Winning At Home

Winning At Home: Tackling the Topics That Confuse Kids and Scare Parents

by Dan Seaborn 

Never has the task of raising children been more challenging than today's times, when parents are compared, shamed, labeled, and superseded by the cultural influences of our social media, Hollywood, trends that change faster than the seasons and demands for fitting into a world that is terribly broken.  Today's parents get input from every corner, most unsolicited and most unhealthy and unhelpful.  How appropriate for the timing of this new book by Dan Seaborn of Winning At Home ministries.

This book is not afraid to jump in to the tough topics that most Christian parents are yearning to find help with, but coming up empty handed in a very self-centered world that serves the gratification of immediate needs.  Dan Seaborn and some of his team tackle hard topics like gender and sexual orientation, discipline, communication, technology and so much more from a Biblical viewpoint that aims parents toward the Cross instead of the world.

Whether you are a new parent, just starting out, in the deep trenches of rearing a house full of kids, sending them off or an empty nester, there is wisdom in this book for you.  A resource for the days to come as your children encounter these topics that will inevitably face them, despite your best efforts to shield them.  This book equips parents to realize that the war is waging and the offense must be continuous and planned ahead in some instances, and that the battle will be a long-term, life-long place for the parent.

Seaborn and his team write with honesty and humor, addressing scary stuff parents might not have thought about, or might not want to think about.  With real-life examples, guidance based in the Bible and years of counseling, ministry and teaching work combined, this book is like sitting down with a room full of experts!  I highly recommend any parent own this book and pull it out often as the new phases bring new topics to tackle and work through.  

Set to release September 13, 2022, you can pre-order a copy now!  Find yours at the following locations:

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

See what others who have already read it have to say on Good Reads!

@winning_at_home

The Flirtation Experiment

 

The Flirtation Experiment

by Lisa Jacobson and Phylicia Masonheimer

New on the scene is a wonderful resource for Christian (and non-Christian) women to help build marriage relationships in a God-honoring way.  Popular Christian voices Lisa Jacobson and Phylicia Masonheimer have just released their collaborated work, The Flirtation Experiment, with an aim to strenghten marriages with a fun approach  - flirting.

Each chapter addresses a new way in which to pursue a spouse in a fun, and sometimes challenging way, that will make the reader re-think they way they express love to their spouse and re-consider the ways they expect marriage to be.  Especially for couples who have been married for some time and have hit that all to familiar slump of life, chaos, kids and schedules taking precedence, this book offers timely and concretely useable methods to spark some life and fun back into a marriage.  After reading the book, wives will find themselves hopeful and empowered to make a positive change in small ways, bringing a return to romance.

The authors approach the topic very respectfully and with spiritual boundaries in mind, while also encouraging women that it is ok to push those boundaries many of us have been taught to know as inappropriate.  With Biblical reference and backing, they point out how God intends us to pursue our loved one and to create an atmosphere of mutual respect and love, that it is ok to have fun and flirt with your spouse, and they definitely give the reader pause to consider their own position while sharing very honest stories from the author's point of view to keep it real and grounded.  

This is a book that is easy to read and can be done in spurts, or all at once.  It can be broken down into weeks, months, or days, however it fits the reader best.  With language that is easy to interpret, stories that are easily relatable and honest, and challenges that are attainable, this book gives wives the power to make big changes in their relationship and find fulfillment they also seek while making very small changes or actions.  I am so glad I have this book in my hands and am already seeing things improve in my own relationship!

This is a book I believe every wife should own and read!

Order your copy of The Flirtation Experiment now!

http://theflirtationexperiment.com/

#FlirtationExperimentMIN #TheFlirtationExperiment #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Disclosure:

Many thanks to HarperCollins Christian Publishing for providing this product/product information for review.  Opinions are 100% my own.  I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

Moving Beyond Anxiety Review

Moving Beyond Anxiety
by David Chadwick

We are living in a time filled with fear and anxiety.  When the world around is so uncertain and unfamiliar, the mind tends to wander toward the worries.  This book comes out at the perfect time as more and more people are suffering from anxiety, depression and mental health decline.

Written by pastor David Chadwick, "Moving Beyond Anxiety" addresses the Christian way to address anxiety via 12 practical strategies designed to help the reader re-think and renew their minds.  From the very start, Chadwick introduces readers to the definitions of fear and anxiety and proposes that to address fear, we must first address anxiety. 

This book is an easy read, chock full of scripture, sound reasoning and Christian guidance to help lead individuals struggling with anxiety toward a path of renewal and healing, on toward a life where anxiety is no longer in control, but instead viewed as a tool of the enemy used to draw our eyes from our faith in Christ.  It is written in a soothing, fatherly manner that is calming and feels as if one is sitting down to chat with a trusted friend or counselor as opposed to being "taught".  Very refreshing and comforting to read!

Being one of the people struggling with anxiety terribly over the pandemic and the crisis abounding in our nation and even in my state and nearby cities, I was so excited to get my hands on this book, with hopes of freedom or at least some relief from the struggles I have daily with my mental health.  I have not been disappointed.  I have picked up many tools and ideas to lead me on my walk toward tackling this part of my thinking.  There is so much in this book that I am set to read it a second, and probably third time because I want to fully absorb every bit of wisdom I can.  I have also recommended it to many of my friends who are in similar situations currently on their walk through anxiety.

 I cannot recommend this book enough!

Below are some resources you can check out to learn more about this wonderful resource!

Book website: https://www.movingbeyondanxiety.com
Moments of Hope website: https://momentsofhope.org/
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MOHDavidChadwick/
David’s video introduction for Moving Beyond Anxiety: https://vimeo.com/408616090/bb523284cf

#MovingBeyondAnxiety #FlyBy

About David Chadwick:

David Chadwick is presently the pastor of Moments of Hope Church in Charlotte, N.C. He
has been a pastor for almost 40 years. He played basketball under the legendary coach,
Dean Smith, at the University of North Carolina and was a member of the Final Four 1969
team. David also has a graduate counseling psychology degree from the University of
Florida and an MDiv and DMin from Columbia Theological Seminary. These post graduate
degrees have allowed David to combine therapeutic counseling theories with biblical truth.
David is the author of nine books and hosts a weekly talk show on faith and values on
WBT in Charlotte, N.C. He has been married to the love of his life, Marilynn, for 42 years
and has three children, Bethany, David Banner, and Michael. They have given David and Marilynn seven grandchildren.

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing the product/product information. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did/will receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Fearless & Free by Victoria Osteen

Fearless & Free

by Victoria Osteen

New to the book world, an empowering devotional that will help you Live Confidently, Believe Expectantly and Embrace Your Victory!

New York Times bestselling author and wife of famed pastor Joel Osteen, Victoria carries many qualifications including radio host, co-pastor of America's largest church and more.  She has years of experience in the Christian ministry and is a noted and well liked writer and leader.

In her new devotional, Fearless & Free, there are 47 devotionals.  These are not just one page snap devotions, but rather a themed read along with a few Bible verses and a scripted prayer.  Each devotional covers a topic to help guide readers realized what it means to "live fearlessly in the truth that God has already set them free."  With titles like " Fear Is Not the Boss", "Release It to God",  "Grow In Joy", "Your True Identity" and more, each devotional chapter is set to encourage, instruct and empower the reader along on a journey to spiritual freedom.

I have enjoyed picking this book up each morning, it has been a refreshing difference to the typical one page devotionals I had been reading.  Especially in the middle of a very fear-filled time in history, I have found much release and encouragement from the words in this book!

You can get your hands on a copy of this new release on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other book sellers now!

* I received a free copy of this book for promotional purposes.  I was not compensated in any way for this review nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts expressed are my own.

Read my reviews on

Good Reads

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

Because He Lives

Because He Lives
by Jennifer Flanders

Just in time for Easter, a new book enters the scene, set to prepare hearts and minds for the Easter season.  In her devotional journal, Jennifer Flanders has designed a unique experience to guide readers through the life of Christ in order to better explore what Jesus gave in his sacrifice on the Cross. Beginning with a study of the prophecies foretelling his birth, walking through His birth, life, ministry, death and resurrection, this is a book filled with opportunity to learn, grow and reflect. 

This book has options for all readers.  There are blank pages for journaling, drawing or whatever you choose.  There are plenty of black and white historic images scattered througout to enhance the thoughts as well as offere those who enjoy coloring the chance to do so.  Every page is scripture based and offers the chance to incorporate a Bible study into the experience, whether by simply reading the verse, taking time to reflect and journal about it, or dive deeper into it.

The artwork in the book is pretty, but not exactly my taste.  I would have liked to see some pages with just plain design work, not necessarily a person or scene.  The images with people are very religious feeling, what I would equate to old texts, which does make it feel a little dated.  Change up some of the pictures and I would love it even more.

I have enjoyed exploring this journal and beginning to use it in preparation for Easter.  With 15 main sections, each with many pages, there is a lot to do and this could be a resource that could be used from Christmas forward to Easter.  I have enjoyed coloring some of the pictures, done some hand lettering in open spaces, done a bit of journaling, some scripture study and sometimes just left the page untouched aside from my eyes.  I love that there are so many options within the pages of this book.  It is not just a journal, or just a coloring book, but a variety book, and therefore more widely marketable.

I can see this being a useful tool for study groups as well as individual use.  I've even had some fun allowing my children to help me fill some of the spaces.  I find this book well done!

You can find a copy of this book here

* I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through Book Crash in exchange for my review.

Blessings of Unity Review

The Blessings of Unity: God's Best for Our Marriages

by Richard T. Case

Written from many years of marriage and training experience, Blessings of Unity offers readers a quick read that is filled with knowledge and helpful information to create a deeper, more united marriage.  This book is small enough to read through in a very short time, with only 9 chapters and 130 pages, but packed with insight.  It is packed with scriptural reference to back the points as well.

The book opens with an activity for couples to participate in, a survey of sorts, to find out the current level of unity as viewed by each spouse separately.  From there, it gives the couple an idea of areas that need more work than others.  Following this, readers learn about the topics of Division and Discord, Unity, The Keys to Unity, the necessity to have God's word as a part of the marriage, handling disagreements and differences of opinion, prayer, biblical examples and more.

Each chapter offers an explanation, clear suggestions to work toward the chapter topic, following printed biblical reference.  The scriptural references come from the New American Standard Bible.  While not one of my favorite translations, it does well enough to get the point across.  I found some of the paragraphs to run a little long, which distracted me a little from the content, but overall I found the information helpful and it gave my husband and I some discussion focus.

You can find this book on Amazon

Right now, you can also get a free download of the ebook "Unshakeable" by simply clicking this link: http://allforjesusunshakeable.gr8.com

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest and un-biased review

VeggieTales Every Day with God Devotional review

VeggieTales Every Day with God
by VeggieTales

With three girls in the house, I have resigned myself to having girly toys, books and games.  Realizing that girls and boys are divinely designed differently, I love that VeggieTales has embraced the idea of providing a devotional just for girls (or boys), full of all things pink and girly that VeggieTales has to offer while being filled with Biblical truth and promise.

We have enjoyed reading through the daily devotionals together with our 6. 4. and 2 year old.  Each of the 365 devotionals is a full page with one devotional based on a stated Bible verse with scriptural reference.  In addition to the devotional, there is a thought for the day and a short prayer.  Pages are filled with bright colors, familiar VeggieTales characters and engaging visuals to keep little ones attentive.  Devotionals are short and to the point for younger listeners or readers, but complex and thought provoking enough to engage my oldest and offer opportunity for discussion.

Anyone who has VeggieTales fans in their home will find fun and value in this devotional.  It is the perfect addition to our home and offers us the chance to talk about God and the Bible daily with our little ones without it becoming overwhelming or confusing.  We are enjoying the topics and the chance to bring God to them in this fun way.

You can find a copy of the Girls' Devotional here, or the Boys' Devotional here

I have the opportunity to give a copy away to one of my readers (boy or girl's edition).  Simply comment with which version you would prefer (Boy or Girl) for a chance.  Winner will be chosen by 9am on September 26, 2016.

*Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

VeggieTales Every Day with God Devotional review

VeggieTales Every Day with God
by VeggieTales

With three girls in the house, I have resigned myself to having girly toys, books and games.  Realizing that girls and boys are divinely designed differently, I love that VeggieTales has embraced the idea of providing a devotional just for girls (or boys), full of all things pink and girly that VeggieTales has to offer while being filled with Biblical truth and promise.

We have enjoyed reading through the daily devotionals together with our 6. 4. and 2 year old.  Each of the 365 devotionals is a full page with one devotional based on a stated Bible verse with scriptural reference.  In addition to the devotional, there is a thought for the day and a short prayer.  Pages are filled with bright colors, familiar VeggieTales characters and engaging visuals to keep little ones attentive.  Devotionals are short and to the point for younger listeners or readers, but complex and thought provoking enough to engage my oldest and offer opportunity for discussion.

Anyone who has VeggieTales fans in their home will find fun and value in this devotional.  It is the perfect addition to our home and offers us the chance to talk about God and the Bible daily with our little ones without it becoming overwhelming or confusing.  We are enjoying the topics and the chance to bring God to them in this fun way.

You can find a copy of the Girls' Devotional here, or the Boys' Devotional here

I have the opportunity to give a copy away to one of my readers (boy or girl's edition).  Simply comment with which version you would prefer (Boy or Girl) for a chance.  Winner will be chosen on September 27, 2016.

*Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

The No-Homework Women's Bible Study: Group Hug Review

The No-Homework Women's Bible Study: Group Hug

by Christine Tate

I often desire a small group to study and learn with in my quest to grow in my faith.  However, once I get to the point of determining who might be in the group with me, I come up short on what to study or where to start.  Recently I came across this guide and was glad to have found the resource I needed to get my group started.

Christine Tate has written this guide with just my situation in mind.  This book contains eight 1-hour bible study "sessions" that are non-denominational, making it perfect for nearly any group.  Designed specifically for women, it encompasses plenty of time for talk and sharing along with learning.  Each session contains an Ice Breaker, Lesson, Discussion Questions, Optional Weekly Personal Challenges and Closing Prayer.  Each of these sections has a suggested time included to help the group leader guide the group while maintaining the one-hour time frame.  A section for notes is included at the end of each lesson as well.

Lesson topics in this book include: Taking Care of Yourself. An Organized Life, People Pleasers, Always Be Prepared, Weight Management, Christian Relationships, Being a Virtuous Woman and Financial Health.  Each lesson contains scripture, commentary, discussion prompts and activity suggestions to help bond the group and grow faith while also growing friendships.

It is intended that each group member have their own copy of this book. Some activities request that the books be passed around for Ice Breakers.  This book has worked well for me in developing a consistent model for group meetings and has given us opportunity to develop a group dynamic in a non-confrontational or intimidating way.  Believers from all degrees of faith and Bible experience can use this study with confidence and without fear of falling short.

In addition to this study, Tate has 10 other studies available in the Group Hug line for further group study.  You can find a copy of this study or other titles by Tate here 

I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for my honest and un-biased review through the BookCrash program.

If Jesus Had A Child

If Jesus Had A Child
by Dr. B. Glenn Wilkerson


Parenting advice is readily available everywhere, both solicited and un-solicited, from family and friends, to Facebook, to the wide web, even strangers at the grocery store seem to have a tidbit to share in regards to raising children.  In a world so filled with a variety of parenting options, all with titles, it has become a line drawing, side choosing thing to raise a child.

If Jesus Had A Child considers the one role model that should be held above all others as a way to look at parenting, Jesus Christ.  While He never had a child, He is the ultimate parent as His love for us as His children goes so far beyond what any one of us could ever fathom.  By referencing scripture and using solid examples from the Bible to argue this case, Dr. B. Glenn Wilkerson presents the idea that one can parent, discipline, encourage and train up a child in the footsteps of the best parent, our Heavenly Father.

Broken up into five parts and twenty chapters, Wilkerson, a parent himself, walks the reader through the pillars of great parenting, parenting gifts, correcting misbehavior, applying Jesus' teachings and approaches to difficult issues relevant today, such as bullying - all with Christ as the model.  With relatable stories and examples, humor and light- hearted illustrations, this book is an easy read.  Discussion questions complete each chapter and give opportunity for deeper consideration and learning, making this book a possible group study as well as a family library reference.

I enjoyed reading this book and found myself considering so many different points and approaches I had never even thought of before.  I found myself looking at my parents as well as my own children in a different light, as well as looking to my Heavenly Father in a new way.  This is a book I definitely would recommend to any parent - new or practiced, as there are so many nuggets of truth.

You can find a copy here

I received a copy of this book to review for free through the Book Crash program in exchange for my honest and un-biased review.

Bible Study for Busy Mamas: Thirty Days in 1 Corinthians 13

Bible Study for Busy Mamas: Thirty Days in 1 Corinthians 13

by Pam Forster

The job of being Mommy is fulfilling yet filled with so much action and busyness that it is often difficult to find those deeply needed moments alone to refresh and refuel.  Finding time for God can be a big struggle for any person, let alone the woman with infants, toddlers and preschoolers filling life with activity and chaos.  Enter Pam Forster's Bible study series "Bible Study for Busy Mamas".  

I have been so blessed by having the opportunity to read this book.  In just small snippets each day, or whenever the time can be carved out, moms can study the entire chapter of 1 Corinthians 13 in depth and walk away feeling proud and with a much deeper understanding of Love as Christ would have us love, which all moms need.  

Each "Day", the reader is given a small task, starting with reading the entire chapter and proceeding into word studies and greater understanding a small bit at a time, with direct and easily understood guidance.  In as little as 5 minutes, these study sections can be completed.  For even greater benefit, this book has a section in each day with a way to involve the children!  I absolutely loved this - it acknowledges the entire reason moms need a study like this, the little ones.  There are simple things kids can do to learn the chapter along with mom, from hands on and physical to discussion, easy enough to involve even the toddlers in the house to some extent.

A fantastic book to be used in a group Bible study or small group, this study does not disappoint.  After having read this book, I am eager to dive into more of the studies by this author and grow in my relationship with my children and my God.  I very highly recommend this book to every mom!

Click here and go get your copy of Bible Study for Busy Mamas: Thirty Days in 1 Corinthians 13, where you'll also find my review along with others.

Disclaimer:  I was provided a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review through BookCrash.  All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own, I was in no way compensated for my review.

The 40 Day Devotional Challenge

The 40 Day Devotional Challenge... To Encourage Your Heart and Deepen Your Faith

by Kathi Macias

Everyone is busy, finding time to spend reading the Bible or even a devotional can be a challenge on the best of days.  Enter the latest book by Kathy Macias, a devotional created for just that reason - to challenge the reader to make time over 40 days to develop a closer walk with Christ.  

This devotional offers the reader 40 separate entries, each with a scripture verse for focus, a short passage discussing the idea behind the passage, with thoughts for today's Christian to make it relevant, and a section allotted for journaling should one wish to do so.  The book is designed to be read however is convenient, whether it be 40 consecutive days, one a week, or scattered randomly.  Because each devotional selection stands alone, readers can pick it up any time without worry of having forgotten what was studied prior, should several days have passed between readings.

When reading through this devotional for review, I found it to be similar to many other devotional a available.  There was no specific topic that the book centered around, which is great for general interest, but not as much for those looking for a focused study or topic.  It seemed to be written with older readers in mind, as some of the author's stories within the discussions reveal.  While well written and of course useful, it didn't reach out to me as a stellar devotional I would want all of my friends to read.  Perhaps because I am of a younger generation or because I would seek out a more focused devotional.  Definitely a worthwhile challenge to undertake and worth a read if you are looking for a variety of scriptures to focus on.

This book can be found and purchased through Barnes and Noble and many other booksellers.

I was provided a copy of this book to review for free through the BookCrash program.  I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any way for this review.  All ideas expressed are my own.

Take Fight! A Sisterchicks' Devotional

Take Flight!: A Sisterchicks' Devotional
by Robin Jones Gunn and Cindy Hannan

A devotional spin off of the popular Sisterchicks books, this book is easily read and enjoyed with or without knowledge of the series.  As a reader who has not read any of the Sisterchicks books, I was able to enjoy this devotional and to understand and appreciate it with no problem.

Broken into sections, this is a small devotional with 3-4 readings per section.  However, this creates a book easily used in a group study as well as personal, as it offers a quick dive into God's word through the witty writings of Gunn and Hannan.  Quick to read yet so full of fun, light yet thoughtful readings, this devotional is a perfect quick study.  Themed around the Sisterchicks, "a friend who shares the deepest wonders of your heart, loves you like a sister, and provides a reality check when you're being a brat.", each study contains quotes, insights from "Robin's Nest" and "Cindy's Perch", a bit of "Wit and Whimsy" in the form of a laugh or a smile, several scripture verses offering the reader opportunity to "Take a Closer Look" and a space to journal thoughts.

Well thought out and written, any woman will enjoy the journey through this devotional and gain insight and knowledge through the stories and scriptures.

You can find this book at Barnes and Noble or other booksellers nationwide.

I was provided a copy of this book to review through the Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program.  I was in no way compensated for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

Thirty Days of Bible Study for Busy Mamas

Thirty Days of Bible Study for Busy Mamas: Colossians 3
by Pam Forster

As a mom in the middle of the toddler years, I relate to the title of busy mom.  Finding time for a shower alone, let alone time to read a book, is difficult to come by.  I had put aside the idea of an in-depth bible study on my own as something for the future.  Along came the opportunity to read this book, and my mind was changed.

Designed to be a quick 5 minute study, this book guides readers through the third chapter of the book of Colossians in a 30 day plan.  What seemed extreme to me at first - 30 days to read and study one chapter of the bible!? - soon became a welcome time alone.  Each of the 30 days has a focused set of verses, prompts.  With catch up days designed in the plan, which can also be used to dig deeper if one is caught up, there is tons of room for growth within this simple study.

The author is encouraging and draws the reader to fall into the Word, developing a deeper understanding of the reading while applying those words to life.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading and working through this study and would enjoy doing so again in a group setting. 

I highly recommend this book!

You can find a copy at Amazon.com or many other booksellers nationwide.

I was provided a copy of this book to review for free through the BookCrash program.  I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any way for this review.  All ideas expressed are my own.

Pray The Scriptures: A 40-Day Prayer Experience

Pray The Scriptures: A 40-Day Prayer Experience
by Kevin Johnson

Pray The Scriptures is a wonderful book to get life centered back on prayer and conversation with God.  Each chapter is centered around a scripture verse, which is broken down into segments, and the reader is guided through a reading of the scripture and given prompts to pray through each segment of the scripture.  Space is given for opportunity to write down the prayer if desired.

Intended to be a 40-day experience, this book is easily adapted for a weekly small group study.  This is a scripturally rooted resource for growth and development of a deeper prayer life.  Pray The Scriptures will lead the reader to a deeper understanding of the scriptures being read, making them more personal as one not only reads but ingests and soaks in the words.  Praying those promises and words back opens up new lines of conversation with God and provides a stepping stone for building a daily prayer life steeped in the Bible.

I really enjoyed exploring this book.  The idea of praying the scripture is very new to me, but I had heard so much about the concept that I was very intrigued.  I love having this resource to guide and get me started and feel prepared to step out and continue in praying the scripture with my daily readings.  I highly recommend this book!

Find it at Barnes and Noble or other booksellers nationwide.

I was provided a copy of this book for free to review by Bethany House Publishers.  I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated for this review.  All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.

Prized!

Prized!  Your Journey as His Daughter

by Noelle Toscano

Geared toward teenage girls, this book is real and relatable, honest yet light and easy to read.  With 8 chapters, it is the perfect book to gift to a teen or young woman.  

Written as a memoir of sorts, by an author the same age as me, I found myself drawn in and soon wandering through my own childhood and teen years right along with the writer.  Each chapter is filled with insight, biblical references and positive and uplifting thoughts and inspiration for younger readers as they encounter stories that are relevant today.  Through the eyes of a woman in her 30's who has been brave enough to look back seriously at her teen years and the ever present need to be "prized", readers find a common place to connect and discover God's desire for his daughters, especially through the tumultuous teen years.

Even readers past the target age can find meaning and encouragement in reading this book.  A great reminder for moms of teen girls as they try to muddle through those years with grace as well as a fantastic guide for the teens themselves.  Prized! Is a wonderful presentation of Christ's love for us as his daughters and leads readers to consider themselves through His eyes, as treasured, beautifully made creations who are more deeply loved and desired than fathomable.  A highly recommended book for all teen and young women!

I received a copy of this book for free to review through the Book Crash program.  I was in no way compensated for this review nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts are completely my own.

You can find this book at Barnes and Noble or other booksellers nationwide.

Firsthand

Firsthand: Ditching Secondhand Religion for a Faith of Your Own
By Ryan and Josh Shook

A faith- challenging book sure to cause the reader to take a deeper look at their Christian faith, or lack thereof.  Written in a very non - confrontational way, filled with real life examples and thoughts, not only from the authors, but from a wealth of others, there are a variety of ideas and faith levels represented. Readers will find not only conversation about having one's own faith firsthand as opposed to believing through parents or other adults, but also ways to dig deeper, search more completely and grow stronger through reading and actions.  A great book for all levels of faith, each reader is sure to find encouragement and challenge to know Christ firsthand.  Well worth the read and  a fantastic book to pass along!

I was provided a free copy of this book for review by WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging For Books program.  I was in no way compensated for this review nor required to write a positive review, all thoughts are my own.

Find it at Barnes And Noble and other book sellers nationwide, beginning March 19, 2013!

The Girl's Still Got It

The Girl's Still Got It
Liz Curtis Higgs

In a refreshing look at the book of Ruth, Liz Curtis Higgs puts a fun spin on reading about Ruth and her story, creating an engagin way to learn and get deeper into the story of Ruth.  With humor and depth, this book is sure to find a spot with every reader.

Women especially will appreciate this book as it celebrates this historic woman of faith and paints her in a modern way that readers can relate to and understand much easier than from biblical texts alone.  Higgs uses her knowledge of the bible to teach, adds humor to engage, writes in a way that all readers can understand and relate, and captures the reader with her words.

I was immediately drawn into this book and loved reading about Ruth in this way.  My understanding of her walk and life and in turn a new understanding of our God grew from my reading this book.  I was enagaged in ways I seldom am with stories of biblical characters.  After reading this book, I am eager to seek out and read more of the books written by this author.

A glimpse into who this writer is and Ruth's story...


I received this book through Waterbrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program.  I was in no way compensated for my review, nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

Barnes and Noble Review:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-girls-still-got-it-liz-curtis-higgs/1110918393?ean=9781578564484&tabname=custreview&

To Be Perfectly Honest

To Be Perfectly Honest

by Phil Callaway

Such an intriguing idea that should not at all be foreign to or even strange to hear of, esecially in the Christian community, To Be Perfectly Honest is a refreshing and challenging read that should be taken in by all!

In his book, Calaway humorously yet honestly walks through a year of his live through daily journal type entries, facing the challenge given him that he should go an entire year without telling any lies. His honest report of the experience is thought provoking, yet presented in a way that is easy to read, engaging and even laugh out loud funny at times. Through his journey, he shares stories, life experiences and events he faces and his way of handling them while trying to maintain his truthfulness.

Readers of all walks will find challenge, humor and sobering honesty within this book and will likely find themselves facing the challenge themselves to at least comsider how truthful they really are as well as considering the effects of their responses on others with whom they interact. A highly recommended read, light and fun yet filled with challenge and life changing ideas sure to make an impact.

I was provided a free copy of this ebook through the Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program.  I was in no way compensated for my review or required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

40 Ways To Get Closer To God

40 Ways To Get Closer To God

by Jerry MacGregor

For the Christian looking to get a little deeper into their walk with God, this book offers 40 opportunities to stretch and grow while becoming more active in one's faith and reaching out to others.  40 Ways offers 40 different activities designed to stretch and grow the reader while providing practical applications in the form of challenges.

Designed to be a 40 day walk, this book could easily become a weekly study for the individual or for a group.   Each chapter is a short 4 or so pages, complete with a story, challenge, scripture and journaling space. 

Topics include: serving others, scripture memorization, prayer, scripture reading, and visiting elderly in a nursing home among many others.  Designed to force one out of the box a little, there are some challenging chapters that force one to stretch outside of comfort limits, but to the reward of growth.  A definite keeper, this book is for the Christian who needs a little shove to get moving, or for those who are wanting some more depth to their walk. 

I was provided a copy of this book for review by Bethany House Publishers.  I was in no way compensated for my review, nor was I required to write a positive review.  All thoughts on this book are my own.

Barnes and Noble Review Link: http://my.barnesandnoble.com/communityportal/review.aspx?reviewid=1945903