The Encounter Sometimes God Has to Intervene By Stephen Arterburn Published by Thomas Nelson Though the story related in The Encounter is fictional, Arterburn explains that he developed the story through a compilation two true stories. The book is basically divided into two parts, the first being the fictional story itself of The Encounter. The second part is the brief retelling for the two true stories, followed by a few “questions and concepts” Arterburn has included to help the reader in dealing with their own similar personal issues. The storyline is centered around the life a man named Jonathan Rush. Rush is returning to his hometown of Fairbanks, Alaska in…
-
-
The Blessing
The Blessing Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance By John Trent & Gary Smalley Published by Thomas Nelson In 1986 authors Gary Smalley and John Trent first published their best-selling book entitled The Blessing. In 2011, Trent has now revised and updated The Blessing. I originally read The Blessing a few years ago and was introduced to the concept of the importance of receiving and giving something they call “the blessing” particularly within a family. I enjoyed re-reading this book with a my own fresh perspective, as a parent now myself. The authors list five elements essential to “The Blessing”. These five elements consist of: 1. Meaningful and appropriate…
-
Cure for the Common Life
Cure for the Common Life By Max Lucado Published by Thomas Nelson Loved it. Another quick reading book with major impact from author Max Lucado. Easy to comprehend style. Witty and entertaining while conveying basic Biblical truths with common sense. In Cure For The Common Life Lucado discusses how each person can find the unique talents God placed within them when He created them, and then use these unique talents throughout life to ultimately bring glory to God alone. Lucado calls this “finding your sweet spot.” Using the letters of the word story, Lucado presents five questions to answer in helping a person find their sweet spot. Calling this the…
-
Billy Graham In Quotes
Billy Graham in Quotes By Franklin Graham Published by Thomas Nelson For many years I have held a great respect for Billy Graham. Everything I have ever heard or read about him has always portrayed him as a genuine, authentic man. His preaching of the Bible and unwavering stand for the truth has always impressed me. Billy Graham In Quotes is exactly what the title says. It is a collection of quotes from throughout the life of Billy Graham. The book is divided into chapters, each containing quotes focusing on a specific topic. The chapters are arranged in alphabetical order according to topic. Topics include abortion, addiction, angels, character, commitment,…
-
God’s Love Letters To You
God’s Love Letters To You A 40-Day Devotional Experience By Larry Crabb Published by Thomas Nelson A 40-day devotional centering around forty of the sixty-six books of the Bible. God’s Love Letters To You consists of forty brief chapters, each focusing on an idea from one book of the Bible. Though not every book in the Bible is referenced, the idea is implied that the author is attempting to span the entire Bible starting at Genesis and ending with Revelation. Author Larry Crabb shares his insights on Biblical themes such as trusting God, persevering, God’s faithfulness, authentic love, obedience and brokenness. Each daily devotion also includes a few points to…