"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion — to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair."~from ISAIAH 61 Bible verse for this Blog

APOLOGY to READERS who followed a SEARCH to HERE & didn't find it

On July 18, 2017, I drafted almost 3000 blog posts that I had published since 2008 when I began blogging, rather than edit each one. So if you clicked here from somewhere else and ended up with the post unavailable or error, I am sorry but this is why. It'd be too much work for me to go back and fix them. There's an explanation on 7/19/17 as I'm still learning.
Showing posts with label Book review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Book review. Show all posts

Saturday, January 26, 2019

"The Golden Thread: Experiencing God's Presence in Every Season of Life"

"The Golden Thread: 

[in fine print]
Experiencing God's Presence in Every Season of Life"
by
Darlene Zschech


"Do you feel like you are barely holding on?  

Let the golden thread of God's Presence be the calm on the other side of chaos.

It could be that He is weaving a brilliant new beginning in the middle of your mess."


[My hope was to have reviewed this back in December 2018 so- Let me preface this delayed review with a brief explanation for my procrastination to be fair in my review of "The Golden Thread..." from Darlene Zschech, by saying this: I chose this selection after reading other great books that I love by this wonderful worship leader, amazing person, mum, wife, minister, author ... exceptional person in so many areas, but I began reading with an entirely different expectation of what it was about, than what I found in 'The Golden Thread..." (my error). I thought that this was going to be more of a 'golden thread' running through her devastating journey and experience with cancer. It is NOT. Although there are references throughout to her cancer, it is not at all about this. With this in mind however, as I read, I dragged through many of her 17 chapters, hoping to find more details of how she fared through this struggle and battle with cancer, hoping to encounter that 'golden thread'. So I carried on, a bit disappointed. Instead, I would agree that the second part of her well-chosen phrase in her title fits perfectly, " ... Experiencing God's Presence in Every Season of Life" because this it does show. As is her gift, Darlene has written powerfully and with much encouragement for us ... and my high expectations left me with an unfair critique at first, of a very good book, and with somewhat mixed feelings about reviewing it. Thus, my procrastination and delay are due to wanting to give a praise worthy review of the book and author but needed to be honest also.] I love Darlene Zschech and felt this review should be higher since I am a passionate fan of hers.

With that being said, I found myself looking for a connection through her 17 chapters, of a beautiful weaving of her words and her concept of a 'golden thread'. I kept track of the pages where Darlene mentions 'the golden thread' so I might be able to better understand and appreciate her collection of highly positive, uplifting threads like: "In your current circumstances, this may seem like a sacrifice, but on the other side of your obedience to this hope that He asks you to maintain are the rewards of God's promises, His unexpected Holy showing up to thread the golden strand of mercy and love in every season of your life. The glory of God is drawing close."  See how beautifully eloquent she writes and touches on relevant situations that we all might face and apply various biblical Scriptures. I noticed that Darlene was sharing various versions but particularly enjoyed reading the Scriptures from The Message and The Passion Translation. 

Darlene does a 'marvelous job of sharing how we can see the continual thread of God's love, mercy, and goodness all throughout our lives, both in good times and hard ones', using the backdrop of her own personal experiences so we can apply and connect to our own. Darlene weaves us through such chapter content as: God's presence in everything, forgiveness, seeking God first, strength in weakness, the wilderness, holy discontent, walking in the spirit, one with Him, His strength, my courage, power of the table, checks and balances, transformed by hope, thankfulness, lift up your hands, soar, adventure - and send me. There - I covered all of the chapters in these but personally I needed the ones on strength. Darlene writes books with the same passion that she does songs! I hold on to these words written on page 150 after describing her trust in God to give her the best medical care as the best reminder: "... it is God's Word that carries life: the miraculous is woven within every conversation, every declaration I make, and every belief I adhere to." following with the finished work of Christ and His truth. 

Both Darlene's husband, Mark, and Joyce Meyer share in a Note and in the Forward, Darlene's beautiful spirit and passion, which will inspire us to go deeper in our faith, grow a greater intimacy with God, strengthen our faith, and equip us to face whatever we need to do in our life, as she blesses us with her story, her adventure with Mark and family, doing and living life to the full. It is her husband, Mark, who gives the explanation or connection of the 'golden thread' with the Japanese art of Kintsugi. Fascinating! It's a method used to repair broken historic pottery pieces with threads of real gold. 'The golden thread has given broken pieces ... new life', which certainly is what God does with our messes, we are God's handiwork, "no matter what's broken or cracked, God gives us beauty for ashes and it becomes our golden thread." Darlene starts out in the Introduction 'wonderfully and radically' that she can look back over her "life and see the faithfulness of God woven throughout every day - like a pure golden thread of His love and His nature." We all hope and look for this thread in our stories, our journeys in faith (wouldn't you agree?) and reading Darlene's book, we hope we'll be"...Experiencing God's Presence in every season of life" in one glorious golden opportunity to weave or see this woven tapestry wrapped around us, with all her personal uplifting encouragement and God's Word by reading Darlene Zschech's new book "The Golden Thread" ... 

"Take hold of The Golden Thread of His Presence, His loving kindness, His goodness, His power and His grace as you read ..." 

"The Golden Thread: Experiencing God's Presence in Every Season of Life" by Darlene Zschech






{I still recommend this with 4 stars and also that you read Psalm 16, in The Passion Translation, from where Darlene begins her book with "The Golden Secret", perhaps you might find a connecting golden thread between this charismatic, passionate author and yourself. This book is a treasure to behold!} The book description's opening statement was enough to help me choose to read this. (so maybe I should have held off my preface to an after thought so as not to discourage you, but I just have to keep my reviews honest. My err and wrong expectation was not the author's problem.)

Disclosure: I received this book free through BookLook Bloggers, from the publisher, in return for an honest review. 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 FTCs 16 CFR, Part 255

Thursday, December 6, 2018

"New Every Day: Navigating Alzheimer's with Grace and Compassion"

"New Every Day: Navigating Alzheimer's 
with Grace and Compassion"
by
Dave Meurer


is a light read of a very difficult subject and provides much needed information on Alzheimer's and caregiving!

I requested this book during October, which is Emotional Wellness Month, not just for someone I love who has Alzheimer's, but mostly for my own wellness while caregiving for that someone, who returned home from ICU for a stroke under Hospice Care. ('Hospice is Not a Bad Word' - great chapter and so true). Since then, my loved one has made great strides of progress in recovery, so it most certainly was timely for me, and I definitely learned much about the second part of this title 'with Grace and Compassion' from reading from Dave's wise, yet humorous perspective. I needed a bit of humor for sure after 3 months of caring under distress instead of 'navigating' well to bless the One and the person, in need of loving care when all any of my Christian fruit was wearing thin and noticeable to others, even with staying in the Word each morning and evening. I needed a break.

At first, not being familiar with this author or his style, I thought that it might be a bit inappropriate for a humorist author to write on any disease, with humor. He even addresses this in one of his chapters. As I began the book, I wondered how I could review this book favorably, not understanding the rationale or lack of order to the book until I arrived at the third chapter, entitled 'Non Chapter Note' which clarified this and Dave Meuer admitted to this inconsistency. Eventually, I began to get his humor and rationale for this approach, finding myself actually being able to laugh aloud. So my recommendation moved from low 2 star to at least a 4 star because of his heartfelt, realistic approach to sharing practical information through his own experience with his mother-in-law. Since he is somewhat directly removed, but constantly involved and concerned as part of her care team, he is able to step back and observe, giving highly beneficial information weaved between real-life stories that has helped me immensely. 

There are many chapters that I am sure I will need to go back to and read again, such as 'Medicare and Medicaid - How They Will and Won't Help' (which I'm just beginning to learn about) and 'Moving In, Moving Out and Moving On'. These are just 2 out of 30 chapters (if you count chapter 3, the non chapter). My favorite chapter, most likely because it hit home personally (though each chapter held parts that did) was 'Resentment, Fear and Other Hazards of Caregiving' however my insecurity increased slightly with my knowledge, as I looked at parts of Alzheimer's I have not yet had to face so that fear increases as you read, and then I briefly am thankful. However, I had a dear loved one that passed away this year as Alzheimer's robbed her of her gentle way and even speaking for the last few years of her life and knowing her loved ones, which I can't even imagine at this point. Dave Meurer shared with vulnerability and honesty some very difficult aspects. I have found this immensely helpful to read, learning to 'relax, adapt and especially laugh again' at a time when I was forgetting the healing that comes in laughter. 

When I set aside any of my preconceived ideas against humor in this heart breaking and horrible disease, I was able to see much value in Dave's approach and benefited (will continue to benefit) from the moments I found a laugh along this journey, from someone who knows what we face as caregivers for someone with dementia and beyond. 

Although this addresses Alzheimer's disease, I think any caregiver would benefit from reading this and perhaps if their loved one suffers from another debilitating disease, it may help more because they can step back from their own circumstance and read on a different disease, appreciating the practical, helpful guide that Dave Meurer has taken the time to write with just the right balance of humor and insights with information to help you 'navigate' resources. I also found that 'New Every Day' includes a Christian perspective, especially in the last 2 chapters ('A Life More Real Than This' and 'A Few Final Thoughts') however, it does not overdo in any way or come across preachy, he uses Scriptures appropriately and supportively; which makes this book versatile so that others will gain much from it as well.  This book has helped me in my day to day journey of caregiving of the person and myself. The chapters became easier to read with his dose of humor in such a difficult road now and in the future. I truly appreciate that he did include a chapter from his wife as well. In many ways, this book has encouraged me to look for other books written from caregivers and people dealing with Alzheimer's, more specifically from a spouse's point of view. Dave Meurer has taught me to laugh again and appreciate what's 'New Every Day' for me as a better human being caring for an Alzheimer's sufferer with more grace, compassion and understanding. 


Disclosure: I received this book free through  Revell, the publisher, in return for an honest review. 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 FTCs 16 CFR, Part 255

Friday, November 16, 2018

"GOD WILL MAKE A WAY..."

... but this isn't just about 
Don Moen's
awarding winning song,
it's the title to his new 'memoir' 
his first-ever book,


"God Will Make a Way
Discovering His Hope in Your Story"
by
Don Moen with Robert Noland

... released on October 16th, 2018, and I couldn't wait to get my hard bound copy to review. For me, to not only read a book by Don Moen, one of my first, personal, favorite worship leader and song writer, which is an honor and delight, but to read one with this song as it's title and theme of hope, starting out with learning the 'story behind the song' for him - because this song (among many of his songs that I love) holds a significant personal meaning for me in 1990, and I never knew the tragic family story from 1987 nor the verse in Isaiah 43:19 until reading this book, followed by listening to his DonMoen.tv video of the story at YouTube. Such an inspirational moment of hope from God to Don Moen to give hope to his loved ones when they really needed "God to make a way". In the same way, as this song, this book pours forth much hope, even now for me, once again in a place where I needed to be reminded of how "God will make a way." Since we each face hard times in our lives, we need a song or book like this to see us through ... and to get us beyond what's happening, to a renewal of hope and fresh faith, to believe God is supernaturally still working behind the scenes of what we see with our eyes to what the Way Maker (God) has done and is doing that may not be so easily seen.

"God Will Make a Way ..." has a Forward by Manny Pacquiao, an Introduction (which is Don's 'personal note to the Weary and the Leary' - me, when I received this book) and 12 Chapters of "God Will Make a Way ..." Through the Storm, Through Our Surrender, Through His Calling, Through Our Trials, Through the Movement of His Spirit, Through Providing His Platform, Through His Miracles, Through Our Testimony, Through Life's Interruptions, Through Our Cooperation with Him, Through Our Worship in Spirit and Truth ... right back to the statements of hope and faith asked in his Introduction, bringing us or leaving us with "God Will Make a Way ... Through His Hope" with a beautiful ending prayer, as he prefaces with: 


"If I was somehow able to sit down with you for a few minutes, this is what I would want us to agree in prayer together for your life ..."

... and as you read through this encouraging book, this is exactly how you feel, as if Don Moen is sitting with you, sharing with you, encouraging you on ... through his personal stories, scriptures and song lyrics that will be familar to those who know his worship songs, with the same worship filled heart that leads us in spirit and truth to the throne room of God in so many of his lifetime of worship albums. He humbly leads us through his life and story, behind the scenes of his songs and ministry, while making a way for us to discover God's hope in our story, whatever our circumstance(s) may be. My only wish is that each of his chapters would have ended with one of his worshipful prayers as only some did (2,3,10,13). I enjoyed the middle section of 4 pages of personal photos that put faces with the people and stories included. I have so many parts marked that I thought I would share in my review, but since there are so many I didn't, so you'll really have to read the book for yourself because I'm sure these personally applied to my life and others will encourage you in your life with whatever you're facing as this book did for me, changing my "nots" into hopeful declarations with a new message of grace (2 Corinthians 12:9-10) because not only can God make a way, He will, even when
there doesn't seem to be a way! I read and reread pages time and time again, and know that I will in the future, when I need to be reminded, but the last chapter ... 'through His Hope', with his ten Praise Principles, will be one I will open often, because like Don wrote in that chapter: "Living without hope creates mental, emotional, and spiritual ache in the soul, that leads to a desperate desire to numb life ..." so instead "I Will Sing, I will praise ... " 


I can't say enough about "God Will Make a Way" ... and how thankful I am for having had the privilege to read and have this book added to my library. It definitely is worth it to me to break free from the crushing weight and reality of life's circumstances, thoughts and feelings that devastate us or cause despair and doubt. And who better, than a beloved worship leader, pastor, producer, artist and song writer, to show you the way to the Way Maker, who ultimately is our anchor of Hope, Jesus? 

Disclosure: I received this book free through BookLook Bloggers, from the publisher, in return for an honest review. 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 FTCs 16 CFR, Part 255

{Ok, maybe I'm a little biased as a fellow Minnesotan to Don Moen}

Thursday, July 5, 2018

"UNBRIDLED FAITH: 100 Devotions from the Horse Farm" by Cara Whitney

"Unbridled Faith ... " by Cara Whitney was released on June 5, 2018 [so that is why I chose today a month later to review this, because I had not yet received it before this from BookLook Bloggers] So since I could not wait, I quickly did the YouVersion 5 day plan of "Unbridled Faith" and when it arrived I read it all. I don't usually post the book description in my book reviews, however, I could not agree more with every statement given as if these were my own words and a very true description. 


BOOK DESCRIPTION

"Explore the timeless wisdom of God's Word through this beautiful horse devotional.

Horses nuzzle their way into our hearts and have a way of teaching us a lot about ourselves, about life, and even about God. Just ask horse enthusiast Cara Whitney, wife of comedian and actor Dan Whitney (aka Larry the Cable Guy).
Through years spent working with these majestic animals—Cara Whitney has learned countless spiritual lessons that have brought her closer to God.
In 100 heartfelt devotions with stunning photography, you'll
  • Learn about being flexible in your faith from a gangly legged colt.
  • Discover the secret to overcoming temptation through a horse's "sneak and eat" game.
  • From a pony with a sweet tooth, find out why we should be glad God doesn’t answer yes to all of our prayers.
  • Be reminded that you are priceless to God from a one-eyed quarter horse named Roanie.  
Unbridled Faith is the perfect daily devotional for horse lovers."

{I wonder how 'unbridled' my faith really is or should be. Not after reading this}


"Unbridled Faith ... " by Cara Whitney, indeed is the "perfect way for horse lovers to start the day" and even if you're not a horse lover, you too will be encouraged by this author. Cara Whitney is not a 'religious person' according to the forward written by her husband, Larry, the Cable Guy. {I, personally, never had heard of him, so he is not the reason I chose this book, but I appreciate his words in the forward like an introduction, which gives a good background into his wife's spiritual search and this book clearly shows a well-rounded, transformed woman to a well-versed Christian} Cara, writes, as he described as 'a detective' that has searched for Jesus Christ, she investigated in detail His Word, many resources and teachings, she interestingly applied what she's discovered with her life of horse knowledge and experiences for us with our own faith walk; because her big goal in life, as a result of her spiritual detective work, is 'to point everyone to the life she has found in Jesus Christ.' Cara has accomplished this in all she shares. I am amazed at her expertise both with horses and Christian truths that she found and worded so well and concisely.

Cara Whitney, has written a simple yet profound devotional that compares our faith being 'unbridled' with some aspect of horses and her life on a horse farm. 

When I received this beautiful, hard cover book, I immediately was drawn to the quality of the book and the photographs included with each two-page devotion and after every 20, there is a two page layout of a gorgeous horse scene, well-worth framing. Each devotion has a clever and catchy title, and begins with a Bible verse. The first paragraph or two focuses on the horse aspect and how it compares to us and our faith journey, then drawn out in the devotion and the concluding paragraph. Simple connections, followed by a one line prayer starter with the perfect, touching horse photo. To me, the every day devotion spoke a Godly truth and I easily could relate to my days with my horses ... and horse love, although I'm not as knowledgable as Cara, I could clearly understand the connection she made like those cited in the book description. 

I could go on and on about these 100 devotions ... and how each one seemed to 'unbridle' a new delight and something for me to treasure once again in my heart, memories and my mind that nuzzled their way in and taught me a bit more about myself and my walk, how very priceless we are to God, blended with the 'timeless wisdom' and humor shared by Cara, her horses and this perfect gift of a devotional (her husband is not the only one with a good sense of humor). This book unleases my faith and refreshes my love of horses and horsemanship as I flip open to any one of the devotions for the day and grow my trust and beliefs in a fresh way - perfect for a summer devotional read! Off to "Clean Out My Spiritual Tack Room" (#79) and find "A Big, Happy Neigh" (#33) This book has everything I love included!

But instead of going on, I will share one of my favorites #77 and you can see for yourself.

"The One True Thing"

"Sometimes when we get around horse people, we find ourselves surrounded by all kinds of know-it-alls. And in some cases, they actually do. The equine educated can make us feel like inadequate equestrians at times. But that’s when we remind ourselves of what is most important: we love our horses, and our horses trust us.

What’s more, it can be so tempting to compare ourselves to other riders. But we will never succeed at being ourselves if we are trying to be someone else.

Our spiritual journey is our own too. When we are tempted to compare ourselves with other Christians, we should focus instead on the Lord. He is the One we are following. “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else” (Galatians 6:4).

The truth is, we will meet other Christians along the trail who seem to know every Bible verse, have theology degrees, and speak eloquent prayers. And it’s easy to feel intimidated by a person with that kind of intellect. Remember: all that matters is that you know the one thing that is most important: “Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” If you know that, then you know the most important thing of all."

Lord, help me to avoid the temptation of comparing myself with others. Help me to hold on to the one true thing: my relationship" Unbridled Faith...by Cara Whitney, YV plan day 1

 
Disclosure: I received this book free through BookLook Bloggers, from the publisher, in return for an honest review. 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 FTCs 16 CFR, Part 255


[additional personal note: I have owned horses, like the one in my last photo image in the background of one of my blankets (looks like my Arabian horse), the 2nd image is another blanket that I was lying on as I read, so I truly do love horses and yet I do not believe that I could have written a devotional book like this. Often when I prepare to review a book after reading it, I want to (over) analyze the book and try to express what I feel or read. Often I try to see if there are categories (like the 4 bullets in the book description). I tried to figure out if the reason that this devotional was divided somewhat into 20 devotionals and then that 2 page layout of a beautiful horse scene and perhaps those 20 devotionals pertained to some particular area of our faith and were being grouped together purposely. At the time, I am posting this, I have not found the category of each group ... however, I am sure that I will continue to search the titles and the 'horse' connection to our faith, whether it's 'bridled' or 'unbridled' with hopes of making a list (chart) of all 100 titles and the lesson that horses and we share ... because I am sure that all God's creation exemplify more of God's amazing character and that we can learn from them as it relates to our faith and our faith walk. You don't need to be a life-long Christian in church, versed and trained to know we all are connected to Our Supreme Creator, and have something to better another's person life and relationship with Jesus and others. I know every critter and every verse in God's Word shout another glorious facet of our Divine connection for me as I'm learning to be in-tune to listen, learn, love and BElieve.

"The wind of Heaven is that which blows between a horse's ears."
- Arabian Proverb -

Friday, June 1, 2018

"THE SPIRIT-LED HEART..." by Suzanne Eller

"The Spirit-Led Heart - Living a Life of Love and Faith without Borders"
by
Suzanne (Suzie) Eller

It was more than an unexpected, welcomed surprise when I received my complimentary copy from Bethany House of "The Spirit-Led Heart - Living a Life of Love and Faith without Borders" by Suzanne (Suzie) Eller, who definitely was Spirit-Led as she wrote this heart changing book. Suzie, once again, captures your heart, as she ignites your faith in a fresh awareness of the work of the Holy Spirit in you and challenges you to be a Spirit-filled person - without borders, through her 'gifted' teaching, truths and promises from God's Word with practical steps in her well-organized way. I enjoyed "unpacking" and unwrapping this gift, chapter after chapter of promises and teachings of Jesus and the early church, as Suzie shows us and walks us through the gift of His presence available inside each of us who've received Jesus. The true gift of this book for me, is reawakening His Spirit or reopening my eyes to all the Holy Spirit is ... and my heart so that I am Spirit-led. 

Most definitely, this is my favorite kind of book with the content I like best, including a Study Guide right in the back of the book following the Epilogue. Ten solid chapters that include the same format pattern of well-organized *sections as Suzie shares her heart about a Spirit-Led heart: beginning with a quote by a famous person/author that capsulizes the theme or gets you thinking, a personal devotional introduction, *The Early Church (relating them to us), *Your Promise, *Your Invitation (both with personal reminders from personal experiences to encourage and apply to our lives), question(s) with further expansion of her teaching points, summing up with *Spirit-Led ... without borders, then ending with a special box emphasizing: *The Word, *Your Spirit-Led Promise, *Your Spirit-Led Invitation, and a *Prayer (always my favorite part)

[insert of photos of book pages of this]


In each chapter Suzie focuses us on our Spirit-Led hearts being: 1) Confident, 2) Empowered, 3) Defined by Truth, 4) Finds Direction, 5) Bold, 6) Advocated and Comforted, 7) Counseled, 8) Finds Discernment and Wisdom, 9) Marked by Conviction and 10) Gifted.  Suzie has the gift to inspire as she gives good, practical instruction with sound Biblical teaching of God's Word combined with keeping her writing personal, vulnerable, transparent yet powerful. Each chapter's Spirit-Led ... (fill in any of the 1-10 above) ...without borders, is the section that really personalized her point and God spoke more clearly to my heart. 

I was going to mention that my favorite chapter was Chapter 6  "We are Worth Fighting For" ... but that's because of where I am in my personal life, yet I'm sure that others would be my favorite in other seasons of my life. Over and over, I flip often to the different charts or tables that Suzie uses, like in Chapter 3 (pages 64 and 65) but the best one, is in the Study Guide, on page 189, "God's Truth Replaces Lies" {boy, do I need to do this frequently}. You can see this or get a copy at Suzie's blog plus some other wonderful freebies including the "Manifesto" and sample of chapters 1 & 2.

As I continued reading through "The Spirit-Led Heart", I sensed a renewed stirring of the Holy Spirit helping me to grasp that I am equipped with the power to live out my faith without borders and return to a Spirit filled life of love, or for me, love of life with my heart transformed by all that Suzie shares from God's Word, through the early church to me, the reader guided by His Spirit. 

I highly recommend this book and its teacher/author for individuals as well as small group church studies. I know that I will return to read this again and again, at a slower pace to reignite all Suzie Eller ties together about a Spirit-Led heart. I would love to lead a study of this book too since it is all given in the book copy. I have enjoyed other books by Suzie Eller dealing with the heart: "Unburdened" and "Mended", but this one stands out as I seek to be filled and refilled by His Holy Spirit, a recurring theme for me since last fall and so I invite you to read this as I invite the Holy Spirit to "Come with Me", once again ... and rekindle my Spirit, my belief of 3 in 1, Father, Spirit and Son, Jesus Christ. I need all 3(as 1) to help me live my faith better, without borders. 

"I'm worth fighting for. Just saying those words breaks something in me, Father. ... That one is worth fighting for Lord. I am not big enough to change the world on my own, but I can do my part. ...  " [parts of the Prayer for Chapter 6, page 114, "The Spirit-Led Heart"by S. Eller]

Spirit-Led Promise #1 [image credit:S.Eller]

Disclosure: I received this book free from Bethany House, the publisher in return for an honest review. 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 FTCs 16 CFR, Part 255


[This book was published on May 1st but I did not receive a copy til May 16th so sorry for not getting this review out earlier. I purposely chose today's date to honor my mother on her birthday as her spirit resides with His eternally. I love the artwork on the cover of Suzie's book and throughout in black and white, and other images I've seen, which remind me of the artwork my mother would do.]



Tuesday, November 7, 2017

"IN THE MIDDLE of the MESS ...

"IN THE MIDDLE of the MESS ...


... STRENGTH FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL, BROKEN LIFE"

by

Sheila Walsh

{release date 11/7/17}


is not just Sheila Walsh's story
but it's ours!

Sheila concludes her book
with this truth:

"No matter your circumstances ... You have a story, and that story has its own peculiar mess. You can confess that story to Christ and let go. You can let Him start a work of healing, even now, right in the middle of your mess. ... Together, we find strength for this beautiful, broken life." ...

"I believe one of the greatest miracles of all is ..." Sheila Walsh, "In the Middle..."
{you'll have to read her book to find out}


... however, Sheila weaves her story unwaveringly once again  (for some of us who are familiar with Sheila, or to capsulize it for those new to her life storywith complete vulnerability  throughout each of the 12 chapters with added recent updates in her life as well, that has brought her through a deep journey of (with) 'brokenness' that we can relate to in our own lives and 'messes'. Sheila has a personal style of writing and speaking that gently and compassionately touches our soul with hers while teaching us spiritual (biblical) ways that we too can apply and use to equip ourselves to connect with God and overcome our own struggles in life better through confession, community to share with closely, Scripture meditation (contemplation) and daily connection with Jesus in honest prayer (communication with Our Father). 

Midway through her book "In the Middle of the Mess", I discovered her first session of the DVDs that accompany her Study guide and this book, so I just had to order the Study Guide also. Although each chapter in the book ends with "Reflection", the Study Guide does so much more, breaking down the 12 chapters into 6 sessions of Brokenness (that was most helpful to me and well worth getting, but this is not a review of the Study Guide). Yet for me, it's a total package! The videos are so well done! 

I couldn't agree more with so many points that Sheila brings forth, chapter after chapter becoming my new favorite, until I was stopped dead-on with the following truth I read right before the middle of this book ... and then every line kept pouring into my own brokenness with more and more freeing, healing truth and deliverance.

"So many coping mechanisms, avoidance techniques, and lies. They kept me blind to where Christ was in the middle of my mess ... But this is the beauty:sometimes
even when we try to avoid the truth, God uses the smallest hands to invite us into the safety of deliverance."

There were moments of tears and moments of sheer delight as I continued reading through Sheila's words, Sheila's story and saw mine (though we hardly share the same past or story), each of us have gone through struggles that help us get the point being made, in such a relatable way. This is Sheila's gift to us. This is her lifeline to us (as Ann Voskamp wrote)! And it may be ours to someone else. 

This book is meant for everyone, not just those who have struggled with depression or deep hurts and messy lives ... it's meant for the weak and the strong to come alongside another human being waiting in the shadows, feeling isolated and alone, in need of a listening ear, a helping hand, an understanding, brave heart, willing to meet one another "in the middle" and find strength to overcome and go forward, changing lives for the better. Highly recommended read, church study, and for personal individual growth. I have much more to say but you'd be better off just getting a copy for yourself. Reading this book has given me a new found strength with God to deal with my brokenness and spiritual practices to put into use in my messes, and I know I will be rereading and turning back to this as a study again.


*{my actual book review is still coming}

I'm right in the Middle of the book - OK, just past that in

"Beautifully Broken"

which might be

the reason

for my

delay

but

my review 

is on its way

[After viewing Session One at Faith Gateway of the Study Guide for this book, I had to take a longer pause and view all 6 sessions available at Study Gateway because I couldn't wait. The DVDs that accompany this book and study are exceptional and so beautifully done! Sheila Walsh adds such compassion and understanding to her beautiful vulnerability of her own story used as a lifeline to help others facing overwhelming struggles with a new hope in allowing God into our dark places and hurts honestly.]


Book Description

"How do you turn your struggles into strengths? 

Beloved Bible teacher Sheila Walsh teaches readers how the daily spiritual practices of confession, meditation on God’s Word, and prayer result in fresh freedom in Christ. 

In her long-awaited new book, Sheila Walsh equips women with a practical method for connecting with God’s strength in the midst of struggle. From daily frustrations that can feel like overwhelming obstacles to hard challenges that turn into rock-bottom crises, women will find the means to equip themselves for standing strong with God. Using the spiritual applications of confession, prayer, and meditation on Scripture to form a daily connection to Jesus, women will learn how to experience new joy as a child of God who is fully known, fully loved, and fully accepted. 

In the Middle of the Mess, Walsh reveals the hardened defenses that kept her from allowing God into her deepest hurts and shares how entering into a safe place with God and practicing this daily connection with Him have saved her from the devil’s prowling attacks. Though we will never be completely “fixed” on earth, we are continually held by Jesus, whatever our circumstances." Thomas Nelson

*Posting before release in case you want to

PRE-ORDER
to
receive bonus gifts
{just click on link and pre-order at the top}
* written on 11/6/17
prior to my
review


Disclosure: I received this book free from Handlebar in return for an honest review. 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  FTCommission’s  16 CFR, Part 255



Saturday, July 22, 2017

"NO MORE FAKING FINE"

by

Esther Fleece

9780310344759
{pretend you see an image of the book cover here if it's gone}

Since I heard about "No More Faking Fine ... " being released January 2017, I wanted to have it and review it. I came across Esther Fleece, through another author, book and checked out her website. I instantly knew that this book on 'lamenting' was meant for me so I signed up to get the guide from Esther Fleece before I even had a copy of her book. After reading some of the top positive reviews and a couple of the low ones, the sample copy, and this lament guide, I was convinced that this was the book God would use to bring healing in my life in 2017. 

Esther Fleece does not disappoint with "No More Faking Fine..." - I found that this deep book is one of my 2017 favorites and still working through the many ways that God is using this to walk me through healing in my life, although I have not shared experience as severe as Esther Fleece's childhood and her life journey of getting "gut-level honest with God through the life-giving language of lament" ... I have been processing through this book since I received it months ago and delayed in writing my review until I truly had a sense of this book, like no other, from beginning to end - it shatters, inspires, encourages, guides and leads the reader on a pathway to true intimacy with God, giving us permission and "voice to the hurt, frustration, and disappointment' that maybe you, like I, have "kept inside and silenced far too long." I could have put together a review of high praise when I first began this long journey of healing through this book as I shared here and there that "No More Faking Fine ..." is a MUST READ.

When I read the title, "No More Faking Fine: Ending the Pretending", my reaction was not like other reviewers that chose the book because the title captured their interest, I was sure that I certainly do not 'fake fine', in fact, I was convinced I am the complete opposite, that I tell it like it is: good, bad and ugly. However, within the last year, I noticed that perhaps I was stuffing and have not been sharing much with anyone, except God, so I wasn't "faking fine", I wasn't fine and I recalled going through periods in my life where I had done this. I found that Scripture reveals a God, as I have seen in my life, who has met me right where I am time and time again and as Esther states "not where we pretend to be". Esther Fleece walks us through her life experiences, her life story with a "suck it up" mentality, where she stuffed and stuffed her emotions. I'm quite the opposite. Esther writes with such openness and vulnerability, most of us can easily relate, even without having the same experiences, most of us have had to deal with other people when facing difficulties, hurt, grief and struggles. Esther helps us learn how to lament and biblically shows us how it's OK to express ourselves honestly when it hurts. 

There are 3 parts to Esther's book: "Faking Fine", "A New Way to Pray" and "To Sing Again" with 11 chapters. Each chapter begins with a Scripture, is filled with scriptures, and ends with a wonderful prayer!{you know how much I love prayers in books}

This is a much needed book, as Esther exposes her personal pain in a powerful way to enlighten us in the need and manner to LAMENT, to walk through our own story of difficulties honestly, authentically and just as courageously as she has and learned to do so that we may heal. I know I need this book and will continue to go through it. I highly recommend "No More Faking: Ending the Pretending" with 224 pages of truth and redemption for you and others you know that need a friend like Esther, the real deal, who understands and seemingly links arms with you as the reader through a journey of healing and lament.


Disclosure: I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers in return for an honest review. 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 FTCommission’s  16 CFR, Part 255



Tuesday, April 4, 2017

Make "A Spectacle of Glory ..."

your must
READ
for this season or this year
(or your chosen devotional for next year)


[I have two really excellent books that I've been reading and need to review for they both are long overdue. This is one of the two that I'm reviewing now because I believe it would make a perfect gift - for (Easter) Resurrection SONday for yourself or someone special - or for anytime of the year, all year.]

<>

A Spectacle of Glory
God's Light Shining through Me Every Day
by Joni Eareckson Tada with Larry Libby 

... is truly a "spectacle" of God's glory daily, as a 365 day devotional in a compact, small sized book, with just the right amount of reading each day, written by an inspirational author and person that could not be better suited to share "God's Glory" - Joni Eareckson Tada, whose very life shines the glory of God and she gives us uplifting encouragement each day in how we too can reflect "God's Light Shining through ..." us. (if you don't know Joni Eareckson Tada, you could read a brief bio or just this part of the book description says enough to more than qualify her): 

"After nearly 50 years of living as a quadriplegic, and dealing with chronic pain on a daily basis, Joni has learned firsthand the importance of glorifying God through the toughest of situations." 

Yet not once have I ever read anything where Joni writes with any sense of self-pity and truly does minister through her devastating tragedy to so many others, able and not-so-abled earthly bodies, are touched through "Joni & Friends" - her ministries. Joni has moved positively to change what might have destroyed her, into many ways to glorify God, even when the days have been extremely challenging ... check out Joni's Corner to sample this or read on her blog. So this book is written from someone who truly understands what suffering is and how to seek God and stay close in the midst of hard times.

In this new book, each day's short devotional lesson is packed with godly wisdom through living experiences, starting out with a snippet of what to read in God's Word (recommended to have your Bible nearby to read in context and completely) - yet at times, this scripture is shared within her one page devotional, ending the devotional with a beautiful prayer (or prompt to further pray), which is always my favorite kind of daily devotional, when they contain prayers - a big reason for me to choose a devotional as well as the topics covered and this one covers many but the primary one being this:

"... The Bible spells it out plainly: God created you to showcase His glory—to enjoy it, display it, and demonstrate it every day to all those you encounter." ~ from the Book Description

In this day of high accessibility to having a book immediately as an e-book, I encourage you in this case (as I chose to review this book for this reason) to acquire the actual hard copy ... because it's one of those "treasures" to behold in your hands. From the moment it arrived, I appreciated this gift daily! The precious cover, [not just the glorious image chosen for this cover - the one above hardly does it justice] is one of those soft textured matte finish that you just love to hold. The 400 pages are compact, and so this (4 X 6 X 1 in.) book would fit nicely in most purses, making it easy to take with you daily, and have with you for those moments you can catch a little to read as you wait, or when you're in need of some encouragement.

Joni has a wonderful way of writing to inspire and encourage you! Her insights are practical, real and meaningful. I kept reading through this, as you would a daily devotional, hoping that I might find one day that would stand out to share as my favorite, or the best, however I found that each day was, for that particular day - the best, and that devotion truly did make any ordinary life or maybe complicated one, not too small or big, not so insignificant for that one day - more, setting the stage for you to glorify God, with a new how-to-motivation. If Joni Eareckson Tada can remain and face each day positively as one more opportunity to be "a spectacle of glory" chosen by God, then reading these devotionals daily will further me and enable me to focus on just how much our Heavenly Father cares and loves me and you too, showing us that we can live as a "spectacle of His Glory", being a light that draws others out of their darkness, or even us - out of our dark moments into God's Light and Glory - even if it's just for the short time we read a page in this sweet, glorious daily dose of this book. "A Spectacle of Glory..." does lift your spirit to new heights of confidence in our wonderfully sovereign God," which is Joni and Ken, her husband's prayer.

I will continue reading this treasure daily and highly recommend (with 5 stars) as a choice for a yearly devotional, a sweet gift for someone dear (even yourself) or especially for someone dealing with hard times in need of an encouraging daily word - just the right morsel for each day. The only drawback may be that you may like to have a Bible accessible while reading the devotion daily since only the scripture text is named above with the date. It would also have been nice to have had all those scriptures indexed in the back of the book also with the date (which is what I am doing as I read). I find it a simple delight to reach for this book each day and receive a glimpse of God's Glory knowing that God's purpose is for me to "showcase His Glory" to enjoy it, display it, and demonstrate it every day to all those you encounter."


Disclosure: I received this book free from BookLook Bloggers and Zondervan, in return for an honest review. 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  FTCommission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
  
YOU KNOW I CHOOSE THE BEST BOOKS TO REVIEW
and
I'M SO THANKFUL to RECEIVE 
EACH ONE!


They are gifts to myself and I appreciate so much being given them.
Receiving them when I'm doing Online Bible Studies however some times
prevents them from being read and reviewed in due time but I do hope
this is in enough time for you to get and enjoy.


My YouVersion reading plan for this full year had this prayer for Day 93 of 365 that goes with this book and this day that I chose to finally post this: 
"Jesus, I cannot in my wildest imaginings know what glory You have in store for Your followers. I can only thank You for Your gracious generosity. Amen.


Saturday, December 31, 2016

"THE ONE YEAR BOOK OF HEALING"

{last day to get a post in for this past year & one that will usher in the new year}


This book review is establishing my direction for
2017
{mine and others, I pray}

Image result for the one year book of healing - Tyndale
"THE ONE YEAR BOOK OF HEALING"
by
Dr. Reggie Anderson
and
Jennifer Schuchmann


... it's the rest of this book's title that captures my attention and interest to read it ...

"...Daily Appointments with God for Physical, Spiritual, and Emotional Wholeness"

Thanks to Tyndale, this is a real book, not a virtual ebook that I can
actually hold in my hands, day after day, like the beautiful one
I so enjoyed this past year by Chris Tiegreen
(also from Tyndale)
"The One Year: Hearing His Voice"
this
"Book of Healing"
{was waiting for me when I arrived home from MX}
is one I intend to read more meticulously for 2017

" Dr. Reggie Anderson, author of the acclaimed memoir "Appointments with Heaven," knows it can’t be predicted how God’s healing work will come to pass in our lives and hearts . . . only that it will. As a country doctor who has had remarkable experiences attending people in pain, Reggie wants you to see what he sees every day—that whatever your sickness, whatever your hurt, God is alive and active in your life. He wants you to be truly well, even if that looks different than you might expect. Rich in story and inspiration, The One Year Book of Healing will reveal the many ways our Savior heals and intervenes in the lives of the sick and the hurting—giving you the faith, hope, and patience to believe that God can do the same in your life."


Although "The One Year Book of Healing..." is the first book that I have read by Dr. Reggie Anderson, I was familiar with his previous book, "Appointments with Heaven," and had heard much about it, so I was intrigued and so ready for this book. "The One Year Book of Healing" is an inspirational book to read daily God's "prescription" for the day with encouraging, heartfelt messages that on many days give personal stories of healing or a message from Dr. Reggie Anderson. 

I enjoy the set-up of this devotional. Each month starts out with a monthly "Checkup" and a "Booster Shot" - God knows I need the 'check-up' part more than the 'shot'. So the book is clearly divided into the twelve months, with a devotion and reading from God's Word each day. The monthly checkup is an overview of common experiences: such as October, where I started, sharing gifts of kindness and setting goals; whereas January realistically speaks of our interior life, because January can be gloomy but gives us a time to prepare our hearts for renewal; or what we might expect that month physically or emotionally.

Each monthly "Checkup" introduction gives us a spiritual monthly challenge "to enhance our relationship with God." I really like this motivation and the various sound ideas given. Dr. Reggie Anderson clearly does give us what his objective is: "to help us see God through fresh eyes". I look forward to giving these a try but he also leaves us free to adapt or replace his suggestions if they don't work for us. The "booster shot" is meant to encourage us to better and healthier lifestyle - "greater health and wellness" (are his words).

Each day before the devotion, the book gives us a Scripture and we are encouraged to have our Bibles to go further and read in context to get more understanding. The personal stories from his own life and  medical practice are all true but, of course, the identity and privacy of the patients are protected. I appreciate that Dr. Reggie hopes that these stories demonstrate that "God is always present in our pain and suffering" and that his patients will amaze us with their "stories of how their faith has grown, even when their prayers weren't answered the way they hoped."

After each day's devotion, Dr. Reggie writes a daily Rx ... offering us a "suggestion for something we can do or consider" to feel better, grow stronger, or draw closer to our Father. Then as I love, he closes in prayer. {you know that's my favorite part in any daily devotional, it serves to focus my prayer and I use them usually as a prayer starter} ... 

I am sure that reading this daily will inspire me and encourage me; after reading this for an entire year page by page, that these rich stories will bring testimony to God, hope in healing, and most definitely "reveal the many ways our Savior heals and intervenes in the lives of the sick and hurting" - this most certainly will give my faith a boost, stir up my hope and teach me a bit more patience to believe that God can do the same for me and my loved ones as HE has done for the others in this book. 

I truly believe that this book - "The One Year Book of Healing" - holds the hope and the healing that I desperately need, even still and now in my life journey, of God's healing touch on my life. I'm only giving it 4 out of 5 stars on my recommendation, yet by the end of 2017, I should probably give a post review to see how this book has served its purpose of inspiration and healing that I can share with others, who also need a touch of God in their circumstances ... and the increase of my faith and hope in God, our Healer, Jehovah Rapha, for HE is alive and active in our lives (even if and when we don't feel or see healing) God is undeniably at work, for He most certainly wants us to be "truly well, even if that wellness looks different from what we expect". As I pick up this book, look at the beautiful cover of flowing, healing water and in colors that invite me to turn the pages and find the testimony, scripture and prescription that promises to do a deep work in me as I'm challenged to allow God's healing. 



In fact ... I have decided that this

ONE WORD

is the

WORD

for

2017

{but we'll see more about this WORD, after I start my year with
40 Days of Prayers}

with LifeWay Women

40 Days of Prayer
[image credit and link]


Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through their Tyndale Blogger's Network. 

Disclosure: I received this book free from Tyndale Blog Network blogger's 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 Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

... and the ending of this blog post is in no way a part of Tyndale nor is this book part of LifeWay Women. They are not connected except by me.




To my faithful visitors;
all of you who spend your valuable time here with me
I do appreciate you so much!

Thank you for taking your time to visit!

Love, Sweet blessings & Hugs!

DIOS TE BENDIGA
GOD BLESS YOU

always

Peggy