Slings and Stones: How God Works in the Mind to Inspire Courage in the Heart by Mike Rakes Book Review

                                                                                      

In Slings and Stones, Mike Rakes explored the Biblical story of David and how he conquered the gigantic giant Goliath. A little background from the story of David. Goliath was a member of the Philistines and he very intimidating and overpowering and the Israelites feared their powerful enemy. Goliath challenged a duel between him and an Israelite and whoever won the losing tribe would become the other tribe’s slaves. King Saul, the leader of the Israelites couldn’t find anyone to face Goliath. They lived in fear for forty days and they just waited around. David was the son of Jesse and he was the youngest of eight brothers. David was a young shepherd boy and he decided to step up to the plate. He had already killed a bear with a sling shot and stones and he eventually used those same weapons on Goliath. He declared that the Lord was with Him and he believed that He would assist him in defeating the giant. God was with Him and the giant was killed and David became a great leader and a king. In this book, Mike Rakes goes into great detail about how we can apply the knowledge from this story to our giant in our own lives.

 

Mike divided the book into three sections: thinking, speaking, and living. He began the book by revealing the importance and the power of our thoughts. The Israelites were tremendously living in fear because they kept rehearsing what the giant was saying and they heard it for forty days straight and they believed he was undefeatable. David on the other hand knew God had the power to defeat the giant and he dwelt on God’s thoughts. Mike Rakes encouraged readers to actively mediate and think about how big God is and how powerful He is.

 

I would recommend this astonishing book to anyone who is struggling and living in fear of their giant and they feel like they will never be free. I liked how Mike Rakes torn apart the whole story of David and Goliath and revealed the content in a fresh way that helped readers to break free from their past and fears and to courageously face and conquer their personal giant. I really liked how he discussed how critical archaeology is and that we must begin digging up all of our incorrect thoughts and hurts and dive into the Word of God and believe what He has declared about us. This book has led me into looking at my own giants in my life. One of my giants is negative comments that people have said about me that I have believed. This book has helped me get set free from what others think and say about me. If you’re dealing with a massive giant in your life, then please read this book!

 

“I received this book for free from The Booketeria/ Charisma House for this review”.  

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Slings and Stones, then check it out on Family Christian.com or Amazon.com:

 

http://www.familychristian.com/catalog/product/view/id/303172/

 

http://www.amazon.com/Slings-Stones-Works-Inspire-Courage/dp/1629980323

The Harbinger Decoded DVD Official Documentary By Jonathan Cahn Review

The Harbinger Decoded DVD is a documentary based on the book, The Harbinger written by a Jewish Rabbi, Jonathan Cahn. The DVD featured highlights from the bestselling book and was presented to teach some of the main points. The idea to write the book came when Jonathan Cahn was standing in New York after September 11^th when God pressed upon him to notice the sycamore tree lying at Ground Zero. The book was written as a fictional book but had factual information in it. The DVD demonstrated the nine harbingers that a prophet gave to a stranger named Nouriel. Cahn explored the Biblical concepts found in Isaiah 9-10 and how they relate to today’s times in America. Jonathan Cahn shared that one of the nine harbingers was the fallen bricks of the Twin Towers and he compared this to ancient Israel and their destruction. Some of the other nine harbingers was about the sycamore tree that was discovered at Ground Zero, the new stone build in defiance, and the truthful statements from American leaders about our allegiance against God.

 

I would recommend this unbelievable DVD to every single believer because we truly need to be aware of what is happening in the world around us. This DVD taught me so much about the end times and hidden secrets concerning the attack on September 11^th, 2001 and the aftermath that we have followed in Israel’s rebellion actual footsteps mistakenly. This is the first time, I have heard about the book or Jonathan Cahn. I immensely was shocked about what our key leaders in America professed unknowingly and they had no idea what they even said. They declared publicly America’s rebellions against God. I was deniability horrified in watching the DVD and what America as a whole, we have allowed to occur. The nine harbingers stunned me and I learnt about the sycamore and the stone we have designed at Ground Zero and so much more. I also liked how Jonathan Cahn shared how he got published by meeting a random stranger at the airport! I also really enjoyed the special features that included Jonathan Cahn’s personal testimony. I haven’t read the book yet, but after seeing the DVD, I want to read it! If you’re looking for a book on the end time prophecy, then read this book!

 

 

“I received this DVD for free from Charisma House for this review”. 

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of The Harbinger Decoded DVD, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/The-Harbinger-Decoded-Jonathan-Cahn/dp/1621365239

 

http://www.christianbook.com/the-harbinger-decoded/9781621365235/pd/365232?item_code=WW&netp_id=1139431&event=ESRCQ&view=details

 

 

Movie Trailer:

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0ykqZ6HpOU

 

 

‘Til Heaven Invades Earth: Power Principles for Intercessory Prayer By Cindy Trimm Book Review

In ‘Til Heaven Invades Earth, Cindy Trimm has written this book to guide readers into praying and interceding on the behalf of others. Throughout the book, she explored the way Esther displayed incredible faith and courage in facing King, Ahasuerus. Before she enter his presence, she fasted for three days and she prayed for strength and favor. There was a really danger in entering the king’s presence uninvited. He could decide to eliminate the person or he could permit their passage. He granted her favor and he met with his bride. Esther explained the terrible genocide that was planned for the Jews. Cindy Trimm used Esther as her example in understanding intercessory. Like most of us, we have noticed that the world is in troubling times, but how often are we really praying for the issues that are bothering us on a global view. Cindy Trimm identified that it’s time for the prayer warriors to arise and to be dynamic and forceful in our prayers, and to pray for the needs and burdens of the world.

 

Cindy Trimm goes into great detail on putting on the full armor of God found in Ephesians 6:10-18. She also reminded readers that Jesus himself practiced intercession and we’re commanded to follow in Christ’s example. She revealed the three different works of grace. The new one that I learnt was the grace in pursuing the plans and works, God has preordained for us uniquely to complete for His kingdom. Following God’s will for our lives begins in praying regularly and asking for His wisdom and strength daily. The book also covered the judiciary of Heaven and what to pray in intercession prayers.

 

One of my favorite quotes was, “Things are the way they are because no one is standing before the throne of heaven to ask that it be otherwise” (Page xvi).

 

I would recommend this magnificent book on intercession and praying for other people needs and the world issues at large. I immensely love how Cindy Trimm crafted the book and encouraged believers to pray for our president, Senate, Congress, world leaders, and their spouses. I like how she included the crucial importance of praying for worldwide issues like human trafficking, hunger, child abuse, religious persecution, etc. This book made me realize that the majority of us pray during election year, then after they are in office we tend to quit praying for them. Now more than ever, believers must began to pray that our nations will turn back to God, and repent for our sins, and declare that we will serve the Kingdom of God! I enjoyed her helpful suggest in writing down a prayer list on paper, notecard, or smartphone in order to make it easier to pray during your prayer times. I loved the “Appendix B: An Example of a Prayer Guide for Praying the Disciple’s Prayer” section, because it served its purpose as being an effective resource in emphasizing to readers on how to intercede on behalf of our world leaders. If you’re seeking a life changing, powerful book on intercession and praying over world leaders and issues concerning the world, then read this book!

 

 

“I received this book for free from The Booketeria/ Charisma House for this review”.

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of ‘Til Heaven Invades Earth, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Til-Heaven-Invades-Earth-Principles/dp/1621362906

 

http://www.christianbook.com/heaven-invades-principles-about-praying-others/cindy-trimm/9781621362906/pd/362900?item_code=WW&netp_id=1127046&event=ESRCG&view=details

You Are Anointed for This!: Walk in Confidence, Boldness, and Authority By Judy Jacobs Book Review

 

In You Are Anointed for This, Judy Jacobs imparted readers with the importance of building the foundation and knowledge of the God given anointing on believers lives. Judy Jacobs explained the critical area of understanding the phrase, “Then, God said, “Let there be” (Genesis 1:3). When God spoke the world into existence, He was basically commanding the angels and the world to form in the precise way and design that he envisioned. Next, God made Adam and Eve and gave them authority of every animal and the land. God instructed them to also multiply and reproduce. Through Jesus, we have God given authority and the same power that raised Christ from the grave lives inside of us. Judy Jacobs pointed out that our words have implausible power, as God illustrated, in the beginning of Creation. Preceding, Judy Jacobs reminded readers to recall when God declared to Abraham and Sarah that they will have many descendants and in the natural, they were both too old to have children. When Sarah overhead God telling Abraham, she laughed and doubted the spoken Word. But God… Ultimately, we know that in the end, God fulfilled this promise and they had a son and countless descendants. Judy Jacobs used this story to describe to readers why they must not laugh at what God has spoken over their lives. Believers must be ready and they must proclaim like Mary, let it be.

 

Judy Jacobs has had her own share of personal anointed and let it be moments in her ministry and her recording career. She revealed a story about how fear almost stopped her from ministering to 600,000 people in Nigeria. She was terrified and she believed that Israel Houghton, Mary Mary, and other artists had more influence and more anointing on their lives. But all of this was lies from the devil, trying to make her stop preaching and singing God filled praise songs. She had to declare that she was anointed because of the power of Christ living inside her. It’s also important to note and remember that anointing isn’t just for popular artists and preachers, we are all anointed to perform in the area Christ has called us to reach people for His Kingdom.

 

My favorite story that Judy Jacobs publicized was the announcement of expecting their first baby after a year of hard trying. They were later dismayed to learn that she had a miscarriage. They were beyond devastated and heartbroken over the loss of their child. They were lying in bed weeping and holding on to each other, when her husband decided they need to watch Christian programing. Bishop T.D. Jakes was on TV, and he declared he had a word for someone tonight that. He said, “something had died…and your enemy has told you that you will never sing again, preach again, or smile again. But God wants you to know that death is not the end” (Page 174). They were changed and they believed the word and Bishop Jakes stated that they must stand up and praise God. They walked around the house telling the devil that it isn’t over and praised God’s Holy name. They decided to plant a seed and they started giving to ministries. Six months later, they were expecting again and they had a healthy baby. They also have two children. The devil didn’t win! This is also something that I am believing God for right now, that I would meet my spouse, and we would be blessed with having and adopting children. It’s not over!

 

I would recommend this astonishing book especially to anyone who is doubting that they are anointed to do extraordinary things for God. This book has shown me that I am in fact, anointed with gifts and talents to enrich the Kingdom of God. I would also recommend this book to every adult who is seeking a book that will engulf your life and change your perspectives on anointment. I loved the story about how when Marilyn Hickery was preaching, and God gave her a Word for Judy Jacobs and a few others. The Word changed Judy’s life and everything that Marilyn spoken years later, it has come to pass. This was inspiring in learning about the gift of prophetic words. One of my favorite things presented in the book in the form of a list was about the many different Biblical characters and how they were anointed. I immensely connected with the features at the end of each chapter that was entitled, “let it be to me…” This facet was enlightening and encouraging and gave me tremendous peace of my anointing. I am anointed for this! You are too! If you are longing to comprehend more about being anointed, then look no further and read this book!

 

 

“I received this book for free from The Booketeria/ Charisma House for this review”.

 

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of You Are Anointed for This!, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/You-Are-Anointed-This-Confidence/dp/1621362825

 

http://www.christianbook.com/anointed-this-walk-confidence-boldness-authority/judy-jacobs/9781621362821/pd/362821?item_code=WW&netp_id=1127044&event=ESRCG&view=details

Stand Up and Fight Back: How to Take Authority Over Satan and Win By Ken Abraham Book Review

 

In Stand Up and Fight Back, Ken Abraham guides readers into fighting against the schemes of the enemy and our adversary, satan and his demons. He pointed out that satan isn’t going to bow down and get scared and leave us alone just because we articulate him to back off. He publicized that Christians must reply fully on God’s assistance and seek him first. Then we have to take our direct position and comprehend our authority in the power and blood of Jesus Christ. Only then will the devil tremble and flee. To try and conquer the devil without God’s presence, power, and strength is one of the foolish things that we can do. One of the devil’s favorite schemes is to deceive believers into sinning and eating the forbidden fruit. Because once we eat the forbidden fruit this unlocks the opportunity for satan to advance a stronghold over our lives.  
 

One of my favorite quotes was, “Multitudes of Christians admit to being in bondage to feelings, thoughts, and actions they know are incompatible with their faith. They feel strongly, irresistibly drawn toward evil, often compulsively repeating sins that repulse them, yet against which they feel powerless. Often this bondage can be traced to one of two area: sexual immorality or rebellion against spiritual authority (especially parental authority). Frequently it involves both” (Page 7).  
 

One of my favorite stories shared in this book was the story about a young woman named Beth. At the young age of thirteen, she was the kind of girl that was determined to have an active dating. Ultimately this lead to her engaging in having multiple sexual partners. Next, she also became addicted to drugs and drinking alcohol. When she turned sixteen, she was abused sexually, physically, and verbally by a young man and he would repeatedly play with her emotions and her mind. He would dump her one day and then be begging her to take him back and she willingly would. Like most parents, watching their beloved daughter being mistreated, they were beside themselves and confused on how to handle the situation. They took advanced measures and grounded Beth but she belligerently kept rebelling against her parent’s authority. She would sneak out of the house and go to her boyfriend’s house and she would return high and bruised. One day when her father was dropping her off at school, her boyfriend and a gang of boys surrounded the vehicle and threaten to kill him if he didn’t leave his daughter alone and let her live her own life. What happened next was truly heartbreaking, one night after her boyfriend was extremely wasted, he passed her around to his buddies and they all forcefully raped her. In the early morning hours, they dropped her off at her house and drove off laughing about what they had done to an innocent young girl. Her father was furious and he ready to take action against the boys and call the police. But Beth refused to press charges against the boys. She finally agreed to follow her parent’s guidance and she talked with their minister, Pastor Reynolds. The pastor had a vast knowledge in understanding spiritual warfare and demon oppression. He claimed that Beth’s sexual immorality opened the door to allowing demonic presences to gain a stronghold in her life. Pastor Reynolds gathered a team of prayer warriors to assist in delivering Beth from the demonic influencing in her life. Everyone was instructed to repent for their actions and sins that they have committed and to ask for forgiveness and to receive grace. They began to rebuke satan and his demons in the name of Jesus and her facial expressions changed. Beth declared that they couldn’t have her and the demons stated that they wouldn’t let go. As we all know that was a demon uttering that he wasn’t leaving without a fight. They also found out she was wearing a necklace and bracelet that her boyfriend gave her that had demonic spirits living in it. The demons fought harder when she tried to remove them. Finally, she was incredibly set free after she told the devil that she didn’t want him, sex, drugs, or alcohol, and his evil ways. This is only one amazingly story displayed in this book and there are many more shocking examples of demonic forces in someone’s life. This story had me on the edge and it made me realize that we must be extremely careful to not let satan set up a stronghold in our lives.  
 

I immensely loved how Ken Abraham reinforced that believers should be aware of the devil and his army of demons, but it’s also crucial to keep it in balance. Christians don’t have be looking for the devil in every corner of the street and be obsessed that everything could be a symbol of satan. I liked how he reminded readers to remember that the devil isn’t omnipresent or omniscient. Lucifer is a fallen archangel and he isn’t God. Our loving Creator is the only one who is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. It’s viral to recall that God is in complete control and He has the final authority and He has the immeasurable power and He will one day defeat all the demons. Shout unto God with a voice of triumph! Praise be to God!  
 

I would recommend this life changing paperback book to every single Christian professing believer. Be prepared that this book, as you can tell, isn’t a nice light reading, it’s going to change your perception on spiritual warfare. I encourage readers to mindfully read the pages of this book and let the concepts of this book to impact how they fight against the demonic influences that they encounter. I learnt numerous ways in which we allow the devil easy access to gain a stronghold in our lives. It was very informative in how to recognize the hidden effects sins can unknowably have on us and we could be opening the door to demonic forces and inviting them into our lives freely. The predominant area that caught be off guard was the massive effect that sexual immorality has distorted and restructured our generations into believing that pornography, multiple sex partners, affairs, homosexuality, rape, and premarital pregnancies aren’t destructive. When we know in God’s written Word that sex is meant for marriage and when we follow God’s instruction remarkable things occur. Ken Abraham cultivated that sexual sins is the area that permits satan an easy admission into building a stronghold in our lives. The book also taught me a prodigious deal about cults, the occult, witchcraft, and satanic trinkets. I immeasurably appreciated how Ken deliberated the background of Eve’s three mistakes in the Garden of Eden and the six consequences of Adam’s and Eve’s sins had on our every person since then. This book will greatly transform how you engage in spiritual warfare and it will strengthen how you fight the demonic adversaries present in your life!  

 

“I received this book for free from The Booketeria/ Charisma House for this review”.

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Stand Up and Fight Back, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1616389648

 

http://www.christianbook.com/stand-fight-take-authority-over-satan/ken-abraham/9781616389642/pd/389642?item_code=WW&netp_id=1020372&event=ESRCG&view=details

Master of the Impossible: How Our Extraordinary God Conquers Overwhelming Circumstances By Tish Hagee Tucker Book Review

In Master of the Impossible, Tish Hagee Tucker, the daughter of Pastor John Hagee has written an inspirational book to encourage readers in whatever storms of life they may currently be in. Tish Hagee Tucker writes about her compelling miraculous healing from cancer and how she overcame the numerous odds stacked against her. It all begin when she went to the doctor for having bronchitis and they ran some regular tests. A few weeks later when she was driving in her car her cell phone rang. The doctor called and told her the dreadful news that she had a type of cancer called leiomyosarcoma. Satan started planting the lies in her head and declared to her saying, “You just received a death sentence, so now what? I can control you through fear. Your life is over” (Page 3). She held onto the promises of God found in Psalm 27 and they brought her great comfort. These verses reminded her that God is her main strength and there is no need to fear the enemy. God decreed that He will set us on a firm solid rock to protect us from the schemes of the evil one. Leiomyosarcoma is a very rare form of cancer and the doctors stated, “If you survive the first five years of sarcoma treatment, your chances of living will drastically increase to 20 percent” (Page 37). Many family members and friends prompted praying and interceding on her behave to be healed from cancer. She had two small children at home and like most parents, she was very concerned about what the future held and if she would be there to see them grow up. That night she repented and confessed her sins and asked for forgiveness. Then she proceed to pray protection of her two girls and she asked God to grant her an execution to stay on earth if losing their mother would cause her daughters to miss their destinies. The book will take readers through her struggles and triumphs and you will see how God incredibly healed her from cancer and what is impossible for man is possible with God.

 

I immensely felt encouragement and I was awestruck when Tish shared a personal story about after she was diagnosed with cancer a divine person influenced her life in unlikely place. The person spoke a word from the Lord and she had no idea who this person even was. This part of the story is truly powerful that it will give you cold chills and it was a magnificent reminder that God cares so much about His children and what they are going through. I was fascinated by the appendix of the book that contained about thirty pages worth of scriptures from every book of the Bible where readers could conquer whatever situation that was their impossible in life. If readers will speak out these verses and mediate on them, they will have an effective defense strategy against satan and his lies.

 

I would recommend this phenomenal book especially to anyone who is seeking healing from a terrible diagnosis and maybe even the doctors have given you a zero percent survival rate, this book would be a fantastic encouragement to you! I loved how Tish reassured her readers that God is no respecter of persons and He can certainly still heal you from whatever sickness you may be up against. I would also recommend this book to anyone whose marriage is on the verge of a getting a divorce, God is more than able to mend your broken hearts and you can recover what the enemy has stolen from you. If you’re recently lost your job or you’re having a hard time making ends meet, this book enclosed a few examples of how God came through and unexpectedly provided for families who needed God’s provision and they will persuade you to look unto God. The book did an outstanding job on witnessing to readers on the importance of trusting in God and remembering that He is all powerful and whatever storms we have to encounter in life, He is always there. If you’re looking for an astonishing book to assist and guide you on your transition through the difficult storms of your life, then you need to read this one!

 

“I received this book for free from The Booketeria/ Charisma House for this review”.

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Master of the Impossible, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Impossible-Extraordinary-Overwhelming-Circumstances/dp/1621362175

 

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=362173

Mission of Mercy: Allowing God to Use You to Make a Difference in Others By Nancy Alcorn Book Review

In Mission of Mercy, Nancy Alcorn was very transparent in sharing the details of her rough childhood and what lead her to founding Mercy Ministries. Nancy Alcorn minored in social services, psychology, and criminal justice in college. At the time, she didn’t know that she would be using all of these background skills in helping young women in an organization that she began. Mercy Ministries helps thirteen to twenty-eight years old women that struggle with eating disorders, cutting, sexual abuse, drug addiction, suicidal victims, and pregnant teenagers. They take in young women for a period of six months in their homes around the United States and they have a few homes overseas. They guide them in learning about God, and they assist them in healing from their past, and they instill hope back into these young women’s lives. An enormous point Nancy reminds readers of there is a story behind every single person and we’re not called to be the judge over their life. Instead we’re supposed to love them and display compassion. The book included many personal transformation stories that Mercy has contributed to in the journey of freedom of these women.

 

Nancy Alcorn has to endure pain in her own life. One day at school, she remembered being called out of class by the principal assistant. She noticed that her one brother and her three sisters were all heading down the hallway to the office. They were all waiting to be picked up from school by their aunt. She recalled that thirty minutes early, she heard sirens and it was very rare for their small town. She felt that something terrible has happened and she worried it was her parents or her little sister, Beverly. While she waited for her aunt to arrive, she kept replaying in her mind how she treated her little sister the night before. She was practicing basketball and didn’t want to be bothered and she called her sister a brat and told her to get lost. She heard Beverly crying herself to sleep. Little did, Nancy know the horrible events that would unfold the next day. When they finally got home, her mom’s sister explained to the children what happened. Her dad was on the tractor and it got stuck and her mom helped pull the tractor with the truck. Her dad had Beverly on the tractor with him. The tractor and the truck jackknifed and her body was crushed between the steering wheel and his chest. Beverly was killed instantly and her dad broke all of his ribs due to the dramatic force. Nancy Alcorn revealed her struggle with her fears of losing more people that she truly cared about. During the next few years, she also lost her pastor and his wife in a car accident, then her boyfriend was killed because he was drinking drunk. Lost was following her around and she had trouble coping and she didn’t understand why God was allowing all these bad things to happen to the people she loved. Her past gave her the building blocks to where she is today. She also admitted to receiving Christian counseling to help her process her emotions and feelings.

 

The book also had an additional appendix in the book that contained more stories from Mercy Ministries graduates. Throughout the stories, the readers get to read and experience in their own words what these girls have been through. The stories are very real and eye opening in the healing process and the hope they found in Christ.

 

I would recommend this magnificent life captivating book to anyone who is needing some inspiration and encouragement from others people’s stories. This book will help readers to understand that judging others in their struggles and challenges they have encountered in their life isn’t supportive. There were countless stories about women who struggled with depression, had suicidal thoughts, were bulimic or anorexic, some were raped, others grieving, drug addictions, and some were pregnant and alone. The stories the young women presented in this book has been through is truly heartbreaking and appalling. I immensely enjoyed reading about how Mercy Ministries is serving our teenage women in discovering the freedom that Christ offers and they show them the love of Christ. I also believe that they should be a ministry like Mercy Ministries for young men as well that is needing extra help in obtaining liberty. Nancy Alcorn is an astonishing writer and I loved how she described her own personal pain especially when it was difficult. If you’re looking for an excellent book written to help teenagers and adults, then this is a great one on showing mercy to others in dealing with their pain from their past!

 

“I received this book for free from The Booketeria/ Charisma House for this review”.

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Mission of Mercy, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

 http://www.amazon.com/Mission-Mercy-Allowing-Difference-Others/dp/1616389621  

 

http://www.christianbook.com/mission-mercy-discovering-behind-help-hurting/nancy-alcorn/9781616389628/pd/389628

 

Book Trailer:

 

 

The Return of Cassandra Todd: A Novel By Darrel Nelson Book Review

 

Turner Caldwell lives in Lakewood, Colorado and works as a handyman for a local motel and he is a college student. One day, a former high school classmate, Cassandra Todd arrived at the motel where he works. Cassandra was an attractive cheerleader in high school who Turner secretly liked. Turner Caldwell’s childhood pain is tempting to resurface and he will have to deal with the past before he can attain a better future. Turner like most kids had to endure getting tormented by bullies in high school. The main bully, Brad Duncan tripped Turner in the cafeteria and caused Turner to do a face drive into his pancakes and syrup. Brad then gave him the nickname, Pancake Turner and the name stuck throughout high school. Turner felt so embarrassed by this incidence and he hated how everyone made fun of him and pitied him. All he wanted was acceptance and instead he was criticized. Cassandra Todd also saw the entire scene unfold.

 

Cassandra Todd is married to an abusive controlling husband, Brad. He worked in the construction industry and he built houses until in 2008, the economy crashed. Shortly after, Cassandra got pregnant with their first child, Justin. Brad slowly started changing and his tempter was getting out of control. Brad eventually started to get to rough and began pushing and shoving her, then it escalated to him hitting her and leaving bruises. Brad enjoyed being in charge and he checked their bank account regularly to keep an eye on his wife’s spending. He lost his cool and pushed her when she bought a cheap outfit for their son. The bruises and the beating were getting worst and she said she was going to leave him. He instigated and threatened to have their son taken away from her. One of her biggest fears was that Brad was going to hurt Justin. Finally, she left him in the middle of the night with her son and arrived at the motel and reconnected with Turner.

 

Turner is torn in helping her and is struggling to deal and heal from the old wounds of bullying. Brad has hired two thugs to find his wife whereabouts and he is desperate to find their son. Turner stepped up to the plate and is determined to protect Cassandra and Justin. Will they make it out alive? Or will they be captured or worst killed?

 

I would recommend this suspense filled novel to anyone who is looking for a book that will capture your attention. As I was reading the book, I felt like I was living the country adventure alongside Turner, Cassandra, and Justin. Darrel Nelson did an excellence job at writing the chapters in thrilling details. I immensely loved the plot and storyline because it covered real life everyday problems that some people having to face tough things like spouse abuse and bullying. The book showed the importance of protecting our children from harm and I believe it can offer encouragement to people who are facing abuse and bullying right now. The book showed how the love of Christ can make an impact on someone’s life. Cassandra believed in God and prayed with her son throughout the book. Turner had trouble praying to God when he still blamed God for letting his mother die from cancer. The book at times made me very upset and I wanted to jump in the novel and shield Justin and Cassandra from the physical and emotional abuse from Brad myself. The father and husband almost came out of me (and I’m not a dad or a husband yet) and it’s hard for me to understand how someone could hurt an innocent child and their wife who they said their vows to. But I know it happens every single day. The book is raw and real for today’s times and readers will be able to relate to the characters and the storyline. If you’re looking for a new novel to read, then read this one! This is the best fiction novel, I have read in a while it kept me engaged and I didn’t want the novel to end. I wish the author would make the novel into a series.

 

“I received this book for free from Charisma House/ Realms for this review”.

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of The Return of Cassandra Todd, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Return-Cassandra-Todd-Darrel-Nelson/dp/1621360210  

 

http://www.christianbook.com/the-return-of-cassandra-todd/darrel-nelson/9781621360216/pd/360212

 
 

Live Before You Die: Wake Up to God’s Will for Your Life By Daniel Kolenda Book Review

Live Before You Die is written to encourage readers to follow and pursue God’s vision and will for their life. Daniel Kolenda stated that God created every single person as a one of a kind masterpiece and he has a dream for you to complete that only you can do. He pointed out that in Psalms 139:13 that God knitted each one of us in our mother’s womb and we’re are all unique. Daniel Kolenda revealed that God’s will for us won’t go against His written word. A gigantic problem some of struggle with is we are constantly fighting against what God wants us to do for His kingdom. Obeying God is the best solution to achieving what He has in mind for us. God gives each person special gifts and talents to accomplish His will for their life. It’s also important to remember that we don’t need to judge others who have different gifts from ours.

 

The next section of the book contains, “Five Secrets to Discovering God’s Will”. The first imperative one is seeking and doing what the Kingdom needs you to do for God’s glory. Daniel Kolenda described the meaning behind Matthew 6:33. This verse means if you are doing what God has instructed you to do for His kingdom he will add these things to you. If you seek His kingdom first he will lead you to the job you’re supposed to have, the person you’re meant to marry, guide you where to live, and the right college to attend. Living in God’s will is the easiest way to finding your purpose and meaning in life.

 

The next part of the book is entitled, “Five Enemies of God’s Will for Your Life”. One of the five enemies is avoiding making excuses that prevent us from doing what God has called you to do. Daniel Kolenda shared that some people like to wait on God and they’re times to do that. But sometimes He’s waiting on us to take action. Another excuse many people are using is that they don’t have enough money to follow God’s will for their life right now. People are often in favor of using that excuse I’m not talented enough, I don’t have any experience, I didn’t go to college, and I’m not as smart as other people. But all these excuses are only holding us back from God’s will for our lives.

 

One of my favorite quotes was, “Begin to move in the direction God is leading. Even God can’t steer a parked car! Get moving for God, and you will find that He will begin to guide your steps and direct your path.” (Page 140-150).

 

I would recommend this delightful book on seeking and pursuing God’s will for your life to anyone is unsure what they are truly living for. The book will provide readers with a sensing that God has a calling for them to complete for each person he has created. No person was a mistake everyone has talents and gifts that God wants to use for His kingdom purposes. He has an everlasting love for each one of us and He only wants the best for us. This book has gigantic potential to guide readers into finding God’s will and it will also warn readers into not buying into the excuses. The tips presented in this book are life changing. The book contained tons of scriptures to mediate on in each chapter on how Biblical characters found their true calling. The book also contained QR codes that link to videos to dig deeper that can be scanned with your smartphone. If you’re looking for a resource on discovering God’s will for your life, then this book can greatly change your life! The book will lead you as you finish your destiny and arrive face to face with your Creator!

 

“I received this book for free from Charisma House/ Passio for this review”.

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Live Before You Die, then check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Live-Before-You-Die-Wake/dp/1616387165

 

http://www.christianbook.com/before-wake-gods-will-your-life/daniel-kolenda/9781616387167/pd/387167#curr

Check out the book trailer:

 

 

Check out Live Before You Die Official Website:

http://livebeforeyoudiebook.com/

It’s Not Over: How to Keep Moving Forward When You Feel You’re Losing the Fight By Ricardo Sanchez Book Review

Ricardo Sanchez is a leading worship leader in the Atlanta residence and the book is based on the song entitled, “It’s Not Over”. The best-selling song was co-written with Israel Houghton.  It’s Not Over is written to encourage readers to not let the press of trials to discourage them and cause them to quit, when the pressure of life comes against them. He has experienced a personal situation that has forever changed his entire life and like most people he never saw the attack coming. He was travelling to Jacksonville, Florida on a ministry trip and when he stepped off the plane his phone was bombarded with urgent messages telling him to call home. The text and phone messages were from pastors, friends, family, and most importantly his wife, Jeanette. He called his wife and his entire world came crashing down, while he was standing in an airport. She promptly told him that there had been an accident involving their son. Their son, Josiah was at a friend’s house and he dove into the shallow end of the swimming pool and he hit his head on the bottom of the pool. They had to pull him out of the water because he couldn’t feel anything. It was difficult for Ricardo to be so far away from his wife and son when they needed him for support. He decided that during the waiting part of a flight back to Atlanta, he would worship and praise God for who he was and his mighty power that he had control over everything.  He had to silence the voices from the enemy that his son would never be able to walk or talk again. The book enclosed many scriptural examples to assist readers that are going through their own trials.

 

One important aspect that Ricardo pointed out was, don’t let bitterness grow and affect your perception and mind-set. It’s easy to become jealous when someone gets blessed with something we have been praying and believing for. We have to wait on the Lord’s timing and completion for our lives. You may be feeling like he isn’t listening, he is ignoring you, he left you during the storm, or that he doesn’t care about your needs and problems. But this is a lie! He hasn’t forgotten about what you’re been faithfully praying for and he hasn’t left your side.

 

I would recommend this book to anyone who believes their life is over because of a failure or mistake they have made. It would also encourage readers to not ever declare and say that their marriage is over or that no one would want to marry them. Maybe you have recently lost your job or your business went bankrupt and you don’t see a way to provide for your family. Maybe you’re been praying for divine healing to take place because you know that God is still able to heal. You must remember that “it isn’t over until God say so”. The word “it” can mean many different things to different people - apply this statement where it is needed. I especially love the behind the song meaning that the book entails. The song and book has inspired me to keep waiting and when the press in life comes to stand firm. I immensely enjoyed the last chapter that contained personal stories shared to remind readers that “it’s not over until God says so”. The stories ranged from people on the verge on a divorce, people struggling to pay their bills, healing from sickness, and many more. This book will impact your life and you will be encouraged that it’s not over!

 

“Charisma House/ Passio has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.”

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of It's Not Over check it out on Amazon.com or Christian Book.com:

 

 

http://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-Over-moving-forward/dp/1616388331/

 

 

http://www.christianbook.com/not-over-moving-forward-losing-fight/ricardo-sanchez/9781616388331/pd/388330?item_code=WW&netp_id=987290&event=ESRCG&view=details