Revealing Jesus: A 365 Day Devotional By Darlene Zschech Book Review

Revealing Jesus is a 365 day devotional that is beautifully written in a style that encourages the reader daily in their walk with God. Each day has a scripture verse and a short story describing the ways and concepts presented in scripture. There is also a daily prayer that is meant to be prayed to assist you in your prayer life. The month’s chapters are built on the notion of some of Darlene’s song lyrics or classic hymns. Some of the day’s reading are included, “Press On”, “Alive and Active”, “Worship His Name”, “My Witness in Rome”, and many more. One month even comprised the different names of God and the meaning behind them. The last month of each day also contained classic devotions from Oswald Chambers, A.W. Tozer, Henry Van Dyke, and more.

 

I would recommend this life changing devotional to every single believer who is seeking a new devotional to enhance their relationship with their loving Creator. This book will draw you closer to Jesus and you will feel connected to the words written in this tender devotional. I immensely love how Darlene Zschech dove into the scripture context and had a short story that reinforced the meaning of the verse and how to apply it to your life. I also really enjoyed the colorful design of the book and it made it look friendly and inviting to open it. If you’re looking for a wonderful devotional to read, then read this one!

 

 

“I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers book review bloggers program.”      

 

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Revealing Jesus, check it out on Amazon.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Revealing-Jesus-A-365-Day-Devotional/dp/076421120X

 

 

31 Days to Happiness: How to Find What Really Matters in Life By David Jeremiah Book Review

In 31 Days to Happiness, David Jeremiah explored the Biblical insights into Ecclesiastes and the life of King Solomon. He wrote this book in order to guide readers into learning the important concepts of being happy and finding contentment in everyday life. He looked into relationships, money, leadership, perils of the tongue, unfair justice, impressions of life’s meaning, governments, and wisdom.

 

In one of the chapters, he covered the truths found in Ecclesiastes 5:10-20 and how money impacts our quality of life. For example, the more money we currently have doesn’t make us everlasting happy because we are always striving for more financial success. At our core, a number of people still believe more money will make us happier. But Solomon warned us that a rich man will have difficulty sleeping because they are trying to save and protect what they have. David Jeremiah pointed out that money is a gift from God meant to be enjoyed but we have to remember that it’s from Him and money isn’t supposed to control us.

 

One of my favorite chapters was, “When 1 + 1 > 2”. David Jeremiah revealed the crucial need of investing in relationships and the dangers of walking alone. In Ecclesiastes 4:10, we are told that if someone walks alone and falls, who will be there to help him. He shared that we all need each other and we’re not called to be the lone ranger and we’re made for relationships. David Jeremiah made a wonderful observation about being a true friend, you must follow Solomon’s advice and be friendly.

 

I would recommend this magnificent book on discovering the Biblical truths found in Ecclesiastes on happiness from Solomon’s life. I immensely enjoyed how David Jeremiah included a number of real life stories to enrich the chapters overall contents. I appreciated how the author was very open with his battle with cancer and how people would ask him how a pastor could get the disease. He was very vulnerable in admitting that even godly people dealt with sickness. I also liked how he showed that God still had a great plan for his life. I strongly believe that if readers would follow the advice and scripture passages, we would recognize what isn’t making us happy and why it isn’t working. Then we would also see what will make us truly happy. If you’re seeking a book on finding happiness and contentment, then read this book for 31 days and watch your life be changed!

 

"I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program."  

 

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of 31 Days to Happiness, check it out on Amazon.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/31-Days-To-Happiness-Matters/dp/0849921937

Heart of the Country: Sometimes to Go Forward, You Have to Go Back By Rene Gutteridge and John Ward Book Review

Heart of the Country is a novel about Faith and Luke Carraday, a young couple living in New York about to encounter trying times. Luke’s family is very wealthy and looks down on Faith because she isn’t wealthy and she hasn’t finished her college degree yet. Luke decided to set out from his dad and brother’s business, and he wanted to make a name for himself on his own. He bought into the Michov Brothers Company with his inheritance from his dad. Ultimately, Luke is arrested and charged with his connection in a Ponzi scheme. Faith fleets and returns back to her little hometown. She is warmly welcomed by her father but her sister is bitter and hurt by how Faith originally left. She is also torn and devastated by all of the lies Luke told her. She is debating throughout the novel if their marriage is worth saving and repairing. Luke and Faith is both considered prodigals who left their families to pursue their own ambitions. Will their marriage survive through the heartache and pain? Will the two prodigals return home before it’s too late?

 

I would recommend this delightful novel to anyone who enjoys reading books that contain romance, heartache, and trials. I immensely loved the plot and I loved how the author included a Christian spin on the content. I believed that the book was very relatable and believable. I liked the book’s message of moving forward, you have to deal with the past no matter how hard it is. My favorite character was Faith because she had to learn how to heal and forgive even when it was extremely difficult. I also liked how Luke had to recognize from his past mistakes and grow into a better man. I disliked how at times, it was sad but I understand why the author had to add that twist into the novel. I also liked how the book changed character perceptive throughout the novel and it enhanced the overall conspiracy. If you’re looking for a Faith filled book with an exciting plot, then read this one!

 

 

“Tyndale House Publishers/Tyndale Fiction has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book.”

  

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Heart of the Country, then check it out on Amazon.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Heart-Country-Rene-Gutteridge/dp/1414348290

 

 

Book Trailer:

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4DXfARALE8

Clear Winter Nights: A Journey into Truth, Doubt, and What Comes After By Trevin Wax Book Review

 

Clear Winter Nights is a novel that contains a story intertwined with Christian theology mixed in the plot. The main character, Chris is doubting his faith in God and what he actually truly believes. His college professor has contributed into his countless questions about is God really who He claims to be. He is also so torn that he calls off his engagement to fiancé, Ashley. He recently lost his grandmother and a few months later his grandfather, Gil has a stroke. He chose to move in with his grandfather to assist in his daily watch and care. His grandfather was also a pastor for many years. Gil and Chris debate and have major conversations about faith and God throughout the whole book.

 

I would recommend this brilliant book that enclosed theology throughout the story. I liked how Trevin Wax was very creative in presenting the message of Christianity. I immensely loved how he addressed many common questions that people have about having faith in God. I also loved the risky aspect of discussing homosexuality in the storyline and it was very eye-opening on how to still be friends if someone comes out. I also connected with the deep father wound that Chris had against his dad and I believe numerous people will be able to relate to. Overall, the book was a great read about someone who is doubting their faith in Christ and how they dealt with and overcame it. If you’re seeking a wonderful book on Christianity that is relevant in today’s times, then read this book!

 

“I received this copy of Clear Winter Nights for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review”.

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Clear Winter Nights, then check it out on Amazon.com:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Clear-Winter-Nights-Journey-Truth/dp/1601424949/

 

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Ephesians Bible Study Lesson Nine: Sit Down to Stand By Sue Edwards

 

Ephesians Lesson 9:

 

Theme: Sit Down to Stand

 

In Ephesians 6:10-17, Paul stated that believers are supposed to be strong in the Lord and this is where our strength and help comes from. Depending on our own ability is foolish thinking and it will only lead to failure. We’re told to put in the full armor of God where we can stand against the devil schemes and tactics. Christians are reminded that we aren’t fighting against flesh and blood but against the evil rulers and spirits of the hidden dark world.

 

It’s crucial for believers to put on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. Our shoes, we must put on the peace following from the goodness of God. The shield of faith is used to protect us from the arrows of the enemy. Next, we are instructed to put on the helmet of salvation. The sword of the Spirit is the written word of God. We are commanded to pray in the Spirit constantly and to be persistent in our prayers.  

 

I intensely hope that you will be joining us in this wonderful study of Ephesians by Sue Edwards! Together, we can learn more about Christ and God’s written Word. And also please check back each Friday on my blog through November 18 for more insights into the amazing study!

 

Check out Discover Together Series:

http://www.discovertogetherseries.com/

 

Join the discussion on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverTogetherSeries

 

If you would like to purchase a copy of Ephesians Bible Study, check it out on Amazon.com or Christianbook.com:

http://www.amazon.com/Ephesians-Discovering-Identity-Discover-Together/dp/0825443091/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353193859&sr=1-2&keywords=Ephesians+Sue+Edwards

 

http://www.christianbook.com/ephesians-discover-together-bible-study/sue-edwards/9780825443091/pd/443095?product_redirect=1&Ntt=443095&item_code=&Ntk=keywords&event=ESRCP

 

“Open Book Promotion/ Kregel Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for this study.”

 

Check out Ephesians Lesson 9 Video:

 

 

http://youtu.be/4MpRbUbATw8

Just One More Thing: Before You Leave Home By David Gudgel with Bernice Gudgel Book Review

About the book: This is the book we wish our parents gave us. Just One More Thing: Before You Leave Home is a packed guide to help young adults enter life on their own. In the book, the Gudgels use stories, perspectives, and dialogues to discuss 30 indispensable topics to help teens survive, including: worldview, financial challenges, use of time, career moves, moral dilemmas, sex, painful experiences, and spiritual life, among others. Written from a Biblical perspective, the book is more of a guide to making good decisions than a lecture on how to live., It's perfect for a parent and teen to go over together or to give as a thoughtful gift. This is a book they'll reference for years to come. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/qb47U   Meet the authors: Dave & Bernice Gudgel are committed to walking intentionally with God and helping others do the same. Bernice has a degree in Psychology and has focused her adult life on raising three kids and leading various ministries in the church where people can connect with God and each other. Dave is a pastor and teaches for Walk Thru the Bible. Learn more at: http://davidandbernice.com

Check out what others are saying:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/dgudgel

 

My Review:

I would highly recommend this magnificent book for every single parents or future parents. I would also endorse this book to teenagers and college students because it’s geared towards guiding teens in their next stage of life. I immensely connected with how transparent David and Bernice Gudgel were in sharing their own failures, success, and difficult decisions that had to be made in college. I loved how the authors covered a wide range of topics to help college aged students in transitioning. Some of my personal favorite topics was about: spending, debt, love, roommates, sex, abstinence, and drinking. These are just some things that college students will be facing and having to decide to choose wise or not. I extremely thought the last few chapters on practical tips concerning home stuff, your car, and safety matters was truly beneficial. I liked how the book contained questions and scripture verses to support the content and to encourage college students. It greatly reminded me and taught me a lot of practical tips that I believe most parents might tend to miss. This book would make a wonderful gift for any student entering college and it should be a required read for all students!

 

“I received the books for free from Litfuse Publicity Group/ CreateSpace for this review”.