Monday, November 25, 2019

The Coming Revolution in Church Economics by Mark Deymaz and Harry Li

This book offers up a new outlook on tithes and offerings. According to the authors, traditional tithes and offerings are not always enough to keep a church going and help it grow. The authors offer advice on how to generate funds within the church. Some of their ideas include starting businesses, creating multiple sources of income, and changing the way donations are collected. This subject is one that is often considered controversial so not everyone will agree with this book. Personally, I could not really relate to this book because I do not attend a "megachurch." I feel like this is the type of church that would benefit from this type of book. I attend a conservative Southern Baptist church so I cannot fully get on board with the advice given in this book. Furthermore, I found the multiple author viewpoint to be confusing as it varied back and forth. Nevertheless, the right audience may be able to better relate to this book and I am thankful for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

God's Hostage by Andrew Brunson

In 2016, missionary Andrew Brunson was arrested and falsely accused of terrorism. He was imprisoned in Turkey for two years before he was finally released to freedom in the United States. Many people fought and prayed for Andrew's safe release even though his situation looked hopeless. Andrew reached the lowest of lows while he was held in prison and he had to completely give everything to God in order to survive. Andrew ultimately uses his experience for good as he shares his inspiring story in this powerful read.

Andrew's story is one that everyone should read. He had to deal with unimaginable circumstances during his years of imprisonment including depression, health issues, and separation from his family. Andrew's honest account of his experience is heartbreaking, yet necessary to reveal how God worked in his life. Andrew's story is one that will always be remembered and will spread the news of God's mercy and grace to so many. Thank you so much to Andrew and BakerBooks for sharing this story. I am honored to read and review this book.

Monday, November 18, 2019

Enjoying God by R. C. Sproul

God is oftentimes thought of as a magnificent mystery. Who is He? Can He hear me? Does He even care about me? These are just a few of the questions that cross our minds when we think of God. Though God seems so far away, He is always readily available.

R. C. Sproul began searching for answers about God after he lost his father.  Since then, he has written numerous books and has served the Lord in many wonderful ways. In Enjoying God, R. C. helps his readers "find hope in the attributes of God." R. C. asks and answers the deep questions and provides readers with an eye-opening experience. R. C. dives into the true characteristics of God and highlights scripture passages that he has applied to his life's journey.

This is the first of R. C.'s work that I have read, but I am eager to read more. His deep thinking challenged me and helped me with my spiritual growth and I know it will help other readers as well. Thank you so much to the author and BakerBooks for the chance to read and review this book!

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Breathe Again by Niki Hardy

After being diagnosed with cancer, Niki Hardy had to learn how to find a new normal. She had already lost her mother and sister to cancer, so she knew firsthand what devastating effects she would be facing. Niki's determination and hopeful outlook helped her battle cancer in the best way she could. Niki's story is one that can help anyone who is facing major obstacles in life and teach them how to "breathe again."

Niki's humorous and candid delivery is what makes this book special. She doesn't hold back and she offers an uninhibited look into her real life struggles. She is easy to relate to and becomes an instant friend. Her advice is spot on and practical for dealing with numerous difficult situations. She also shares "The Thriver's Manifesto" which is motivating for anyone who reads it. Niki reminds us that life is definitely going to get hard at times, but we can make it with God on our side. Thank you so much to Revell for the chance to read and review this book!

Friday, November 1, 2019

Don't Lose Heart by Jason Meyer

Don't Lose Heart is a quick, inspiring, and refreshing read. It's a breath of fresh air in times of discouragement. Jason Meyer separates this book into two parts. Part One focuses on how to deal with feeling overwhelmed, defeated, or worthless. Part Two focuses on dealing with discouraging feelings about the past, present, or future. The author uses Biblically sound advice to help readers through difficult circumstances. His advice is not just words on a page. It is useful information that can actually be used to lift your spirits and learn how to deal with anything that comes your way. The hardback binding and small size of this book make it the perfect gift idea. This would be great to have on hand to pass on to loved ones that need some inspiration in their lives. This book helped me a lot and is something I would read again when I need a reminder of God's love. Thank you so much to Jason Meyer and BakerBooks for the chance to read and review this book!