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

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”