains in this
book, act in our lives as chocolate does in all its luscious, fun, satisfying forms.
Sprinkled with touching incidents from her life and the lives of others, this book explores
ways to find, salvage, and nourish the friendships that women need even more than chocolate. Each chapter is sprinkled with
amusing quotes about chocolate, and ends with thought-provoking pieces: “Bringing the Chocolate,” questions and
activities; a little prayer; “Offering Chocolate to My Friend,” a statement that sums up the chapter; and (yum!)
a chocolate recipe.
Finally, a way to indulge in all the benefits of chocolate without packing on the calories.
Only another woman could understand the many layers and implications of chocolate in a woman’s life, and explain it
so clearly. And make it fun. Read this for yourself, give it to a friend. And maybe if the man in your life reads it, he’ll
understand a little better exactly why chocolate is always the perfect gift.
THE TEN MINUTE MARRIAGE PRINCIPLE Quick, Daily Steps for Refreshing Your Relationship By
Douglas Weiss, PhD ISBN 10: 0-446-69810-5 ISBN 13: 978-0-446-69810-8 Faith Words Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
THE TEN-MINUTE MARRIAGE PRINCIPLE is a simple to follow and easily understood guide that helps
couples strengthen their marriage. Dr. Weiss compares marriage to a muscle that needs toning and exercise.
Weiss gives real-life examples of couples who have successfully applied his principle of giving
ten-minutes a day to rejuvenating and energizing marriage. These couples fell in-love with their spouses all over again, making
their marriages stronger and better than before.
As I started the book, I had certain misgivings. How can someone heal a marriage in only ten-minutes
a day? In layman terms, Dr. Weiss does exactly that. I found myself eagerly reading the next chapter and planning how I could
use his suggestions in my own marriage, even going so far as to share the information with my married children.
With fun exercises, tips for communication and dating, Dr. Weiss’s TEN-MINUTE MARRIAGE
PRINCIPLE can make a difference in the marriage of couples willing to devote the short amount of time this plan requires.
IDEAS FOR WRITING CREATIVE CHRISTMAS LETTERS That People are Actually Eager to Read By
Janet Colbrunn ISBN 10: 0-9790708-0-5 ISBN 13: 978-0-9790708-0-8 BayCourt Publishing www.writingcreativechristmasletters.com Reviewer Michelle Levigne
Dread no more the “dreaded Christmas newsletter.” Neither those who feel duty-bound
to write that newsy Christmas letter, nor those who receive the letters, have anything to fear, thanks to this helpful, imaginative
handbook.
Mrs. Colbrunn gives ideas and themes for newsletters, the basics of organizing by theme, and
examples from her own family’s Christmas letters. Did your family go through major changes, such as new homes or renovations,
during the year?
Write your Christmas newsletter like a help wanted ad. Or create a Top Ten list or a Book
Review page, and make up fun or silly titles and author names to go along with events of the previous year. The ideas were
clever and amusing, including the one where the family took a picture dressed in costumes from a century ago, and then wrote
about the things they wouldn’t have done one hundred years before.
This can be a family project in which everyone can participate. With this book in hand, you
won’t have to live in dread of a chore you feel obligated to fulfill every year or worry about boring friends and relatives
any longer with your Christmas letter. As the author pointed out, IDEAS FOR WRITING CREATIVE CHRISTMAS LETTERS can be a good
way of keeping track of family memories and events in a fun, creative way.
FAT PROOF YOUR FAMILY By J. Ron Eaker, MD ISBN 10: 0-7642-0413-0 ISBN 13: 978-0-7642-0413-5 Bethany
House Publishers Reviewer Michelle Levigne
The subtitle, “God’s way to forming healthy habits for life,” says exactly
what you’ll get inside this book. Which, as Dr. Eaker points out near the end, is what the diet gurus and pill and patch
manufacturers promise but seldom deliver. One disturbing bit of data from the beginning of the book: This may be the first
generation where the children will not live longer than their parents – because growing obesity brings on health problems
and shortens the lifespan.
Basically, healthy living starts in childhood, with family support, the parents setting a
good example in both exercise and eating. It encompasses mental re-adjustments and seeing the whole diet/fitness/health pursuit
from a Biblical perspective. Dr. Eaker talks about what parents need to do to establish good habits for their children –
and the entire family. He talks about mental and emotional aspects, eating habits, eating needs depending on the stage of
life each person is in, and exercise anyone can do.
Each chapter ends with Fat Proof Pointers, to summarize what was discussed and help you imprint
what you just learned. There isn’t a single “week’s menu” or ironclad workout routine in the entire
book. Good news for those of us who’ve tried everything out there, only to find it failed. Your diet and exercise plan
must be tailored to fit YOU, not everybody in your church or school or office building. The bad habits that made us an increasingly
obese nation were built up over time – and the habits that will help us living longer, healthier, more comfortable lives
will take time as well. Read for your life.
MARRIAGE 101: WE HAVE COME THIS FAR BY FAITH and MARRIAGE 101: WORKBOOK By Jewell
R. Powell Book ISBN 13: 978-0-9745528-1-1 Workbook ISBN 13: 978-0-9745528-2-8 Grace Publishing Reviewer: Sarah
Sawyer
MARRIAGE 101 shares the experiences of a couple on the brink of divorce and extrapolates from
them to give some general principles to restore a struggling marriage. Using the Sleeping Beauty tale as a framework, the
author shares her personal story and addresses three key factors that cause problems in marriage – false, unrealistic
expectations, lack of understanding of the Biblical marriage covenant, and a self-centered attitude.
Intermingled with the exploration of these factors and other problematic behaviors, is an
examination of actions that can turn a struggling marriage around, such as submitting to and honoring one’s spouse,
proclaiming and standing on the word of God, resisting the lies and attacks of the devil, and denying self.
A workbook accompanies MARRIAGE 101, offering expanded insights from each chapter, goals for
change, and Scriptures to meditate on along with a host of additional resources for deeper exploration of the material contained
within the chapter. Couples who benefit from the book will find the workbook a profitable experience.
In sum, Powell testifies that there is hope for change in marriages on the brink of disaster
and shares some principles that will help cause that change. The intended audience, couples considering divorce or struggling
in an unhappy marriage, will find in these pages encouragement that rebuilding a marriage is possible.
HOW STRONG WOMEN PRAY By Bonnie St. John ISBN 10: 0-446-57926-2 ISBN 13: 978-0-446-57926-1 Faith
Words Reviewer: Michelle Levigne
The author says in the introduction, “As a whole, this book is a spiritual quilt of
women’s lives you can wrap around yourself.”
Between chapters of Bonnie St. John’s reflections on the struggles, pain and triumphs
of her own life, this book reveals the multitude of ways women of faith reach out to open their spirits to God. Dancing, family
prayer times, private prayer times, curled up, standing, walking, face-to-the-ground. The position, the movement or lack of
it, the sounds don’t matter – what matters is communicating with God. The women who share their hearts and souls
here range from the famous to the not-so-famous. Singers, actresses, political figures, military women, CEOs and the downtrodden
and abused. God listens and speaks to all of them.
The good news is, every woman, no matter how strong her spirituality, struggles to get close
to God and stay close. Learn from their lessons. There’s something for every woman between the covers. And check out
the author’s Web site for a discussion guide at: www.howstrongwomenpray.com
A MAN WORTH WAITING FOR How to Avoid a Bozo By Jackie Kendall ISBN 10: 0-446-69971-3 ISBN
13: 978-0-446-69971-6 FaithWords Reviewer Cassie Scheidies
This book delightfully compares what it looks like to have a man of character as opposed to
a bozo. It takes us to the pages of the book of Ruth and has us look at Boaz as an example of what the Lord aspires women
to look for in a man.
As someone who usually doesn't enjoy reading nonfiction books, it was exciting to read a book
that kept my attention and compared at lot of the points in the book to stories from the author's life as well as life of
family and friends. All in all, I would call this a book worth waiting for.
THE PREACHER AND THE PRESIDENTS Billy Graham in the White House By Nancy Gibbs &
Michael Duffy ISBN 10: 1-59995-734-5 ISBN 13: 978-1-59995-734-0 Center Street Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
This was the work of a great deal of research and the book shows careful detail to facts.
The influence of Billy Graham on a long line of presidents comes through. What also comes through is that, though not a perfect
human being, Billy is also not some plastic or hypocritical saint. He has remained a humble man whose message has never changed—the
real hope of the world is salvation through Jesus Christ.
The man forgives, where I wouldn't, stands beside when I would turn away. While I might not
agree with all of Billy's sentiments (especially regarding the Clintons), who can fault a man whose mission has never wavered.
From the lowest to the highest, Billy preaches a need for the Lord. An intriguing glimpse into a man who has more of an impact
politically that I would have imagined.
WHAT’S IN THE BIBLE FOR WOMEN? By Georgia Curtis Ling and Larry Richards, PhD ISBN-10:
0-7642-0383-5 ISBN-13: 978-0-7642-0383-1 Bethany House Reviewer: Kay Tira
Authors Georgia Curtis Ling and Larry Richards, PhD, teamed up on this attractive book, WHAT’S
IN THE BIBLE FOR WOMEN, Life’s Questions, God’s Answers. Presented topically, the book is a great resource for
Biblical applications in daily life. Quoting from such authors and speakers as Gary Chapman, Joni Eareckson Tada, Luci Swindoll,
Bill Hybels and many others, the duo presents “How Others See It” as part of their clever layout, along with Biblical
examples, practical advice, and real life stories.
The format is user-friendly, providing definitions, resources for further study, and thought-provoking
challenges. Covering everything from hospitality and homemaking to stress and journaling tips, WHAT’S IN THE BIBLE FOR
WOMEN is a great gift idea for young Christians desiring to grow in their faith, or a resource book for leaders. It
offers sound, Biblical wisdom applied to daily life situations. Can’t beat that.
A NEW KIND OF NORMAL Hope-Filled Choices When Life Turns
Upside Down By Carol Kent ISBN 10: 0-8499-0199-5 ISBN 13: 978-0-8499-0199-7 Thomas Nelson Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
How do you deal with the knowledge of your son murdering
someone because he thought his step-daughters were in danger, and being sent to prison with the key thrown away? How do you
console yourself or deal with the idea of good God whom your family served all their lives?
This is no easy-faith book, but a book of struggle, of
dealing with great pain and the question of “Where is God?” when life completely falls apart? It is also a book
of hope.
I've met Carol, heard her speak and was excited to read
this book. Once I began to read, I began to weep and cried throughout much of the book. The stories in the book, Carol's and
those of others, touched me deep inside. Christianity isn't all about pat answers, but a God who is there even in the deepest
pit.
A book wrung out of the pain-filled heart of a Christian
mother who understands the struggle and still, like Job, won't let go of her faith. A book of healing, highly recommended
for the hurting.
FOR PARENTS ONLY Getting Inside the Head of Your
Kid By Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa A. Rice ISBN 978-1-59052-932-4 Multnomah Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
I wish I could’ve read this book years ago. FOR PARENTS
ONLY is the most practical advice for dealing with teenagers that I have ever had the privilege of reading. After interviewing
several hundred random teenagers, Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa A. Rice, wrote a book based on the comments and observations of
the very age group that drives parents crazy.
Having been a foster parent for nine years, having four
children grown with small children of their own, and raising another teenager, this book would have been a huge help to my
husband and I during those years. Not only does FOR PARENTS ONLY let the reader know what teenagers are thinking and feeling,
it gives practical application to better understand this turbulent age. The authors go on to show parents how to shape and
mold their teenagers into responsible adults.
FOR PARENTS ONLY should be given to all parents at the
birth of their first born.
THE FIRST FIVE YEARS Make the Love Investment
that Lasts a Lifetime By Bill and Pam Farrell ISBN 10: 0-446-57997-1 ISBN 13: 978-0-446-57997-1 Faith Words Publisher Reviewer
Cynthia Hickey
THE FIRST FIVE YEARS show newly weds and engaged couples
simple tips and exercises to enrich their marriage, deepen their love for each other, and build a marriage on the foundation
of God’s word. In this book, they use examples from their life and others to show how love and a healthy sexual relationship
can create a marriage to last a lifetime.
I’ve been married for eighteen years and found many
helpful tools to strengthen a marriage I believe to already be strong. This book takes the couple from the words, “I
do” through discussions of possible future children. When every couple begins their life together, they are certain
they won’t become another statistic. Bill and Pam Farrell give them the help they need to keep that commitment. In my
opinion, THE FIRST FIVE YEARS should be required reading for anyone contemplating the idea of marriage. I will be passing
this book on to my newly-wed daughter.
BETTER THAN MY DREAMS Finding What You Long For
Where You Might Not Think to Look By Paula Rinehart ISBN-10: 0849918677 ISBN-13: 978-0849918674 Thomas Nelson
Publishers Reviewer Cynthia Hickey
Let’s go on a treasure hunt. A search for riches
greater than you can imagine. But to embrace this treasure, you must first learn what it is you’re looking for and then
leave by the roadside, the baggage that will weigh you down.
In words rich with beauty and the truth of God’s
love, Paula Rinehart takes us on a journey of revelation. An eye-awakening to the fact that, in the midst of our very “human”
choices, God can bring out a nugget of gold.
We have a set idea of what our dreams and goals are. Oftentimes,
God’s plan for our dreams are quite different than what we’ve envisioned. Paula takes the reader on a journey
of self-exploration. The destination is glorious beyond belief and may change how a person views their dreams.
A must read for anyone struggling with the whys of fallen
hopes and dreams.
PROVERBS Vol. 1 Ancient Wisdom for a Post Modern
World A Sue Edwards Inductive Bible Study ISBN 978-0-8254-2547-9 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
I've always loved Proverbs and have studied it in the past.
Edward's study provides a new look at the book filled with pearls of wisdom about faith, relationships, marriage and culture.
At a time when our lives and culture pulls us in all directions, when temptation lures us from fidelity to faith, spouse and
family, this study brings us back to our foundations of faith in Christ and a dependence upon Him. We need to study God's
Word to help us stand strong. This Bible study helps get us there.
DADDY'S GIRLS Discover the Wonder of the Father A
Sue Edwards Inductive Bible Study ISBN 978-0-8254-2546-2 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Whether your relationship with our father brings good memories
or pain, this Bible study leads us into knowing our true Daddy—Jesus Christ and to know our worth in his eyes.
Using scripture, questions and information Edwards helps
us dig deeper into our relationships, our feelings and our faith. While this study is geared as a group study, I went through
it on my own and found great value in it. Each book is a workbook that includes the leader's guide.
NO MORE JELLYFISH, CHICKENS, OR WIMPS Raising secure,
assertive kids in a tough world By Paul Coughlin ISBN 10: 0-7642-0242-1 ISBN 13: 978-0-7642-0242-1 Bethany House
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
We live in a culture where parents, sometimes especially
Christian parents, raise children to be meek and mild. As we do so, we raise children afraid to stand up for truth and against
evil. In effect, we raise our kids to be bullied or to stand by and do nothing while others are bullied.
Often parents think they're following Christ's pattern,
missing entirely “meek” for Jesus didn't mean doormat and He very much stood up against evil and stood up for
those who were vulnerable.
Instead of raising nice, ineffective wimps, it is is time
we raise confident and secure children who know that fighting evil, fighting injustice, fighting for truth is a mandate not
a suggestion. What they need is an example from parents and authority figures in how to do that without becoming either a
bully or by retaliating when they or someone they care about is bullied or teased.
This book takes us on a sometimes difficult journey into
motives and faith and ourselves to show us how to change the world by helping the next generation become positive, self-confident
in who they are, enough to confront when needed.
BEFORE I CLOSE MY EYES True Email Conversations
of Faith and the Meaning of Life By Mikael R Andreason ISBN 978-0-8254-2439-7 Kregel Publications Reviewer Carolyn
R Scheidies
Stine, an unbeliever, walked in Mikael's music shop never
knowing that what began with a simple purchase would change her life. The informal introduction began a friendship and an
ongoing email conversation that leads Mikael to define his faith as he accepts Stine right where she's at, while showing her
a Jesus she never knew existed.
The emails give us glimpse into the heart's desire for
friendship, fellowship and the need to fill a God-shaped void, many don't even realize exists until ...
A very interesting, readable book that makes a perfect
gift for an unbelieving friend.
THE 6 STEPS TO EMOTIONAL FREEDOM Breaking Through
to the Life God Wants You to Live By David Clarke, PhD ISBN 13: 978-1-59789-275-9 Barbour Publishing Reviewer:
Michelle Levigne
First, the bad news: No one has perfect emotional health. The
good news: We all have emotional problems.
The only person who ever lived who was emotionally
healthy was Jesus Christ.
Dr. Clarke explains why pop psychology and many current,
popular Christian approaches to emotional health aren’t healthy and why they don’t work. It would be nice if Jesus
would just touch you on the forehead and take away the pain and bring emotional health, but that’s not how He works.
As Dr. Clarke says, you won’t learn anything that way!
It took work and pain to put you in the mess you’re
in, and it’s going to take work and pain to get you back on the road to emotional health. Using the edited and abbreviated
history of a Christian woman suffering from depression, he walks the reader through the steps necessary to discover the cause
of the problems and damage, how to face them, how to overcome them, and how to find Biblical healing and emotional health.
This is an uncomfortable book to read because no matter
how emotionally healthy you think you are, Dr. Clarke’s no-holds-barred approach will find a tender spot and have you
writhing in your seat. Everyone has issues. Everyone has dark spots in their past. Everyone has disappointments and failures,
past and present. With questions and homework, he will make you face those areas you’d rather just forget exist. Only
by facing those issues, betrayals, secret addictions, old pain and trauma can healing finally be found.
MY FIRST 100 YEARS (CD Audiobook) By R Waldo McBurney ISBN
13: 978-0-9794672-0-2 AudioBookMan www.audiobookman.com
Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
With this CD, we don't just read about McBurney's life,
we hear it directly from him. In slice of life segments, we're treated to a portrait of a man who filled his life with work,
faith, family and fun. A beekeeper and medal winning runner, not as a young man, but long past the time others have given
up both work and sports, McBurney recounts his adventures in living. This is a mixture of autobiography, philosophy, advice
on healthy living and eating from a man deeply routed in the American ethic of hard work and faith. A story of encouragement,
faith and hope.
POLITICALLY INCORRECT GUIDE TO ENGLISH AND AMERICAN LITERATURE By
Elizabeth Kantor ISBN 10: 1596980117 Regnery Publishing Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Be careful about sending your children off to college,
especially state or secular colleges, unless you arm them with this book. Many literature departments have forgotten how to
teach English/American literature, teaching a twisted version of literature and history that jibes with the professors' Marxist
point of view. Instead of seeing beauty and form, these myopic teachers are so frightened by Christianity and “Dead
white males” they'd rather teach the history of porn or “discover” elements in classic literature that are
truly incredible such as that “...Jane Austen was a subversive whose novels expressed her rage against the patriarchy...that
Stalin was valiantly struggling to turn the Soviet Union into a democracy...” Kantor also says, “Too many of the
folks who teach English in college are out of touch with reality...”
If they do “teach” classic literature they
do so with such artificial constructs as to keep students from learning to appreciate what these authors have to say about
their times, faith and human nature.
This book takes us from what today's professors don't want
you to know to exploring what is valuable about reading and studying the classics, not through a socialistic, racist prism,
but from the heart and mind of the reader in tune with the author.
A must for every college student. Not a bad read for
anyone interested in reading something written before the 60's.
THE TRUTH WAR: Fighting for Certainty in an Age of
Deception By John MacArthur ISBN-10: 0-7852-6265-2 ISBN-13: 978-0-7852-6265-7 Thomas Nelson CD Reviewer
Carolyn R Scheidies
Listening to a book gives a different perspective on an
author's writing because in hearing the words different aspects of the book stand out from what we may get from reading the
same words. At least that is true for me. I found this book a must read for Christians serious about their faith. Hearing
the book on CD makes me even more sure that each of us needs to become acquainted with what is happening to the foundations
of our faith. What do we believe and why and what is undermining those very foundations today? You may be surprised at the
answers.
In a culture that denies truth, it is not surprising many
in the church are following suit, denying the truth of Scripture and the work of Jesus on the cross. Leaders of the emerging
church movement are doing just that, making Christianity so relevant to today that they no longer believe or teach the core
truths of Scripture...or believe that the Bible is the final word on anything. What's more, it is easy to get misled when
those who no longer hold to Biblical foundations continue use Christian terminology though the traditional meanings have been
stripped away.
The book and the CD, if you prefer to hear rather than
read a book, are a valuable and vital resources for Christians who “contend for the faith.”
KISSING IN THE KITCHEN By Kevon T Roberts ISBN-10:
087358-931-9 ISBN-13: 978-087358-931-4 Northland Pub Reviewer Carolyn R Scheidies
Filled with sparkling recipes that even I could follow,
KISSING IN THE KITCHEN, spices up the usual time in the kitchen. This colorful, easy to understand and follow book, dishes
up great recipes. (I especially liked learning how to make individual lasagna portions by wrapping the ingredients into each
noodle.) Hot tips and information make this book a great gift for those in love to celebrate weddings, anniversaries, Valentine's
Days or “just because” I love you days.
KNIT TOGETHER Discover God's Pattern for
Your Life By Debbie Macomber ISBN 10: 0-446-58087-2 ISBN 13: 978-0-446-58087-8 FaithWords Reviewer Michelle
Levigne
This non-fiction book reads like a letter from a good friend
you haven’t met yet, as it moves between spiritual autobiography and devotional. Bits of humor, deep thought, and insights
from the author’s spiritual and writing journey are indeed knit together into a whole that left me wishing I had a writing
friend – or just a neighbor – like her.
This book is for the writer struggling through rejection
THE DISAPPEARANCE OF GOD
THE AMERICAN PATRIOT'S BIBLE 
THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON JOY
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