Dragonwitch: A Book Review

I am not much of a fiction reader, but since this was supposed to appeal to those who like fantasy, I gave it a go.  The plot was interesting enough, with classic good v. evil.  I might have liked it more if there had been more suspense and ambiguity about who was good and who was evil.  Instead, I could guess the ending several chapters before I got to the end.

Regular fiction readers will probably enjoy this book,  part of the Tales of Goldstone Wood series.  

I received a free review copy of this book from Bethany House.

A History of God and His Friends

Finding God in the Bible by Darren Wilson: A Book Review

Darren Wilson introduces us to God's friends.  What a motley crew!  Adulterers, murderers, cowards, and weird people of all stripes--these are people God considers his friends.  Darren challenges us to have a friendship with God rather than an acquaintance.

God, of course, is more than a mere buddy.  As God, his friendship causes Him to test us, refine us, shape us, and change us radically.  Abraham was a great example of this process.  God's great love longs for friendship with those He created.

Look at Bible characters like David, Gideon, and Elisha in a new way.  Then get to know God in a deeper way.

I received a free review copy of Finding God in the Bible from Chosen Books.  I also received a copy of the DVD Father of Lights, in which Darren continues his mission of filming God at work in the lives of people everywhere.  See my review of Father of Lights here.

Appointments with Heaven by Dr. Reggie Anderson: A Book Review

This book had such compelling stories that I had a hard time putting it down.  Dr. Anderson is both a medical doctor and a great storyteller.  More importantly, his stories are about God and the Heaven that awaits those who place their hope in Him.

The author shares his personal story: from amazing childlike faith to unbearable family tragedy to unbelief to faith again.  Anyone who has wondered about or wandered from his/her faith can relate to this story.  He goes on to tell the stories of others who have faced death and heard from God.

Those who are acquainted with grief will find solace in Dr. Anderson's description of the peace that goes with the passing of a believer--a peace he has been privileged to witness often in his country medical practice.  Add to your understanding of God's eternal provision for His children both now and forever by reading this book.

I received a free review copy of Appointments with Heaven from Tyndale Publishers.

Godonomics by Chad Hovind: a Book Review

Many voices today claim to have God's word about economics.  Chad Hovind actually looks at the text of God's Word to answer the important questions about how to wisely handle wealth. How do God's laws in Scripture handle private property, greed, and charity?  What would God say to Karl Marx?  What do we learn from the practices of the early Christian believers?  Chad Hovind tackles these questions and many others.

In a world where many Christians have been deceived into using the secular government to create "social justice," Chad calls us back to God's mandate for real justice--meaning laws are applied equally to all persons, rich or poor, male or female, whatever their creed or ethnicity.  Only real justice can lift the poor and restrain the greedy.

The discussion of first-, second- and third-party purchases should be required reading for all Americans.  I have never read such a simple, elegant explanation of what happens when people buy for the consumption of others or buy using other people's money.

This book is suitable for an adult Bible study, an economics class in a Christian high school, or individual enrichment reading.  I received a free e-book from Multnomah Books for my review.  I also purchased a hard copy for my church library and will recommend it to our pastoral staff.  Read more reviews here.

Book Review: God Distorted by John Bishop

This book explains how the image of our earthly father often interferes with our understanding of the heavenly Father.  The misunderstandings hamper our ability to truly enjoy an intimate relationship with our God and Father.  John begins with chapters about different "Daddy Types" and the problems they can cause.  He weaves his personal story into the text as well.

Fortunately, the book then goes on to show the real Father as he reveals Himself in Scripture.  This Father is in perfect control, is always there, and needs nothing from us.  He simply loves us, even before we understand or feel "worthy." 

A study guide is included for individuals or groups to use in their pursuit of truth that sets us free from the distortions in our minds.

I received a free review copy of God Distorted from Multnomah Publishers.

Back to the Future?

Read Thomas Jefferson's proposed plan for educating children.  It is almost entirely opposite what our country actually does.  Perhaps we should try his way instead.  It would save money and produce better-educated individuals at every level, from elementary through university.

Book Review: Angels in the Fire

It was night.  Dann and Tracey were headed home after celebrating their wedding anniversary.  At the same time, a man was coming straight at them, driving the wrong way on the highway.  While the car in front of them had time to swerve, Dann did not.  The result was a fireball.

You will agonize with the bystanders who try to free two people trapped in a blazing, crumpled car.  In the midst of this hopeless situation, however, another rescuer shows up.  He was seen by Tracey (he even knew her name) and by other rescuers.  He did the impossible, then vanished.

But the miracles continued, through a long recovery.  This is an inspiring account of divine intervention, family, and faith.

I received a free review copy of this book from Bethany House publishers.