The Grace of God

The Grace of God
by Andy Stanley

Such an familiar word, ingrained in the Christian vocabulary... Grace.  Yet, do we really understand what this powerful little word means?  So few even stop to consider the depth of love behind this word, or it's impact on our lives daily.

Andy Stanley breaks down the concept of Grace, making it understandable and adding value and impact in his newest book.  Throughout this book, he breaks down familiar bible characters, their stories, and the way God shed grace on them, giving them what they did not deserve.  People like Joseph, who started a lowly shepherd and went on to rule a nation; Jonah, who turned his back on God several times; and Adam and Eve, at the start of it all, receiving grace in the midst of complete disobedience.

God's grace is not fair, and Andy Stanley shows how this tilted scale only demonstrates God's love for us all the more.  While not a sit down and read cover to cover book for me, I could take it one chapter a day.  A lot of depth and cause for pause and consideration is required to truly get the full impact.  I truly love this book for it's ability to give me a deeper look into who God is and to help me understand grace in a new light.  A book not for the light reader, but highly recommended for all Christians to read at least once.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Heaven is For Real

Heaven is for Real
A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back
By Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent

What an amazing story.  So riveting and engaging I found myself reading the entire book in a 24 hour time span, mostly in the evening after my baby was in bed for the night.  The chapters are short, but once into the book (and it doesn't take long), the chapters pass by without notice as the story just flows.

I found myself amazed at the story of this little boy and his family, heartbroken at their struggles and intrigued by the proclamations and statements of this small child after an illness that nearly took his life.  Having read other books about visits to and from Heaven by others, I anticipated it would be similar, yet this book is entirely different.  Each claim little Clayton made his father (the author) could back up with scripture references upon investigation.

While some may claim this is another hoax or story, I truly believe this encounter took place and is an encouragement and challenge to all Christians.  What a glimpse of Heaven I have been provided and through the innocent eyes of a child... the little ones Christ calls us to be like in our faith.  A definite recommendation for all readers - you will find yourself amazed and challenged, your eyes opened to possibilities and your hope and desire for our Heavenly home renewed.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Really Wolly Bible Stories

Really Wolly Bible Stories
by Bonnie Rickner Jensen
Illustrated by Julie Sawyer Phillips

Such an adorable little book of Bible stories, perfect for infant up to 4-5 years.  Stories are very short and to the point, easy to understand words and engaging pictures to acompany the story.  Key words are in pink, offering opportunity for discussion as they are often bigger words, or words a child might be unfamiliar with.  Stories in this book include creation, Abraham, the 10 Commandments, Jonah and so many more.  16 stories in all, with an introduction and a prayer at the end.

A board book with a padded front cover, this book is sturdy for little hands, resilient and able to put up with drool and food, along with whatever else a child might smear on it.  Illustrations are pastels mostly, cheery and soft, with cute animal characters and friendly looking people.  Multiple races are represented in pictures.  Each story has a reference to where the complete story can be found in the Bible.

Highly recommended!  A cute little story book just long enough to hold short little attention spans, put up with abuse, conform to little hands and convey a message within a familar Bible story.  A great gift and welcome addition to any children's library collection. 
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Transforming Church in Rural America

Transforming Church in Rural America
By Shannon O'Dell


A book aimed at pastors and church leaders, this book is appropriate for all church atenders wanting to make a difference and grow.  Pastor Shannon O'Dell shares with readers his journey from a mega church to the middle of nowhere in a small church of older attenders.  Through the challenges of removing "sacred cows", making improvements, drawing in new attenders and creating leadership with little or no budget, O'Dell shares ways to win with your own church.  Having grown his small rural church to a 5 campus church with internet and satellite locations, O'Dell has valuable and applicable advice to offer that is easy to institute in any church.  Whether a rural church with 12 attenders or a large church in the middle of the city, there are hits and tips, ideas and attack plans for each person willing to be a leader, apply V.A.L.U.E. principles and strive to become better in order to reach more. 

Highly recommended.  With personal stories woven among teaching and encouragement, this book is easy to read and full of resources that are readily accessible.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

God's Promises for Women of Faith

God's Promises for Women of Faith
by Jack Countryman

This little gift book is handy for packing in a gift basket or in the luggage of someone traveling.  Small and compact but full of encouragement and scripture references.  Specifically targeted toward women of faith, topics include encouragement, growth, blessing, teaching, comfort and more.  Each promise is referenced with scripture verses, presented in the King James Version, to add in possibility for quick reference or for further study. 

Perfect as a companion for daily scripture reading, the promises in this book offer insight and encouragement to all women, helping in prayer and worship.  A nice little book to give as a gift, this book can be useful to both believers and non-believers.  Chapters are organized and easy to read through.  Not among the top books on my list of study companions or spiritual growth texts, it is, nevertheless, a well written and thought out book with pure intentions, portraying Christ's message to all readers in calming words and ways.  My recommendation for this book is to those who would first read it before gifting it to be assured it is right for the intended receiver in scripture language as KJV can be less clear as opposed to NIV versions of scripture.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their 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: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”