Latte With Me

Light Under the House

2012-01-17T15:08:00.001-06:00

About the book:

Light Under the House is the saga of an American family—the Levis, a family of secrets. None greater than the secret of what lies under their house, a secret that could destroy them. A secret that an ancient evil will stop at nothing to uncover. The novel follows the Levi family line for a generation, creating a story that explores lives lived in the aftermath of the cultural rebellion of the late 1960's. It is a historical fiction novel that shows the power of consequence and the hope of redemption. Most of all, it is a story about fathers and their children.

Interview with the author:

What inspired you to write this story?
I feel very strongly about the breakdown of the family and fatherlessness and how there is much dysfunction and despair because of it. I wanted to tell a story to shed some light on the situations that many face and hopefully bring some type of reversal to the current dynamic in whatever small way I could. I wanted to challenge men, fathers especially, to be who they were created to be….its certainly a challenge I face myself daily. A challenge that I often fail at but keeping picking myself up to start again.

Did you model any of the characters after people you know?
I used many things to model the characters … people I know, other literary figures, actors, biblical characters, celebrities … the characters are a combination of all of these. I wanted them to be new and familiar at the same time, universal.

Why did you choose the Dallas/Ft Worth area as your primary setting?
First of all, the south has a certain reputation for is deep spiritual roots (bible belt and all). I patterned the book in part after GONE WITH THE WIND (another book set in the south) … not in the sense of a love story but in the sense of “here is civilization that is about to cease to exist, come see it before its gone”. In the case of my novel it is a spiritual civilization on the brink. Dallas just seemed to have everything I needed to make the story work from both a symbolic and technical standpoint.

Do you have plans to write more books?
i have an idea or two floating around … nothing concrete yet.

What sort of research did you do for the historical portions of your book? What did you like best about the research? The least?
My co-author and I researched deeply into ancient history for some aspects of the book … I learned a lot of things … some things I’d rather forget but most of it was enlightening. What I liked best was that it confirmed for me mostly what I already knew, there really is nothing new under the sun.

Where can we find out about more opportunities for a free copy of this book?
Follow @ChristianSpkrs on Twitter or check out the book, the author and more on Facebook.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for posting the author’s interview on my blog. This blog tour is managed by Christian Speakers Services (http://ChristianSpeakersServices.com).

1 Peter - Week 2

2012-01-17T09:26:00.002-06:00

Week 2 of 1 Peter, Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times
by Sue Edwards

Core One talks about getting ready, first with our minds. Sue directs us to verses in 1 Corinthians. Why is it important to start with our minds?

We cannot understand all that He wants us to know without having the mind of Christ. We embody the mind of Christ when His Spirit takes up residence in our lives. Without His mind, we know nothing.

Core Three begins with a quote from Blaise Pascal: "The serene, silent beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence in the world, next to the might of the Spirit of God."

Our actions speaks louder than our words. I can tell you I'm a Christian - but does my life reflect that? Do I have any fresh fruit on my tree, or does it appear that God needs to do an extensive pruning job?

Love. It all comes down to love. What have you learned from God's Word that has helped you truly love others?

He loves me no matter what. His love is truly unconditional. If He can love me, even after all I've done, how can I not show that love to other people. When I find someone difficult to love, He seems to remind me of His love.

Fun! We get to talk about chocolate... What is your favorite food? Something you crave and thoroughly savor.

I love all things sweet. I don't really care what they are, as long as they are sweet! I think cakes are my favorite, especially cold cakes (not frozen, just cold).

On a more serious note, how do you learn to crave and savor God's Word?

The more time I spend with God and spend in His word, the more I want Him. When I find my cravings going towards something other than Him, then I know I've strayed too far. I don't want a life that isn't filled with longing and craving for him.

How about some information about Sue Edwards? Here you go!

One of my favorite pastimes is to engage my students in provocative topics. For example, in my seminary courses, we discuss:

navigating gender stereotypes that strap both men and women with unrealistic expectations that counter their gift-mix and personalities
discovering how to do ministry in a postmodern pseudo-spiritual culture instead of a world dominated by rationalism
figuring out how to work together as men and women in biblical community while protecting our integrity

I love teaching at Dallas Theological Seminary, but after a full day tackling lofty subjects, I savor going home. Home means falling in a heap with my grandchildren in games like “Ring around the Rosie” and “London Bridges” or cheering on Wallace, my West Highland Terrier, as he protects our yard from bands of marauding squirrels.

When I wake up each morning, I pray, “Lord, help me not to mess up.” I have messed up before. I came to faith in my mid twenties, newly married with two baby girls. If not for his mercy, I would be another statistic, but he supernaturally showed me his grace. So for the last thirty years, I have served him.

Serving God has included teaching the Bible to women, overseeing two mega-church women’s ministries, writing four books and a Bible-study series, and now instructing seminary students in a world-class institution. These opportunities are God’s gifts and fertile learning ground. But I doubt you are impressed. People don’t care so much about credentials any more. Too many credentialed people have disappointed us. So I write out of flaws, failures, and occasional progress. I write out of the lessons learned in my day-to-day walk with Jesus, through highlights and heartaches, much like yours. I write from the everyday places--as I raised two-year olds and teen-agers, as I attempted to unify a discouraged ministry team, and today, as I attempt to create lessons for future ministers that will actually equip them for the challenges they will face.

God has truly opened “new doors” for me. And I’m grateful, but you know what gives me unbridled joy? Seeing God open new doors for you and seeing you step through them and shine. That’s our purpose, what keeps us writing, talking, and training others just like you. So stay in touch. Share your stories, tales of woe as well as wins. We want to grieve and rejoice with you. Give us feedback so we can learn from one another as we all prepare for new doors ahead. Who knows? Your insight just might show up in our next book!

Every blessing,
Sue

Follow along - Week 1

Thank you Kregel Publications and Sue Edwards for the opportunity to participate in this review and study process of this book!

Guest Post - Martha Case

2012-01-16T13:57:00.003-06:00

Big Family
Post contributed by Martha Case
Being part of a big family is great, but it’s less great when you have to move. We’ve got 6 kids and that’s a lot of fun a lot of the time but when we decided to move into a new place to give everyone more space and generally just spread out. We were in the 3 bedroom for so long – there’s no reason 3 kids should have to share a bedroom well into their teens! But anyway, my husband and I looked into everything from Direct TV packages to the size of the backyard to even the idea of an in-ground pool but you know, at the end of the day we had to be judicious because we were already spending more than we probably should just by buying a new house. I don’t know what in the world we were thinking but we’re having a lot of fun doing it and the kids love being able to have more space! I don’t know why we didn’t make this move years ago.

1 Peter - Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times, Week 1

2012-01-16T13:54:00.000-06:00

1 PeterFinding Encouragement in Troubling Times

by Sue Edwards

This study (and all Sue Edwards studies) offer three levels so you can choose which level of study fits your lifestyle.

I am committing to the first level of study, as I have a lot going on right now. I like that I can switch it around, week to week (or lesson to lesson).

The first lesson is about preparing for opposition. Our first-century sisters faced hostility and hatred for their faith.

I face opposition on a continual basis because of my faith. It keeps me from doing "what the cool kids are doing" or being just like everyone else. I grab a hold of God's promises and His word when I feel attacked.
1 Peter 1: 3-5 reveals the amazing riches God provides for His children.
³ Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴ and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, ⁵ who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
I am blessed by the fact that my new birth (in Him) gives me hope and an inheritance! Oh the blessings He has for each of His children warms my soul. With Him on my side, I know I can face any trial.

Thank you Kregel Publications and Sue Edwards for allowing me to participate in this graduated blog tour and study!

Ivory

2012-01-06T14:38:00.003-06:00

I received a great package on Christmas eve! I was busy getting things for everyone else - it was nice to get something just for me (though, I had a very nice Christmas - Santa was very good to me)! My friends at Ivory sent me a collection of its soaps to try! I received three body washes, two bars of soap and a tote to carry them all in. The body washes are original, aloe and lavender. The soaps are original and aloe. I love the way Ivory soap smells...clean and fresh! You can buy the products at a drugstore or retailer. You can also visit the online store (which has many of your other favorite products).

If you haven't checked out Ivory lately, I encourage you to do so. The products are always great and are top quality. I love the thought of keeping it "pure, clean & simple". Who needs all the additives? I highly encourage you to check out the new Facebook page and the Soap Dish, which is hosted by Melissa McCarthy (love her!!).

Thank you, Ivory, for the samples and for the neat pre-Christmas surprise. I look forward to getting "my clean on" with the new products!

Become - Shopping Your Way

2012-01-06T14:23:00.001-06:00

Have you heard of this new site? Become - Shopping Your Way - It's a new way to find exactly what you want online by comparing pricing, shipping and selection! They have everything from diamond rings to smart phones to cat wall clocks! You can use the product research engine for advice on what you're shopping for online and buying guidelines. I like that ability to compare and shop in one place!

Check the site out. I like the way it's organized and all the content. It's like having a mini-mall on one site, with your best friends' opinions close by!

Cleaning out the Home

2011-12-16T11:25:00.001-06:00

I have a problem. Admitting you have a problem is one of the first steps, right? I have so much stuff (a/k/a junk) in my house that I need to get rid of. It is quite daunting. When I have watched Clean House or Clean Sweep, I have seen the trucks swoop in and haul items away. But, the problem with my "stuff" is that it's not necessarily junk -- there are good, usable items in with the not-so-good and non-usable items.

I have started researching and have found that Shenandoah Junk Removal will take my stuff - no matter what it is. All I have to do is point them in the right direction, and they will load up their trucks and take the stuff away. After it is taken away (as if the best part isn't the fact that it's taken away), they will sort through the things and either trash them, recycle them or donate them! They will do all that I don't want to do and will make sure it doesn't wind up in a landfill.

To get started, all I need to do is call 1-800-GOT-JUNK or go online to schedule an appointment. They will to come and look at my stuff and they will give me a quote for the removal. After my approval, the truck is loaded and the stuff is hauled away!

Have you ever used this service? Would you like to help me get ready for them to come? ;)

Home Improvement

2011-12-16T11:13:00.001-06:00

Why is that the holiday time reminds of what all we really need to do around our house? Is it because we have people coming over? Or, is it because we are rearranging the furniture to make room for Christmas decorations and in doing so, we notice just how badly we need to do something?

When we moved into our home, it had newish carpet. It's certainly not what I would have picked out. Through the years, though, it has needed serious cleaning, what with kids and dogs and clumsy folks. But, I don't think of cleaning the carpet when I look at it. I daydream of carpet for the home that I actually picked out.

Not only would I feel better with new carpet for the home but the inside of my home would look better and the value of my home would increase. I have visions of replacing the carpet and having the walls painted. Hanging beautiful pieces of art which I created on the walls. I guess somewhere in there, I would hear birds chirping and my dog not shedding. Also, in this vision, no one was clumsy or spilled anything on the floor. :)

This site offers tips on increasing the value of your home and how new carpet for the home helps.

He speaks

2011-12-14T09:58:00.004-06:00

I saw the words on Proverbs 31 ministry - I created the picture using picnik - have you tried it? Love it! I hope it speaks to you.

(Just in case the words are too small!)
He asks three words my parched soul thirsts for, “How are you?”

I’m weary. "I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10b (NIV)

I feel alone. “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20b (NIV)

I can’t take much more. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28b (NIV)

I pour out, He pours in. An ebb and flow more natural than the ocean’s tides. My needy soul needs His words; needs Him: the Word.

Test post from app

2011-12-11T09:24:00.001-06:00

Hi friends. I downloaded an app that will let me post blog on my apple product. So, I thought I would test it out and see how it works.

This is always such a busy time of year! Is it just me or does December seem to throw life into overdrive? For those with young children who are involved in multiple activities, I hope you find some time to just sit and relax. Let us hold dear to The reason for this Season.

I'm glad I have both of my girls under one roof for a few weeks!! We have our 4 foot tree up and it even has a few ornaments on it:).

Have you been introduced to pinterest.com or craftgawker.com? It's a crafter/DIY'r DREAM!

Let me see if I can post some crafts I've done. Ok. Mixed media pictures, fabric flowers (courtesy of my friend Jeannine), scarf from a t-shirt! Like you don't have enough going on, why not try some new stuff :)!

App seems to work ok. I'll have to try a book review with links next. Until then...

He Sees You When You're Sleppin' - Guest Post

2011-12-09T13:05:00.001-06:00

He Sees You When You’re Sleepin’...
By Dr. Charles W. Page

Do you recall trying to sleep on Christmas Eve while waiting for Santa to come to town? The anticipation of Saint Nicolas and all his goodies was just too much—who could sleep? The lyrics of Santa Claus is Coming to Town taunted me. “He sees you when you’re sleeping—he knows when you’re awake…” I tossed and turned trying to fall asleep, fearful I’d miss out on Santa’s visit if he caught me awake. I never doubted Santa’s ability to be aware of my wakefulness.

Unfortunately, as adults, the issues that keep us awake during the Christmas season are more complicated than those we experienced as kids. Financial burdens, strained relationships, difficult decisions, brooding regrets and fretful thoughts race through our minds and hinder our rest.

There is someone who “sees you when you’re sleeping and knows when you’re awake.” It’s not Santa Claus. The Bible reminds us, God’s eyes never close. Perhaps this truth can tuck us in for the night.

“He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:3-4)

We erroneously think that as we “turn in” that God somehow “turns off” or moves on to do more important things. But God doesn’t wait for us to wake up before He returns to work. God is just as active during our sleep—or sleeplessness. Believers can rest assured knowing God is awake guarding our lives.

What does God do as we slumber? Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us that God gives to those that He loves as they sleep. What does God give? Understanding God’s generous nature, one rendering would be that God gives to the believer whatever is needed at the time. God can give you wisdom and direction with decisions as you “sleep on it” overnight (Psalm 16:7, James 1:5). Maybe there is a financial need. The scriptures are filled with examples of how God provided for the physical needs of those He loved as they rested (I Kings 19:1-8; Exodus 16:1-8).

God’s gifts are good, perfect (James 1:17), eternal (Ephesians 1:3) and purposeful (Galatians 5:22-25). They do not require batteries, warranties and cannot be purchased in stores. But they are available 24/7/365—not limited to one night each year. God’s greatest gift did not arrive under a tree but on a tree (John 3:16). “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)

It’s plain to see, God has our back as we sleep. Try this Christmas recipe for rest.

Repent—in areas where we are aware of our transgressions. “A clean conscience
makes a soft pillow.”
Release—control of problems you’re facing and give them over to God.
Relate—connect with God through prayer and meditation while in bed.
Rest—allow God to do what you cannot do for yourself as you sleep.
Receive—God’s unmerited forgiveness, grace and blessings while you sleep.

An English proverb reminds us, “As you make your bed so you must lie in it.” The truth of God’s Word helps us face our situations. Although we cannot change the failures of our past, we can rest with a clean conscience based on God’s gift of forgiveness. Our current circumstances may appear overwhelming, but God gives His presence and His guidance in our hour of need. Our future is secure and hopeful when God’s greatest gift—His Son—is kept in view. A life supported by a vibrant, healthy relationship with the Shepherd of Sleep makes the most comfortable mattress. In childlike faith learn to trust Him as you lie down to sleep and remember: “He sees you when you’re sleeping.”

Author Bio

Charles W. Page, M.D.

Dr. Charles W. Page is a sleep-deprived surgeon who completed medical school and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. Dr. Page is currently a rural surgeon and has taken numerous medical mission trips to South America and the Middle East. He and his wife Joanna live in Texas with their five children. He is the author of Surrendered Sleep: A Biblical Perspective. You can find more information at surrenderedsleep.com.

Surrendered Sleep

A Biblical Perspective

by Dr. Charles W. Page

PUBLISHER: Camino Real Publishers

ISBN-10: 0983138109
ISBN-13: 978-0983138105

PRICE: Paperback: $14.95; Ebook: $10.95

Available at:

Amazon

Surrendered Sleep

This article content is provided free of charge by the author through Kathy Carlton Willis Communications.

You are welcome to place this article on your site or in your publication as long as

1) it’s used in its entirety, 2) the full bio is also used, and 3) you notify KCWC.

All other standard copyrights apply.

Crafting an Elevated Dog Bed

2011-12-06T15:45:00.001-06:00

Crafting an elevated dog bed
Guest post written by Malcolm Evans
One thing that I really love about my home is that it's pretty streamlined. Growing up, my mom had trinkets everywhere, which really made it hard for me and my brothers to play football around the house. We broke a couple of things and I thought that it would be better to set up my home to where my kids wouldn't have to worry about that.

Even though my home is really streamlined, I thought that our dog really needed a dog bed. He's always sleeping anywhere around the house, which can be a problem when I get up in the morning and trip over him. I looked online with my wireless internet Tacoma to see I if could find a good dog bed for him. I found lots of beds I could buy, but also directions on how to make a lot of them, so I decided to go with that.

I decided to make a elevated dog bed because it just seemed so cool. Plus, it will be a little easier to notice him in when I wake up in the mornings so I won't trip over him.

Bee-Inspired: Making a photo mosaic.

2011-11-26T20:46:00.000-06:00

Bee-Inspired: Making a photo mosaic.

I always wondered how people did this! I just did a quick mosaic from my facebook photos.

Plain Chicken: 7UP Biscuits

2011-11-15T10:25:00.000-06:00

Plain Chicken: 7UP Biscuits: What? Yep, that's right, 7up biscuits. Some places on the internets call these Popeye's Biscuits - I guess they taste like the biscuits ...

Oh my goodness - these look divine!

Soap Dish from Ivory

2011-11-09T14:52:00.003-06:00

The Soap Dish is a lighthearted community, offering a pure and simple take on life. "Like" us and come dish. (Photo: Business Wire)
Ivory's Facebook page

This week, Melissa asks:
Has being a mom changed you?

Discuss....

A Word to Wives from Shirley Rice

2011-11-03T11:46:00.001-05:00

On September 4, 2011, I sat through a sermon which made me absolutely miserable. It wasn't that the material was bad or delivered poorly - quite the opposite was true. Our pastor is godly man who has been given a beautiful gift of teaching and sharing. The material was God honoring and timely. Just...not for me. The name of the sermon? "Discovery Christ's Joy in Marriage"

I'm currently separated from my husband without any thought of their being a reconciliation. I suspect our divorce will be filed shortly and our marriage will be ended. So, this was a hard sermon for me to hear. (Honestly, if you're married, you should listen to the sermon - it is really good.)

But, there was one thing that our pastor shared that I wanted to pass along to you. They are from Shirley Rice. On my sheet it's entitled, "A Word to Wives" from Shirley Rice". Take these words to heart:

"Are youin love with your husband? Not, Do you love him? I know you do. He has beenaround a long time, and you’re used to him. He is the father of your children.

But are you inlove with him?

How long has itbeen since your heart really squeezed when you looked at him?

... Why is it you have forgotten the thingsthat attracted you to him at ﬁrst?

... By the grace ofGod, I want you to start changing your thought pattern.

Tomorrowmorning, get your eyes off the toaster or the baby bottles long enough to LOOKat him. Don’t you see the way his coat ﬁts hisshoulders? Look at his hands. Do you remember when just to look at his stronghands made your heart lift? Well LOOK at him and remember.

Then loose yourtongue and tell him you love him.

Will you askthe Lord to give you a sentimental, romantic, physical, in-love kind of lovefor your husband? He will do this.

His love in uscan change the actual physical quality of our love for our husbands."

Ladies, allow me to speak honestly. If you aren't loving on your husband in this way - there is someone else who will (at least temporarily). Instead of looking at all he doesn't do or isn't, focus on what made you fall in love with him in the first place. (Remember your first love, as Christ tells His church.) I pray God fills you with love for your husband that is overwhelming and beautiful and that your husband will be filled with the same love for you.

My heart is overwhelmed with love for you. By His grace and mercy, I bring this to you.

Refuge on Crescent Hill by Melanie Dobson

2011-10-26T11:26:00.002-05:00

Refuge on Crescent Hill: A Novel, by Melanie Dobson

Moving home after a recent job loss was supposed to reassure Camden Bristow but what she finds is an empty mansion 150 years old. What happened to the house she played in as a child, the bedtime stories that told of secret passageways and runaway slaves, and all those family memories?

When antiques start disappearing and footsteps are heard, Camden wonders what really happened here . . . at Crescent Hill? Who still has access to the house? And for what purpose? As she works to uncover the past and present mysteries harbored in her home, Camden also uncovers secrets about her family that could change the town--and her life--forever.

Click here for information about the inspiration for this novel. I loved seeing all the pictures!

This was the first book I have read by Melanie Dobson and my first review for Kregel Publishers. I have been pleasantly surprised by both. I always like receiving a book with the posting instructions. (I am honored to blog for many publishers and sometimes it gets confusing of when what is supposed to happen.)

I really enjoyed this book. I honestly had a hard time putting it down because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. There were good twists and turns that kept my interest. I appreciated the Christian undertones to the book and the events. If you're looking for a good Christian thriller, you will not be disappointed in Refuge on Crescent Hill.

You can purchase the book from Amazon.com.
Special Note: Refuge on Crescent Hill will be available on Amazon Kindle FREE for one week starting October 31!

Kregel Publishers and Ms. Dobson provided me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review of the book on my blog. Thank you!

The Seraph Seal

2011-10-06T20:32:00.000-05:00

The Seraph Seal by Leonard Sweet, Lori Wagner

An epic tale of good and evil based on the four horsemen of the Apocalypse found in Revelation.
Using the four horsemen of the Apocalypse to symbolize the four Gospels, four transcendentals, and four forces of the universe (air, water, earth, and fire), Sweet and Wagner weave a fast-paced, end-times tale of good vs. evil and the promise of a new dawn for humanity.

Set in 2048, when planet Earth is suffering from the damaging effects of years of misuse and abuse, cultural history professor Paul Binder receives a mysterious letter that leads him to examine a lost 2nd-century Diatessaron manuscript. Ancient prophecies, cryptic letters, and strange events set him on a course to uncover the missing clues that could lead humanity into a new age. Layered with forgotten symbolism from the ancient, Jewish, and Christian traditions, the novel is a type of engaged fiction in which the main character's lost journal serves as a guide to the reader in interpreting clues and understanding the novel's conclusion.

I had the hardest time reading this book and couldn't get past the first chapter. Truth be told, I might have been scared off by the introduction. I just did not understand it. If you like the more complicated reads, this might just be the book for you. Before you decide not to buy this book, please read some other reviews.

Thank you Book Sneeze for the complimentary copy of this book. In exchange, I give you an honest review.

Medical Error

2011-10-06T19:55:00.001-05:00

A doctor who writes Christian suspense/thrillers? Yes! Dr. Richard Mabry can write more than prescriptions.

Dr. Anna McIntyre's life was going along just fine until someone else started living it. Her patient died because of an identity mix-up, her medical career is in jeopardy because of forged prescriptions, and her credit is in ruins. She thought things couldn t get worse, but that was before she opened the envelope and saw a positive HIV test with her name on it. Her allies are two men who are also competing for her affection. Dr. Nick Valentine is a cynic who carries a load of guilt. Attorney Ross Donovan is a recovering alcoholic. The deeper Anna digs to discover who's behind the identity thefts, the higher the stakes. Finally, when her life is on the line, Anna finds that her determination to clear her name might have been a prescription for trouble.

I really enjoyed reading this book. There were many twists and turns and I had a hard time putting it down. I highly recommend reading Dr. Mabry's books if you enjoy medical thrillers. I look forward to more of his books!

Thank you Abingdon Press, Dr. Mabry and Netgalley for the complimentary advance reader copy (which I received in exchange for an honest review).

Along Wooded Paths

2011-10-06T19:40:00.000-05:00

Great new book from Tricia Goyer! Have you read any of her books? I don't typically read Amish fiction but I really enjoyed this book. It was written by someone who is learning what it means to love Jesus, regardless of what "religion" you are.

Along Wooded Paths

Buy this Book
Read an Excerpt

Although proud of living apart from the world, Marianna Sommer's newly relocated Amish family is discovering that life in the remote mountains of Montana requires working together with the Englisch.

As Marianna pours her life into helping those around her-and receiving their help-her heart further considers two directions. She's torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a close walk with God like she’s never seen before.
Who should have young Marianna's heart? What is God asking of her through ongoing family struggles and this romantic and spiritual tension? The answer is found along the wooded paths.

This is a series that follows an Amish family. I am looking forward to the next installment - I want to know what Marianna's been up to!

Thank you B&H Publishing Group, Netgalley and Tricia Goyer for the advance reading copy, which I received free for my nook in exchange for an honest review.

The Oxbow Report

2011-09-25T01:04:00.003-05:00

As an author of one book and now with a second book coming out next year and four other manuscripts as you said waiting to see the light of day, what prompted you to start this project, and where can the reader get more information on the series? And I guess a follow up question would be, why do you think you’re qualified to write on such a controversial subject and to undertake such a project?

For information on "The Oxbow Report" and the series they can visit my website at mikepurington.com. To answer the rest of your question, I think a little background on me would probably help.

From the time I was old enough to read, books became a way of life. I grew up in northern Minnesota, and at that time we had no television or radio, so reading was the only outlet we had. My grandmother who raised me was a huge fan of Zane Grey so I started out reading westerns. From Zane Grey I went to reading books by Louis L’amour. At some point I came across the comic strip Buck Rogers and then found a copy of "Armageddon 2419 AD.," and its sequel, "Airlords of Han,” by Philip Francis Nolan and became hooked on science fiction. As a side note, a lot of my report cards from school had the following comment, ‘if mike would get his nose out of his books long enough to listen he would be a good student.’ So reading came early for me. Later on I discovered H. G. Wells and started reading some of his novels. Some of his books are among the classics of science-fiction, like, “The Time Machine”, “The Invisible Man”, and “The War of the Worlds”. I think it was his writing that influenced me that while still in high school I wrote my first very bad novel, but I think that’s where my love for writing really started. Later on I read George Orwell’s, “Nineteen-Eighty-Four” and “Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World”, “A Space Odyssey” by Arthur C. Clark, and later “Battlefield Earth” by L. Ron Hubbard, just to name a few.

In 1966 came Star Trek, and the list goes on. In all of these sci-fi thrillers evolution is talked about as fact and not what it really is, a theory. I was fortunate in that while reading fantasy I had a Christian Mother and Grandmother that taught me the difference between fantasy, reality and the scriptures. They soon realized that what I was reading could not corrupt me any more than television, hence shortly after leaving the country life and moving into town my mother bought our first television and we entered the age of electronics. That teaching is not happening to day, and that’s one of the reasons for the writing of these novels. Science fiction for me was just an updated western, good guys against the bad guys, cowboys against the Indians, thus I became a John Wayne fan. Today the lines of science, religion, and fantasy are blurred as in the case of the religion of Scientology. With all that being said, it brings us to the answer to the question. For years I had looked and asked the question, why someone doesn’t write a good book in the form of a novel that would use the argument of evolution verses creation as the background for the novel. I had just finished reading the first “Left Behind” book by Jerry Jenkins when the thought struck me. Why don’t you do it? And I did. After eleven years of part time writing the first book hit the stores.

I guess this is a twofold question. Are you writing a series where one book builds on another or just a series of Christian science fiction novels, and if you are what do you hope to accomplish?

For me that question could take a whole book, but I’ll try to answer it in a couple of paragraphs. Mark 16:15 says, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel.’ In some translations it says ‘in your going.’ So I think a better question would be, how does this book or a series of books differ from typical creation and evolution books? Let me answer the question in reverse. There are many Christians who really haven’t given this subject serious thought and accept what is being taught through a theory called theistic evolution, or the blending of science and religion to make scripture fit the science book rather than science fitting scripture. There are also the teachings of young and old earth creation who continue to fight over who’s right and who’s wrong. On the other hand there are those who believe in Darwinian evolution and would not darken the door of a church, because to allow a deity into the evolutionary process, that deity could also show up in other areas, so the question is, how do you, ‘in your going’ let them know the truth? The problem as I see it, is a lot like Count Dracula. You kill him off in one movie and he comes back in another. We have a lot of groups with good intentions, each of these groups are trying to drive the proverbial stake through the heart of evolution. But evolution like Dracula will always be around, so what is the answer? I’ve, as well as those who are hard core Darwinian disciples And the answer is in a book, or a series of books that allows the characters in the story to discuss points of view and the arguments of the day without the reader going on the defensive, and at the same time giving the reader enough good stuff to read and puzzles to figure out that even when they disagree with the theology of the book they will like the substance and continue to read to find out what happens in end. So, to answer your question, it is Christian, and it does include futuristic technology, so in a sense you could call it science fiction. But it also includes the mystery of where did we come from? There are puzzles that need to be solved, and relationships that include people falling in love. An yes it is a series where one book builds off the previous one. My goal is to write a series of books that people will enjoy, and like one person said in their endorsement, "Mike Purington has brought to his readers a gripping novel. The excitement grabs you from the first chapter; the events keep you turning the pages and the characters keep you enthralled in the plot. You will find yourself living between the lines of the text as you identify with the characters." But the goal is also to build the kingdom. For throughout the story ground is plowed up and seed is planted. And in time I or others may plant, water, and harvest. In the end the goal is to place enough doubt in the mind of the reader that they may check the facts for themselves rather than relying on those who teach a theory based on an assumption.

Can you give us an idea of where the series is going and some of the subject mater?

I can give you the lead-in as found on the website. A 100 years ago the greatest mystery was about to unfold, M-Theory was being discussed, reality ... well it just may be an illusion … and parallel universes were possible. In 2040 Oxbow had been discovered and string theory had now become reality. One of the questions confronting science and the Challenger Crew was, which reality were they in? Discover how choices made by the Challenger crew and those they come in contact with not only effect the present, but the past and the future. Can choices made alter not only the present, but the future and the past? Can a statement alter reality?

Find out along with the crew of Challenger as they try to unravel the mystery of oxbow. What does it mean, does the ancient language that oxbow was translated from hold the secrets of creation, will they finally answer the age old question that all have asked? Did we evolve or were we created? Are the ancient scriptures valid in the creation account, or are we just a product of random selection as Darwin suggested? Did the ancients actually know the secrets of creation, or were they lost in time and if so which time? Do the scriptures reference the original creation or was man created in a re-creation? Are the secrets to creation hidden away just waiting to be re-discovered? Are we just the product of an elaborate hoax, or is God who he said is and was? For Paul La Baugh, a seeker of truth and a believer in the scriptures, and now assigned to the Challenger as counselor to the Captain he must use his knowledge of scripture to help solve the puzzle of Oxbow.
At book signings and other events one of the most common questions asked, was one that I covered earlier. How does this book or series differ from typical creation and evolution books? The answer is the series explores the question “what if” through its characters.

What if religion is just that…a way for man to explain what he does not understand?

What if evolution happened as many scientists believe?

What if we are the product of alien intervention?

What if the Bible is indeed true and God does exist?

What if man was created by God and through free will or the right to choose man denies God to the point God honors their decision and ceases to exist?

If indeed God did create and God ceases to exist what happens to the universe He created?

Does this all take place in reality, or does man move from reality to an alternate reality where that man speaks becomes reality?

Does all this take place in our universe or in a parallel universe?

And the ultimate question, if man has moved from reality to an alternate reality or a parallel universe how does he get back to the reality he left?

These questions and more confront the crew of Challenger as they seek to understand and resolve the mystery of Oxbow.

Now that we have covered the book and the series to come, can we get to know a little bit about the author?

As a professional for many years in the technology sector, I have tried to use my ability to make the complex uncomplicated and to create a futuristic technology understandable to my readers. Fifteen years of research and writing allowed me to bring “The Oxbow Report” the first in the series to be published in 2006. It is now 2011 and we are reintroducing the book along with book two “Two Dimensional Man” that should be out sometime early summer of 2012. The series “The curse of the serpent” deals with a subject we are all familiar with. As we are all aware the Evolution vs. Creationism debate has been and will always be in the forefront of discussion.

I was born and grew up for the most part in Northern Minnesota. I spent three years in the military working on the army’s largest nuclear weapon, the Pershing Missile System. After college I spent 17 years in the computer industry working on large computer systems and 17 years working in the medical field on chemistry and hematology instruments. There was a lot of travel and a lot of time spent away from home. It was during that time that the story started to germinate. I retired in 2005 due to a company reorganization and the first book, “The Oxbow Report” was published in 2006. I have a daughter who just finished college and am married to my beautiful wife of 32 years. I enjoy fishing the East Texas lakes and I look forward to deer season every year.

Where can my blog readers find out more about this blog tour and free copies of this book?

For more opportunities for a FREE copy of The Oxbow Report, please follow this CSS Virtual Book Tour on Twitter (@Christianspkrs) or Facebook.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for posting the author’s interview on my blog. This blog tour is managed by Christian Speaker Services (www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com)

Women of Faith Atlanta, GA #wofimagine

2011-08-16T21:23:00.000-05:00

What an amazing weekend my mom and I had at the Women of Faith conference in Atlanta, Georgia. In case you didn't know, Women of Faith is a faith-based women's organization encouraging women of all ages and stages in life to grow in faith and spiritual maturity through a relationship with Jesus Christ and an understanding of God’s love and grace.

This was my first conference and I plan to go back again. So much talent and so many messages in just 2 short days. Amazing! I had the pleasure of hearing so many speakers, authors and musicians. I'm almost overwhelmed trying to even write about it.Let's see if any of the pictures help get out what I would like to convey.

The view from our seats on Friday.

Sheila Walsh singing after she delivered a moving message.


My notes from when Luci Swindoll was speaking about workers from Out of Africa.

My Mom and me!

Nicole Johnson. All I can say is WOW. She had me at hello :). Looking forward to working through her book, Fresh Brewed Life.

Feature under the big screen. I thought it was pretty.

Angie Smith - WOW! Precious!

And I was introduced to Mary Mary and their music. WOW! I have downloaded some of their songs on my iPod and have been enjoying them. They will get you on your feet and moving. Praise Jesus!

In addition to being touched by the speakers and performers at the conference, I had the opportunity to hear about WorldVision microfinance. For $25, I will help empower a mom start or maintain her own business so she can support her family. Potentially, I could help 12 different families in a year. It is a great program.

Thank you BookSneeze for the opportunity to attend this conference (in exchange for an honest review). I got a wonderful weekend spent with my mom and in the presence of godly performers. It was a real blessing for my mom and me to experience.

Moving from Fear to Freedom by Grace Fox

2011-08-15T13:17:00.000-05:00

Moving from Fear to Freedom
A Woman-to-Woman Conversation Guide

Has fear kept you awake at night? Has it hindered you from saying yes to a new opportunity? Has it caused you to make impulsive choices you later regretted? If so, you’re not alone! Fear is a big deal for many women. If left unchecked, it can prevent us from fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives. So, what’s the answer? How can we move beyond fear into freedom?

Author Grace Fox has partnered with Stonecroft Ministries to write a small group resource titled Moving from Fear to Freedom: A Woman-to-Woman Conversation. This resource addresses women’s common fears and gives biblical and practical strategies to move beyond them.

Fear seems to be an ever-present theme throughout the Bible. Describe the difference between healthy and unhealthy fear.

Healthy fear steers us toward wise decisions and actions. It promotes self-preservation. For example, we look both ways before crossing the street for fear of getting hit by a car. In contrast, unhealthy fear hinders our ability to fully embrace life because it consumes us with negative thinking and what-ifs. The effects can literally make us sick.

How does destructive fear stunt our emotional or spiritual growth?

Destructive fear—the fear of rejection, for instance—might keep us from admitting to someone that we’ve been physically or sexually abused. Without receiving the help we need to deal with those issues, we never experience freedom. Our struggles might seriously hamper our ability to truly love and receive love in a marital relationship. This is just one example among many of how our emotional growth is affected.
Spiritually, fear can cause us to say no to God-given dreams or assignments because we’re afraid of personal inadequacy or financial insecurity. If we never step out in faith, then we never experience God’s ability to equip and provide in amazing ways. Spiritual growth comes when we say yes to God and “do it afraid.”
You suggest we need to place our focus on God and not on fear. In practical terms, how do we do this?

Several strategies that I’ve found helpful… Most of us feel inadequate at times. You suggest we cannot use our inadequacies as an excuse for not participating with God’s purposes. How do we get past this?

We get past our fear of inadequacy by admitting we have it. Then we need to retrain our thinking to focus on God’s adequacies rather than our inadequacies.

Tell God how we feel. "Help! I don't think I can do such-and-such."
Tell a trusted friend and ask her to pray for us.
Move forward. Do it afraid and expect God to equip us.

Describe this resource and how participants can receive the greatest benefit as they use it.

It’s a seven-week study filled with biblical teaching and personal anecdotes that can be used easily by either a small group of friends in a private home setting or a large women’s ministry. Each session begins by viewing a 25-30 minute teaching video. When the video ends, participants follow suggested Table Talk questions for about 15 minutes. Then they do the Bible study questions together. Each participant uses her own guide book so she can take notes and write answers. Facilitator’s notes are included. The study covers these topics:

Memorize Scripture promises and meditate on them throughout the day and as we fall asleep at night. We are transformed as our mind is renewed.
Fill our homes with praise and worship music.
Spend time in God’s word on a regular basis, not just when we’re in a panic. The more we do so, the more familiar we become with His promises and the better prepared we are to face frightening circumstances when they come.
Talk to the Lord throughout the day. Invite Him into the mundane. Practice His presence. The more we get to know Him, the more we’re able to trust Him in the face of fear.

Where can I buy this study?

It’s available through your local Christian book store, on Amazon, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.christianbooks.com, www.stl-distribution.com, www.winepressbooks.com, and of course, on Grace’s website, where group discounts apply. www.gracefox.com. Visit Grace’s website for more information about her other books and speaking ministry. www.gracefox.com.

For more opportunities for a FREE copy of this DVD & Study Guide set of MOVING FROM FEAR TO FREEDOM, please follow this CSS Virtual Book Tour on Twitter (@Christianspkrs) or Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/CSSVBT.GraceFox.MovingFromFeartoFreedom)

an overview of fear
fear for our loved ones' well-being
fear of personal inadequacy
fear of rejection
fear of facing the ghosts of our past
fear of the storms of life
fear of the unknown future

I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD & Study Guide set from the author in exchange for posting the author’s interview on my blog. This blog tour is managed by Christian Speaker Services (http://www.christianspeakerservices.com/).

God's Story, Your Story by Max Lucado

2011-07-28T19:32:00.000-05:00

God's Story, Your Story
Be inspired to see how your day-to-day story intersects with God’s grand, overarching epic of everlasting redemption. Your journey of faith will come alive as you explore the divine narrative through New Testament and contemporary characters, and discover how the Bible reveals God’s plan for you today.

Description:
Carpools and car crashes, job switches and joint custody, moves and motionlessness. Is there a cohesive storyline to the chaos, confusion, and clutter of your daily life?

According to well-loved author Max Lucado, the answer is a resounding yes!

So what is the text of your life?

With his unequaled warmth and honesty, Lucado plumbs the depths of your storyline and comes up smiling.

“Your story indwells God’s,” writes Lucado. “This is the great promise of the Bible and the hope of this book … Above and around us God directs a grander saga, written by his hand, orchestrated by his will, unveiled according to his calendar. And you are a part of it …”

Join Max for an unforgettable journey woven with New Testament stories and contemporary examples of God’s beautiful story-making skills. The beginning of the narrative is legendary, the middle unfolds with surprises still in store, and the ending of your final earthly chapter ushers in a reunion that almost defies description.

It’s time to see what your life looks like when God’s story becomes your story.

My review:
He writes in a way that I can understand and apply to my life. I am never disappointed. I love the way Max Lucado writes. I feel like I'm sitting down and having a conversation with him. His messages are relevant and easy to understand. I highly recommend any of his books. If you're looking for a book to help give you direction in your Christian walk, then Max Lucado is the author you want to pick.

For more information about how to purchase this book or information about Max Lucado, click on this link.

Thank you, Zondervan, for providing me with a free review copy, which did not sway my review.

The Chocolate Diaries by Karen Linamen

2011-07-23T16:40:00.000-05:00

Ready to Make Some Sweet Changes?
Karen Linamen dishes up a satisfying blend of moxie and mocha, sharing stories from dozens of women who reveal savvy strategies for embracing a sweeter life—even while traveling rocky roads. If you’re hungry for more joy, reasons to laugh again, ideas to help you heal, and reliable hope leading to a sweeter future, this journey will leave you satisfied.

Funny, transparent, and uplifting, The Chocolate Diaries is like taking a road trip with good friends who are wise about life. And while you’re at it, indulge (just a little) in the quirky recipes for concocting chocolate delights out of whatever ingredients you can round up in your kitch. The road may still be bumpy, but you’ll be having too much fun to care.

My review:
This book was quick and easy to read. I thought it might include more scriptural references and how to rely on God during the times of trials and tribulations. If you want a book that will help you strengthen and grow your Christian faith, then I think you'll want to look elsewhere. However, if you are looking for a quick easy read that will give you chocolate recipes and share other people's stories, then you will want to pick this one up.

Thank you, Waterbrook Press for the review copy of this book!

Women of Faith - Atlanta, GA

2011-07-20T21:38:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to be selected as a blogger for Women of Faith in Atlanta, Georgia! It is on August 12 and August 13. It will be a great diversion for me since it will be the first weekend my daughter will be at college. Also, my mom is going with me so we will have some needed mommy/daughter time!

I'm looking forward to hearing Sheila Walsh, Luci Swindoll, Lisa Harper and Angie Smith. I'll get to see Mary Mary and Natalie Grant. Drama by Nicole Johnson.Special guests are Steve Arterburn and Laura Story!

Check out this preview video. To find out more or to purchase tickets, click on this link (AND LET ME KNOW!!)!!

Mine is the Night (Vol. 2) by Liz Curtis Higgs

2011-07-20T09:20:00.000-05:00

SHE LOST EVERYTHING SHE LOVED.

HE HAD EVERYTHING SHE NEEDED.
BUT COULD SHE FIND THE COURAGE TO TRUST HIM?

Stepping from a battered coach on a rainy April eve, newly widowed Elisabeth Kerr must begin again, without husband or title, property or fortune. She is unafraid of work and gifted with a needle, but how will she stitch together the tattered remnants of her life? And who will mend her heart, torn asunder by betrayal and deception?

Elisabeth has not come to Selkirk alone. Her mother-in-law, Marjory Kerr, is a woman undone, having buried her husband, her sons, and any promise of grandchildren. Dependent upon a distant cousin with meager resources, Marjory dreads the future almost as much as she regrets the past. Yet joy still comes knocking, and hope is often found in unexpected places.

When more than one worthy hero steps forward to woo Elisabeth, she makes a bold choice, then must confess her heart’s desire. Will he refuse her out of pride, or surrender to her love?

The heartrending journey of the Kerr women comes to a glorious finish in Mine Is the Night, a sparkling gem of redemption and restoration, set amid the velvet landscape of eighteenth-century Scotland.

This was the second book by Liz Curtis Higgs that I have read. I selected this series because it's based on the book of Ruth. I love the story of Ruth and I enjoyed the similarities in this book. If you like books by Jane Austen, then I think you'll enjoy this book.

*This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.*

Wordle

2011-07-13T22:20:00.000-05:00

The Muir House by Mary DeMuth

2011-07-09T11:58:00.000-05:00

Willa Muir can’t say yes to the love of her life … until she explores her past and solves the mystery of a haunting dream. But when Willa’s desperate search unearths unthinkable secrets, her heart collapses. Can Willa shake her past to embrace a love that could finally lead her home?

“You’ll find home one day. Sure as sweet tea on a hot afternoon.”

Words from Willa Muir’s sketchy childhood haunt her dreams and color her days with longing, regret, and fear. What do the words mean? Willa is far from sure.

When Hale Landon places a ring on her finger, Willa panics, feeling she can’t possibly say yes when so much in her past is a mystery. Bent on sorting out her history, Willa returns to Rockwall, Texas, to the Muir House Bed & Breakfast, a former funeral home.

But the old place holds her empty memory close to itself. Willa’s mother utters unintelligible clues from her deathbed, and the caretaker of the house keeps coveted answers carefully protected. Throw in an old flame, and Willa careens farther away from ever knowing the truth.

Set in a growing suburb of Texas, The Muir House explores trauma, healing, love new and old, and the life-changing choices people make to keep their reputations intact.

To read the first chapter, buy the book or find out more about Mary DeMuth, click this link.

I have enjoyed Mary DeMuth's books for a couple of years now. I was given one of her books and have been hooked since!

I enjoyed this book. It was different than what I expected. The plot threw me for some loops, as I thought it would be a semi-straightforward storyline but I was pleasantly surprised. If you're looking for a book that you cannot put down and one with a well-developed storyline, then this is one you'll definitely want to get. The main character has to learn to let go of what she thought she knew and find out what is really the truth.

To view other books I've reviewed by Mary DeMuth, click here!

I was provided a copy of this book for free by Mary DeMuth in exchange for an honest review.

The Promises She Keeps by Erin Healy

2011-07-01T19:20:00.000-05:00

The Promises She Keeps
Erin Healy

It's her destiny to die young. The man who loves her can't live with that.

Promise, a talented young singer with a terminal illness, is counting on fame to keep her memory alive after she dies. Porta is an aging sorceress and art collector in search of immortality.

When Promise inexplicably survives a series of freak accidents, Porta believes that she may hold the key to eternal life.

Enter Chase, an autistic artist who falls in love with Promise and fascinates her with his mysterious visions and drawings.

Soon, all are plunged into a confrontation over the mystery and the cost of something even greater than eternal life...eternal love.

"Heart-pounding suspense and unrelenting hope that will steal your breath."--Ted Dekker, New York Times best-selling author (for Never Let You Go)

I really enjoy a book that keeps me in suspense and this book delivered! Full of more twists and turns than a roller coaster, you won't know the whole story till the very end. I highly recommend this book. It was a great read!

You can buy the book from Amazon by clicking the link, or see more reviews. Find out more about Erin Healy by visiting her site.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Honduras Trip

2011-06-26T20:38:00.003-05:00

View from Hermosa Church, where we were painting.

From June 18 thru June 25, a team from our church went to La Ceiba, Honduras. There were 22 of us! We wanted to be God's Hand and Feet and do whatever He lead us to do. Some people worked on electrical, construction, bio-filter. Some painted, evangelized, entertained the local children, trained and discipled others.

We painted at the Hermosa church. This was the view - gorgeous! The team went back a second day and finished painting, met with people in the community and provided discipleship training during a church service.

The beach!

We spent about 15 minutes at the beach! Isn't it pretty?

One of the last bus rides - heading to San Pedro Sula

We spent a lot of time on buses going back and forth to the compound. This bus was air conditioned and comfortable, or at least it was from where I was sitting (in the first row on the right). (Our first bus was air conditioned by having all the windows open :0)!)


Shalom Dorm - "The Girls"

My favorite time was talking with "the girls" at the Shalom dorm. We only spent about an hour with them, but we were able to help them finesse their Chicken Dance techniques :)!
Shalom Dorm

On Father's day, we went to church and enjoyed worshiping with the locals in an English/Spanish service. We were able to sing Happy Birthday and Happy Father's day to several people! We were invited to stay for Father's day cake! During the service, this little girl had a flag and stood at the front twirling her flag to the music - so precious.

We ate breakfast and lunch at the compound (mission). Wow there was some great food! I think we had beans with each meal. Sister Eleanor's upside down pineapple cake was a huge hit, along with the mango puree/jam. For dinner, we had several well known restaurants we could go to - Pizza Hut, KFC, Popeyes, Burger King and Quizno's. There was a Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins right next to the hotel. I enjoyed some BR Rocky Road! YUMMM!

Many of us battled a virus or a bug while we were there. There was a medical team at our hotel (from Columbiana, of all places) and they graciously checked us out and provided medicine for us. It was their opinion that we had caught a virus while in the States and we were not suffering from Montezuma's revenge! Although I felt like something was getting some type of revenge on me and I battled with it almost the whole week (truth be told - it hasn't finished running its course). I was very thankful for an air conditioned hotel room.The return flight home was a little challenging and took us several hours longer than we anticipated - but we made it back safe and sound!

I appreciate my daughter and my roommates caring for me. I enjoyed the time we were able to spend praying together for our trip and other ongoing mission trips. Thank you for your prayers and financial support.

God prepared the soil and gave us the seeds to sow. He knows the plans He had for us during the trip and I rest assured that they were accomplished. I enjoyed meeting new people and spending time with the ones I already knew.

I will close with one quick and final story. Meagan was trying to clean up our dinner mess (from eating in the lobby). She was using her limited Spanish and hand motions to request a trash bag. After that was accomplished, she took the remaining KFC chicken strips to the clerks to see if they wanted it. Again, using her limited Spanish and her hand motions (for eating and saying nom nom nom), one of the clerks took the box and then in her most serious voice said, "We understand English". All of us bust out laughing - it was great!

(I just can't seem to get the formatting right - sorry for the wonkiness!)

Why Go?

2011-06-05T19:53:00.001-05:00

In a couple of weeks, my oldest daughter and I will be headed to Honduras on a mission trip with our church. We wanted to go on a mission trip together and this seemed like just the place for us to go! (I tried to get her to agree to India, but so far the love God has given me for India has not really made it to anyone else in the family.)

The timing of the trip and trying to raise funds has been difficult, in light of the devastating events in our state and in other parts of the country. It was very difficult to ask for money to go overseas when there is so much to do right here in our own area. I've been asked why would I go overseas when there is so much to do here...in our local community, area, country.

Well, the first reason is because Jesus told us to go and He gives the resources to go. The second reason is...well...He's done so much in my life that I just want everyone to know. I want His glory to shine through the world. I am overwhelmed by His grace and mercy. I want that girl who has been rescued from the sex trade to know that through the blood of Jesus Christ, she is pure. She is dressed in robes of righteousness. She is adorned with His jewels. She is loved by the Creator. That her life is worth so much than she could ever imagine. God knows the plans He has for her and He sent His one and only Son for her. Through Jesus Christ she can overcome the past. I know this because it's what He's done for me. (There are a lot of "I"'s in this paragraph but it's all about Him.)

Of course, my past was a series of bad choices and decisions not actions that others took on my behalf. But, I still came to Him broken and unpure. And oh how He loves me and has redeemed me. I will go and share wherever He sends me and desires for me to go. How can I not share what He's done in me?

But again, why do I have to go "to the ends of the earth" when I could share that same information here with people? Because...He tells me to do so. It makes a difference to hear the Good News from someone who is different from you and who has different experiences than you. It's one of those times when it is really great to be different. It's the difference that allows God's glory to shine through.

But what about the people here? I don't know about you, but I don't even have to leave my house to see a ministry need. Can I get an amen?!?

I share God's story from afar with the people here. Because, there is something to be said when you can hear the story first hand and from someone you know. Don't you agree?

When I was first sending out letters requesting donations, I asked, "How can I send out letters asking for money when we've just had devastating tornadoes blow through our state and funds are being used for those people?" I was told, "You have to do what God has called you to do and believe and trust in Him for the rest." Meagan and I needed $3,000. We have almost $2,500! How great is our God? I stand amazed at Him and all that He's done.

Next time you wonder why someone is going so far away when so much can be done here, I challenge you to ask yourself..."Why am I asking that? What am I doing, locally or away? How can I help here or there? What does missions look for me?" Don't just ask and not do - ask the One who knows all what YOU can do for Him. It's worth it of that I know!

Thank you for your support and your prayers are surely coveted!

Acts 1:8 (NIV)
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Matthew 28:19 (NIV)
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit..."

Compassion in the Phillipines

2011-05-30T09:33:00.000-05:00

People of the Book by Kathi Macias

2011-04-19T19:55:00.000-05:00

Interview with Kathi Macias

People of the Book is the fourth and final book in your Extreme Devotion series. Each book is set in a different country, with the theme of first devotion and commitment to Christ above all else running through all four. How is People of the Book different, and who/what inspired you to write this book?

People of the Book was the most difficult of the four Extreme Devotion series books to write, but it is also the strongest when it comes to a call to personal commitment to Christ and to the fulfillment of the Great Commission. With each of the books, I began drafting the manuscripts through Internet research, since I had never lived in any of the four countries and had only visited one of them. After the original draft, I worked with someone who either currently lived in the country or who had recently spent many years there. People of the Book was the toughest because the Saudi women I connected with via the Internet were understandably apprehensive about associating with me. Most, in fact, were terrified to do so. I was therefore quite pleased to meet a young woman named Dolly Dahdal here in the States who, until just a few years ago, had spent the majority of her life in Saudi Arabia and understood perfectly why I had chosen to write this book. We shared a passion to help expose the fallacy of “honor killings,” a horrific crime perpetrated primarily against women and girls who in some way bring “dishonor” on their Muslim families, and Dolly was a major contributor to the authenticity of this book.

Can you give us a brief synopsis of this story?

Eighteen-year-old Farah, who lives in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with her family, wants nothing more than to develop a deeper, more meaningful devotion to her Muslim faith. She sees the month of Ramadan as her chance to draw nearer to Allah, and she pursues that goal throughout the holiday. All goes well until the prophet Isa—Jesus—appears to her in a dream and calls her to Himself. At the same time, her only brother, Kareem, who has never liked Farah, actively seeks an opportunity to expose her for the sham he believes she is.

Meanwhile, Farah’s seventeen-year-old cousin, Nura, has begun to frequent an online chat room where former Muslims gather to discuss their new faith, based on their belief that Isa is much more than a Muslim prophet—He is actually the Son of God. While there, Nura becomes acquainted with an American girl of Muslim ancestry—now a devout Christian named Sara—and a friendship quickly develops. However, Sara has problems of her own due to her fifteen-year-old brother Emir’s involvement with a gang.

The lives of Farah, Nura, and Sara ultimately dovetail until each finds herself at a place where her faith is put to the test. Will they remain faithful to the end? Will God protect and keep them safe in the midst of persecution and treachery? Or will they be required to pay the ultimate price for their faith?

Kathi, how did you get into writing? Has it always been your passion, or is it something you came to later in life?

I’ve always wanted to write, for as long as I can remember. I was an avid reader even before I started kindergarten. I wrote a short story in third grade that the teacher liked so much she showed it to the principal, and they decided to turn it into a play for the entire PTA. I was hooked! One day when I was about 13, I was walking home from school with my then boyfriend (now husband), Al, and I told him I’d be a writer some day. He often reminds me how blessed I am to have been able to do what I dreamed of all my life.

I understand you’re running a special contest that has to do with this book. Can you tell us about it?

Not only are there several opportunities to win a copy of the book on various blog sites included in this tour, but I’m giving away the entire four-book series at the end of the tour to someone who leaves a comment on one of the blogs, so be sure to check them all out and leave comments on each one!

In addition to writing, you are a popular speaker at women’s event, writers’ conferences, and various venues around the country. How can people find out more about you, your writing and speaking, sign up for your weekly devotional newsletter (in English or Spanish), and/or just view your many book videos, etc.?

They can find me at one of my websites (http://www.kathimacias.com; http://www.theTitus2Women.com) or on my Easy Writer blog at http://kathieasywritermacias.blogspot.com. There is a “contact” button on my Kathi Macias website if they’d like to send me a message. I always respond to all my emails!

(in)courage John 3:16 Heart and Globe Wall Hanging and a Giveaway!!

2011-02-12T20:47:00.000-06:00

I was thrilled to be chosen to review a product from (in)courage! (If you've never visited their page then you should do that now but come back here!)

I received a beautiful wall hanging (that I have been wanting for a while). This inspirational Heart and Globe Canvas print, based on John 3:16, was inspired by a young girl and is a beautiful expression of God's great love for us.

This hand-stretched gallery wrapped canvas print is printed on high quality canvas and proudly made in the USA.

Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Product Details:
*Size: 16" W x 20" H x 1.5" D
*Made in the USA

History of the picture
Madison Atwood is a disabled 11-year old girl. For Christmas 2006, Madison's mom decided that Madison would paint a picture of a heart as a gift for her dad. An artist friend, Holly, outlined a heart in pencil. She gave Madison the paint brush (one color at a time) and Madison started to trace the outline in lots of bright colors. When Holly gave Madison the turquoise colored brush, she turned her back for a second and Madison colored a big circle over the heart! They initially thought the painting was ruined. But as they looked a little closer, it became clear that the big blob was the globe, and the whole image was an example of how big God's love is for our world.

Madison's Big Heart, Little Globe became the inspiration for the John 3:16 Heart and Globe print. Now, when Madison sees her picture, she says, "Our world is so small but God's love is so BIG!" What a wonderful reminder!

Really, these pictures do not do this wall hanging justice. As soon as I opened the box, I found a place to hang it on my wall. I love seeing it every morning as I head to get my coffee and as I walk out of my kitchen to start my day in the world. You can purchase the picture by clicking here. One thing...it's on sale this month! (And it's worth every dime, on sale or not.) They have a few other pictures that I am putting on my wish list.

Not only did (in)courage offer me the opportunity to review this product (and I LOVE IT), they are offering you the opportunity to win a $20 gift certificate! Woot! Woot! You can enter several different ways.

First, leave a comment on this post.
If you post the giveaway on your blog, another entry.
If you tweet about the giveaway, another entry.
Post something on Facebook about it, another entry.

So, you have four different ways to enter. Just make sure you come back here and comment. (Oh and please make sure I know your email address!) The giveaway will end Wednesday night, 2/16/11. The winner will be announced on Thursday.

In exchange for posting a review, (in)courage sent me this wall hanging for free. Thank you (in)courage!

Lady in Waiting by Susan Meissner

2011-01-12T20:49:00.000-06:00

After two decades plus of marriage, Jane Lindsay assumed she and her husband Brad would always be a couple. Thus when Brad walks out on her to move from Manhattan to Manchester, New Hampshire, she is stunned as she never even remotely saw it coming. With their son away at school, Jane struggles with the end of her emotionally comfortable life.

At her East Village antique shop, amidst a box filled with alleged relics sent by her English friend Emma Downing, Jane finds an old ring. On the inner band is etched a phrase in Latin with one English word: Jane. With a need to know more about the ring that came from a British estate sale, she investigates who the original Jane was. She soon learns about sixteenth-century dressmaker Lucy Day who worked for ill-fated innocent Lady Jane Grey; at a time when the country`s tumultuous divide placed her in the deadly middle. Connected by the ring and their first name, Lady Jane and Manhattan Jane have more control over what they want out of their lives than either originally had thought.

Susan Meissner has a great website with info about her, her books, writers, readers, etc. You'll want to go visit her site.

I've read several of Susan's books. Picket Fences is the only one I have reviewed. I believe I won Shape of Mercy, which is why there is no review for it. This was one of my favorites. I read this book in a day; it was just so good I had a hard time putting it down. I could really relate to Jane, the antique shop owner, which is probably one reason I enjoyed the book so much. I was fascinated with Lady Jane's story and the history surrounding the era. Who knew royalty had their own tailors and dressmakers?

I would highly recommend this book. If you like to read fiction (and especially historical fiction), then no doubt you'll enjoy this book.

You can purchase this book from Amazon or any other retailer who sells Christian fiction.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. It was my privilege.

Unto the Hills: A Daily Devotional By Billy Graham

2011-01-12T20:29:00.000-06:00

Unto the Hills: A Daily Devotional

By Billy Graham

The classic 365-day devotional from Billy Graham, now back in print.

No matter your place in life, this classic collection of devotional readings is designed to bring you daily to that special place of renewal— to help you pause and gaze "unto the hills" for help and inspiration.

Each of the 365 daily readings in this inspiring collection offers a carefully chosen passage of scripture, a brief, thoughtful message from Dr. Graham, and a heartfelt prayer composed especially for this book. Distilled from a lifetime of study and ministry, these devotionals supply daily food for thought about living fruitfully and joyfully in an often fretful world.

Simple, direct, encouraging yet challenging, this book offers itself as a heartening companion for your daily walk in the valley. This collection is a gentle but constant reminder that we can find help for all our needs as long as we remember to look up . . . unto the hills but especially unto the Lord.

About the Author:

"My one purpose in life is to help people find a personal relationship with God, which, I believe, comes through knowing Christ." --Billy Graham

Evangelist Billy Graham took Christ literally when He said in Mark 16:15, “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.”

Mr. Graham has preached the Gospel to more people in live audiences than anyone else in history—nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories—through various meetings, including Mission World and Global Mission. Hundreds of millions more have been reached through television, video, film, and webcasts.

My thoughts:
This is a great devotional. Some of the pages have enough room on them to make notes or write out your prayers. It's a paperback so you can flip and hold the pages back. It's a pretty good size, but it is for a year. I enjoyed the daily format and the words of inspiration. I would recommend this book for anyone looking for a general devotional.

You can purchase this book at Amazon or anywhere else that sells Christian books.

Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book to review.

Chazown - Craig Groeschel

2010-12-31T22:06:00.000-06:00

Chazown

Define Your Vision. Pursue Your Passion. Live Your Life on Purpose.

Written by Craig Groeschel

Chazown (pronounced khaw-ZONE)
from the Hebrew, meaning
a dream, revelation, or vision.

You were born with your own Chazown.
Do you know what it is?
You’re invited on a most unusual odyssey—to find, name, and live out your personal Chazown. It’s a journey you’ll never forget because it’s impossible to return unchanged.

Practical, fresh, and biblically sound, Chazown is a one-of-a-kind life planning experience. Perhaps for the first time, you’ll clearly understand what you’ve always suspected:

I have been created and put on earth for a unique and important purpose.
And God intends for me to know it and live it with passion and fulfillment for His glory.

Craig Groeschel will help you get under the surface of your life to discover your life purpose in three often overlooked areas: your core values, your spiritual gifts, and your past experiences. He’ll help you turn it into a highly motivating credo—complete with short-term goals, action steps, and a supportive network to make your big dream a reality.

And then Craig will show you how to apply your own chazown to five critical areas of your life: your relationship with God, your relationships with people, your finances, your health and fitness, and your work.

Are you living someone else’s dream for your life, or no dream at all? Get ready for Chazown.

For resources, visit The Chazown Experience at www.chazown.com

Praise for Chazown“It is depressing to consider how many people will go to bed tonight never having thought of how God wanted them to spend the day. As Craig points out, this is a deadly cycle that quickly culminates in a wasted life. Chazown reminds us of the brilliance of our God who carefully created us and empowered us for a life of purpose. I pray it rescues many from an eternity of regret and leads them toward the satisfying and meaningful life God intended.”
—FRANCIS CHAN, best-selling author of Crazy Love

My thoughts:
I appear to have a recurring theme with the books I am choosing to review. They are all about how to make my life mean something and how to make a difference. Just looking at the title of the book lets me know I'm on the right path (for reading). This book helps set you on the right path for knowing your purpose. I love this quote from the book,

I have been created and put on earth for a unique and important purpose.
And God intends for me to know it and live it with passion and fulfillment for His glory.

Yes!

You can purchase this book from Amazon or any other retailer which sells Christian non-fiction books.

Thank you Waterbrook for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book to review.

Outlive Your Life You Were Made to Make a Difference by Max Lucado

2010-12-31T21:33:00.001-06:00

Outlive Your Life You Were Made to Make a Difference

By Max Lucado

These are difficult days in our world's history. 1.75 billion people are desperately poor, natural disasters are gouging entire nations, and economic uncertainty still reigns across the globe. But you and I have been given an opportunity to make a big difference. What if we did? What if we rocked the world with hope? Infiltrated all corners with God's love and life? We are created by a great God to do great works. He invites us to outlive our lives, not just in heaven, but here on earth. Let's live our lives in such a way that the world will be glad we did.

Authors:

Max Lucado is a minister who writes and a writer who preaches. He and his wife, Denalyn, serve the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas. They have three grown daughters, Jenna, Andrea, and Sara; one son-in-law, Brett; and one sweet but lazy golden retriever, Molly.

Visit the official Max Lucado web site

My thoughts:

I always enjoy reading books written by Max Lucado. He has an easy to read and understand writing style. In this book, he writes about how we were each made to make a difference locally and globally. It helped open my eyes to different options I had not considered. and the steps we can take. The profits are donated to WorldVision.

You can purchase this book (and the one for teens) at Amazon or from Max Lucado's site.

Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing me with a complimentary copy of Outlive Your Life to review.

You Were Made to Make a Difference ~ Max Lucado and Jenna Lucado Bishop

2010-12-31T21:17:00.000-06:00

You Were Made to Make a Difference

By Max Lucado and Jenna Lucado Bishop

Want to change the world? Did you know You Were Made to Make a Difference?

This adaptation of Outlive Your Life for teens offers practical tips youth can take out into their community to make a difference, plus real-life stories about those who have done just that. Teens learn that God can use them to make a difference right now. He wants to use them today, without waiting for them to be older, stronger, richer, or even more “together.” God can use their minds, their spirits, and their hands and feet to make permanent change for His kingdom.

Also included are valuable resources, interesting facts about the needy in the world and how little it takes to make a big difference, and other interactive elements such as journaling opportunities for writing personal ideas and service goals.

Teens will learn that their role in life is bigger than themselves, and that they’re not too young to make a difference for God.

Authors:

Visit the official Max Lucado web site

If Jenna Lucado is sure of anything, she is sure of this, “I have a deep calling on my life to give hope to teenage girls.” What started out as a heart to encourage teen girls has now blossomed into a ministry. Daughter of best-selling Christian author Max Lucado, Jenna has realized that she has inherited a passion for writing and speaking just like her dad. She is currently a part of the Revolve Tour, an event for teen girls that includes a line-up of Christian artists like Natalie Grant, as well as speaker and author, Chad Eastham and many more. In September 2009 the release of her debut book, Redefining Beautiful, will hit bookstore shelves. Jenna has also narrated part of Thomas Nelson’s Word of Promise: Next Generation. Through all the piling projects, Jenna is driven by the thought of one more girl hearing about the love of Jesus.

MY THOUGHTS:
I enjoyed this book. I thought it was a well written resource for teens. It was set out so they can work through the various topics at their own speed and either on their own or with a group. There was plenty of space to write down thoughts or questions. If you're looking for a book for a teen to help him/her grow in relationship with Christ and know his/her place in Him, then you've found the right book!

To purchase the book, you can go to Amazon.

Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book to review.

Mercy Rising by Amber Robinson

2010-12-31T20:56:00.001-06:00

Mercy Rising: Simple Ways to Practice Justice and Compassion

About This Book:

The needs are real: Children are dying from lack of access to basic nutrition and health care. Human slaves are trafficked in our home cities and around the world. Racial injustice continues to fester in America.

It s not that I don't care, I just don't know what to do, is the heart cry of many American women. Daily life threatens to send us on emotional overload. Can I care for social justice when I feel broken and am in debt? Is it even possible for a middle-class, exhausted family to do anything meaningful for others?

About the Author:

AMBER ROBINSON is an ordinary woman seeking to bridge the gap between the needs for justice and balancing family, work, and service. Her life’s passion is to write and advocate for children with Compassion International. She speaks to groups who want to incorporate justice pursuits in simple, practical ways. She is an imperfect Christ follower and reluctantly optimistic.

Amber began this journey when chronic illness forced her to reevaluate her priorities and learn to serve with limitations in everyday life. She networks with leaders in the justice movement as well as everyday women with various limitations in time, resources, and energy but long to serve in simple, practical ways. What can we do at home, shopping, in business, or with family and friends? Not everything, but we can find our “one thing”.

What Others Are Saying:

In Mercy Rising, author Amber Robinson offers the tools women need to make the impact their hearts desire to make. Filled with helpful hints, stories of real women making a difference, and solid biblical wisdom, this organized resource makes finding your compassionate feet easily accessible.

With clever charm and earnest exploration, Amber will help even the busiest of women find their one way to help.

In Mercy Rising, Amber Robinson presents the issues of justice through personal and powerful stories, encouraging women of all ages to actively live out their faith in a hurting world --Dr. Wess Stafford, President and CEO Compassion International

Amber strikes the perfect balance of kindness and conviction as she encourages young women to step outside of their comfort zones and be their faith in the world - one act of love and compassion at a time --Joan Ball, author of Flirting with Faith: My Spiritual Journey from Atheism to a Faith-Filled Life

Amber Robinson s Mercy Rising is a quick and powerful read. She doesn't avoid the difficult questions surrounding poverty and testifies to facing her own fears and obstacles. Packed with practical information and inspiring stories this read is a must for anyone diving into changing the lives of the least of these. --Craig Hilton Dyer, President, Bright Hope International

What I Say:

I am missions minded and I really appreciated all the resources which are available in this book. There are great ideas on how to make a change, one step at a time, from your computer to you where you shop and how to research the places you frequent. Also included there are stories about real people making a real difference. If you are interested in making a difference in your home or across the globe, this is a great book to help get you started.

To purchase this book, go to Amazon.com. Also, check out Amber's website for a variety of resources.

Thank you Beacon Hill Press for providing me with a complimentary review copy of this book.

Inspired Design

2010-11-29T01:18:00.023-06:00

Inspired Design by Roxanne Hughes Packham and Hannah Packham (Inspired Designs Publications, 2010)

What is Inspired Design?
A book about three aspects of the home and how it's power to touch the souls of those within. Those three aspects are Designing for warmth and beauty to nurture others, meaningful touches and gestures to celebrate and honor your loved ones on special occasions and ordinary days, and lastly that it is not what we have or do not have that blesses others, and changes lives, but how we use what we have. It is about incorporating YOUR family heritage, and your unique gifts, into making a beautiful, family home.

Why did you write Inspired Design with your daughter?
My grandfather (Silversmith Allan Adler) passed this love of design to me, so it just seemed a natural, alongside a book about the design and subsequent use of our homes, infused with family heritage that my daughter who lives along side me take a large part the powerful subject of "the home". I also wanted to create a place where we could initiate, create, and complete a project where my daughter, Hannah, could learn along side me both the practical and the ethical implications of a project this size, where all the profits go to a charity that is dear to our hearts, Heart of Hope Ministries, Intl. I wanted show her an example of using our talents and gifts for the enjoyment of others, while benefiting others, not ourselves. It wasn't to be pious, but just a fun way to give back and truly make a difference while doing something together that we loved!

I know that a mother-daughter ministry, "Inspired 31", has begun along side of Inspired Design, why do you think it has resonated so powerfully?
Especially in this economic climate so many women are more resolute than ever that their families are the most important thing in their lives and their daughters, or close friends, should be celebrated and cherished. Without exception our gatherings (3 so far, in it's first 3 months) have attracted hundreds of mother/daughter/sister/friend combinations wanting to come, for 2 hours, and celebrate what is good, pure, worthy of praise especially each other. Inspired 31's mission is to teach girls (and now even woman of all ages) to find and follow God's unique path for their lives. We have inspiring speakers, and a wonderful positive/uplifting program. We have people inquiring about beginning a chapter in their area, in many cities.

Where can we purchase a copy of Inspired Design? Also, we heard this book is helping orphans and teenage girls as well.
Inspired Design makes a perfect gift with so many ideas for making Christmas, or any holiday, more special with all kinds of thoughtful little details. 100% of the profits go to Heart of Hope, which benefits orphans in Romania, and Inspired 31, a Mother-teenage girl ministry. With each purchase you are helping all kinds of different children.
Please visit my web site at http://inspireddesignpublications.com/.

My thoughts
I would love to be able to pull a room together and have it look as pretty as a picture but I can't! This book, though, has wonderful ideas and great pictures. It would make a very nice "coffee table" book or a nice gift for that hard to buy for person in your life. It's a double bonus that when you purchase the book, you're helping a great cause too!

If you would like the opportunity to win this book, check out the links below to enter random drawings conducted by Christian Speaker Services:

CSS Blog (please see blog posts for details)

CSS Virtual Blog Tour on Facebook (please see EVENTS pages for details)

A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Inspired Design Publications in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services.

Sun Stand Still

2010-11-26T19:24:00.000-06:00

About This Book

If you're not DARING TO BELIEVE GOD for the impossible,
you may be SLEEPING THROUGH
some of the BEST PARTS of your Christian Life.

"This book is not a Snuggie. The words on these pages will not go down like Ambien. I’m not writing to calm or coddle you. With God’s help, I intend to incite a riot in your mind. Trip your breakers and turn out the lights in your favorite hiding places of insecurity and fear. Then flip the switch back on so that God’s truth can illuminate the divine destiny that may have been lying dormant inside you for years.
In short, I’m out to activate your audacious faith. To inspire you to ask God for the impossible. And in the process, to reconnect you with your God-sized purpose and potential."
—STEVEN FURTICK, from Sun Stand Still
Steven Furtick is the founder and lead pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, named by Outreach magazine as one of the top 10 fastest growing churches in the nation. In four years, Elevation has grown to more than 6,000 people in regular attendance in three locations. Steven holds a degree in communication from North Greenville University, and a Master of Divinity degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Holly, have two young sons—Elijah and Graham—and make their home in the Charlotte area.

For more information:
SunStandStill.org
www.StevenFurtick.com

Thank you WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing for the free review copy of this book.

McShane and His Bucket List

2010-11-24T19:57:00.000-06:00

This post is written by my brother-in-law, Mike Davis, about his son (and my nephew), McShane. I think what he says is far better than what I can, so I'll leave it up to him.

Hello,

I would first like to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday season to all.

Now the tough part...McShane has made his bucket list and we are hoping to make a difference if you have time, please forward this letter to as many people as possible you never know who can help out, don't worry about the sensitive information on the bank account. Bank of America is ready.

Sincerely,

Michael Davis

My Childs Bucket List

4466 Clipper Cove Destin, Fl. 32541

Phone 850-393-6943

I am are writing this letter on behalf of Michael Shane Paton aka (McShane) as you may already know Since Feb 2009 15 year old McShane has been dealing with a very bad cancer named Osteosarcoma which is a bone cancer that effects only a few children worldwide a year. After aggressively fighting and with over 20 surgeries, removing tumors, losing his right leg to this awful cancer the doctors at St Jude’s informed McShane and his family that after the 16 month treatment in Memphis the cancer has returned, the experimental drugs did not work and this will be terminal, but they could try more chemo and maybe radiation if he wanted. McShane informed the great doctors there, “that he was not doing anymore chemo and he was going home to have fun”. During this time McShanes’ attitude has been great and he always has a big smile for everyone… all the time. He has insisted on going to school and living life to its fullest, witch brings me to his bucket list. After returning home he wanted to make a list of things he wished to do or have before he goes to heaven. This by far is the hardest thing a family can go through. He is the strongest person I know ,not even a ‘’why me?’’ or “poor me” along the way. He demonstrates daily what it means to be a survivor and champion, his faith is strong and his spirits’ are good. Even after all of this very hard stuff he gets up with anticipation and hope of what the new day will bring. He has had many days of pain and fear, and at the end of it, the hard truth, that he will probably die from this disease. How much more can the child take? I ask myself. I have seen him hold his head high even when people at the water park stared at him because he lost a limb, scars allover and was different. He has not let this cancer dictate what he can or cannot do. Because of his ability to draw strength from this experience and his real desire to live, I feel like it is my responsibility to provide him with as many of the experiences and wants that we can from his bucket list, with your help that is what we plan to do.. Thank you in advance for all your prayers and support

Bucket list

1000 dollar visa card for shoes and other items
Cruise to Hawaii and go offshore fishing there!

Golf cart with stereo
Pittsburgh Steelers home game! :)
Ice pilots game
Hemingway’s on Pensacola beach
Go to lee and ricks oyster bar
LSU football game
Xbox 360 the new black one
I-phone 4 with unlimited everything plan from AT&T
Acme oyster house...

Love Mcshane

We have founded a nonprofit org. the # N10000007461 you can put this number on your check to help in the giving it’s a tax deductible account at Bank Of America the account # 229037173008 the name of the account is My Childs Bucket List Inc. if you wish to do a wire transfer you can 026009593 then account # 229037173008 the funds will help with the end of life care not to mention his bucket list If needed you can mail or send to My Childs Bucket List 4466 Clipper cove Destin Fl 32541 also attached is a letter from St. Jude’s confirming his unforgettable condition [note from cathy - I have the letter, it's not attached, but I'll gladly email it if you want]. If you have any question or concerns please give us a call at 850-393-6943.

Sincerely

Michael Davis

(Posted by Cathy Davis - proud aunt :0). cathys31gifts@gmail.com)

Ramblings of ...me...

2010-11-23T20:11:00.001-06:00

I have so much rambling around in my mind but it's so hard to get it all out. Mostly, though, this year has just been tough. In preparing last year to go to India, I was told of various things that would probably happen. I was also told that many people have problems when they return (spiritual warfare). I thought I had escaped the "return home". I returned home; had a great Christmas; spent time with my husband and kids; took some various courses on prayer; life was going well. Then, in March, the bottom fell out and my husband left. Even though it has been 8, almost 9, months, I'm still in shock.

You know how you ask someone "What happened?" and expect she'll know the answer. Well, in this case, I honestly don't know. I can theorize all day long, and I have, but I am not sure he even knows. I changed everything in our marriage when I really started growing in relationship with God and maybe that's just it. I do know that regardless of why, it's happening and it's hard. But ... does anything ever happen without a reason?

In India, one of my friends told me to meditate on Psalm 27. It was "mine". Have you read 27:14? "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!" I remember saying.."The only thing I see is 'wait'. I don't wanna wait". Well beloved, I'm learning how to wait on the Lord (and other people). I'm learning to trust in Him, to rely on His promises, to believe in Him.

After all these months, I can see other parts of this beautiful passage. Have you read verses 7 and 8: "Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me! [Oh and He has!] 8 You have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” [Oh yes I do!]

How about? v4 "One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple."

I wish I could say that I have all the answers and that I have handled this situation beautifully, but I don't and I haven't. I have had much support from my family, coworkers and friends. I know so many people have kept me lifted up in prayer because there have been times when I could barely lift my head off the pillow. I have received a lot of encouragement - so much that I'll never be able to thank you. God has shown me those who are His hands and feet.

Thank you, Abba, for sending Your love and encouragement through people that could only be sent by You. You are truly my Jehovah-Jireh and You have been my Jehovah-Shalom. Thank You for giving me strength to face each day. Any good people have seen in this situation, let them know it was from You. The only thing I ask for is that I continue to seek Your face.

Psalm 27 (ESV)

A Woman and Her Workplace

2010-11-23T19:37:00.000-06:00

Handling Workplace Gossip -

Publisher: Beacon Hill Press
of Kansas City
ISBN-10: 0834125234
ISBN-13: 978-0834125230
Released: September 2010
Paperback: 192 pages
Retail: $14.99

BOOK SUMMARY:

For most people, the workplace is their home-away-from-home. We spend most of our waking hours with coworkers and employers. No blood relation, but yet we must build healthy relationships with them if we hope to excel at our work and enjoy our careers. Just like families, our work families are disturbed by dysfunctional issues. Interactions at work are often anything but ideal, let alone godly.

We find someone to vent about the grumpy boss, that arrogant team member, the lazy coworker who gets by doing nothing, and the undermining woman who makes our lives miserable. Yes, it’s easy to blame them for our workplace woes—but it’s better to look inward at what we have control to change.

A Woman and Her Workplace shows how God can perform a deep heart transformation within us so His love flows through us to the people in our workplaces. By delving into the issues that wreak havoc on our workplace relationships, author Rosemary Flaaten provides readers the help they need to develop and apply strong biblical principles of humility, integrity, forgiveness, grace, and celebration in the workplace.

Through discussing relationships such as boss to staff, woman to man, woman to woman, and teamwork, Rosemary guides women to develop healthy interactions in their workplaces. It makes sense to invest some effort into the relationships where we spend the lion’s share of our waking hours. This book isn’t just for women, though. Men find the book gives them insight into how to make the best of their working relationships with the opposite sex in their offices.

CHAPTERS

Building the Relationship Bridge
Pride Vanquished by Humility
Deception Defeated by Integrity
Anger Diffused by Forgiveness
Judgment Dissolved by Grace
Envy Rejected by Celebration
I'm Part of a Team
I'm the Boss
I'm NOT the Boss
I Work with Him
I Work with Her
Sharing Your Faith

ROSEMARY FLAATEN’S successful book, A Woman and Her Relationships helps women process their outside-of-work relationships, so now she’s delving into these 9-5 relationships. She writes from a fully equipped life-experience toolkit. In it we find her varied work experience, a counseling and educational background, and a deep love for God as well as a passion to help others. Her Relationships book won The Word Guild Award, which is Canada's top Christian literary honor. A dynamic speaker—Rosemary challenges women of all professions to view their work as a calling and their workplaces as opportunities to live out Christ’s love. Rosemary lives with her husband and three children in Calgary, Canada.

My thoughts:
This is a great book for us working women. I find the workplace is my hardest "mission field". Thank you Rosemary!

If you're interested in hosting a blog tour or finding out more information, please contact:

Kathy Carlton Willis Communications
1008 Ben Drive Brenham, TX 77833
WillisWay@aol.com | kcwcomm@att.net | 956-642-6319 | www.kathycarltonwillis.com

If I...I will by Debbie Covington (Guest Post)

2010-11-01T01:00:00.005-05:00

Thank you for the post from Debbie Covington. She's the author of the new book "If I...I Will" (info below)

The Lord Closed the Door!

I love this image of the doors*. Presently I am reading the Chronological Bible and loved the reading from Genesis 7 about Noah boarding the ark. It is the story of Noah receiving all his instructions from God about what he is to do. A verse that jumped out at me this time was the verse – Then the Lord closed the door behind them.

How often I've wondered why it seemed like a missed opportunity or a chance just went away. Well, it hit me that God probably closed the door behind me! God took care of Noah and his valuable load on the ark and He takes care of us. Whether He is closing a door or opening the door He is in charge, if we allow Him to open and shut the doors.

Don't you love the image above? Place God in your home, office, or other places today and allow Him to open and close the right doors for you. I love the image of some being opened and others closed—after all, only God knows the right way to open and close the next door in our journey!

Happy openings and closings,

Debbie Covington

Debbie Sutton Covington writes and speaks on women in the church. She is also the founder of Journey of Sisters, a ministry that encourages women in their walk in faith through weekly devotionals, monthly newsletters, and fellowship opportunities. Debbie and her husband Kenny and their dogs live in Shreveport, Louisiana.

About If…I Will

If I…I will: simple words, but do we ever move past the “ifs” in our lives? Do we know in our hearts and minds that God indeed will help us to achieve our dreams and goals? If I…I Will is an insightful look at the healing of the suffering woman in Mark 5 whom Jesus healed. And just like that suffering woman, we must step past our suffering, the words we may hear, our own thoughts, and the crowds around us to reach for Jesus. What if we reach Jesus? Will He change our lives forever? Will He heal us? Yes, indeed! Maybe Jesus won’t follow the way we envision the healing or the change to happen, but faith in Jesus will forever change us. So, step out and reach for Jesus’ hand, and begin the adventure of a lifetime.

Purchase If I…I Will on Amazon.

If I…I Will Virtual Book Tour
November 1 – November 5, 2010
Coordinated by Rachel Randolph at RedCouch PR
November 1
A Room Without Books Is Empty
Latte With Me
Nikole Hahn’s Journal
Of Sound Mind Spirit
November 2
Nikole Hahn’s Journal
November 3
MiscMayzee
What You Reading Now?
All Grown Up?
Books+Beach=Escape
Hope & Despair Mingled Together
November 4
A New Kind of Normal
November 5
Life in Review
Mel’s World
Book Reviews by Molly
Double the Blessings

Thank you Red Couch PR and Debbie Covington for the preview copy of the book!

*Thank you to this site for the beautiful picture of the door (which is not what Ms. Debbie had in her post, but I couldn't get the copy of it) http://www.mccullagh.org/photo/1ds-14/weathered-red-door.

Between a Rock and a Grace Place by Carol Kent

2010-09-28T09:49:00.000-05:00

Between a Rock and a Grace Place by Carol Kent (Zondervan)

From bestselling author Carol Kent comes a riveting journey of facing the impassible obstacles of life and discovering the last thing ever expected—the sweet spot of grace.

Carol Kent and her husband, Gene, are now living what some would call a heartbreaking life—their son, Jason, a young man who initially had so much promise, is now living out a life sentence for murder in a maximum security prison. All their appeals have been exhausted at both the state and federal levels—humanly speaking, they have run out of options. But despite their hopeless situation, Carol and her husband live a life full of grace. Kent reveals how life’s problems become fruitful affliction where we discover the very best divine surprises, including peace, compassion, freedom, and adventure. Through the Kent’s remarkable ongoing journey, Jason’s riveting letters from behind bars, and true “grace place” stories from the lives of others, Between a Rock and a Grace Place reveals that when seemingly insurmountable challenges crash into our lives, we can be transformed as we discover God at work in ways we never imagined. With vulnerable openness, irrepressible hope, restored joy, and a sense of humor, Carol Kent helps readers to find God’s “grace places” in the middle of their worst moments.

About the Author
Carol Kent is the bestselling author of When I Lay My Isaac Down and A New Kind of Normal. Carol is an expert on public speaking, writing, and on encouraging people to hold on to hope when life’s circumstances turn out differently from their dreams. She lives in Florida with her husband Gene.

Carol Kent is a popular international public speaker best known for being dynamic, humorous, encouraging, and biblical. She is a former radio show co-host and has often been a guest on Focus on the Family and a featured speaker at Time Out for Women and Heritage Keepers arena events. She has spoken at The Praise Gathering for Believers and at Vision New England’s Congress. She is also a frequent speaker at Women of Virtue events across the country.

Tell us about the Christmas gift you received. How did it help you to find grace in the middle of a seemingly hopeless situation?
Two weeks before Christmas our doorbell rang at 9:15 p.m. It was dark outside and by the time my husband, Gene, joined me at the front door, we were surprised to find no one there. It was already dark, but my eyes fell on a large, exquisitely wrapped gift. The card on top said, “Mom.” Initially, it felt like a bad joke. Nine years earlier our son, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy had been arrested for murdering his wife’s first husband and he was in prison serving a life-without-the-possibility-of-parole sentence.

However, I am a “Mom” and the package was left on my doorstep, so I opened it. The note appeared to be in my son’s unique handwriting. The note expressed his deep love for me and his gratefulness for what I had done to help him since his arrest. He said a “friend” had helped him deliver the surprise. Opening the box, I discovered a gorgeous russet-colored silk jacket—and it fit me perfectly.

That night I discovered something new about God and something I had forgotten about myself. He loves to interject divine surprises into our lives. His timing is always perfect, but it had been a while since I had been surprised by joy, wonder, and grace in the middle of one of the tight spots of life.

What are “grace places,” and how can hurting people in need find them?
All of us experience tight spots when life turns out differently from our dream. When we face the overwhelming obstacles of life, we can experience the last thing we ever expect—the sweet spot of grace. Grace places have a variety of forms, but some include:

•Receiving love when we don’t deserve it
•Finding safety in the middle of a fearful and uncertain experience
•Being comforted by friends and family (people who are extensions of God’s love)
•Experiencing the embrace of God when we have run out of strength and courage

“Grace means the free, unmerited, unexpected love of God, and all the benefits, delights, and comforts which flow from it.” (R.P.C. Hanson)

How important are contentment and gratitude in finding grace and peace?
My son, Jason, is teaching me that I need to choose contentment and thanksgiving in all things. As an inmate in a maximum-security prison, all of his personal items must fit in one small one-foot-high and one-and a half-feet-deep and two-and-a half feet long steel lockbox. He has learned to live comfortably with very little, which brings him a surprising sense of peace.

When I was visiting him one weekend I asked how he holds on to hope in the middle of a life-without-the-possibility-of-parole sentence. He said, “Mom, I have a gratitude list. Whenever the clouds of depression try to discouragement, I get out a piece of paper and write down everything I have to be thankful for. I’m thankful I have two parents who will be my advocates for as long as they live. The average number of years a lifer gets visits is five years and then no one comes anymore. I’m also thankful I can be a missionary on a compound that houses up to 1,700 men.” I’m learning from Jason that I find contentment when I choose to be thankful and when I invest my time in helping other people.

What are some unexpected gestures of kindness you’ve received in the past, and how did they help you through difficult times?
A couple of years ago Jason’s appendix ruptured and he was rushed from the prison to a civilian hospital. Gene and I were not allowed to know where he was and I prayed for someone to care for him as a mother would. He had two armed guards in his room at all times. Nurse Betty was assigned to Jason’s care. She treated him with respect and extraordinary care—and I knew she was a direct answer to my prayers.

A group of people who called themselves our “Stretcher Bearers” received an e-mailed monthly update on how to help with our needs. We were blessed with meals, cards, and financial gifts, often just before we needed extra funds for the next legal payment. These amazing people waited with us for two and a half years through seven postponements of the trial.

How has your definition of adventure changed over the years, and why is it important to retain adventure in your life, despite your situation?
True adventure is seeing the potential of living for things that matter in the middle of your current circumstances. We had the adventure of launching a nonprofit organization that helps to empower our son to facilitate classes by having books and DVD teaching series sent to the prison. We also have the adventure of reaching out to other people who are in crisis, which brings purpose and deep meaning to our lives.

There is a theme of surprise throughout the book. What is one of the greatest surprises you’ve had?
The powerful story of Tammy Wilson and Matthew Ben Rodriguez is in this book. Tammy contacted me after I spoke at an event she attended because my son is incarcerated in the same prison where Matt, the man who killed her mother thirteen years ago is incarcerated. She had been praying for someone to lead Matt to Christ and asked if Jason would try to meet him. It turned out that Jason and Matt were already friends and this amazing story is one of forgiveness, redemption, and restoration that can only be explained in the supernatural dimension.

Between a Rock and a Grace Place releases 10 years after your son, Jason, was sentenced to life in a maximum security prison and includes excerpts from Jason’s letters. Can you tell us how he’s doing now?
He has just taken his 8th group of men through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University Course and he will be facilitating a biblical counseling class on marriage and family this fall. He has a prayer group of twelve inmates who fast and pray for the needs of each other and their families. Prison is a depressing, dark, and sad place, but Jason is living for things that will outlast him.

When you received news about Jason’s clemency hearing being denied, how did you respond?
I wailed like a baby, sobbed, felt angry, hurt, and disappointed in God. Then we saw Jason a day after this devastating news. He was calm and very much at peace. He hugged me as I wept and said, “Mom, this case isn’t about having the best attorney or about having the favor of Florida’s top executive political leaders. If I am ever allowed to walk in freedom in this lifetime, it will be because God miraculously opened a door that was closed.” My son helps me to develop an eternal perspective and that day he comforted me.

What advice do you have for those who are stuck between a rock and a grace place?
In the middle of your own hurt reach out to someone else who needs help worse than you do. When you involve yourself in meeting the needs of others, you discover an unexpected freedom on the inside. Corrie ten Boom once said, “What did you do today that only a Christian would have done?”

As a result of your journey, you and your husband have founded the nonprofit organization Speak Up for Hope. What are the goals of the organization, and how can people get involved?
Our vision: To help inmates and their families adjust to their new normal.
Our mission: We exist to provide hope to inmates and their families through encouragement and resources.
Please go to www.speakupforhope.org for a list of practical ways individuals, churches, and organizations can help with specific projects. Our goal is to live out the truth of Prov. 31:8-9: “Speak up for the people who have no voice, for the rights of all the down-and-outers. Speak out for justice. Stand up for the poor and destitute!”

Where may we connect with you further or to purchase a copy of Between a Rock and a Grace Place?
I would love for you to visit my web site at www.CarolKent.org, browse through the various events and other resources available. You may also join me on my Facebook page, please click here.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Zondervan in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services.

Her Daughter's Dream by Francine Rivers

2010-09-20T20:39:00.001-05:00

It's here! The sequel to Her Mother's Hope by Francine Rivers has been released! I was so excited to receive a copy of the book (which explains all the exclamation points!)!

Francine Rivers never disappoints to deliver a great read and this was no exception. I'm pleased to share this interview with Ms. Rivers about her story on mother/daughter relationships and how beautiful and difficult they can be.

How has exploring the relationship between your mother and grandmother helped you understand yourself?

This is a question I would love readers to ask themselves at the end of Her Mother’s Hope. I realized early in the story that I have many of my grandmother and mother’s character traits, both good and bad. They both had tempers. So do I. They both had low self-esteem. I’m always striving to “measure up”. They both chose spouses who respected them. So did I. Both women had strong faith and servants’ hearts, something they encouraged in me. My mother extended grace to others -- a trait I want to cultivate to the end of my days. By holding onto her anger, Grandma lacked the peace and joy she could have had in her last years. I tend to relive past hurts. Writing about Marta made me decide to let go, forgive and move on. For whatever reason, Grandma couldn’t and missed out on so much joy in her last years. Sometimes people deeply hurt as children take offense where none was intended. Holding a grudge causes suffering, especially for the one who won’t let go. Jesus said to forgive one another as He has forgiven us. Forgiveness frees us, even if the other person refuses to join in the process of reconciliation. As I examine my own life, I see how much I’ve been forgiven. How can I not extend God’s grace to others? The best way to experience the fullness of God’s presence in my life is to surrender it to Him. And in that surrender, we are made more complete and joy-filled.

Mother-daughter relationships are often complicated and fraught with emotional land mines. What was your approach to exploring the complexity of those relationships in a fictional setting?

Questions, lots of questions! Every time I told someone I was working on a book about mother-daughter relationships, people wanted to share their family stories. As I wrote Her Mother’s Hope, I wanted readers to see through each woman’s eyes, and understand how the past shaped each in the way she responded to her mother. Hildemara doesn’t believe her mother loves her, but it is out of Marta’s pain and loss that tough-love techniques were forged. Marta wants to strengthen her daughter for whatever lies ahead. Sometimes what we view as rejection can actually be an act of sacrificial love. We seldom know the experiences that shaped our mothers, the deep hurts, traumatic events, broken relationships. I hope women who read this book will want to share those things with one another.

After readers finish this series what do you want them to remember? What questions and feelings do you want it to provoke on a spiritual and emotional level?

I hope and pray readers who have had difficult relationships with their mothers or daughters will let go of the pain and anger and allow God to work in their lives. God can work all things together for good for those who trust and love Him. Following Jesus’ example changes the way we see people. It changes the way we relate to one another. Even when the chasm is too deep to cross, we can decide to forgive. Some people wear grievances like a dirty coat. With God’s strength, we can strip it off and be free. When people finish reading Her Daughter’s Dream, I hope they will want to extend God’s grace and forgiveness. I hope they will tear down their walls and use their life experiences to begin building a bridge.

Where may we connect with you further or to purchase a copy of HER DAUGHTER'S DREAM?

I would love for you to visit my web site at www.FrancinceRivers.com, browse through the various events and other resources available, as well as sign up for my mailing list. You may also join me on my Facebook page, please click here.

For a chance to win your own copy of this book, go visit these sites: http://www.facebook.com/CSSVBT.FrancineRivers.HerDaughtersDream and http://christianspeakerservices1.wordpress.com/blog/

A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by the Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services at www.ChristianSpeakerServices.com for more information about blog tour management services.

Fatal Convictions by Randy Singer

2010-09-04T09:24:00.000-05:00

Randy Singer’s newest legal thriller, Fatal Convictions (Tyndale House), is out! In this latest release, he explores the issue of what it means to represent someone you believe is innocent and to do the honorable thing, even if everyone around you questions your decision.

About Fatal Convictions

Young attorney Alexander Madison spent his weekdays chasing personal-injury cases and his weekends chasing souls as pastor of South Norfolk Community Church in Virginia Beach. Granted, it was an odd pairing, but it had its benefits. For one thing, he could do hospital visitation and seek out new clients at the same time.

While visiting an elderly congregant, he meets Muslim imam Khalid Mobassar whose wife is battling a brain injury after a serious car accident. Sensing a multi-thousand dollar or more lawsuit, Alex and his partner, Shannon, take the case. But no sooner is the ink dry on the contract when a firestorm ensues. The wife of a prominent Muslim leader in Virginia Beach, who was rumored to have converted to Christianity, is beheaded. And Alex and Shannon’s client is accused of being the mastermind behind it.

Everything inside Alex tells him to flee—to turn the case over to experienced defense lawyers and remain focused on his personal injury clients. But deep down he and Shannon believe that Mobassar is innocent, and despite intense pressure from Alex’s church, national media attention, and overwhelming evidence in the hands of the prosecution against Mobassar, they decide to take on the biggest murder case Virginia Beach has ever seen.

As Alex and Shannon dig into the case, and the evidence begins to mount, they discover that things aren’t always what they seem. When the imam’s beautiful daughter arrives from Lebanon to help with the case, Alex finds himself torn between his developing interest in her and his obligation to his client.

When another former Muslim woman winds up dead in a baptistery in Los Angeles, it only confirms that a brutal assassin is still on the loose. And if Alex doesn’t watch his back, he might be next.

About Randy Singer

Randy Singer is a critically-acclaimed author and veteran trial lawyer. He has authored nine legal thrillers and one novella, including the 2003 Christy Award-winning Directed Verdict. In addition to serving as managing partner of the Singer Legal Group, and his writing, Randy serves as a teaching pastor for Trinity Church in Virginia Beach, VA, and is a professor at Regent University School of Law. More info at www.randysinger.net

My Review

I really enjoyed this book. It showed me a different side of a culture than I knew. I did not know much about the Muslim faith and all the intricacies of it. This book was fast paced and the characters were very likeable (except the ones you wouldn't want to like, of course). I enjoyed the ending because I wasn't left wondering what happened to the characters.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher so I could review it. Thank you!

Monster Inside My Daughter - Guest Post by Lorilyn Roberts

2010-08-20T21:21:00.000-05:00

Monster Inside My Daughter

“I feel a pulse,” one of the medics said.
The paramedics worked feverishly on Manisha to make sure she was still alive. My beautiful seven-year-old daughter from Nepal lay on the floor unconscious at the O’Connell Center of the University of Florida.
“Has she ever had a seizure?” another one asked.
“No, no,” I said in bewilderment. Manisha rolled over and vomited.
One emotion consumed me: Fear. The enormity of single parenting hit me like lightening.

I cried out, “Where are you, God? I feel so alone.”

After hooking up stabilizing IVs, Manisha was whisked off in an ambulance to Shands Teaching Hospital. I found a pay phone and called my mother. Her first comment was, “Do you know what day this is?”
I remembered—September 19. Four years to the day and almost to the hour, my father had died of a brain tumor. It was about 5:00 p.m. My shattered world continued to close in on me. A short time later my worst fears were confirmed.

“There is something on the CAT scan. We have a called a neurologist,” I heard the nurse say.

“No, no, no,” every cell in my body cried out. “God, you can’t let this happen. Not again!”

But God was silent. The next nine days of hospitalization were filled with tests—MRI, gallium scan, spinal tap, TB test, HIV test, numerous blood draws, and too many questions and not enough answers by doctors doing their daily rounds with medical students in tow. Manisha had what in medical parlance is called a “zebra.”

As the days passed in the hospital, I asked God for two things that humanly speaking seemed impossible. I prayed first that the doctors would not have to do surgery. I couldn’t bear the thought of seeing Manisha’s beautiful thick, curly black hair shaved off. The ugly scars of surgery still lingered in my mind from my dad’s brain surgery. And I prayed that whatever was in Manisha’s head would not be cancerous. I had asked God to heal my father of a brain tumor and he died. Could I trust God for Manisha’s healing?

It was critical that the doctor’s make the correct diagnosis. The wrong treatment could kill her. Did she have a malignant brain tumor or a worm inside her head? Manisha had been adopted by me from Nepal at the age of three—old enough to be exposed to the extreme poverty of Nepal and lack of clean drinking water. 57.1 percent of the water in Nepal is considered unsatisfactory for human consumption, contaminated with feces.

Manisha’s condition turned out to be caused by a tapeworm infection of the brain—the most common parasitic infection of the nervous system. The larvae can travel anywhere in the body—the muscles, brain, eye, and other structures. The condition, known as neurocysticercosis, is still relatively rare in this country, but is appearing more on the radar as part of the differential diagnosis for seizures.

Thankfully, twelve years later, Manisha is a healthy, well-adjusted 19-year-old finishing her A.A. degree at Santa Fe College—six months ahead of schedule.

Why did God allow this nightmare to happen? I don’t know why God allows the hard things in our lives, but I do know God never wastes anything. I hope writing about neurocysticercosis today will bring awareness to this very preventable disease. International adoptive parents and travelers to the developing world should seek appropriate medical care upon returning to the U.S. if they have been exposed to poor sanitary conditions or contaminated water.

In spite of the trials of single parenting, the years following that dreadful day of September 19, 1994, have been filled with life and joy. Manisha soon will be leaving home to make her own way in the world and I reflect on her middle name Hope—with God, there is always hope, and for that I am thankful.

For more on Manisha’s story, be sure to watch Animal Planet’s “Monsters Inside Me” on August 25, 10-11pm EST. The book, Children of Dreams tells the complete story, available at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and your local bookstores.

Lorilyn Roberts graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Alabama and is currently working on her Master of Arts in Creative Writing from Perelandra College. As a Certified Court Reporter, Lorilyn has made contributions to the National Court Reporters Association Journal. She provides real-time broadcast captioning for television. Lorilyn’s first book, The Donkey and the King, is a beautifully illustrated children's book. She also co-leads Word Weavers in Gainesville, FL. When not writing, taking graduate classes, or closed captioning for television/web, Lorilyn homeschools her younger daughter, Joy.

Lorilyn is offering a drawing for a free copy of Children of Dreams on her website and blog. The drawing will be on September 1, 2010. Go to the website for details.
Website address: http://www.lorilynroberts.com/blog.html
Blog address: http://lorilynroberts.blogspot.com/

Storm Warning by Billy Graham

2010-08-18T08:49:00.000-05:00

Storm Warning by Billy Graham

This book was originally published in 1992. Given the events in the past two decades, it was updated with Storm Warning signs from recent events. It's an examination of the imminence of Christ's return in light of today's headlines and the events recorded in Scripture.

The morning newspapers are jammed with alarming headlines and stories asking questions no one can answer. In Storm Warning, Billy Graham examines the problems facing America today compared with what is to come as revealed in the Bible. He answers the tough questions as only he can with astute biblical insight, and points to the hope and renewal found in Christ-for our families, our nation, and our world.

Includes an in-depth analysis of the four horsemen of Revelation chapter six as well as insight on:

Signs of the times
The Apocalypse
Standing before God

About the Author

BILLY GRAHAM, the world-renowned author, preacher, and evangelist, has delivered the gospel message to more people face-to-face than anyone in history and has ministered on every continent of the world. Millions have read his inspirational classics, including The Secret of Happiness, Peace with God, The Holy Spirit, Hope for the Troubled Heart, and How to Be Born Again.

His son FRANKLIN GRAHAM has written an introduction to the updated edition of the book.

My thoughts
I requested this book because I absolutely adore Anne Graham Lotz, Billy Graham's daughter. Also, my grandparents had a lot of respect for Mr. Graham, so with those recommendations, I wanted to know more about him. I was not disappointed. I am glad the book was updated with events that have happened recently because it makes more sense. It's something I can "get". I would recommend this book if you want to learn how to recognize the warnings given to us in Scripture or you just want to read something by Billy Graham.

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson.

Vanishing Act by Liz Johnson

2010-08-10T01:47:00.002-05:00

Vanishing Act by Liz Johnson

Summary:

Eighteen months ago, Nora James watched as her father was shot in an alley-and then she fl ed. She changed her name, her appearance and her job, hoping to keep her father’s shooter at bay. For months, it worked…but now her luck has run out. A ruthless assassin is on her trail, and soon Nora, now known as Danielle, will be found. But this time, she has FBI agent Nate Andersen by her side-right? The handsome agent would give his life to protect Danielle, but he’s wary of giving his heart…until a deadly confrontation leaves him with both on the line.

About the Author:

Liz Johnson grew up reading Christian fiction, and always dreamed of being part of the publishing industry. After graduating from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff with a degree in public relations, she set out to fulfill her dream. In 2006 she got her wish when she accepted a publicity position at a major trade book publisher. While working as a publicist in the industry, she decided to pursue her other dream-becoming an author. Along the way to having her novel published, she completed the Christian Writers Guild apprentice course and wrote articles for several magazines.

Liz makes her home in Nashville, TN, where she enjoys theater, exploring the local music scene, and making frequent trips to Arizona to dote on her two nephews and three nieces. She loves stories of true love with happy endings. Keep up with Liz's adventures in writing at http://www.lizjohnsonbooks.com/.

My review:

I enjoyed this book. I liked the two main characters and enjoyed their interactions. This was the first book I've read that is "Love Inspired Suspense" and it was enjoyable. The story was quick moving and it had many twists and turns that I didn't expect. I would recommend this book if you're looking for a quick and interesting read. I'm looking forward to reading more by Liz.

You can buy the book on Amazon.

Wow!

2010-08-05T13:29:00.002-05:00

Where in the world has the time gone? I haven't blogged in almost a month. Have I been missed? :-)

What the Bible is all about for Mom - Kathy Pride

2010-07-12T01:59:00.001-05:00

First, a little bit about me and how this book came to be…
So, let’s chat. I love chatting! And meeting new people, especially moms. I am a mom, I have a mom, and I have worked with moms for years as a childbirth educator. And my writing style is much like my teaching style, telling things like they are with truth, humor and transparency.

I hated it when the instructor told me in Lamaze class that the contractions wouldn’t hurt. That was simply not true. And I vowed then and there that everything I did in life had to be truthful, but that sometimes the truth hurts so humor tempers lots.

Anyway, I have four kids, two adult sons, 28 and 25 and two younger daughters, eleven and thirteen, and for those who wonder about the gap, our third child was actually the only one truly, truly planned for the time she arrived, as she was adopted and brought home from Vietnam at five months of age.

My husband and I have been married for almost thirty years and met in college and have hung in and on ever since. We live in a small town in Central PA where he is a physician and I spend most of my time after three pm in the car.

The opportunity to write this book came to be as a result of a totally divine happenstance conversation I had with editor extraordinaire and grace dispenser Kim Bangs who invited me to submit a concept sheet and then proposal for this book.

Well, what about that soft spot for moms?
Moms have a tough job, don’t you think? We do have the Bible, and not to minimize that as an instruction manual in right living by any stretch of the imagination, but it tends to come in after friends and family and all their free advice, that can be pretty costly…

So the question arose, how can we take Biblical wisdom and stories, role models and examples, and weave them into relevant (and funny) stories to encourage moms? I know I need encouragement! Everyone else’s kids may be perfect, but mine are NOT. And, shocker, neither am I. But guess what? Neither were many of the moms, ok, all of the moms in the Bible. Remember, Jesus has the corner on the market in the perfection department, so God has provided lots of examples of moms and how they dealt with different situations, similar to what current day moms deal with. Truly, there is nothing new under the sun. But, the story of the Bible is one of redemption, and moms need to remember that.

So, the opening story for Genesis, is titled, “E is for Eve and Epidurals.”

So, tell us a little bit about how the book is laid out, and who is Henrietta Mears?
The book is inspired by the writing of Henrietta Mears, renowned Bible Teacher from Hollywood Presbyterian Church in the 1940’s and on. She believed in making the Bible accessible to everyone, and wrote her hallmark publication, What the Bible is All About, and was the founder of Gospel Light Publishing, Regal’s (the publisher of this book) parent company. So Regal has now published two devotionals inspired by her writing.

The book is comprised of 66 chapters, one for each book of the Bible, each one bit sized for busy moms. Each chapter starts off with a brief section entitled “Snapshot from Henrietta” which serves as a basic overview for that particular book of the Bible. It is then followed by selected Scriptures, also inspired by the writing of Miss Mears, with one specific Scripture from among her selections highlighted. This Scripture is one that has particular relevance to moms.

A short one sentence synopsis precedes each story under the heading, “Momento” and then is followed by the story under the heading, “Mama Mia” which focuses on a mom or mom theme. Each story is followed by an encouragement, “Lightening the Mother Load” and then closes with questions for reflection under “Musings for Moms.”

Tell us a little about the stories; some of these titles make me laugh.
I am so glad they make you laugh. Every mom who has gone through labor can relate to labor pain. Well, it says there right in the Bible, women will experience pain in childbirth, so E is for Eve (the grande dame mama) and epidurals…

Then there are others, like, “Bath”-Is That for Bathing or Bathsheba? (Being noticed and admired…); “White Teeth and Plastic Surgery” (paying attention to appearances); “Mean Girls 101” (raising great daughters); and “Too Much Idling Will Ruin Your Engine” (Gossiping).

But the stories are relevant, honest, and will result in many nods of recognition. I am simply the scribe (oh, and experiencer of most of the stories, which are all true, although some names have been changed….)

But aren’t Moms too busy to read?
I will be the first mom to admit that we are busy…and I often fall asleep at night, sometimes drooling, while trying to read. But these chapters are bite sized, uplifting and include lots of Scripture, and can be read on the go. They are great for the car or purse. Plus, with the Bible overview, if you have friends who don’t think the Bible is particularly relevant, or not for them, this is perfect to introduce them to the Bible as the real deal!

Is this for all moms, or just young moms?
The challenges that moms face are really universal throughout their lifetime. It may be a different story, but ultimately it is the same script. It may be sleepless nights with a colicky baby, but problems and not understanding what is wrong continues with your kids through a lifetime (sorry, if you have young kids you probably didn’t just want to read this…) It includes single moms, young moms, older moms, and moms who aren’t yet moms. There are struggles in yearning to be a mom and God’s answers and timing that are also written about with bittersweet honesty.

Have you had experience with tough times in parenting?
Absolutely. But because God is in the grand business of redemption, while it doesn’t condone wrongs, He will use mistakes to help us reach out to others. I have experienced crisis pregnancy, pregnancy loss, infertility, adoption and motherhood as a young fool, and older fogie…remember, we have seventeen years between number one and four. Our adult sons have had struggles (one son’s struggle with substance abuse is what paved the way to my relationship with Christ) and just real life issues, which would make it into my annual Christmas letter, and is why I no longer write one (no, I write a book instead…)

How has this book been redemptive to you?
That’s a great question, because the first draft of this manuscript was, well, a little let’s just say, sharp (ok, downright caustic in some places) and that showed me, through the eyes of another, that I still had significant healing to go through in my relationship with my own mother. And it is amazing how God has accomplished that, through allowing me to write, re write and then learn from Him through the writing of this book.

What kind of feedback have you had so far?
You know, it’s been really encouraging. Moms are relieved that they are not alone, that there is someone else who will acknowledge that they don’t have it all together (and don’t drive a clean car, either…) I have had so many women remark that they felt like I was just chatting with them over coffee, that the stories are so real to life. And that’s what we need isn’t it? Encouragement from others that we journey through life together, God loves us, will redeem our mistakes, and then enable us to share with the next sojourner on the journey of life.

What else would you like to share?
I would love for people to join the conversation, come stop by for a visit at my web site: www.kathypride.com, also known as The Mennonite Diva. Friend me on Facebook, although there I listed my “full” name for some unknown reason, Katherine Pride (so formal) follow my blog on the home page of my website, and just hang out.

Wait just one minute…did you say Mennonite Diva? Tell me about that.
Sure. First of all, my message of encouragement to women is that they all need to release their Inner Diva’s. They are Divinely Chosen, Inspiring, Valued and Amazing. I worship at a Mennonite Church where I also serve as the Outreach and Missions Director, and I love pink and having fun. So please drop by!

About the Author

Kathy Pride
The Mennonite Diva

For those of you who don’t know me, I’m trying to decide how to introduce myself… I have lots of energy (although I feel tired a lot), am decidedly middle aged (although I still seem to think I am in my twenties) and wage a losing battle with wanting to drop ten to fifteen pounds which have settled between my naval and my knees.
I worship at Community Mennonite Fellowship in Milton, Pennsylvania where I serve as the Director of the Missions/Outreach Ministry. I accepted Christ the very first day I showed up at this church on June 10, 2001 and am privileged to serve as part of the church with a group of people who walk the talk.

I grew up in New York City and now I live in a small town in Pennsylvania where I moved with my husband, Howie, in 1986. We chose Danville, PA because there is a large medical center and it is where my husband completed his residencies and now practices as a pediatric dermatologist.

Howie and I met at Brown University, where he graduated in 1980, and I graduated in 1982. I did not study English, journalism, or writing, (a question I am frequently asked) but majored in Health and Society. When we moved to Pennsylvania I continued my education, earning my BSN from Bloomsburg University and have spent over twenty years teaching huff and puff (childbirth education) classes.

We have four children, two big boys (OK, young men) in their twenties, and two daughters in elementary school. The quip is that we missed our generation completely, having our first two children as young fools, and our second two as old fogies. Our older daughter is Vietnamese, joining our family when she was five months old. Our other three children are birth children, our second son and second daughter red headed look a-likes.
My writing journey started in 2002 when we were in the midst of struggles with our son and I felt compelled to share a hand of hope and healing to other families who were struggling with substance abuse. The directive to share was very clear, as if I had heard an audible voice. I ended up writing the book I needed to read Winning the Drug War at Home. And that was the beginning of my writing life, which I love and find myself knee-deep in it.

What else can I tell you about myself? In an attempt to get rid of those nagging extra ten pounds I love to exercise but need a goal to keep me motivated. So my husband and I recently decided to join the world of short distance triathlons. I used to be quite competitive (swam at the National Level) but now my goal is simply to finish.

I love to travel and we have gone to Honduras on Medical Mission trips. Recently I did a high ropes course, and all I have to say is it really is a good thing I only had a vague idea of what I was getting myself into. I have never participated in sky diving (although our son Matt has; he also went down in a cage to visit with sharks and want to get his Avalanche certification…) but I have gone paragliding in the Swiss Alps.

Where to buy - You can click here to buy this book from Amazon.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from the author or publisher in exchange for posting this information.

Anointed Transformed Redeemed

2010-06-30T09:24:00.000-05:00

I'm currently studying Anointed Transformed Redeemed, written by Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore and Kay Arthur following a Deeper Still conference. It is based on the different stages of David's life. It is a 6-week study, with each teacher spending 2 weeks on her topic. I'm about to start Session 4 and I'm really enjoying it. It's nice to have variety within one study.

Priscilla Shirer brought it when she talked about knowing who God is. I really wanted a clip of that part of the DVD, but I don't think that's going to happen. There's a woman, though, who posted the words and I'm going to share them here. It's a powerful clip; these are some powerful words!

He is the first and the last, the beginning and the end.

He’s the keeper of creation and the creator of all.
He’s the architect of the universe and the manager of all time.
He always was, always is, always will be.
Unmoved, unchanged, undefeated and never undone.
He was bruised but brought healing. He was pierced but eased pain.
He was persecuted but brought freedom. He was dead and brings life.

He was risen to bring power. And he reins to bring peace.

The world can’t understand Him. Armies can’t defeat Him.

Schools can’t explain Him and leaders can’t ignore Him.
Herod couldn’t kill Him. Nero couldn’t crush Him.
The new age cannot replace Him and Oprah cannot explain Him away.
He is life. He is Love. He is longevity and He is the Lord.
He is goodness, and kindness and faithfulness and He is God.
He is holy and righteous and powerful and pure.
His ways are right, His word eternal, His will unchanging and His mind is on us.
He’s our Savior, our guide, our peace, our joy, our comfort, our Lord, and He rules our lives.
I serve Him because His bond is love, His yoke is easy, His burden is light and His goal for us is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise, the power of the powerful, the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of all leaders and His goal is a relationship with me.
He’ll never leave you, never forsake you, never mislead you, never forget you, never overlook you and never cancel your appointment in His appointment book.
When you fall, He’ll lift you up.
When you fail, He’ll forgive you.
When you're weak, He is strong.
When you’re lost, He is your way
When you’re afraid, He’s your courage.
When you stumble, He will steady you.
When you’re hurt, He’s going to heal you.
When you’re broken, He will mend you.
When you’re blind, He will lead you.
When you’re hungry, He will feed you.
When you face trials, He’s with you.
When I face persecution, He shields me.
When I face problems, He will comfort me.
When I face loss, He will provide for me.
When we face death, He will carry us all home to meet Him.
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time and in every way.
He is your God, and that, Sisters, is who you belong to!

- Priscilla Shirer (Deeper Still Conference)

Thank you to ilovebeingamomof4 for taking the time to listen to the video and record the words!

Reflecting Him by Carla McDougal (Guest Post)

2010-06-23T00:18:00.001-05:00

It is my pleasure to be hosting a guest post from Carla McDougal regarding her new Bible study - Reflecting Him. Enjoy!

The Burning Light

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life – John 8:12

About twenty years ago, an experience opened my eyes to the light vs. darkness issue. After giving birth to Jake, our second son, I suffered from one of the common aftereffects of a natural delivery: hemorrhoids!

If you have ever experienced the throbbing pain of this annoying condition, you probably are empathizing with me at this very moment. A month after Jake’s birth, I awakened in the middle of the night to an immense pounding pain that ignited every nerve in my body. I quietly tiptoed to the bathroom to use the medicine I knew would provide immediate relief. As a thoughtful wife, I decided not to turn on the light because it might wake up my husband, Fred. I reached into the drawer for the tube of medicine, applied it liberally, and then staggered back to bed. Not thirty seconds later, I felt a fire ignite in my lower regions. Instantly, I realized the “hemorrhoid medicine” I had used was actually a tube of Deep Heat! Like a rocket in flight, I leaped from the bed to the bathroom, turned on the coldest water in the bathtub, stepped in, and bent over—well, you probably get the picture. In the meantime, Fred, awakened by all the commotion, walked into the bathroom and turned on the light to find his wife squatting in the tub with a horrid look on her face. He probably felt he was in the middle of a nightmare. I will leave you to imagine the rest of the story.

I learned a valuable lesson that night. If I had turned on the light, I guarantee I would have picked up the correct medicine. When we try to do things in the dark, we are apt to make wrong decisions. Equate this to our daily lives—if we live in Jesus’ light, He guides and helps us make the correct choices. By the way, in case you are wondering, the cold water did eventually relieve my throbbing pain, but my sweet husband continued to laugh for hours!

In Genesis 1:2–3, we read that the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and God’s Spirit was hovering over the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light,” and light appeared.

Imagine a world in total darkness. Think of the world before the creation of light. Light provides us with the ability to see the life on earth that God created. It produces energy, sustains the life cycle, supplies thermal heat, and much more. Without light, the world would cease to exist as we know it. Today, may your heart be enlightened as you focus on the gift of light.

This is an excerpt from Carla’s 10-week Bible Study, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It.

About Reflecting Him

Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It is a ten-week women’s Bible study. Like Jesus’ parables (which teach important lessons by creating visual pictures for the reader), Reflecting Him uses familiar objects and situations (such as pottery, the human sensory system, and the sun-earth connection) and draws comparisons that help women become aware of Jesus working in various areas of their daily lives. The study is a unique and convenient lay-flat format, so you can write without that annoying bump (you know the one we're talking about.)

Each week is divided into five days (lessons), supporting the central theme for the week. Read the first two chapters (or weeks) online.

The study also has an online component through a Reflecting Him Bible Study Group on Facebook. Individuals working through the study on their own can still get the benefits of a group discussion while working at their own pace. Almost 200 people are in the group already and the discussions are really taking off.

This fall a leaders guide, videos, and music will be released to accompany the study.

About Carla

Carla McDougal is the founder of Reflective Life Ministri es and Share Fair, an annual conference for connecting, equipping, and encouraging women in ministry. She speaks at women’s events, retreats, and conferences in the U.S. and internationally. Carla married her high school sweetheart, Fred, and they have four children ages 16 to 23 and live in Magnolia, Texas. Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It (WinePress Publishing, 2010) is Carla’s first book, although she’s been involved in leading and teaching Bible studies for more than 20 years. Carla writes a Monday morning e-votional at her blog, Carla's Corner.

Want Carla To Lead a Lesson for Your Bible Study Group?

With every group purchase of 25 or more studies before August 1, Carla will lead a tele-lesson (over speaker phone) for one of your group meetings. Please email windy(at)reflectivelifeministries.org to purchase books. Mention the blog tour and tele-lesson at the time of ordering.

You can purchase Reflecting Him through Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Reflective Life Ministries.
The Reflecting Him Blog Tour, hosted by RedCouch PR, is June 20 - July 16. Yesterday's post was at author Janice Thompson's blog and tomorrow's will by at A Room Without Books Is Empty. Follow along to read a different guest post, interview, or review each day.

Radiant by Kate Carlson

2010-06-17T08:38:00.001-05:00

CONGRATS CATHY! You won!

I am honored to tell you about this new EP (CD) by Kate Carlson, a Worship leader and talented musician! I met Kate and her mom, Melissa, through twitter and an online bible study we did. (These are both some very talented ladies!) You can go to Melissa's blog to read more about Kate and her calling as a worship leader.

The CD has five songs on it: Saving One, How Marvelous, Desert Song, You Are Able and Revelation Song. Two of these songs were written by Kate - Saving One and You Are Able. Oh my goodness, I thought Kate wrote You Are Able just for me! Such a beautiful song of redemption and God's love for us.

Kate has a beautiful voice. When I picture angels singing, I can imagine they sound like Kate! I don't feel I'm doing this CD any justice, but explaining how much I've enjoyed the CD is hard. (You can tell I like it - look at all the exclamation points!)

Not only did Kate give me a copy of her CD to review but she also gave me an extra one to giveaway! All you have to do is leave a comment. For additional entries, you can tweet or Facebook about the giveaway - just leave a separate comment for each entry. I will close this out on Saturday and announce the winner on Sunday.

If you cannot wait for the giveaway, you can go to Melissa's blog and order a copy of the CD or download it. Do it!! You'll be glad you did!

Life in Defiance Mary DeMuth

2010-06-10T21:59:00.000-05:00

Life in Defiance - Mary DeMuth

Set against the backdrop of Defiance, Texas, Life in Defiance, book three in the Defiance Texas Trilogy by Mary DeMuth, reflects a choice we all face: reveal our secrets or bury them forever ... and live with the consequences.

Summary:

In a town she personifies, Ouisie Pepper wrestles with her own defiance. Desperate to become the wife and mother her husband Hap demands, Ouisie pours over a simple book about womanhood, constantly falling short, but determined to improve. Through all that self-improvement, Ouisie carries a terrible secret: she knows who killed Daisy Chance. As her children inch closer to uncovering the killer's identity and Hap's rages roar louder and become increasingly violent, Ouisie has to make a decision. Will she protect her children by telling her secret? Or will Hap's violence silence them all? Set on the backdrop of Defiance, Texas, Ouisie's journey typifies the choices we all face---whether to tell the truth about secrets and fight for the truth or bury them forever and live with the violent consequences.
My review:
This was the third book in the Defiance series. I enjoyed the first two books (Daisy Chain and A Slow Burn) but the third book was my favorite. I could relate to the mom and her struggles. The only part about the trilogy that I did not like was that I had to wait until the last book to find out the whole story! Talk about suspenseful! The ending of the book did not disappoint and the various story lines were wrapped up so I wasn't left wondering what happened. I was very surprised by the ending.

I would highly recommend this book (and the series) to anyone. If you enjoy suspenseful books with a redemptive component, then this is certainly a series you want to read.

Thank you Mary for a great book!

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. Thank you!

IMPORTANT LINKS:

Life in Defiance on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0310278384
Mary DeMuth’s Website: http://marydemuth.com
Mary DeMuth’s Blog: http://relevantblog.blogspot.com
Mary DeMuth’s Facebook Profile: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mary-DeMuth/33200616570
Follow Mary DeMuth on Twitter: http://twitter.com/MaryDeMuth
List of all participating bloggers: http://blogtourspot.com/defiance-tour/defiance-tour-stops

India Memory

2010-06-10T21:35:00.002-05:00

Erin Healy was having a countdown to her 40th birthday and asked people to write about his or her dealings with the unseen (I hope I worded that right) in 400 words or less. I didn't make it in time so my entry was entered, but here it is for you to enjoy.

Before I left for India in November 2009, I spent more time in prayer and reading God’s word preparing for spiritual warfare. We were taught that when we went into a thanda (village) to say “Peace to this thanda” and if a man (person) of peace was there, our peace would rest on him (or her). However, if we went to a thanda where our peace wasn’t returned, we were to knock the dust of the thanda off our feet and leave (Luke 10:5-12).

At most of the thandas we visited, we were warmly welcomed. However, we visited one thanda that made the hair on my neck stand up. It started as we were making our journey down the dirt road, through the fields, and we saw in the distance a huge statue. I started getting a very uneasy feeling as we neared it. It was a huge statue of the monkey god which people worshiped (approx. 30 feet tall). Now most of the people we visited lived in huts and none seemed to have running water. The children’s clothes were raggedy and torn. There was no wealth in these thandas, yet someone could afford to make this huge statue?

When we arrived at the thanda, all the people gathered and seemed cordial enough. However, as the team started presenting the gospel, I could sense an evil presence there. The people became argumentative and hostile. If I could have hit my knees, I would have. I walked around with my bible (as is standard when someone is presenting the gospel) and I could sense the Holy Spirit saying our team was not welcome and we needed to knock the dust off our feet and leave. After hearing Him speak to me for a few minutes, I started rounding everyone up to leave. I wasn’t sure I would be successful – would they even believe me? I probably wasn’t convincing but the Holy Spirit was and soon we were washing the dust off feet and leaving. One of the team members had witnessed something so evil, she could not even share it with any of us.

I thank God that I am one of His children and that He has given me the ability to recognize things not of this world. More importantly, He will never leave me nor forsake me and will light my path. (Eph. 6:12) (Ps. 119:105)

P.S. I just finished reading "Never Let You Go" by Erin Healy and it's really good.

Psalm 86

2010-05-27T06:37:00.000-05:00

I loved this Psalm of David. I don't remember reading it before (though I'm sure I have at some point). Maybe, it'll be new to you too! This the NLT version.

Psalm 86

A prayer of David.

¹Bend down, O Lord, and hear my prayer;

answer me, for I need your help.

²Protect me, for I am devoted to you.

Save me, for I serve you and trust you.

You are my God.

³Be merciful to me, O Lord,

for I am calling on you constantly.

⁴Give me happiness, O Lord,

for I give myself to you.

⁵O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive,

so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help.

⁶Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord;

hear my urgent cry.

⁷I will call to you whenever I’m in trouble,

and you will answer me.

⁸No pagan god is like you, O Lord.

None can do what you do!

⁹All the nations you made

will come and bow before you, Lord;

they will praise your holy name.

¹⁰For you are great and perform wonderful deeds.

You alone are God.

¹¹Teach me your ways, O Lord,

that I may live according to your truth!

Grant me purity of heart,

so that I may honor you.

¹²With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God.

I will give glory to your name forever,

¹³for your love for me is very great.

You have rescued me from the depths of death.

¹⁴O God, insolent people rise up against me;

a violent gang is trying to kill me.

You mean nothing to them.

¹⁵But you, O Lord,

are a God of compassion and mercy,

slow to get angry

and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

¹⁶Look down and have mercy on me.

Give your strength to your servant;

save me, the son of your servant.

¹⁷Send me a sign of your favor.

Then those who hate me will be put to shame,

for you, O Lord, help and comfort me.

To help you with the not computer people in your life

2010-05-21T09:23:00.001-05:00

Do you always have someone who comes to you for computer help? And no matter how many times you show them something, they just don't seem to get it? Well, now you have something you can give them to help them when they have questions. Happy Friday!

Kingdom storming! (Updated again!)

2010-05-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

)

*Update 5/15/10*
McShane was supposed to leave St. Jude's earlier this week, but he stuck around and had some more surgery. From what I understand, one of the places in his lung where a tumor was removed wasn't closing, so the surgeon had to close it. From his Facebook post, he seems to be recovering and isn't in too much pain. He seems to have been a little discouraged (naturally) and I asked people (on FB) to pray for all of them to be encouraged. Thank you for praying!

I'll update more as I know. Thank you, Father, for this technology which allows us to spread information to people who will stand at the gates of Your Kingdom and pray for this precious boy. Oh how I love you so and I'm full of gratitude for all you have done, are doing and will do in McShane's life.

*UPDATE 4/28/10*

Good morning! I thought I'd pass along what I know of McShane to you. Thank you for the prayers and for caring! McShane had three surgeries - 2 to remove tumors from each lung and in between those surgeries, he had a lung collapse, so they took him to surgery for that too.

I think his parents have said it best, so I'll share their words from yesterday with you. This is from Mike:

McShane’s LAST SURGERY!!!!! Went well YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS thank you God we claim his healing in the name of Jesus!!! I love him so MUCH he should be leaving St. Jude’s in about a week and coming back to FLORIDA can't wait to go fishing...

From Hope:

CATHY- THE PATH REPORTS SAID 2 OUT OF THE 4 WERE CANCER.EITHER WAY THEY ARE OUT!!!!HE IS RESTING WELL AND WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO A GOOD RECOVERY AND THEN HOME TO FLORIDA!!I WOULD LIKE TO THINK THAT THE HARD PART IS FINALLY OVER AND BETTER DAYS ARE AHEAD.THANKS FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS.

~*~

I sure hope better days are ahead! Have you read Psalm 62? It was part of my reading this morning and it's really good! Take a look at it and pray it over these dear people if you have the inclination.

Thank you for being part of our Kingdom storming on McShane's behalf. I love you!

Cathy

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

It's been a while since I've posted anything about my nephew, McShane. He had completed his treatment at St. Jude's in Memphis in February, 2010 and he was sent home, cancer free! We all celebrated this news!

While he may still be cancer free, two tumors have shown up on his lungs (one on each lung). He and his parents are back at St. Jude's and tomorrow he'll have surgery to remove one tumor and then next week he'll have the other tumor removed. It won't be until the tumors are removed will the doctor know if the cancer has returned.

Would you please join us in storming the Kingdom on McShane's behalf? I pray for the surgeon's hands, the tumors to be non-cancerous, and for him and his parents to know the peace that transcends all understanding. Thank you so much~
Agape~
Cathy

Receiving and Waiting

2010-05-14T20:30:00.001-05:00

Another post of someone else's to share - but it's just so relevant to me. When I was in India, my roommate and fellow church member gave me Psalm 27 to claim as my own. I told her that what I saw when I read it was "wait". I shared how that's not what I wanted! Who wants to wait? I think I remember hearing God chuckle when I said that and whisper "just wait". So, I'm in a season of waiting patiently on the Lord and I'm believing Him for a miraculous restoration. Any time I read something related to my current season, I feel compelled to share it. Who knows - you might be going through something yourself. Or, maybe I just want to refer to it again. (I know I pray the Prayer for the Lost continuously.) Without making you wait any longer (ha ha ha I'm so funny)...thank You Lord for a sense of humor :0)

Receiving and Waiting

from Meet Me In The Meadow by Roy Lessin (love him!)

In your walk with God two things will always be true: You will be receiving from Him and you will be waiting upon Him. Your faith must trust Him for both. You need to receive from Him what is yours for today and wait upon Him for what will be yours tomorrow.
What are the things that are yours today and your faith can receive? Here are a few—you don’t have to wait for His peace, His grace, His mercies, His forgiveness, His cleansing, His truth, His salvation, His strength, His presence, His life, His blessing, His love.
Even though there are many things that are yours today because you are in Christ, there are also things that require your faith to wait. They include prayers you are waiting to see answered, promises you are waiting to be fulfilled, bible prophecies you are waiting to see happen, God’s timing in relation to your personal guidance, clarity to take the next step, and the coming of the Bridegroom returning for His bride.
What should your faith do in response to what is yours today? Receive! What should your faith do in response to what will be yours another day? Rest! As you wait upon the Lord, wait with a quiet heart, not an anxious one; with a thankful heart, not a complaining one; with a peaceful heart, not a striving one; with a hopeful heart, not a discouraged one; with a confident heart, not an uncertain one; with a steadfast heart, not a wavering one; with a patient heart, not a hasty one.
You do not need to try and control or manipulate your future. God is able to fulfill all that He has said and all that He has promised. As you wait, continue to pray, continue to trust, continue to believe, continue to hold hope in your heart, continue to obey, and continue to rejoice every more. You have a God who cannot and will not fail!
His timing and His timetable are always perfect. He knows what He is doing and He does it well. Remember, all creation testifies to the wisdom of His ways—in time the green fruit ripens, the wheat becomes golden, the baby bird takes flight, the sapling spreads its branches, the peonies flower, the gardenia gives its fragrance, the sunflower brings forth its abundance of seeds.
Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.
Psalm 27:14 NLT

MercyMe The Generous Mr. Lovewell

2010-05-07T13:44:00.000-05:00

MercyMe has released a new album called The Generous Mr. Lovewell. Mercy me it's good! There's one song on there that just about brought me to my knees when I first heard it, but I was driving, so that wasn't really possible. I wanted to see if I could share it on here - it's called Beautiful. I'm going to post the lyrics...oh they are beautiful.

Days will come when you don’t have the strength. When all you hear is, you’re not worth anything. Wondering if you ever could be loved. And if they truly saw your heart, they’d see too much.

You’re beautiful. You’re beautiful. You are made for so much more than all of this. You’re beautiful. You’re beautiful. You are treasured. You are sacred. You are His. You’re beautiful.

Pray that you have the heart to fight. ‘Cause you are more than what is hurting you tonight. For all the lies you’ve held inside so long. They are nothing in the shadow of the cross.

You’re beautiful. You’re beautiful. You are made for so much more than all of this. You’re beautiful. You’re beautiful. You are treasured. You are sacred. You are His. You’re beautiful.

Before you ever took a breath. Long before the world began. Of all the wonders He possessed, there was one more precious. Of all the earth and skies above, you’re the one He madly loves enough to die.

You’re beautiful. You’re beautiful. In His eyes.

(I can't figure out how to post the song...may not be a way right now. But, oh it's worth listening to.)

Her Mother's Hope by Francine Rivers

2010-04-12T01:53:00.037-05:00

Her Mother's Hope
by Francine Rivers

Her Mother's Hope

From the beloved, best-selling author of Redeeming Love comes a powerful epic that spans continents and generations in an unforgettable story about family and faith, dreams and disappointments, and ultimately the resilience and tenacity of love.

Best-selling author Francine Rivers pens a sweeping and lyrical two-book saga that explores the depths of grace and forgiveness in one of life’s fiercest bonds—the love between mother and daughter.

Near the turn of the twentieth century, fiery Marta Schneider is torn between her father’s declaration that she’ll never be more than a servant and her mother’s encouragement to chase her dreams. Determined to fulfill her mother’s hope, Marta leaves home for a better life. Young and alone, she earns her way with a series of housekeeping and cooking jobs that bring her ever closer to her dream of owning an inn.

Heartbreaking news from home strengthens Marta’s resolve as she moves to England and eventually to Canada. There, she meets handsome Niclas Waltert, a man just as committed as she to forging a better life in a new place. But nothing has prepared her for the sacrifices she must make for marriage and motherhood as she travels first to the Canadian wilderness and finally to the dusty Central Valley of California to raise her family.

Marta’s hope is to give her children a better life, but experience has taught her that only the strong survive. Her tough love is often misunderstood, especially by her oldest daughter, Hildemara Rose, who craves her mother’s acceptance. Amid the drama of World War II, Hildie falls in love and begins a family of her own. But unexpected and tragic events force mother and daughter to face their own shortcomings and the ever-widening chasm that threatens to separate them forever.

About the Author:

Francine Rivers began her literary career at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in English and journalism. From 1976 to 1985, she had a successful writing career in the general market, and her books were highly acclaimed by readers and reviewers. Although raised in a religious home, Francine did not truly encounter Christ until later in life, when she was already a wife, a mother of three, and an established romance novelist.

Shortly after becoming a born-again Christian in 1986, Francine wrote Redeeming Love as her statement of faith. First published by Bantam Books and then rereleased by Multnomah Publishers in the mid-1990s, this retelling of the biblical story of Gomer and Hosea, set during the time of the California Gold Rush, is now considered by many to be a classic work of Christian fiction. Redeeming Love continues to be one of the Christian Booksellers Association's top-selling titles, and it has held a spot on the Christian best-seller list for nearly a decade.

Since Redeeming Love, Francine has published numerous novels with Christian themes—all best sellers—and she has continued to win both industry acclaim and reader loyalty around the globe. Her Christian novels have been awarded or nominated for numerous honors, including the RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Gold Medallion, and the Holt Medallion in Honor of Outstanding Literary Talent. In 1997, after winning her third RITA Award for inspirational fiction, Francine was inducted into the Romance Writers of America's Hall of Fame. Francine's novels have been translated into over 20 different languages, and she enjoys best-seller status in many foreign countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, and South Africa.

Francine and her husband, Rick, live in northern California and enjoy time spent with their three grown children and taking every opportunity to spoil their grandchildren. Francine uses her writing to draw closer to the Lord, and she desires that through her work she might worship and praise Jesus for all He has done and is doing in her life.

My review:

Redeeming Love was the first book by Francine Rivers I had read and it quickly became one of my all time favorite books. I was thrilled to be able to review one of her books and I was not disappointed. I could not put this book down once I got started. I felt like I personally knew each of the characters and I could just visualize being where they were. The only bad part about this book? There's a sequel and I don't know how long it will be before it's released! I am anxiously waiting to know what happens with Hildie and Marta! I would highly recommend this book (and this author) to anyone.

Thank you, Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book.

Click here to purchase the book.

Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs

2010-04-04T18:34:00.000-05:00

Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs

A mother who cannot face her future.
A daughter who cannot escape her past.
Lady Elisabeth Kerr is a keeper of secrets. A Highlander by birth and a Lowlander by marriage, she honors the auld ways, even as doubts and fears stir deep within her.

Her husband, Lord Donald, has secrets of his own, well hidden from the household, yet whispered among the town gossips.

His mother, the dowager Lady Marjory, hides gold beneath her floor and guilt inside her heart. Though her two abiding passions are maintaining her place in society and coddling her grown sons, Marjory’s many regrets, buried in Greyfriars Churchyard, continue to plague her.

One by one the Kerr family secrets begin to surface, even as bonny Prince Charlie and his rebel army ride into Edinburgh in September 1745, intent on capturing the crown.

A timeless story of love and betrayal, loss and redemption, flickering against the vivid backdrop of eighteenth-century Scotland, Here Burns My Candle illumines the dark side of human nature, even as hope, the brightest of tapers, lights the way home.

Author Bio:

LIZ CURTIS HIGGS is the author of twenty-seven books with three million copies in print, including: her best-selling historical novels, Thorn in My Heart, Fair Is the Rose, Christy Award-winner Whence Came a Prince, and Grace in Thine Eyes, a Christy Award finalist; My Heart’s in the Lowlands: Ten Days in Bonny Scotland, an armchair travel guide to Galloway; and her contemporary novels, Mixed Signals, a Rita Award finalist, and Bookends, a Christy Award finalist. Visit the author’s extensive website at www.lizcurtishiggs.com.

My review:
This was the first book by Liz Curtis Higgs that I have read. I selected this book because it's based on the book of Ruth and I had just finished doing a study on Ruth. I had a hard time reading this book. The plot and storyline were good but for me it was just sort of slow moving. By the end of the book, I could see the similarities to Ruth and about the time I got really interested in the book, it was over! I'll have to wait for the next one to come out. If you like books by Jane Austen, then I think you'll enjoy this book.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Where's the cherry?

2010-03-28T08:38:00.001-05:00

From Family Pictures

Eight years ago today, I lost the one person I thought I'd grow old with. The person who knew my past better than I did, my present and we'd share the future. The person I could just glance at and he'd know what I was thinking...no words were even needed. On this day, I lost my big brother (Joe as he was called after he left for college; Joey as I still call him). He had a short and fierce battle with cancer (that word still causes my chest to ache)...the same cancer that took my grandfather when he was 61: cancer of the esophagus. The thing about esophageal cancer - by the time you're diagnosed with it, you're typically in the final stages of it. Or, at least that's what happened to my grandfather and my brother.

Life is a funny little thing...even when bad things happen, you still have to move forward. Time keeps moving. Losing a family member is no different, no matter how gut wrenching and unbelievably hard it is, you have to readjust and march on. Time doesn't necessarily ease the pain ~ perhaps it numbs it. I still go to call Joey. I long to hear his voice. A lot of things have happened since he died that I wish he had been here to help me with. Sometimes, though I know it wasn't his choice to die from cancer, I get mad that he left me to handle it all.

My life is ok (fine, good, etc.), but it is missing something (someone) and that is not going to change. No matter how great things go for me in this life, something (someone) will always be missing. It's like having an ice cream sundae w/o having the cherry on the top. It's still good, but something is missing.

From Family Pictures

On this day, I get a little melancholy.

I miss my brother and I'll grieve for the hole his death left in our lives. It won't be a sad day, just one with a few ups and downs. I rejoice in knowing he was a Christian and I will see him again.

You never know what life will throw at you. Enjoy your sundae with the cherry while you have it. Embrace your loved ones and let them know you love them. Treasure those God has placed in your life.

(If you have a long time to read, I invite you to check out an earlier post where I share more about my brother and my testimony. It's pretty lengthy. Joey's life verse: "I will never leave you nor forsake you.")

The Lord Within

2010-03-22T14:51:00.000-05:00

The Lord Within

From Extraordinary Women

March 22, 2010

By: Julie Clinton, M.A.
"Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God."

My son Zach looks a lot like his dad. And, of course they love sports. Especially baseball. Tim has pretty much coached Zach since he was four years old. One thing I learned as a mom was that Zach had to hit, field, catch and throw the baseball on his own. Tim couldn’t do it for him. In order to learn, Zach had to do it alone.

Even still, Tim will always be there cheering and coaching Zach whenever and wherever he needs him.

The Lord calls each of us to do infinitely more than we can even imagine. He also teaches us, through His Word, how to accomplish what it is He has called us to do.

Your effectiveness and success in your family, work, ministry, and relationship with the Lord is dependent on His grace and His sufficiency. God is your coach! But, you have to get in the game. When you do, know that He is always there…cheering you on to do great things for His kingdom!

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am tired of trying to “do” life by the power of my own self-sufficiency. I confess that I cannot do it on my own and that I need your grace and sufficiency within me. I invite you now into my daily rounds. Teach me O’ Lord to rely on Your strength and may I be completely energized by You. Thank you for freely offering Your strength to me. I receive it now and ask that You help me to rely on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Bible Readings for the Week Ahead:
Monday: John 10:27-29
Tuesday: Romans 8:38-39
Wednesday: Philippians 1:6
Thursday: 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Friday: Jude 1:24-25
Saturday: Isaiah 40:26
Sunday: Ephesians 3:16, 17

My response:
I am loving the scripture references. So relevant to what all is going on with me right now. God is good like that!

*Picture was found here.

Kaleidoscope by Patsy Clairmont

2010-03-21T12:12:00.001-05:00

Kaleidoscope Seeing God's Wit and Wisdom in a Whole New Light

By Patsy Clairmont

Acclaimed author and Women of Faith speaker Patsy Clairmont causes womens' hearts to leap and their hopes to lift in this quirky, straight-to-the point look at the Proverbs.

Understanding the Christian life and the Bible can be a daunting task. But maybe God didn't mean it to be so hard. In Kaleidoscope of Proverbs, Patsy Clairmont pieces together some powerful messages from God and reveals new facets of beauty, inspiration, and instruction. Written for busy women, Patsy offers brief, powerful chapters that address the key aspects of their lives, hearts, and relationships.

In the Proverbs, God gives us small gems of hope and truth, and in Kaleidoscope of Proverbs, Patsy Clairmont unveils them for readers with her trademark humor and insightful teaching.

About the author:
Patsy Clairmont: Petite, profound, and playful. These words help to describe her size, her message, and her humor. She has a command of God's word and with her quick wit and fast Patsy Clairmont paced humor she will keep everyone laughing. This light touch combined with scriptural knowledge makes Patsy an unusual package. You find yourself laughing God's truths right into your heart.

Patsy comes from an uncommon background. Her years of suffering as a prisoner in her own home, a victim of agoraphobia, have given her a deep appreciation of God's healing power. God has pulled together the emotionally fragmented pieces of her life. From her emotionally troubled background God has combined her humor and her knowledge of His word to remind you that imperfect, "cracked" Christians are God's specialty.

My review:
I enjoyed this book. Each chapter is short enough to use as a daily devotion, as each chapter is based on a verse from Proverbs. They are also short enough that if you just have a few minutes, you can pick it up and just read a few pages. Ms. Clairmont has a very easy to read writing style and she's witty! Each chapter ends with reflection (Bits and Pieces) and various Bible verses to ponder on. I would recommend adding this book to your collection and giving one to a friend.

Thank you Thomas Nelson for providing me with a copy of this book to review.

If you'd like to purchase this book, click here.

Inheritance

2010-03-18T10:10:00.002-05:00

I feel certain I've seen this before, but I really needed to see it today. It's almost 9 minutes long and you'll probably need some tissue.

God says it is our job to be outrageously loved. He loves you 100% as you are right now. A powerful word spoken by Graham Cooke and music by Jonathan David Helser...believe truth about how God sees...

Lent Day 26: The Book of Acts

God says, what My Son began through His birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension, He now continues.

You are not alive in this world in order to experience Me or to enjoy the blessings of a comfortable life. If that were My purpose, I'd have brought you into My Presence in heaven the moment you were forgiven and adopted into My family.

Your purpose until you die is to reveal a new attitude toward suffering and a new agenda in prayer that flows out of your new purpose in life that makes sense only if you claim your new hope of resurrection.

You are now free from slavery to the demands of self: for recognition, for life to go as you want, for good health and prosperity, for freedom from emptiness, and for the experience of fullness.

You are now free to advance the only plan whose promise of joy will be kept.

You are now free to tell people the full message of this new life.

You are now free to really live!

From from 66 Love Letters: A Conversation with God that Invites You into His Story by Dr. Larry Crabb, ©2009

Break Through to Clarity and WIN Contest!

2010-03-17T09:55:00.001-05:00

From NLT -- Break Through to Clarity and WIN Contest!

Go on - enter - what do you have to lose?

Visit www.facebook.com/NewLivingTranslation and click on the tab that says “Sweepstakes”

Fill out a simple form, take a quick Bible clarity survey, invite your friends to join and you’ll be entered to win one of our exciting prizes.

With each fan number milestone a new prize will be given away.

Grand Prize
Apple iPad 64G and a Life Application Study Bible
Awarded when the NLT Fan Page hits the fifth milestone
Retail Value: $829.00

2nd Prize - Already awarded
32G iPod Touch and a Life Application Study Bible
Awarded when the NLT Fan Page hits the fourth milestone
Retail Value: $300.00

3rd Prize – Will be awarded when fan count hits: 3500
Kindle DX and a Life Application Study Bible
Awarded when the NLT Fan Page hits the third milestone
Retail Value: $489.00

4th Prize Will be awarded when fan count hits: TBD
Apple iPad 16G and a Life Application Study Bible
Awarded when the New Living Translation Fan Page hits the second milestone
Retail Value: $499.00

5th Prize Will be awarded when fan count hits: TBD
Apple iPad 32G and a Life Application Study Bible
Awarded when the NLT Fan Page hits the first milestone
Retail Value: $599.00

Prize Eligibility – Recently updated to include more countries

Sweepstakes participants and winner(s) can be U.S. residents of the 50 United States, or residents of any country that is NOT embargoed by the United States, but cannot be residents of Belgium, Norway, Sweden, or India. In addition, participants and winner(s) must be at least 18 years old, as determined by the Company.

Sweepstakes Starts
March 17, 2010 @ 10:24 am (PDT)
Sweepstakes Ends
April 30, 2010 @ 10:24 am (PDT)

Wait, there’s more!
Visit http://biblecontest.newlivingtranslation.com/index.php for a chance to win a trip for two to Hawaii!

Here are the details:
Choose one of six passages of Scripture from the New Living Translation and consider:

How do these verses encourage you to know God better?

What is God teaching you in this passage?

How does this passage apply to your life?

Submit your answer and you’ll be entered to win.

Just for signing up: Everybody Wins! Win a Free .mp3 download from the NLT’s new Red Letters Project. It’s the dynamic, new presentation of the sung and narrated words of the Gospel of Matthew. You win the download just for entering! Or choose to download the NLT Philippians Bible Study, complete with the Book of Philippians in the NLT.

Every day, one person will win the best-selling Life Application Study Bible!

The grand prize: One person will win a fantastic trip for two to the crystal clear waters of the Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore in beautiful Hawaii.

Cathy

Who Am I Really? by Christine Caine

2010-03-15T17:07:00.000-05:00

I'm catching a recurrent theme here...I'm starting to catch on to what He is telling me. Are you? If you would have asked me two or three weeks ago what I felt God was trying to impress upon me, I would have said two things -- He loves me and He delights in me. I still believe that, but I believe He just might be trying to get me to say the same thing about myself.

I received this in my email on Saturday or Sunday but I've just now read it. Not wanting to forget about it or lose it, I'm going to post it here. Plus, it just goes along so well with the recurrent theme. Thank you for sharing this journey with me. It means more than you'll ever know. Your kind words and prayers are like a balm to this sometimes weary soul.

Who Am I Really?

by Christine Caine

"What is man that you are mindful of him?" (Psalm 8:4a)

This week's devotional is adapted from Can I Have And Do It All, Please? by Christine Caine, who appears on LIFE Today this Thursday.

My daughter Catherine knows who she is and has no problem displaying it.

Catherine had just started school at the age of five, and one day she had an argument with another little boy from her class. I think it was over a global issue like who was going to take the teddy bear home that night! At one point in the argument, the little boy grabbed the teddy bear from Catherine’s arms and said to her, “Catherine Bobbie, you are dumb and ugly.” Later that day, Catherine’s teacher relayed the story to me because she was stunned by Catherine’s response to the situation. She watched as Catherine, having just been insulted, put her shoulders back, looked the little boy squarely in the eyes, and confidently asserted, “No I’m not, my daddy says that I am beautiful and smart.” She then proceeded to take the teddy bear back and walk away. I absolutely love this story not only because my daughter ended up with the teddy bear but because Catherine displayed the power in knowing what her daddy says about her, which is exactly what your Father in heaven thinks about you! Empowered by knowing what God’s Word says about you, you can refute the lies of the enemy when they come.

Just like that little boy, the enemy comes to us on a regular basis, not only to try to snatch away the things in life we want, but also to make us believe we don’t even deserve those things. He tells us we are unworthy, unlovable and unable, as he throws insults and doubts at our minds, trying to make us believe we are far less than we really are. But if we can learn to possess the bold, childlike faith of Catherine and simply (and deeply) believe we are who God says we are, and we can only achieve this through the Word of God…and nothing else!

I encourage you to write down the following Bible verses about who you really are in Christ. Take out your post-it notes. Copy these Scriptures, and stick them on every possible surface. Put them on your mirror so you can reflect on them as you’re applying lipstick or brushing your teeth, adhere them to your steering wheel for when you are stuck in traffic. They will remind you of who your Father in heaven is, what family you belong to, and your true identity altering your perspective on who you are.

I am a child of God.
“But as many received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the wil of man, but of God.” (John 1:12-13)

I am saved by grace.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)

I am alive to God and dead to sin.
“Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:11)

I am sanctified.
“For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.” (John 17:19)

I am a new creation.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

I am a royal son or daughter.
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9)

I am reconciled to God.
“That God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” (2 Corinthians 5:19)

I am free.
“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36)

I am justified.
“Know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified.” (Galatians 2:16)

I am chosen.
“For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight.” (Ephesians 1:4)

I am adopted.
“Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will.” (Ephesians 1:5)

I am accepted.
“To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.” (Ephesians 1:6)

I am forgiven.
“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

I am predestined.
“In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will.” (Ephesians 1:11)

I am raised and seated in heavenly realms.
“Raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:6)

I am created for good works.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God has prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)

I am called to eternal glory.
“But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you.” (1 Peter 5:10)

I am more than a conqueror.
“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37)

I am an overcomer.
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

I am never forsaken.
“For He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]” (Hebrews 13:5, AMP)

I am the righteousness of God in Christ.
“This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” (Romans 3:22)

Without truly knowing who we are in Him, we will always struggle, attempting to gain our identity from “having and doing it all,” as opposed to getting our identity from Christ.

This Week
Take a long look who you have thought and felt yourself to be. Is that who God says you are? Adjust your focus so that it’s on who God says you are.

Prayer
“Lord, thank you that I am who you say I am. Please help me to truly find my identity in you, and to display it in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Verse of the Day

2010-03-15T06:20:00.000-05:00

This is a key verse in So Long Insecurity. Well, the first part is - I just now saw the second part of the verse. Considering how topsy turvy things are for me right now, I love the second part of the verse too. God's word is so good!

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.

Proverbs 31:25 (NLT)

When I feel burdened today, I'm going to remember I am clothed with strength and dignity. The enemy cannot take that from me!

(Picture is NIV and from here.)

Enter to Worship - Exit to Serve by Ronald K. Gray

2010-03-15T04:42:00.028-05:00

Enter to Worship - Exit to Serve by Ronald K. Gray (Xulon Press)
This book is intended to help the local church realize its destiny. There has been a severe deterioration in our worship and the Church's place in the world. The Body of Christ is struggling today in many places. This is not God's plan for His church! These Biblical principles from the book of Nehemiah can help us grow into the people God intended us to be. I urge you to read and allow the Holy Spirit to make these truths real to you. Apply them in your life and the life of your church and you will see God bring restoration to your life, just as He did to the walls and temple in Nehemiah.

About the Author

Ronald Gray serves the Kingdom of God through sharing the uncompromised Word of God. He has been faithful to his call since 1974. He is on the board of International Outreach Ministries and Charles Simpson Ministries. He is the Director of Mission Growth for IOM leading short-term teams to various countries in the world. Ronald began his ministry with Gulf Coast Teen Challenge in Pensacola, FL. He has served as an Associate Pastor and Senior Pastor. Ronald and his wife Sharon, have lived in the Mobile, AL area since 1995. He and Sharon have two daughters and four grandchildren. Ronald has traveled extensively in the United States and in over 38 countries, spreading the message of the Kingdom of God. Many people have received salvation, healing, restoration and deliverance in their lives.

My review

I really enjoyed this small yet powerful book. When I was in India, God broke my heart for the overall state of the North American church and how lacking we are in our worship and service. Mr. Gray captured many of the feelings I had but was unable to put into words. If you will read this and put the words into practice, I believe you will start to grow nearer to our Father and experience a more powerful relationship with him. This isn't a self-help or legalistic type of book, but it is one that has the potential to change your life, but experiencing more of God.

Thank you Ronald Gray for providing me a review copy of your book.

Click here to purchase the book.

I'm standing on His promises

2010-03-08T14:12:00.000-06:00

What promises are you leaning on? (Most of these are from the LPM blog but I need them to penetrate my mind and my thoughts.)

Do not be afraid of the enemy;[earnestly] remember the Lord and imprint Him [on your minds], great and terrible, and [take from Him courage to] fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes. Nehemiah 4:14b Amplified Bible

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior….Since you are precious and honored in My sight and because I love you... Isaiah 43:2-4a NIV

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. Ex. 14:13a-14

"So do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isa.41:10 NIV

"Do not be afraid; you will not suffer shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated..." ~Isaiah 54:4

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." ~Isaiah 40:29-31

"The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deut. 31:8 NIV

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Tim 1:7 (NKJV)

"The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1