Dec 30, 2010

Voices of the Faithful

Voices of the Faithful is a daily devotional written by missionaries serving around the world.  It is organized by different topics for each month and each entry is written by a different missionary.

I found this to be a great daily devotional.  The readings are thoughtful and just the right length.  I did notice that some of the writers did not include their names, I'm assuming for fear of the governments where they are serving.

Overall, I would recommend this book to someone who wants to supplement their daily devotional or someone who is short on time.  I think this book is great for someone who is missions-minded.  It will also ignite an interest in missions for those who do not know much about it.
*Disclosure: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for a review. I was not required to write a positive review of this book.*

Dec 28, 2010

Sun Stand Still

Sun Stand Still is a call to live with audacious faith.  Pastor and author Steven Furtick uses Joshua as an example to propel us into a new dimension of faith where we are brave enough to ask God for that which seems impossible. 
I chose this book because I thought it would be a book that helps increase my faith and moves me to a new level.  I did not get that out of this book.  While the message of this book is relevant to todays society, for me, it wasn’t as motivational as I thought it would be.  Don’t get me wrong, this book is an excellent book.

I would highly recommend it to a new believer who has questions about what faith is and how to increase it.  This book is Biblically based and is filled with wonderful examples.  However, if you have been a believer for awhile, and are looking for a deeper challenge, then I would not recommend this book for you.

Sun Stand Still is a great book to help you realize that God is calling His people to ask, seek and knock and to look for His hand in your impossible situations.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book to review by Multnomah.  I was not required to write a positive review.

Dec 24, 2010

My NOOK!!

My reading experiences are taking on a whole new adventure.  I received a color Nook for Christmas.  I am so excited about it that I'm not sure I will be able to sleep tonight!!  I can't wait to download my first book and get reading.  BUT, I am going to wait until I buy a case for it.  Does anyone else have a nook? What do you think of it??

Dec 13, 2010

Then Sings My Soul

Then Sings My Soul by Robert Morgan is the perfect book for those who have fond memories of hymns and classic church songs.  This book contains the music sheets and lyrics along with a background story about the song.  The hymns are broken down into categories such as Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving.  The songs that are featured are church classics and reading through them brought back so many wonderful memories. It is awesome to read the lyrics of songs that have been sung by generations.  The most interesting thing is to read the background stories about the songs.  This is the perfect book to add to your home library or to give as a gift.             * Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

Nov 15, 2010

In His Image NLT Devotional Bible


I received this Bible to review from Tyndale a few weeks ago.  It took me awhile to post a review because I am not sure how to write a review for a Bible, but I will try. This Bible would be great for a new believer or someone who needs a basic understanding of the names of God, and who enjoys a translation that is easy to read. It is the New Living Translation, which I find is a good resource if you need a verse explained in "current" language.  I still prefer the NIV. 
This Bible has small sections that give definitions of the different names of God used in the Old and New Testaments.  They are on (almost) every other page.  Sometimes it is quite repetitive.  It also has prayerful readings on the sides of the pages, which explains a bit about God's character and gives simple meditations and prayers; I thought that was a nice touch, until I noticed that many of those are repeated also. 
In the beginning of each chapter is an introduction to the book.  It explains what the book is about, how to find God in that book and some key areas of the book.  I thought that was great, especially for someone new to reading the Word, until I saw that in the book of Joshua it calls Joshua a "character".  I understand that to us, the men and women in the Bible are "characters", however, I think that term is misleading and will cause some to view what they read as fiction.  That was my main disappointment.
Overall, I feel that this Bible would be a good resource for a new believer or a teen that is just starting to dig in.
* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255  : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

Nov 3, 2010

Heaven is for Real!!

Heaven is for Real is the true story of a 4 year old boy who actually went to heaven during a life or death surgery.  I have heard many stories about people who claim they had an "out of body experience" or that they died and came back, but none are as believable, inspiring and Biblical as this.

Colton was only 4 years old when he became seriously ill and needed emergency surgery. After he was recovered, he began telling his parents things about heaven, and facts about what they did when he was in surgery that there was no way he could have known.  He even told his mother about a child she had miscarried years earlier.  Told by his father, this book is a must read for any one who has lost a loved one, who is curious to know what heaven is like, or who is just interested in the topic.

Personally, I thought this book was amazing.  It's a must read! The things that this child said were Biblical and things that a 4 year old would not know on his own.  It was comforting, inspiring, and a great book overall.  The chapters are short and the story flows so well that you just want to keep reading and reading.  I would recommend this book to anyone and everyone!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com  book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255  : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Oct 13, 2010

The Nativity Collection

The Natvity Collection by Robert J. Morgan is a collection of six Christmas stories that the author has shared over the years with his congregation. Each story takes you on a holiday journey.  Some are touching, some are, well, just a story.  I was excited to read this book because I love Christmas so much. It is my favorite time of year.  However, after finishing the book I was a bit disappointed.  I guess I was expecting something that it wasn't. Some of the stories were just a story and didn't have that holiday 'magic'.  The first story, Ollie, was the best story in my opinion.  If you get this book and choose to read it straight through, save Ollie for the last.  The best part of the book was the lay out and the different photographs on every page.  That, in my opinion, made the stories feel fit for the holiday.  I wouldn't say "go out and get this" and I wouldn't say "don't get it", I'm sure some people will love this book, but for me, it didn't give me that holiday spirit.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

Sep 16, 2010

The King's Christmas List

I just finished reading  The King's Christmas List.  It is a Christmas story aimed at children to teach them how to give.  While the premise of the story was great, the story was lacking interest and anything exciting.  I think most children will find it boring and it won't keep their attention.  

It begins with a girl and her dog, and suddenly, her dog can talk.  They are taken away to attend the king's birthday party and on their way they meet strangers.  Once they arrive at the king's party, the king then explains to them the true meaning of giving gifts to the king. So, I'm not even sure what the title has to do with the story. 

The illustrations were just OK.  I think the children will not understand the story by just looking at the pictures and I think the story was dull, dry and boring.  I was hoping that this would be a great book to spur children on in kindness and help them to realize the blessing in giving to others.  At the end of the book they offer some opportunities to help others through various organizations.  I can honestly only give this book 2 1/2 to 3 stars, which is a disappointment to me because I was hoping it would be so much better. 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com  book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255  : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

Sep 10, 2010

Max Doesn't Disappoint: Book Review of Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado

Max Lucado’s latest book, Outlive Your Life, is another great book by Max that shows once again, why he is a leading Christian author. In this book, he challenges the readers to “outlive” their lives by doing works of service to the poor and needy all while giving God the glory. He challenges believers to live like the first church did in the book of Acts, by giving of themselves and helping the less fortunate. He makes some great points about how far the divide is between the rich and the poor in this world, and he encourages people to make a difference, even if they can only do a little. In his signature storytelling style, Lucado shines a light on the needs of this hurting world.

This is another Lucado classic that does not disappoint. It is different from some of his other books because it is a challenge and a call to do what is right and to show the world the tangible love of Jesus. I found it challenging but not in a condemning way. He doesn’t make you feel bad for not helping, but shows you how just doing something can make a world of difference in the life of someone less fortunate.

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

Sep 7, 2010

Do you think your life matters?

Do you think your life matters? Do your actions have any eternal effects? Those questions are answered in The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews. Andrews takes the reader through history and shows how one person’s decisions can affect us all.

This book was very motivational and inspirational. It can be read in one sitting, but what it says will have you thinking about your life for days and months to come. I would highly recommend this book to anyone. It is a perfect gift for a family member, a graduate, a student, a teacher or anyone for that matter. It is a timeless message that will have an impact on a reader of any age.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

Aug 31, 2010

1 & 2 Timothy and Titus

1&2 Timothy and Titus

This Bible study of 1&2 Timothy and Titus is great for people who are new to studying the Bible. It is broken down into small studies and it even includes the portion of scripture (in this case 1&2 Tim and Titus). It is the NLT version of the Bible and it takes the reader step by step through a given passage. It asks questions, provides room for written answers or can be used to facilitate a discussion on the reading. I think it would be helpful for those who need a guide when reading the Bible and those who are looking to think more about what they are reading.
*Disclosure of Materials: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for a review. I was not required to give a positive review.*

Aug 17, 2010

Beyond Opinion


Beyond Opinion is the latest book from leading apologist, Ravi Zacharias. In this book, different authors tackle different questions and topics to help the reader understand how to answer those who question the Christian faith.
I found this book to be an excellent book filled with insight and knowledge. While some of the readings were a bit tedious, (it is apologetics so it gets wordy) when taken in small sections it was easy to get through. Some of the topics were ones that some people may face everyday and it gave a good general foundation as to why there are flaws in the theories that people constantly throw at Christians.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in defending their faith and who is looking to have a more firm footing when debating their faith. While it sometimes reads as a philosophy text book, it is well worth ones time and attention.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Jun 18, 2010

Spiritual Fruit

The Fruitful Life by Jerry Bridges

This Fruitful Life takes you on a journey through each of the fruits of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5. This book dedicates a chapter to each and offers insight into how we can cultivate each one in our life.
I liked this book because the author addresses the important fact that while the Holy Spirit does the work in us, we have work to do also. He offers insight and wisdom into what each fruit ‘looks like’ in our lives and how and why it is important in our walk with God. There is a brief study section at the end of each chapter.
I would recommend this for small groups and for individual study.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."*

Jun 7, 2010

Prophecy Answers



The Prophecy Answer Book by David Jeremiah is a small, compact easy to read book. I was intrigued by the title so I chose to read this book. The book consists of questions and answers. It is divided into sections that help the reader find the answers they are looking for.

If you are looking for an in-depth book about answers to the prophecies in the Bible, this isn't the book for you. It is simple and straight forward. While there are not answers to every question about prophecy, this book does provide basic answers to the most asked questions. I would recommend this book for a quick reference.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

May 31, 2010

Jesus Manifesto

I was very eager to read this book, Jesus Manifesto: Restoring the Supremacy and Sovereignty of Christ. However, I was disappointed once I began to read it. I was all ready to read some life changing words about making Jesus supreme in our lives. This book did not deliver. It was tedious and repetitive. There were quite a few good sentences that really hit home, but other than that I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over. The author’s goal was to awaken hearts to focus solely on Jesus, not on His teachings, or His ethics, but on Him alone.

There isn’t really much for me to review other than to say, that the authors could’ve said what it wanted to say in about half the pages. While the concept and point of the book is great, the actual book, isn’t. It was a difficult read. It felt like sitting through a long lecture in college. I wish I could’ve given a better review.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

May 25, 2010

Video Review


I watched the DVD "Read and Share Bible, The Jesus Series: Life and Miracles" and I had mixed feelings about it. I thought the animation was cute. Other than that, I'm not sure it is a DVD that children will want to watch. Unless of course, they are so young that they don't understand it. The story used words that children will not be familiar with (such as Rabbi,etc) since these words are barely used in a Sunday school classroom. The story also did not focus so much on Jesus' life and miracles as I thought it would. It portrayed some miracles, but focused more on Judas receiving bribe money, which I thought was strange for a childrens video.
Overall, I would recommend this for young children, but once they are at the age where they are beginning to understand the stories, this DVD may confuse them a bit. I don't have children, so I really cannot be sure what age group, but based on how my nephews act, I would say that once they turn three, they will not be interested in it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

May 24, 2010

Book Review: Becoming a Woman Who Loves

Becoming a Woman who Loves by Cynthia Heald is a short, eleven chapter Bible study, that focuses on loving how Jesus loved. Each chapter uses numerous scriptures to show how important love is for a child of God. It gives you questions to think about and time for reflection. I liked that this book didn't just give you the scripture and allow you to read it out of the book, you had to look it up and search through the scriptures yourself. It also gave ample space to write out scriptures and thoughts. I found it would be an excellent resource as a personal study guide or to do in a small group setting.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Book Review: Opening John's Gospel and Epistles

I just finished Opening John's Gospel and Epistles by Comfort & Hawley published by Tyndale. It is an excellent resource for anyone who is wanting to study the word on a deeper level. It is organized and clear and focused. The commentaries are wonderful and I loved how they broke down each verse, piece by piece. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking to dig deeper and in need of a study aide.
*Disclosure: Tyndale House publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review.*

May 15, 2010

Captivating...


Captivating is what every woman longs to be. She longs to be pursued and loved. John and Stasi Eldredge delve deep into the heart and souls of women in this revised and expanded version of their best-seller. This book will take you deep into your own soul (if you are a woman) and explain the intricacies that many women overlook. Whether you are young or old, this book will help re-awaken your dreams and desires and shed light on how God wants to move in your life.

I didn’t know what to expect when I chose to read Captivating. By the first chapter, I was hooked. This book showed me that the desires of my heart, are God-given, and there for a reason. It helped me to understand my role in this world as a daughter of the King. It not only touched on spiritual issues, but every day life issues. It was touching, and eye opening. I would recommend this book to any woman who is looking for a closer, more intimate relationship with God. It draws you closer to His heart and unlocks the chains that bind yours.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

May 3, 2010

What happens when God doesn’t show up the way you thought he would?


Plan B by Pete Wilson is a book that addresses the question all of us will face at one time or another. What do we do when God doesn’t show up the way we thought he would? What happens when the life you planned turns out differently (and not for the better)?
Plan B walks you through the stories of people just like you and me, who have faced these questions. Those who have faced sudden heartbreak and sickness. Pete Wilson uses Biblical examples and stories to show us that God specializes in surprising us in our most difficult times.

I absolutely loved reading this book. Each scenario and story is supported by Biblical truths and spoke directly to what most of us face in life. Pete Wilson addressed these issues with compassion and grace. He gently leads the reader to an understanding that sometimes we will never understand all that is happening in our lives. I don’t think there is a person alive who would not benefit from reading this book. It is truthful, straight to the heart honesty about the difficult challenges we all face, and the questions we all ask. I will read this book more than once. I cannot say enough good things about it. Read it for yourself and see why this book is one of the best books I have ever read!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Apr 16, 2010

Frustrated

I am trying to make some changes to my blog. They aren't really turning out how I wanted them. Oh, well. I'm getting tired and the lyme has been kicking my butt lately. So, I guess the blog will stay this way for now. I'll update it and change the background soon. Good night.

Apr 6, 2010

Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman


I chose to read this book because I was curious about why Amish novels are the ‘big thing’ right now. I personally know Amish people, and I was curious to see how they were depicted and what type of story lines could be written around such a quiet, spiritual people.

Plain Promise is a ‘Daughters of Promise Novel’ which the book states, “focuses on one woman and her journey into the Amish Community”. This book is about the relationship between an Amish girl, Linda, and her English mother, Josie. Josie comes back to the small Amish community seventeen years after giving her daughter up for adoption to an Amish couple. The story entails the emotions felt by all sides, Linda, Josie, and Josie’s adoptive parents. While new relationships are being forged, old relationships are being put to the test. It is a story about change and hope.

The book focuses mostly on the Amish and their way of life, interjecting some of the German vocabulary into the story (don’t worry; there is a dictionary of the words used). It explains how the Amish live simple lives of faith and how family is the most important thing to them. I was very eager to read this book because it is set in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and I have family there. My family is friends with Amish people, and I have spent time in their home and observed their culture firsthand. Most of what the author wrote is true of the Amish. The only thing that I found to be different is that the author has the characters using German words when speaking with non-Amish people, and from my experiences, they do not do that, the will only speak German to each other.
Other than that, what is depicted in the book is true.

I enjoyed reading this book. It was written well, and the story was moving and touching. The story was wonderful and it definitely flowed well and was an overall good read. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fiction that is heartwarming and wholesome.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Apr 1, 2010

Reflecting on what Christ has done

This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 1 John 4:10

Tomorrow is Good Friday. I like to reflect on what Jesus did for me. I don't ever want to forget, so for me, on Good Friday I think about how much He suffered and sacrificed so that I can be saved and have freedom in Him.
Over the past year, even through the times when I've felt totally alone, Jesus has been preparing my heart to know how much He loves me. It's one thing to hear about how God loves us. It's another thing to truly believe it. For a long time, I don't think I truly, deeply, believed it. But, during this trial, walking this hard road, I have learned, felt, and experienced the overwhelming love of Christ Jesus. Sometimes it brings me to tears.
So, on this Good Friday, maybe we all should take the time and realize how deep His love is for us. It's unbelievable and overwhelming.

Mar 27, 2010

Another weekend...

Well, it was pretty cold here for a spring day. It was so nice to see the trees budding and flowers beginning to peek out of the ground. Spring is such a hopeful time. Today I felt pretty good, and even though it was cold, the sun was still shining. I didn't do much today, and when that happens I feel like I've wasted an entire day, which is something I swore I wouldn't do once I started to feel better.

Mar 24, 2010

Missing my Dad



Today would have been my Dad's 64th birthday. It's a sad day for me and I miss him alot. There are so many things that have happened in my life that I wish I could've shared with him. It's not the same without him. I have so many memories of him, yet I feel as if I was robbed of so many more I could have had. My father was a good man. He loved his family more than anything. He would do anything for anyone and help you out in any way he could. I hope he is having a great time in heaven. I can't wait for the day I see him again. I know he is with Jesus and is so much happier there, but I still miss him. I miss his hugs. I miss his voice. I miss his funny sayings. It's a relationship that can never be replaced; the love between a father and a daughter.
I thank God everyday that HE fills that void in my life. Psalm 68:5 says "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows,is God in his holy dwelling."
I love you and miss you, Daddy.

Mar 21, 2010

New Layout

Tonight I decided to play around a little with my blog. I changed a few things, and added a few things. Why? Well, because the way my blog was set up was very boring. So, I hope the changes are for the better.

What do you think?

Mar 18, 2010

One of those days

Ever just have 'one of those days'? Well, I'm having one today. It's a beautiful day. Its finally warm. It's sunny. It started out wonderful. No stress. Just a nice, warm, sunny day. Then, a phone call. Nothing tragic. Just another stressful thing to add onto the ever-increasing list of things. I just didn't need it today. But, what can I do? So, as I sat on the couch, a million thoughts going through my head, wondering what I am going to do next, I found myself telling myself to pray. Shouldn't it be the first response to any situation? Especially a situation that is so out of my own control? I quickly said a prayer in my head, but continued on my way, doing useless things. Even now, I'm typing this blog when I should be in prayer. It's amazing how the enemy can sidetrack us, and how we allow it. So, I am ending now, to spend some time with the only one who can make "one of those days" into a great day. The situation is out of my hands, but it's in His.

Mar 16, 2010

Kaleidoscope by Patsy Clairmont


Kaleidoscope is a different kind of book. It is part devotional, part quick reading. You can linger on each chapter and dig deeper, or just quickly read it and move on. There are 33 short chapters, and each one focuses on a different verse from the book of Proverbs. Each chapter offers a short reading and questions for thought and more Bible verses that correspond to the topic. Just how using a kaleidoscope allows you to see something different each time you turn it, this book allows you to read the Proverbs in a different way.

This was my first time reading a book by Patsy Clairmont. I had expected it to be very funny. I thought the book was well written, and I really liked its format, however, it wasn’t as funny as I thought it was going to be. Don’t get me wrong, there are parts of it that are funny, however, I think the Proverbs that were highlighted in the book, are ones that don’t often bring us to laughter. Sometimes I couldn’t understand why she wrote the things she wrote for that particular Proverb, and other times the commentary really spoke to me.

I would recommend this book for anyone who needs a fun, quick devotional or any woman who wants to read a book that they can relate to. There are topics that all women can relate to in this book. As far as using it as a devotional, I would recommend it being supplemented with more Bible reading, but it is definitely a great start and it gives a different perspective on Proverbs. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Mar 6, 2010

A Spring Preview


It was finally a nice day here! Not too cold out. You could feel spring close by. I went for a walk on the beach,and it was beautiful. I felt good and was so thankful that God allowed me to have a nice day and feel healthy enough to enjoy it. Of course, it was a short walk, and I'm totally exhausted now, but it was nice nonetheless.

Feb 18, 2010

Book Review: Tithing by Douglas Leblanc

Here's my latest book review for booksneeze.com:


The title of this book basically tells you what it is about: tithing. However, it is not written in a typical style of a bunch of rules about tithing and why it’s important. Instead, the author interviews people of various denominations about their practices and view on tithing. While at times there were things discussed that I could not relate to (due to denominational differences) the message was the same. God blesses a tither.

I chose to read this book because I love reading about how God works in people’s lives after they tithe. I was a bit disappointed when reading this book, though. It did have examples of how God blessed people after their obedience in the tithe, however, it just came across as dull and lifeless. It was a bit difficult to read and the stories of each person seemed to blend together. There wasn’t too much of a difference between each story.

I don’t know if I would recommend this book. I would say if you want to read something that is untraditional and different, then this is the book. However, if you are looking for something to inspire your walk with the Lord, this isn’t the book to do that.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Feb 8, 2010

In Your Freedom I Will Live

I just think God is so amazing. On so many levels. I cannot even put my thoughts into words sometimes, and then I think He's even more amazing that He knows my heart and hears it cry out that He is amazing and glorious!!!

In my last post, I wrote about how I started the Beth Moore Bible study, Breaking Free. Already God is showing me some great things. Then, today, the words of this song, just spoke to me.

In Your Freedom by Hillsong

I search for You God of strength
I bow to You in my brokenness
And no other King could have so humbly come
To save my soul and heal my heart
I have nothing more than all You offer me
There is nothing else that’s of worth to me
And I love You Lord
You rescued me
You are all that I want
You’re all that I need
I pray to You God of peace
I rest in You my cares released
I have nothing more than all You offer me
There is nothing else that’s of worth to me
And I love You Lord
You rescued me
You are all that I want
You’re all that I need
In Your freedom I will live
In Your freedom I will live
I offer devotion, I offer devotion.


I am so thankful that I serve a God who cares for my needs and hears my cries.
Gal. 5:1

On, another note...the weather forecasters are calling for snow here this week. Last week they said 4-6" and we ended up with nothing...but this time I think they might be right. So, I must go get food and settle in and see what happens :)

Feb 3, 2010

About to BreakFree!

I am so excited. Over the past few months, I have really noticed how God has been directing so many different areas of my life. Most importantly, my spiritual life. A few months ago, I was praying about which Bible study to do next. For some reason God kept bringing me to Beth Moore's Breaking Free (updated edition). I had tried to do the old breaking free years ago, and never finished it. Then, for Christmas my Mom gave me some small books and one was a Breaking Free by Beth Moore book. So, I knew. I didn't really pursue it any further, and a few months passed. I guess I was just nervous as to what I was breaking free from.

So, again, it came back to this Bible study. Well, last week I purchased the workbook (thanks to my B&N gift card) and tonight I downloaded the first session. Well, I cannot even begin to tell how each and every thing she said is what I have been dealing with over the past few months. Even to the point of the things she was saying about where God is calling us! It is so amazing how He always confirms His Word.

Let the journey begin! I'm about to Break Free!!!

Galatians 5
Freedom in Christ
1It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Jan 29, 2010

Fearless by Max Lucado

I just finished reading Fearless by Max Lucado. As with all of Max’s books, he heads straight to the point and uses examples and stories that really speak to the heart. He offers a glimpse of what life can be like without fear, and offers practical tips and solutions to handling those fears that grip us the most.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was easy to read, and very encouraging. Max writes with such honesty and does not diminish or negate the fact that many of us suffer from rational fears that we allow to take over our lives. He wrote about many topics of fear that I personally deal with, and by reading his words, it helped me to realize how these fears can spiral out of control. This book helps put things into a Godly perspective and also offers realistic and logical ways to handle the anxieties we place on ourselves.

I would recommend this book to anyone who needs a new perspective on an age old problem. It is worded well, and filled with stories that anyone can directly relate to. I loved that it is not a time consuming book, I am a fast reader and read it in two days, but it is formatted well for those who can only read a chapter here and there. You will not be disappointed.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Jan 28, 2010

My book!!

Well, after a long wait, my book finally arrived today. I was so excited, I tore into it and read three chapters immediately. I love it already. So, as soon as I am finished with the book I will post my review and go on and on about it :)
So much else is going on and I don't have time right now to write about it. Have no fear, though, I will be extensively updating this blog very soon :)

Jan 12, 2010

Books!!! I love books!!!

So, I found out today that I can review books and read them for free! I signed up to read Max Lucado's Fearless. I love Max Lucado and I am so excited to read this book. I cannot wait for it to arrive. I am already anticipating God speaking to me through this book. Fear and anxiety is something I struggle with and I have been praying that this new year brings freedom from that. Max always has a word from God and a fresh insight. As soon as I read the book I will post my thoughts and a review.
I'm currently reading Moses by Chuck Swindoll, it's from his collection of books Great Lives in God's Word. His books are so insightful. The book about Moses is really speaking to my heart. Since I have gotten sick, God has really been bringing me back to Exodus and the Israelites leaving Egypt. It has fostered in my heart a desire to leave the old behind and move on to the new things God has in store for me. Sometimes I get so excited I can hardly wait, but then I remember it took the Israelites 40 years to reach the promised land!!! So, right now I am cultivating patience.
Keep checking the blog and I will let you know about what great books I'm reading!!
I review for BookSneeze

Jan 7, 2010

My first attempt at blogging

Well, I decided I might as well try this blogging thing. Some people said they would read it. Not sure if anyone will, but who really cares?
I'm a few months into this Lyme disease treatment and it isn't easy. I've been having a few bad nights. Tonight is another one. I keep praying for God to get me through this. Sometimes it feels like it will never end. The more I pray, the more I realize that even though this is a hard time it is a time to spend some precious time with God. I pray I come through this a different and better person.
So, I am thinking that the direction this blog will take will be some daily/weekly/monthly thoughts about things in general. And, I will be writing about my experiences with Lyme disease and my journey on this walk with Christ.
If you are reading this, keep me in prayer, it is very appreciated.