Do you have trouble thinking of words to say to God when you pray? Are you afraid some emotions are too intense to express to God? Prayer is the way wDo you have trouble thinking of words to say to God when you pray? Are you afraid some emotions are too intense to express to God? Prayer is the way we relate to God, but sometimes it’s a struggle.
In this 7-session study, six Bible teachers help you to study prayers in the Bible that can inspire your own. You’ll learn that God welcomes your praise and lament, your thanksgiving and intercession. You’ll see examples of how to pray when you’re alone and when you’re gathered with others. Above all, you’ll notice there’s no one right way to pray.
The six Bible teachers instruct via video six different aspects of prayer. Additionally, the workbook has 5 days of in-depth study for the participants.
The Bible instructors who share via video and the corresponding 5 day study are: Kelly Minter , Jackie Hill Perry, Jen Wilkins,Jennifer Rothschild, JadaEdwards, and Kristie McLelland.
This is a rather intensive weekly study. The teaching videos don’t cover or coordinate with the workbook, would have found helpful. Also, the 5 day a week personal study skips around the Bible, requiring a lot of references to be read. I didn’t appreciate all the jumping around. I was disappointed that the points studied in the workbook were not addressed in the videos. Since the videos and workbook exercise aren’t aligned, it wasn’t as cohesive as I would have hoped....more
BEING ELISABETH ELLIOT is an enlightening peek into the personal life of famed Elisabeth Elliot, dedicated missionary, prolific author, and world renoBEING ELISABETH ELLIOT is an enlightening peek into the personal life of famed Elisabeth Elliot, dedicated missionary, prolific author, and world renowned speaker. Ms. Elliot held a high moral standard for herself in her walk with God. This biography reveals the struggles she had in that Christian walk and while some Christians might conclude she has “fallen off her pedestal”, I believe those vulnerabilities demonstrate a refreshing “ real life” honesty and I applaud the fact she was not hypocritical. She endured multiple heartbreaks over and over and suffered from insecurities and emotional/personality quirks, yet she overcame and pursued God in the midst of a turbulent life. It is encouraging for readers to know she didn’t have mystical or supernatural powers for “overcoming”. Elisabeth Elliot did not have an easy life yet her testimonies depict a life full of grace from above. Many of us do not have easy lives, yet through this biographical glimpse, we can hope that we, too, can overcome struggles. She practiced what she preached: trust God through it all and in spite of it all.
Ellen Vaughn did extensive research into Elisabeth Elliot’s life utilizing letters, journals, interviews, etc. For those who have enjoyed her books, podcasts and speeches, this biography adds a further layer of insight into the intriguing life of this amazing woman. I certainly have profited from her deep understanding of scriptural principles and I am enriched even further by reading this background into her personal life. Kudos, Ms.Vaughn for your efforts in portraying a remarkable woman who lived a remarkable life yet who experienced the very commonplace problems of ‘Everyman’....more
First and foremost, I want to thank NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The God Shot devotional exploFirst and foremost, I want to thank NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The God Shot devotional explores small, powerful sections from each book of the New Testament one day at a time. By reading the passages in context, the meaning of each individual verse is explained in new ways for our deeper understanding of God and His goodness.
Each day’s reading points toward a name or attribute of God that the passage reveals, showing how God’s character can be found throughout Scripture. These quick and helpful “snapshots” directly focus on the Word of God. Each day is a quick < two minute read, but the message is deep with theological truth.
The following list are the attributes or names of God that are developed throughout the 100 day devotional: The God of Peace—Matthew 6:25–33 The God of Compassion—Mark 6:34–44 The God Who Loves Conversation—Luke 11:1–4 The God of Light and Truth—John 1:1–5 The God of Resurrection—Acts 2:22–33 The God Who Is Sovereign—Romans 8:28–34 The God of Love—1 Corinthians 13:1–11 The God Who Grants Righteousness—2 Corinthians 5:7–10 The God of All Nations—Galatians 3:1–9 The God Who Protects Us—Ephesians 6:10–20 The God Who Is Worth It—Philippians 3:7–11 The God Who Is Preeminent—Colossians 1:13–20 The God Who Builds His Church—1 Thessalonians 5:12–18 The God Who Empowers Us—2 Thessalonians The God Who Mediates—1 Timothy 2:1–6 The God of Patience—2 Timothy 3:16–4:5 The God Who Fulfills—Titus 3:4–11 The God of All Joy—Philemon 1:4–7 The God of Our Inheritance—Hebrews 1:1–8 The God of Wisdom—James 3:13–18 The God of Freedom—1 Peter 2:9–16 The God of Grace—2 Peter 1:2–4 The God Who Saves—1 John 3:16–22 The God Who Seeks Our Hearts—2 John 1:6 The God of All Goodness—3 John 1:11 The God Who Steadies Us—Jude 1:18–25 The God Who Will Return for Us—Revelation
The author explains the biblical passage and it’s pertinence to us. She asks questions at the conclusion of each passage for the reader to make personal application. Very practical.
Not only am I enlightened as to God’s attributes, I am encouraged as I learn more about who God is and His desire to develop a relationship with me.
3.5 stars. The Uncomplicated Heart is a hard read. The author recounts memories in a journal-like format. She states the journal entries are in no par3.5 stars. The Uncomplicated Heart is a hard read. The author recounts memories in a journal-like format. She states the journal entries are in no particular order . Her memories/ journal entries are like a stream of consciousness and I had difficulty following the sequence. I found a parallel of similarities between the entries and her dysfunctional life: both depicted chaos. While I appreciate what she is sharing, it was confusing to follow such a stream of consciousness, especially since it wasn’t clearly depicted when said events occurred . Also, transitioning between the author’s journal entries and her mother’s entries added to the confusion,
The author shared real and raw events. It is a difficult read yet an important read for those who need hope and help in their chaos. It is invaluable to know one is not alone and there are others who have experienced the depth of depression and the horrors of dysfunction . Author Sarah Mae provides such hope and help . I appreciate her honesty and vulnerability. There is an appendix which offers some excellent resource materials.
My thanks to NetGalley for a complimentary digital book in exchange for an honest review,...more
Anne Graham Lotz’s book JESUS IN ME is a treasure trove of insightful teaching. Using biblical references and personal experiences, she leads the readAnne Graham Lotz’s book JESUS IN ME is a treasure trove of insightful teaching. Using biblical references and personal experiences, she leads the reader to deep understanding of the person of the Holy Spirit and his impact in the lives of Christians. This is not another dry theological book on doctrine. Instead, it is extremely practical , personal and pertinent. Anne’s personal revelations resonate truth, underscoring the validity of the teachings; her vulnerability in sharing intimate experiences endear her to the reader. I am amazed with the simplicity of her writing coupled with the depth of the text.
The premise of the book is experiencing the Holy Spirit as a constant companion. This idea is broken down into seven sections which teach about the various roles of the Holy Spirit and how he practically functions in these roles. Practical examples are given illustrating the concepts. The personal stories are a highlight and sets this book apart from others that address the subject. The person of the Holy Spirit is explained by detailing his names and how each name represents a role he plays in our lives: comforter, advocate, counselor, helper, intercessor, strengthener, and standby. The presence, power, purpose, and precepts of the Holy Spirit are addressed in other sections.
Another noteworthy part of this book are the appendixes, Four appendixes offer quick references to practical study aides: learning how to hear he Holy Spirit during Bible reading, learning how to be filled with the Holy Spirit, discovering your gifts from the Holy Spirit, and a self assessment. Practical indeed! ,
I can’t emphasize enough how each aspect of these teaching are so interesting and informative, a credit to Anne Lotz’s writing style and a plethora of unique personal experiences and those of others! Highly recommended!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary digital copy in exchange for an honest review....more
"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest."--Corrie ten B"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest."--Corrie ten Boom.
Corrie Ten Boom’s books and writings are replete with such inspiring quotes and reflections as this one. Especially inspiring because she “practiced what she preached” in the truest sense.
God Is My Hiding Place is a 40 day devotional based on Corrie Ten Boom’s writings in which she shares dynamic, personal encounters with God during her harrowing imprisonment at concentration camps during World War II. Corrie’s simple faith during complex trials is inspiring and causes us to aspire to be strong in our faith if faced with dire circumstances. Corrie shares her stories through these devotionals to encourage readers that God is alive and available to ALL of us. Her stories demonstrate how to embrace God and His promises, thereby exercising faith. Readers get a glimpse of how Corrie gained courage and comfort from the Holy Spirit as she exercised faith in God’s promises and principles. This devotional book will increase one’s faith in God, deepen one’s peace through God, and encourage one’s spiritual walk with God.
While we may not suffer such horrors as Nazi death camps, we all will experience deep and dark tribulations. Through Corrie Ten Boom’s writings, we are assured that God is with us and will support and comfort us during the worse of times in this world if we turn to Him, run to Him and trust Him in ALL things. She encourages us to find our solace and shelter in Him. When there is nowhere else to go, she reminds us that God alone is our hiding place.
I appreciated her honest transparency and vulnerability in sharing so many excruciating experiences. This book is not a a remote, doctrinal or theological account. Instead, it is a deeply personal, experiential account of her relationship with a living God who sustained her during the bleakest, darkest days one can’t even imagine. It’s uplifting and inspiring to read her stories, knowing such faith and encounters with God can be ours, too!
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review....more
The prayers in this book may prove helpful in guiding someone in prayer. The prayers could perhaps be used as a type of devotional. However, I did notThe prayers in this book may prove helpful in guiding someone in prayer. The prayers could perhaps be used as a type of devotional. However, I did not find the book helpful as a devotional. The prayers lacked depth and insight if it were to be used as an inspiring devotional.
The structure of the book is its weakness if it were to be used as a guide to prayers for specific topics. There is no table of contents that presents the prayers according to topics There is an index but it lists the scripture and then the page reference where the scripture and prayer is written. I do not see the point in such a list. Instead, It would be more helpful to have a topical index listing . For example, if a person desires to see prayers about faith, a topical index could list all the prayers about that subject and direct the reader to those pages. Another way the prayers could be organized would be to take a book of the Bible and list prayers based on the passage or chapter in that book.
The prayers in themselves are fine. However, the lack of organizational structure of the prayers is disappointing and the presentation uninspiring.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley....more
First and foremost, thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC of WHEN YOU DON’T LIKE YOUR STORY: What if Your Worst Chapters Could Become YouFirst and foremost, thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC of WHEN YOU DON’T LIKE YOUR STORY: What if Your Worst Chapters Could Become Your Greatest Victories?
Sharon Jaynes writes for Proverbs 31 Ministries. It is a fantastic resource for Christian women; the ministry addresses difficult life situations and hard truths. Ms. Jaynes touches on a popular subject; a trend now is for people to be introspective and are encouraged to look into their past to come to grips with their present, It can be a daunting task, especially when one realizes their is much pain that one may have suppressed but is now unmasked… and the reveal is heart rending. However, this book provides comfort, if not relief, to those of us despairing of all our mistakes and regrets. Ms. Jaynes has done much research; there are anecdotal stories of people “just like us”, quotes from authors and numerous biblical references.
Ms. Jaynes offers a balm for suffering souls, whose personal life story would otherwise flood them with guilt, shame, or despair. The beauty this reader found is that in examining your story ( the good, bad, and the ugly parts), one doesn’t need to be stuck in the downward cycle of despair or depression over it! She offers gentle questions and pragmatic suggestions in each chapter. I am reminded of an old gospel song by Bill and Gloria Gaither entitled “Something Beautiful” in which the lyrics speak of God turning the brokenness of dashed hopes and dreams, and the ashes of life’s failures into something beautiful. This book guides readers into understanding this mystery of the transforming work God desires to accomplish in our love. He is in the business of redemption and transformation.
Ms Jaynes’ book is an encouragement for the downtrodden or despondent, especially those of us who have walked the Christian life , but whose path was filled with many ruts in the road, potholes, obstacles and detours. It is encouraging to read the stories from contemporary individuals as well as biblical characters to realize God’s purposes is to bring glory to Himself through difficult life situations, people and even devastating stories. And His purposes will not be thwarted, despite our story. We may not like our story, but we can learn to be at peace with it. Ms.Jaynes shows us the way to receive God’s peace and grace as we embrace our story. God uses ALL things ( the good, bad, and the ugly) in OUR story to show HIS glory as He develops HIS story of grace, redemption, and transformation in our life!...more
I read What's So Amazing About Grace?] decades ago and it impacted me greatly. After reading Yancey’s memoir Where The Light Fell, I now understand whI read What's So Amazing About Grace?] decades ago and it impacted me greatly. After reading Yancey’s memoir Where The Light Fell, I now understand why the impact was so great: he writes from experience- his own dramatic, personal experiences with GRACE.
I am thwarted from sharing profound highlights; per publisher request, reviews and quotes from the book are not to be published by reviewers until after the book’s October publication date.
Mr. Yancey addresses a broad range of people and I highly recommend it to people of faith, people who have lost faith, or people who never had a faith experience. It is emotionally deep (and sometimes dark), but through the painful experiences Mr. Yancey shares, it is also spiritually moving, offering insights to redemptive truths and important thematic messages. I am gleaning insights about my own life and experiences as I reflect on this powerful memoir.
Needless to say, I will be revisiting Phillip Yancey. I have always enjoyed his books but now I want to reread them with the perspective I have gained from reading his perplexing and powerful memoir.
Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for an ARC of this thought provoking memoir....more
Title: THE REST OF THE GOSPEL: when the partial gospel has worn you out. Author: Dan Stone, Greg Smith Christians readily admit that salvation is a worTitle: THE REST OF THE GOSPEL: when the partial gospel has worn you out. Author: Dan Stone, Greg Smith Christians readily admit that salvation is a work of God and willingly receive Christ’s grace for salvation. However, in the next steps in the Christian life, Christians often do not view sanctification as the work of God as well. Rather, they themselves do the work, striving to do the good things, the right things- and become exhausted and frustrated when there is minimal “ fruit” to all their efforts. They experience only the partial gospel (salvation) but the spirit-filled sanctification aspect of the Christian life alludes them. This book addresses what is wrong with this picture and teaches spiritual principles that every believer needs to understand and inculcate- the rest of the gospel.
Author Dan Stone applies scriptural references to real life situations. His concepts are biblical and he offers practical examples. The concepts presented have changed my life. I've learned to stop the highs and lows on the roller coaster of DOING and accept the peace that comes by BEING- by acknowledging Christ’s work (not mine) in me. Powerful and poignant teaching. Highly recommended for ALL believers in Christ....more
I downloaded this book two years ago. It has taken me this long to start it, but when I FINALLY did begin reading, I couldn’t stop. That fact alone shI downloaded this book two years ago. It has taken me this long to start it, but when I FINALLY did begin reading, I couldn’t stop. That fact alone should be considered a great endorsement of this book! Even more so as I explain why I didn’t begin reading it sooner: I was leery of reading another book about the fire and wind of the Holy Spirit, and bemoaning the fact that I had not experienced it. I thought it would be another holy roller shout out that as a Christian, I must be doing something wrong as I didn’t have what it takes to experience the power of the Holy Spirit. Instead, I found a gentle guide, a gentle explanation of the mystery of the Holy Spirit.
Stan Jantz doesn’t dismiss those of us who aren’t Pentecostal. There is no holy roller shout down. I am impressed by his logical and systematic way of presenting the mystery of the Holy Spirit. The structure he uses is personal. He shares his background and how his journey into the realm of exploring the Holy Spirit came to be. It is more like his personal journey in exploring the joy of experiencing the Holy Spirit. It resonates with me and I am sure many other Christians who love God the Father, God the Son, and the Bible ..l but haven’t much of an understanding as to the purpose of the Holy Spirit nor the power that lies within us through the Holy Spirit. We acknowledge Jesus left us His Spirit; we know the Bible verses that say we won’t be alone, Jesus won’t leave us because He promises to send his spirit to live inside us - to teach us, guide us, comfort us, etc. Yet, experientially, we don’t feel powerful in the Spirit. Mr. Jantz addresses that dilemma and the conundrum so many of us have regarding lack of power, lack of joy- all the characteristics we are SUPPOSED to possess as believers. His understanding of the dilemma endears him to readers who are seeking, searching, but are not Pentecostal. Again, a gentle approach, a careful study of scripture, and a very thorough backstory of great respected men of the faith who did indeed experience the power of the Holy Spirit. I knew of the reputation of these famous evangelists and have read some of their works (Moody, Murray, Torrey, Tozer, Loyd-Jones) but I did not know they attributed the source of their power to a dramatic encounter with and filling of the Holy Spirit. By sharing their testimonies, their quotes and works, Mr, Jantz provides more credibility to this reader. Admittedly, I was skeptical wondering about going down the “holy roller”rabbit hole. Instead, I came away with a clear ( and not scary) understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit. Moreover, through the author’s teaching, I don’t feel like the red haired step-child who missed out on the blessing of His Spirit in me. This book is an EXCELLENT resource with good documentation and sound teaching for any Christian in any denomination. I will be reading it again soon- there is a lot to cull! My loss waiting two years!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unsolicited review....more
Ellen Vaughn painstakingly culls through a myriad of resources, journals, personal letters and interviews to reveal the persona of ELISABETH ELLIOT. MEllen Vaughn painstakingly culls through a myriad of resources, journals, personal letters and interviews to reveal the persona of ELISABETH ELLIOT. Ms. Vaughn, through beautiful and honest writing, captures the essence of Elisabeth Elliot in this captivating biography. Well researched and well documented, including extensive references, Ms. Vaughn should be lauded for the magnitude - and resounding success- of this endeavor. My only disappointment: having to wait for the next installment in Volume II !
I have read a number of EE books and listened to her podcasts; I have always been humbled and amazed at her relentless faith and obedience to God. However, Ms. Vaughn has allowed me to grasp more insights into this amazing woman. This book is a remarkable biography of a remarkable woman. Regardless of what you may know of the Auca mission and the dramatic deaths of the five missionaries ( including her husband Jim Elliot) in the 1950’s, you will glean so much more spiritual insight by reading this biography. While I have always respected EE’s life and speeches, I have come away enriched beyond what I would have imagined after reading this account. Indeed, Ms. Vaughn has captured the essence of EE, the proverbial ‘good, bad, and ugly’ - and that honest portrayal of Elisabeth Elliot endears her to us all the more. She is not depicted as godly saint on a pedestal; instead she is portrayed as a mere mortal (like the rest of us) who suffered failures, anguish, inward disappointments, outward ridicule and disrespect.... yet remained faithful to God and His love for her. This is one of THE BEST biographies I have ever read!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy...more
Tara-Leigh Cobble’s zeal for biblical literacy led her to create and develop Bible studies called D-Group (Discipleship Group) to study Scripture. In Tara-Leigh Cobble’s zeal for biblical literacy led her to create and develop Bible studies called D-Group (Discipleship Group) to study Scripture. In reviewing The Bible Recap, I think it must be the core to the “D-Group”. Additionally, I realize The Bible Recap is multi-faceted. Ms. Cobble has designed The Bible Recap to help listeners read and understand the Bible as well, as an audio podcast by the same title is also an option. The Bible Recap is indeed very comprehensive with some appealing and helpful components!
I particularly like Ms. Cobble’s explanation of the portion of Scripture to be read. Indeed, it is a summary, a recap, of the assigned Biblical passage. This book does not contain the Scripture; it is to be used in conjunction with The Holy Bible. In addition to the mini-commentary( recap/summary) there is a God Shot portion at the end of each day’s reading, which draws in personal application. The God Shots are brief, reflective devotionals.
The E book version has some challenges in maneuvering. The book is designed to start at the beginning and “read through the Bible”. It is difficult if the reader desires to read certain books of Scripture; one can not easily do that ( at least not in combination with the podcast). Another challenge for this reader is that the day’s reading is not organized by a book of the Bible; instead passages are grouped together in chronological order. That is a novel approach which offers an understanding of events occurring simultaneously in various books of the Bible, especially in the gospels. At the end of The Bible Recap, after the acknowledgements, there is a LONG list of links “for further information on this topic, click on this link”. However, one doesn’t know WHAT topic(s) to which they refer! That is a glaring issue as it is confusing and frustrating by not being user friendly.
The Bible Recap is a gem of a resource for those endeavoring to read and understand the Bible! The summarizations offer clarity and explanations; the devotional God Shots provide for personal insights and reflection.. The Bible Recap is a beneficial addition to add to one’s library to complement one’s Bible reading plan in seeking spiritual growth. I am glad I discovered it and I highly recommend it!
Ms. Cobble’s introduction perfectly and powerfully depict the purpose and passion of The Bible Recap. She states: Here’s what I’m imagining for you this year: Picture yourself being drawn to God and His character instead of feeling alienated by the God of the Old Testament. Imagine understanding the motives behind His actions instead of feeling confused or even frustrated by what He does. Picture yourself actually hearing from God in His Word directly and feeling closer to and more intimate with Him than you ever have before—just because you’ve committed to spending the first 1 percent of your day with Him. If all you gain from this is one new insight about God, that insight could change the rest of your life and your relationship with Him. And no matter how your circumstances change, I believe your joy will grow deeper and richer, because you will be spending time with Him—and He is where the joy is! For the gospel, Tara-Leigh
I received a complementary copy of The Bible Recap in exchange for an honest review....more
A memoir of sorts, although the author isn’t old enough to write an official memoir! It’s a reflective autobiography, sharing stories of the author’s A memoir of sorts, although the author isn’t old enough to write an official memoir! It’s a reflective autobiography, sharing stories of the author’s personal life struggles that have a bearing on eternal truths. Ms. Scott offers spiritual insights pertinent to all of us who traverse this thing called life.
Pamela Small
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