Call of a coward: The God of Moses and the Middle-class housewife

This is an insightful book to delve deep into the question of "would you follow God's call on your life, even if it means giving up almost everything you know?". The author of this story shares her real-life experience in giving up what she had for something that she didn't know, but knew that it was God is in control of her familiy's life. ( This story is about being called as a missionary in a third world country). I liked the concept of this book because it makes the reader ponder your own life, and how you would respond to something like this - if this situation was presented to you, would you go for it? Even though I read alot, I believe that this book is an easy read. Some of the details could have been developed further, but overall the major concepts are addressed, and the issues are well presented. If you want to read something that challenges your thoughts and will make you consider or dream about what God may have for you, this is the book for you! I received this book from the publisher. 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".

My Journey to Heaven by Marvin J. Besteman

This book can be very comforting for someone who has lost someone, and if closure is needed. The author, Marvin, writes about his personal experience with Heaven when he temporarily visited during an illness. Marvin is shown to be an educated, sweet, godly man, who had no agenda other than to share the amazing things that he saw and felt. I was especially touched when he recounted what he saw regarding babies - his statements are interesting and may give some peace to someone who has lost a child, even right after conception. I also was moved when I read about his very special bond with his son-in-law, how he had called Marv "dad", and how he became so ill so quickly, and was then gone. Marv was able to see his son-in-law jumping up and down and totally healed and joyful, and that alone inspires a great longing for the wonders of Heaven. This book is very easy to read, and would be a good choice if you or someone you know needs comfort or hope for what happens to believers in Christ after death. 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".

Fatal Distractions, conquering destructive temptations by Kay Arthur

This is a bible study that focuses on six of the seven "deadly" sins. This study can be used individually, or in a group setting. I thought that the study was well laid out, and right to the point (which means right to the heart!). The format is such that in a group setting you don't have to do homework, but it is set up that you are diligently focusing on the "sin" you are discussing, learning about bible verses that address that particular sin, and reflecting on what you think about it, and how it is applicable in your life. I did this study on my own, and I really liked it. It probably would have been better in a group setting, as I went through it very fast and did not need the instructions like "circle this" "underline that". It is my recommendation that this is used in a group setting for maximum benefit, although God's word does not return void in any setting, so no matter how or where this study is done, it will have great benefit. 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".

Grieving Gods Way (A 90 day devotional) by Margaret Brownley

I decided to give this book to my friend. The reason I did this is because I previewed it, and decided it was worth a try to help her, as she just lost a close brother to suicide. When previewing this book, I loved how the author immediately relates to the reader because she lost her son. I loved her writing style, and how the book is put together with 90 days of thoughts/poems/statements to come alongside the reader in their grief. Death is a hard topic to speak to anyone about, but I felt like this book was a very nice way to say that I cared enough to try to help her, but not too much of a in your face "get over your grief" type of book. I don't think that the author is saying that this is the only way that God wants you to grieve, I think that she was just trying to focus it on a Christian audience, who may be more receptive to her messages throughout the book. As this book will probably not be THE book to help a person get over their grief, I only gave it three stars. As a gift it is lovely, it is not deep, it is not backed by psychology. It is just nice. 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".

Escaping the Cauldron by Kristine McGuire

The book was so interesting to me. I literally could not put it down! The author shows the reader through her book that she intensely struggled with Christianity vs. the occult. The author takes the reader into a personal journey that exposes real, raw and candid struggles that the author had in her life, and how she was drawn into occult practices, i.e. witchcraft, acting as a medium and ghost hunting, among other activities. Ms. McGuire shows the redeeming nature of Jesus, and how she eventually puts off these activities and embraces her Christian roots, and has peace and is now an on fire Jesus follower. Each chapter is thought provoking, and has points at the end for personal reflection or discussion if this book is used as a group study piece. It is a little scary to read, as her spiritual (demonic) accounts are truthful, but it is not so scary that a teenager could not read it (but not a child!). I was truly amazed at this story and how it ended, and that the author was trying to show the reader the truth, but not in a prideful way. She matter -of- factly states what happened to her, and presents her views with authority. She weaves bible scriptures throughout the book to lead the reader to search for the truth behind her statements, which is very helpful. Trust me - you will want to read this book, it is interesting, and eye opening! 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".

What a difference a mom makes by Dr. Kevin Leman

What a difference a mom makes - The Indelible Imprint a mom leaves on her son's life is a must read! This book is written by a Ph. D. who gives advice, information, and practical understanding for a mom into the life and workings of her son. I especially liked this book because I had three girls before I had my boy. Even though my son is very small, I can already tell that his physiology is different and that he will not be like his sisters. This book was funny to me because I do think boys are dirtier, louder, and this book explains the reasons why. I especially thought that the chapter that was titled, "Guess what his favorite body part is?" was very entertaining and enlightening coming from a mom that has very girly girls. If you need to learn about raising a boy the right way, or you are in the middle of the journey and need so practical and good advice, this is the book for you! You will not be sorry that you bought it! 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".

Everyday matters Bible for Women

Can you have a "favorite" bible? If so, then this one is mine! This New Living Translation bible is truly fabulous. This bible is specifically geared towards women, and busy women at that (but aren't we all busy!?). Major themes are introduced in a relatable and practical way, and essential spiritual foundations are taught. There are twenty four topics examined throughout, including simplicity, mentoring, acceptence, etc.and they are color coded so you can find what you are looking for quickly. There are over 140 amazing contributors who make impactful statements of interest including Philip Yancey and Kay Warren. I received the hardback copy and it is illustrated so beautifully, I really feel so happy every time I look at it! If you are looking for yourself or for a gift for a woman that you love, you will not regret purchasing this wonderful Bible created in partnership with Christianity Today's womens magazine. I received this Bible in return for an honest 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".