Soulprint - book review

Once again, it's time for a review of a book I have read. I received Soulprint, written by Mark Batterson from Blogging for Books/WaterBrookMultnomah Press.

This is the fourth book I have read from Mark and each one has touched my heart in a different way. The cover art gives a great insight into what is to come in the copy to be read inside. ark describes how each of our lives has a unique "soulprint", much like our unique fingerprints. Nobody has the same and each has its own defining characteristics.

Through the pages of this book, you will be challenged to find your divine destiny that God has placed specifically for you. Obviously, we all have different ones, thus it takes work from each of us to find our own.

Come into this book with an open mind, and a heart looking for answers...a pad and pen will help while going through this study. There is also a study guide included to aid with your efforts.

Once again, a brilliant book by one of my favorite authors/ Please read, study amd find what your true calling is!!!

Nelson's Cyclopedic Bible Index - review

This is one of those books that is very difficult for me to describe. I have never been an avid studier, nor have I spent hours doing research in any subject. However, the Bible is a book that has required much study during my life (some times more than others, unfortunately).

Yes, I have the Strong's Concordance, which goes into the Hebrew and Greek translations, but this is more a topical index if you will. This Index will be easy to navigate as you are looking for corroborating verses in the Bible, whether it be for corporate teaching or just a personal study time.

The problem in this day and age is that there are so many online resources that do much the same as this book. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to delve into the Bible and teach on specific subjects or topics. It would be a great resource to have on hand for any believer, and I am glad to have mine!!!

I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishing. 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

If God is Good - Book review

My latest book to review is If God is Good by Randy Alcorn. I was intrigued by the subject matter, which is one of the most asked questions...if there is a God, why does bad happen???

During my lifetime, I have probably heard a version of that question asked of me a million times. Through the duration of this book, Mr Alcorn delves deep into theological observation and Scripture references.

Over the years, unbelievers have said that if pain, suffering, evil and war are allowed to be, then there can't be a God. From the differing perspective of Christians, we tend to think more along the lines that suffering and evil can cause believers to trust more deeply and rely more on God. He is our Strength in troubled times. The outlook of Christians is also that going through sufferings allows the possibility to reach unbelievers with the Hope that carries them through the tough times.

This is a brilliant work, touching on the most sensitive of subjects. It isn't a quick, one-night read...but the time invested on the subject will leave you inspired and hopeful, even in your lowest days. It also includes a topical and scriptural index at the back to help with certain issues. This is a must-read for Christians, especially those who are trying to reach to others with their faith.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Wild Goose Chase - Book review

The title of this book by Mark Batterson would make one think of a life out of order. *Wild Goose Chase* would bring up mental images of someone just being pulled to and fro with no particular end or means in sight. The Christian life, however, is nothing close to that. In this book, Mark describes how to live a life chasing the proverbial "goose" or Holy Spirit's will for each day.

What we don't see is the final outcome of our daily meanderings that appear as unorthodox to some, if led by the Holy Spirit will have a particular goal as the result. We are finite beings who have only a slight sense of Who and What the Holy Spirit is in our lives. We see things in the scope of our minutes, hours, and days...while time is of no real relevance to the Lord.

When we truly follow the Lord, this "goose chase" will lead to great personal growth and building of a relationship that will be more valuable than anyone can express in mere words.

I would recommend this book for anyone looking to deepen their relationship and understanding of the Holy Spirit. Mark's writing is easy to read, but will challenge you to the core!

The Lucado Life Lessons Study Bible - Book review

My latest review comes in the form of a Study Bible. This is the second review of such a work. Max Lucado has long been a favorite of mine in the work of walking through this Christian life. His insights are very unique and profound, so I was intrigued to see how this Study Bible would turn out.

This is my first Bible in the New King James Version translation. The main difference I find between it and the KJV is simply the dropping of the "Thee"'s and "Thou"'s into more updated vocabulary. I don't want to dwell on the translation in this review, but rather the study materials that are found throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Each book of the Bible starts with a short synopsis, as well as author, date written, major themes, key verse(s) and outline of the major contents. But, that's not the extent of the study portion...in the side margins, there are lessons throughout the entirety of the Bible. Each "lesson" shares a passage of Scripture...it tells the situation, makes an observation, talks about the inspiration for the passage, gives a life application and also references more exploration on the related subject.

Max Lucado's writing style conveys the message of living our faith out in our everyday life, while also being concerned with sharing it with others. This Study Bible has so much to offer, including a couple of in-depth looks at Heaven with study questions as well. In the back of this Bible are included very good reference helps including: (1) He Did This Just for You Verses, (2) Spiritual Growth Verses, (3) 30 Studies for New Believers, (4) The Big Picture: A 30-Day Overview to the New Testament, and (5) "Where to Turn When" Index. Each of these sections are handy in so many situations, both personal and sharing with others.

I would recommend this Study Bible for anyone looking for a new perspective in their quiet study times. While I enjoy Max Lucado's writing, his words are no substitute to how the Holy Spirit will speak through Scripture. All-in-all, this is a great reference for use in so many situations that everyone could benefit from having this edition.

Now for the legal stuff...

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.”

Radical - Book review

These days, there are so many books out there giving us this formula or that formula in fixing our lives. But, the major problem is that they are based on US fixing our own lives and problems. In the book "Radical" by David Platt, the formula is based upon principles grounded in the Bible.

Are you currently in a church environment where the members do works "because that's the way they've always done it"? Are things just ho-hum and blah-blah-blah in your spiritual life? In this book, you will find the essentials in living the life you've been called to live.

Many times, we look for a quick fix that doesn't stretch us too far from our comfortable lives we lead. Radical doesn't call for us to make decisions based on comfort, but hits us squarely between the eyes and confronts us with the truth. This confrontation will cause the reader to do one of two things: change the way you live or just go about the norm unchanged.

Not only does Radical call for personal change, but also the way we "do church". Are we truly reaching out to those around us, or simply huddled and secluded? I'm reminded of a quote a preacher used to say..."the church is so worldly and the world is so churchy, I can't tell them apart". That's exactly what David Platt is talking about. We are too busy trying to live the American dream to really portray Christ in our personal and corporate settings.

I would recommend Radical to any believer as a guide to living with a missional mindset.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review

Life Without Limits - Book review

Several months ago, I was referred to a video on YouTube of this man who was born with no arms and no legs. This was my introduction to Nick Vujicic, the author of the book "Life Without Limbs". I have since watched several videos and read some of the journal entries from his travels worldwide. What an amazing story of how God can use an individual in spite of their circumstances.

This book not only tells about the life lived without limits, but one of hope when things seem utterly hopeless. Nick has fought through obstacles that most would succomb to the depression and simply give up. And, not only has he not given up, but has given proof through his walk with the Lord that we truly can have "...a ridiculously good life".

One of the best rules to live without limits is found in Chapter 7 Don't Let Your Face Plant Grow Roots. In this chapter, the lesson learned is if you fail and give up...you will never get up. In his life, Nick has faced the obstacles and knows perfectly well how hard it is to get up when you've fallen. Physically, it would be nearly impossible. But, as Nick states, if you fail 99 times and give up you will never get up.

There are so many good points in this book, but I would hate to give away too much. If you are looking for inspiration, or just love to pull for the "underdog", this book is a definite must-have. I would recommend this for anyone high school and above.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Voices of the Faithful - Book review

My latest book to review is the Beth Moore daily devotional "Voices of the Faithful". This daily devotional is full of inspiring stories that were written by missionaries from all overthe world.

This is a brilliant compilation of works that is perfectly set up for your daily reading and contemplation. Not a book I would recommend reading at length, because each essay is a completed work in itself. This devotional is categorized by the month, with each month being based on a theme, which is followed closely throughout.

This is my first reading of a work by Beth Moore. Though she is not the writer of the majority of the work, her added thoughts really bring more inspiration from each story of the missionaries. Too often, we just think of the people who are reached by the missionaries, while we seem to forget the struggles associated with being a missionary in foreign lands. The stories shared will bring out the struggles that are faced and the blessings received from heeding the call placed in each of us. I believe everyone who reads these essays will be motivated to accept the challenge to do more each day to reach others.

I would recommend this book to all believers, especially those who are actively participating in the work of their local church. As I stated before, this is my first Beth Moore but will most definitely not be my last!!!

Now for the legal stuff...

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.”

Living Life in the Zone - Book review

The latest book up for review is entitled "Living Life in the Zone" by Kyle Rote and Joe Pettigrew. This is a 40-day devotional geared towards men and the stresses and difficulties they endure on a daily basis.

The general theme for this book is sports and how we can apply "sports" themes and ideas into our mindset to conquer each day ahead of us. Being an avid sports fan, I found the subject matters to hit home and convey new ideas for coping with life. There are ample resources cited throughout the book, including inspirational quotes and Bible references.

I would also be quick to point out...this is intended for a male audience. That said, there are elements of this book that can apply to both genders. Overall, "Living Life in the Zone" is an excellent devotional guide that inspires the reader to be a better person, to strive for our goals in life, and you can truly make a difference in the world you live in.

Overall, "Living Life in the Zone" is a great devotional book that I would recommend ALL men to read and grow from. It is short enough to fit your daily readings comfortably into any schedule, and the difference you will see in your life and those around you will amaze you!

The Butterfly Effect: Book review

My latest review is one I have been planning to submit for some time, but have just never found the time to simply sit and take the time to type it out. It is my latest installment from the BookSneeze Blog review program of Thomas Nelson Publishers.

I have read the past two books written by Andy Andrews and was very excited to find this book. The whole basis of the book is along the lines of the butterfly effect spoken of in years past in the scientific community. Basically, that theory stated that if a butterfly flapped its' wings on one side of the world, it could cause a ripple effect that could produce astounding things to take place on the opposite side of the world.

Andy takes that theory and breaks it down in how our lives can cause a ripple effect in time. By the things we do, regardless how small, we can change others which can cause amazing things to be possible.

Some of the places he draws from are the Civil War and the stand made by one man, in the face of certain death...this stand changed the course of history...what would life be like if the South had won? What if there were no United States? Another was the backstory of George Washington Carver...how the sacrifices of others made possible the advances in agriculture he was able to make...

The bottom line is this...the acts we do actually make a difference! If you are down or thinking your life has little meaning in the grand scope of things, read this book. It will take you approximately 15 minutes, but could completely change your outlook on how important your life is!

And now for the legal stuff...

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.”

"Let's Do Lunch" book review

Let me start this review by first stating the obvious...this is not the normal book I would pick off a shelf. I chose it because I, like many in America, have gained unwanted pounds and inches. Roger Wilson does a great job in this book cutting through the myths that are out there and just shares the simple facts of how eating schedules and eating "smart" can take those pounds off.

I know it seems as though this is another eat yourself thin book, but there is nothing space-age or never-seen-before in this one. It's a no-nonsense approach that speaks plainly and explains why it works.

I would tend to be skeptical of such books, but Roger Himself lost 230 pounds and 24 inches by applying the principles listed in this book. If you are looking for a quick fix, diet pills, or point system to follow...this is not the book for you. However, if you are willing to watch what you eat and when you eat it...and are willing to submit your life to a great "life change for the better", this plan can work for you!!! Pick it up at Thomas Nelson, Amazon, Christianbook.com or your favorite online or local bookstore.

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.”

Outlive Your Life book review

Another review I should have posted some time ago is of the soon to be released "Outlive Your Life" by Max Lucado. This is just another added to my large collection of his books. The official release date is scheduled for September 14, 2010.

This book is a call for us as Christians to live beyond the confines of life and rather reach out and make a difference. It may be a call to be more charitable, serve in a soup kitchen, or help an elderly person you know. Whatever this book inspires you to do...one thing is for sure...we need to stop sitting back and expect others to do the work we have been called to do. If we are to all sit by and watch, then nothing will get done, right?

We all need an eye-opener or a shot in the arm from time to time, and that's exactly what this book does. If you are in a rut or just need to be awakened from a sleepwalk through your daily life, I urge you to grab a copy of this book. You can pre-order it at Thomas Nelson Publishers or at Christianbook.com.

One hundred percent of all author royalties from this book will benefit children and families through WorldVision and other ministries of faith-based compassion.

The Heart Mender book review

The Heart Mender by Andy Andrews is the latest book I have received for review through the BookSneeze blogger Review program. This is the second book I have read from Mr. Andrews and I have to say I love his writing. Everything in his books flows so seamlessly as he narrates the stories. This latest book tells a story of loss, anger, and ultimately forgiveness in the World War II era.

In 1942, after her husband was killed in the war, Helen Mason finds a nearly-dead body on the shore. Seeing the German uniform, Helen is enraged and would leave the soldier to save himself, but is struck by a phrase and re-thinks her situation.

I am not the normal romance reader, but the mending heart story that follows is one for the ages. The reconciliation and forgiveness that is made in the pages of this book will touch even the hardest of hearts. Once again, a true gem of a story.

It’s even hinted that some of the book could possibly be true. Like my parents always told me, truth is much more entertaining than fiction, right? But, regardless, I would invite you to get a copy of this book and enjoy the story I just finished.




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.”

Transformation Study Bible - review

This review will be my first of any form of Bible. The Transformation Study Bible has truly been a blessing in my quiet times, as the translation is well-done and the added features with this version make scriptures literally "jump off the page".

Many of you will recognize the name of Dr. Warren W. Wiersbe from his "Be" series. His thoughts and commentary are throughout this Study Bible, adding some depth to your personal times in study and meditation. Each book begins with a detailed outline, including the theme, key verse and overall breakdown. Throughout this edition, you will come across “Catalyst” note sections, in which Dr. Wiersbe challenges the reader to make true “transformation” in a personal way.

This is my first read of the New Living Translation, and I find the scripture easily readable and also good for memorization. Some translations are easy to read and understand, but the memorization is difficult at best. That would seem to hinder the ability to hide the Word in our hearts, right?

I would give this translation a 4 out of 5, but with this study version, would upgrade to 5 out of 5, a must-have for anyone who is looking for added depth in their personal, daily Bible study time. For more information on this book, or any others from Davod C. Cook publishers, check out their site here.

You Can Be Everything God Wants You to Be - book review

Last night, I sat down and opened the latest book I will be reviewing. I have been a Max Lucado fan since just after graduating high school. His latest, "You Can Be Everything God Wants You to Be" is a perfect blend of common-sense, Biblically sound and inspirational writing.

The sticker on the front of the book states that it’s the perfect gift for the graduate. I would take it one step further. It’s the perfect gift for the person who has lost focus. There are so many applicable thoughts contained in this short book (127 pages), that can be applied to work-related struggles, career decisions, and even re-focusing our lives to fit the mold that God has designed for us.

I would recommend this book for anyone who is in need of a boost to their morale. It doesn’t always mean we get the pat on the back of we’re doing okay, but sometimes requires us to analyze our entire decision making process. When we put God’s will in front of our own, we can truly be everything God wants us to be…notice it doesn’t say what we want…that’s where we get confused too many times. True happiness comes in finding His plan for your life and following 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.”

The Voice of Psalms - book review

My newest book to review is The Voice of the Psalms, which comes from the Ecclesia Bible Society and is published by Thomas Nelson. This was an easy read, from start to finish, and would be a great extra version for readers to indulge in when doing an in-depth study of the book of Psalms as well.

The Voice of Psalms contains the entire book in the Voice translation, and also contains several devotional applications and some comments on certain passages that may spark some thought for the reader.

Over the years, I have learned that reading different translations of the Bible can open our heart and eyes to some hidden gems that we may have missed in the KJV. Since expanding my study through different translations, now including the Voice, I feel that Scripture can be more easily applied to daily life application.

The Voice of Psalms was a good read, and I would encourage anyone doing a study of Psalms to pick up a copy. Great from cover to cover and another great complimentary book that Thomas Nelson has provided as part of the BookSneeze blogger review program.

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.”

Called to Worship - book review

You may remember that I have done some book reviewing for the Book Review Blogger program, which is now under the name of "BookSneeze" for Thomas Nelson Publishing. As a result, I received a copy of "Called to Worship" by Vernon M. Whaley.

This book was an interesting read for many reasons. First and foremost, in my "day job", I serve as a Music Minister and am constantly studying the origins of worship and how they can be applied to our modern times. In this book, Whaley covered the introduction of even the thought of worship, which was not a Sunday morning exclusive thing. Worship is a 24/7 thing that we should begin to take hold of.

In the very origin of life, we were created to worship God. In all we do, every action, every word, every thought should be God-honoring. This book just gave me a few more reminders of how worship was presented to us in the Bible. He also used quotes from varied teachers and speakers, who many times share completely opposite beliefs. I didn't have a major issue there, but thought he incorporated them well to get his idea across.

All in all, the book was a good read although somewhat lengthy. It has the feel of a textbook. Never being a great fan of reading textbooks word-for-word, I would give this book a rating of 3 1/2 our of 5 possible stars. If you want to know more about worship, "Called to Worship" would be a great resource 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.”

Fearless - book review

My latest book review in association with the Thomas Nelson Publishers Book Review Bloggers program is the latest Max Lucado release, Fearless. The subtitle to the book states the main point of the entire work rather profoundly...Imagine Your Life Without Fear.

With all that we face in these troubled times...financial woes, raising kids, gas prices, job instability...the list goes on and on...many folks live with fear as a normal part of their existance. But, Max Lucado works through this book giving example after example how we can live a productive Christian life without succumbing to the fears of those without hope.

In the book, Max covers many of the fears that each of us face from time to time…from feelings of insignificance, death, wars, violence, parenting issues, providing for our families, and even making God angry with us. He talks us through the fears that may take hold of our lives by opening up the Word of God and letting it dispel the fears that many would allow to rule their lives.

I found this book, as with all Lucado’s other previous works, to be a smooth read. It brought forth hope through even what many may see as the most dire circumstances we may face in our lives. I would recommend this book to anyone as necessary reading. Thanks Max, for another great book!!!

The Noticer by Andy Andrews

You know, many times when I get books to review, I open them with no thought on how this book could impact me personally or others. The Noticer, however, changed my mind rather quickly. This is the third book review in my being part of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogger Program.

Andy Andrews draws from not only personal experience, but also tells such a deep story of a small town affected by a simple, humble man named Jones. Jones isn't an outspoken bullying sort, but rather someone who can give some good advice, as someone who can see from afar off. Regardless of the circumstances we face in life, we could all use the help of someone looking in from "the outside", and this is exactly the help Jones lends to this community.

Andy's writing style is easy-to-read and grabs you right off the bat. I am now looking forward to reading more from this author that I just got introduced to. I would recommend this book for all to read. No matter what you're going through, someone notices and may just be willing to offer perspective that could change your life!!!

"For the Tough Times" book review

This is my first review as a part of the Book Review Blogger group I have become a part of through Thomas Nelson publishers. This book is another in a string of well-written books from my personal favorite author, Max Lucado. In our lives, we all go through trials and tribulations, loss of loved ones, unexpected tragedies, etc. This book goes through many of the trials that we might possibly face and offers a Biblical perspective of how we can find hope in these situations.

Have you ever faced a difficult situation and wondered where God was, or how could He let something like this happen to you? Have you ever wondered why God seemed silent when you were looking for answers? What about if your house was destroyed by natural disaster? How could a loving God let His own be hurt like that? Well, these and other situations in life are covered genuinely and confidently in this short book of hope for those who are hurting.

If you have been struggling with questions that seem to have no logical answers, pick up this book and see the hope that God gives. Thanks, Max for another inspiring book! For more information on this book, click here.