Best Christian Self Help
In a moving example of unconditional love in difficult times, the Jesuit priest and bestselling author of Tattoos on the Heart , Gregory Boyle, shares what three decades of working with gang members in Los Angeles has taught him about faith, compassion, and the enduring power of kinship. In his first book, Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion , Gregory Boyle introduced us to Homeboy Industries, the largest gang-intervention program in the world . Now, after the successful expansion of Homeboy Industries, Boyle returns with Barking to the Choir to reveal how compassion is transforming the lives of gang members. It's written by Gregory Boyle, a Jesuit priest in Los Angeles who has worked with (and loved) gang-members for decades. “If you’re in the market for genuine inspiration, I urge you to read Barking to the Choir by Gregory Boyle, a book that shows what the platitudes of faith look like when they’re put into action.” —Ann Patchett. It is lovely and tough and tender beyond my ability to describe and left me in tears of both sorrow and laughter." "One of the bravest, most humane, heartbreaking, brilliant, and hopeful stories I’ve read in ages. Father Greg, the Gandhi of the Gangs, fills Tattoos with unquenchable soul force and down-to-earth love." Boyle somehow maintains an exuberant voice that celebrates the strength, compassion and humanity of people often demonized. Boyle intersperses his narratives about gang members and his work with them with theological and spiritual reflections from a variety of theologians, poets and other writers. By introducing book-buying, highly educated readers to people we may never otherwise encounter, Boyle aspires to "broaden the parameters of our kinship.'". Boyle approaches each person as a child of God and fully deserving of love and compassion.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It establishes the benchmark for whether we are living in the type of community which God intends. What is most inspiring is that the stories from the book are living accounts of a day at Homeboy Industries and the parish community of Delores Mission."
"With the turmoil in our world, our political environment, our treatment--indeed, often dismissal--of those "in the margins", this book is a must-read. Barking to the Choir: The Power of Radical Kinship is a book of profound, if not simple, wisdom. This learned man quotes many of the world's spiritual leaders who promote loving kindness, but I weep with his stories of the "homies" whose lives have touched and influenced Boyle's place on this earth. (p 84). - "There is nothing more essential, vital, and important than love and its carrier--tenderness--practiced in the present moment. By keeping it close, just right now, we are reminded to choose connection over alienation, kinship over self-absorption." (p 141). I plan to buy several copies of this book to share with friends, family, perhaps even strangers."
"A worthy follow up Tattoos on the Heart, this book continues to tell stories of Father Boyle and his involvement with gang members in Los Angeles."
"This is a highly entertaining and down to earth book."
"Best book I have read in a loooong time."
"Father Boyle's witty and inspirational insight into the source of gang life is continued on this book."
"A fantastic book."
"BUY THIS BOOK as no other author has this perspective on Gangs and that life...."
Licensed in over eighty-five languages, The Purpose Driven Life is far more than just a book; it is a guide to a spiritual journey. Living out the purpose you were created for moves you beyond mere survival and success to a life of significance—the life you were meant to live. Rick Warren is often called "America's most influential spiritual leader."
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"This is a very good read."
"I bought two of these with the read along book and passed to someone else that I wanted to share the experience with."
"Great read it is paper back with didn't bother me at all but great book."
"The New American Standard Version Bible I have has gone unread because of my inability to understand the language it is written in."
"This book gave insight and direction as to how a Christian can find his purpose in life."
"The Gospel of John will bring you to Christ and this book wil bring you to God."
In The Road Back to You Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile forge a unique approach―a practical, comprehensive way of accessing Enneagram wisdom and exploring its connections with Christian spirituality for a deeper knowledge of God and of ourselves. "Armed with delightful but incisive wit, Cron and Stabile help us explore our inner life by making the mystery of the Enneagram accessible. The Enneagram has absolutely changed my understanding of how to love the people in my life, deepened the quality of my marriage, and given me a vision for the person God designed me to be. "Cron and Stabile walk through the Enneagram's nine different personality types and their distinct ways of seeing the world, showing how each one has a potentially infinite number of expressions, strengths, and weaknesses. "Cron brings his witty, energetic voice to this collaboration with Stabile, a retreat director and expert on the Enneagram a system of personality typology with roots in Christian and Islamic mysticism. The Enneagram also counsels humility and acknowledges its own limits ('[The Enneagram] is not infallible or inerrant, ' writes Cron and Stabile) a welcome modesty in religious understanding today."
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I have read a lot of books on the Enneagram and this is the best! There's work involved...you can't just read this, it has to be a living breathing piece of work in your life."
"Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile's book "The Road Back to You" is a highly accessible and clear explanation of the Enneagram, a personality diagnostic tool that claims all human beings fall in to one of nine basic types: the challenger, peacemaker, perfectionist, helper, performer, romantic, investigator, loyalist, and enthusiast. Based on keen observation and centuries of study, the Enneagram conveys a way of understanding the self, both our strengths and weakness, our greatest gifts and deepest fears. The framework and much of the content are taken from Stabile's years of experience in teaching the Enneagram, and much of what I encountered in this book I had already heard in her "Know Your Number" workshop. In each chapter, Stabile and Cron outline basic characteristics of each type, allowing the reader to discern their own number based on self-knowledge and experience. Then, they explain how this number may experience their world and how their unique personality can lead them to discover a deep sense of God-given meaning as part of the human family. This particular account of the Enneagram has very little to say about our creation in the divine image, or the implications of sin, and how those two dynamics inform our present human condition or situation. Cron and Stabile may be suggesting that the Enneagram is a God-given tool, and thus a guide or "road" for us to rediscover our true selves, but no biblical grounds are given for this claim. Nevertheless, as an IVP resource, I expect more engagement with Scripture, and a greater degree of biblical justification for claims found within. But I believe this is because we live in a world of confused and disparate identities, with individuals searching for something to grasp for, to hold on to, to put one's faith in. But I would encourage any reader to maintain a level of healthy skepticism, and to remember that the Enneagram does not have comprehensive and exhaustive explanatory power."
"Enneagram is so useful for appreciating the variety and beauty of individual development and style."
"They are careful with their knowledge and seem truly to have a heart for serving and helping people to know themselves better."
"I absolutely loved this book, it was so eye opening."
"Fantastic book read by one of the authors who does an amazing job."
"This book has done more to change me than any other tool in all my years of Christian living."
"This is one of the better self assessment books I have read."
Best Christian Women's Issues
Because with every new strategy you build, you’re turning the fiercest battles of life into precise strikes against him and his handiwork, each one infused with the power of God’s Spirit. New York Times bestselling author Priscilla Shirer, widely known for her international speaking, teaching, and writing ministries, brings her new role from the 2015 film War Room into the real lives of today’s women, addressing the topics that affect them most: renewing their passion , refocusing their identity , negotiating family strife, dealing with relentless regrets , navigating impossible schedules , succeeding against temptation , weathering their worst fears , uprooting bitterness , and more. Each chapter exposes the enemy’s cruel, crafty intentions in all kinds of these areas, then equips and encourages you to write out your own personalized prayer strategies on tear-out sheets you can post and pray over yourself and your loved ones on a regular basis. Priscilla Shirer is a Bible teacher and conference speaker with a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Earlier in 2015, my husband and I separated and I found myself contemplating divorce as the year neared its cyclic close. I looked in the mirror and I was emotionally and spiritually disheveled from the harsh beating inflicted by gusty winds of uncertainty and icy storms of confusion. I sat alone in my small, one bedroom apartment and, through tears, opened the pages of one of the most life changing books I’ve read. Only moments into the pages, a shift began to occur in my thinking and suddenly, I felt a surge of strength. To hell with you, devil, became the new message ringing in my ears as I began to take captive every defeating and disheartening thought that had occupied my mind prior to opening the Spirit saturated pages of Shirer’s book. It wasn’t written for the sweet child who prays innocently for a piece of candy after dinner. So if that’s also you…if you’ve lost your fight, forgotten your position of victory, or feel your candle is about to burn out, allow me to recommend Priscilla Shirer’s Fervent."
"I was so excited to see a new book on prayer by Priscilla Shirer, Fervent: A Woman's Battle Plan to Serious, Specific and Strategic Prayer. She then covers nine specific categories she believes we should be addressing in our prayer life: our focus, our identity, our family, our past, our fears, our purity, our pressures, our hearts and our relationships. This is always my pet peace about Christian books - having to flip back and forth within the book or between the book and the Bible to check out scriptures. If you want help with your prayer life, I am sure there are plenty of resources that may help you. I really think it has the tools you need to enrich, enhance and even jump start your prayer life. A copy of this book was given to me for free in exchange for my honest review."
"This is a five star book."
"Priscilla has written a book on prayer that is as practical as they come. It is kryptonite to the enemy and to all his ploys against you....His reign of terror stops here."
"Processing the fullness of the book."
Best Christian Personal Growth
Jesus Calling is a devotional filled with uniquely inspired treasures from heaven for every day of the year. “I’ve given this beautiful book to so many people I love, and I’ve come back to it myself again and again. “Jesus Calling has been such an inspirational tool in my daily walk with Jesus.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"The scripture at the bottom of the page is already written out for you, you don't have to go searching unless you want to read it in a different version, which is good too."
"This is much nicer than the original version and has the scriptures quoted instead of just the references."
"I gave my last one away and ordered this one but it doesn't have the scripture references typed out like my last one."
"This Jesus Calling book is for anyone who needs that special reminder of God’s peace and grace in any situation that pops up or tries to linger in our lives."
"The only thing I hadn't noticed before I purchased it was that the scripture references aren't written out."
"Hi, I have purchased 5 copies for friends who love to read positive scriptures from the bible written in a personal way!"
"The words received by the author after she would pray and then wait and listen for the Lord's words."
"If you are looking for the perfect devotional this one is it."
Best Christian Theological Anthropology
Dissolve the distractions of ego to find our authentic selves in God In his bestselling book Falling Upward, Richard Rohr talked about ego (or the False Self) and how it gets in the way of spiritual maturity. Shows how to navigate spiritually difficult terrain with clear vision and tools to uncover our True Selves Written by Father Richard Rohr, the bestselling author of Falling Upward Examines the fundamental issues of who we are and helps us on our path of spiritual maturity. Q&A with Robert Rohr, author of Immortal Diamond: The Search for Our True Self. When I use the term False Self, I mean that it is the self we manufacture and adopt to find our identity in the world—our jobs, our occupations, our religion, our culture, our sources of status. How do the concepts of True Self and False Self relate to the questions you explored in Falling Upward ? If you don’t find or recover your True Self, you remain in the first half of life forever, as many people do. Your True Self is the only part of you that really has access to the big questions, things like love, suffering, death, God. But once you make contact with your True Self, there's a natural correspondence between who you are and who God is. When you discover your True Self, it's very easy to recognize the presence of God. It’s not some kind of magical transaction that takes place between you and God, but the death of the passing self, the one you have created for yourself. In other words, once you have experienced the little losses and failings or falling upwards, you know at a deep level that you’ve been there before and none of it is going to kill you. If you don't learn how to die early, ahead of time, you spend your life avoiding all failure, humiliation, loss, and you're not ready for the last death. It may be necessary, but if you are living in that world, that revolving hall of mirrors, you so get enchanted with these reflections of what everybody thinks you are or wants you to be that you forget or you never discover who you really are before you did anything right or anything wrong, before you had your name, your reputation, your education, your family, your culture. The metaphor immortal diamond came from a poem by the Jesuit Englishman, Gerard Manley Hopkins. The last lines of this beautiful poem say, “I am all at once what Christ is, since he was what I am, and/ This Jack, joke, poor potsherd, patch, matchwood, immortal diamond,/ Is immortal diamond.” When I first wanted to clarify this notion of True Self/False Self, I immediately said that's going to be the, the metaphor. I think it names what I'm talking about, something that's strong, true, clear, but hidden within us.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Also, this book arrived in top condition with fast shipping--thank you to the seller!"
"To observe both the False Self & the True Self in the way Richard Rohr describes is like a ton of bricks being removed from my shoulders."
"An important reading for anyone looking to move out the foibles of the lower self as well as the strictures of culture, especially pertaining to the Christian church, toward an expansive view of a higher self in loving relationship with God."
"Spiritual gift for the heart."
"Another of Richard Rohr's wonderfully insightful and inspired books."
"I have just started reading it and I am finding much to ponder and many spiritual insights."
"A culmination of Rohr's work on seeing past the dualism into which western religious thought has descended. A delightful trip into the true beauty of spiritual life."
"Great book."
Best Christian Business & Professional Growth
New York Times bestselling author of the forthcoming God's Wisdom for Navigating Life Timothy Keller shows how God calls on each of us to express meaning and purpose through our work and careers. After her CEO roles at One Touch Systems and Pensare, Redeemer Presbyterian Church recruited Katherine to lead the church’s efforts in marketplace ministry, now called the Center for Faith & Work, which has grown to serve more than two thousand people a year.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"He invites the reader to find his purpose in joining in on what God is doing for the world through your company."
"Every Good Endeavor reminded me that I was created for good work and there is glory to the Lord that comes from excellence in my work."
"Before starting this book I had a misconception that ministry glorifies God more than work, but Keller shows that God is glorified in all things."
"Every one should read this book to help us all understand that our vocation is for the Kingdom regardless of what it is (as long as it is not sinful)."
"Timothy Keller addresses the stereotypes and provides an uplifting, Biblical view of doing well, setting a positive example and just plain getting more out of life."
"I was on my way to a meeting and I put my book down on the secretary's desk to sign in and she looked at me... "Funny that you put that book there?""
"While I may still write that book one day, as a second career Pastor coming from the world of retail, I am thrilled to offer this book to any of my parishioners who are seeking a deeper understanding of how their work relates to the work of God in the world. In fact, after reading it, some have joined together to start an inter-church study on the topic of work and are starting with Keller's book."
"One of our all time favorites...have read it multiple times myself, given as gift."
Best Christian Stewardship
New York Times bestselling author of the forthcoming God's Wisdom for Navigating Life Timothy Keller shows how God calls on each of us to express meaning and purpose through our work and careers. After her CEO roles at One Touch Systems and Pensare, Redeemer Presbyterian Church recruited Katherine to lead the church’s efforts in marketplace ministry, now called the Center for Faith & Work, which has grown to serve more than two thousand people a year.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"He invites the reader to find his purpose in joining in on what God is doing for the world through your company."
"Every Good Endeavor reminded me that I was created for good work and there is glory to the Lord that comes from excellence in my work."
"Before starting this book I had a misconception that ministry glorifies God more than work, but Keller shows that God is glorified in all things."
"Every one should read this book to help us all understand that our vocation is for the Kingdom regardless of what it is (as long as it is not sinful)."
"Timothy Keller addresses the stereotypes and provides an uplifting, Biblical view of doing well, setting a positive example and just plain getting more out of life."
"I was on my way to a meeting and I put my book down on the secretary's desk to sign in and she looked at me... "Funny that you put that book there?""
"While I may still write that book one day, as a second career Pastor coming from the world of retail, I am thrilled to offer this book to any of my parishioners who are seeking a deeper understanding of how their work relates to the work of God in the world. In fact, after reading it, some have joined together to start an inter-church study on the topic of work and are starting with Keller's book."
"One of our all time favorites...have read it multiple times myself, given as gift."
Best Christian Faith
This bestselling author and speaker offers a companion devotional to her award-winning message, "Battlefield of the Mind." Joyce Meyer is the bestselling author of more than 100 inspirational books, including The Power of Simple Prayer, Approval Addiction, Power Thoughts and Battlefield of the Mind.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"When I was younger, a stay at home mom, I would say that my family was just like the soap opera All My Children. I quit making the negative statements and watched my family return to peace."
"With the leadership of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Joyce Meyer affects millions all over the world, it seems especially true with women."
"This is a very good step by step "how to" discipline the mind from destructive negative affect, e.g. those counter productive messages that sabotage our success."
"Once again, Joyce Meyers delivers a well written and instructive book!"
"This book is extremely helpful for Christian women to get there thinking right, right with God."
"Joyce knows all the tricks and lies the devil tries to make us believe about our selves."
"Joyce has "been there, done that" and has sound, reasonable advice to help you change your direction and attitude."
"A book everyone should have!"
Best Christian Families
Dr. Meeker shares the ten secrets every father needs to know in order to strengthen or rebuild bonds with his daughter and shape her life–and his own–for the better. Inside you’ll discover: • the essential virtues of strong fathers–and how to develop them. • the cues daughters take from their dads on everything from self-respect to drugs, alcohol, and sex. • the truth about ground rules (girls do want them, despite their protests). • the importance of becoming a hero to your daughter. • the biggest mistake a dad can make–and the ramifications. • the fact that girls actually depend on their dads’ guidance into adulthood. • steps fathers can follow to help daughters avoid disastrous decisions and mistakes. • ways in which. a father’s faith–or lack thereof–will influence his daughter. • essential communication strategies for different stages of a girl’s life. • true stories of “prodigal daughters”–and how their fathers helped to bring them back. Directly challenging the feminist attack on traditional masculinity, Dr. Meeker demonstrates that the most important factor for girls growing up into confident, well-adjusted women is a strong father with conservative values. Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters reveals: The essential characteristics and virtues of strong fathersand how to develop them How daughters take cues from their fathers on everything from drug use, drinking, smoking, and having sex, to self-esteem, moodiness, and seeking attention from boys Why girls want you to place restrictions on them (even though theyll complain when you do) How to become a hero to your daughterand why she needs that more than anything The one mistake fathers make that is the primary cause of girls "hooking up" Why girls depend on the guidance of fathers through, and even beyond, their college years Recipe for disaster: the notion that girls "need to make their own decisions and.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"); does not matter your relationship with your daughter as whatever it is,(good or bad) pertinent information/advice is given on how to move forward."
"Exceptional real look at what dads should step up and be for their girls."
"FATHERS NEED TO READ THIS BOOK."
"Meg Meeker MD’s “Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters” is an A-list book for both fathers and mothers…and for daughters. She has written five other books on the raising of children – “Strong Mother, Strong Sons”, “Your Kids at Risk: How Teen Sex Threatens Our Sons and Daughters”, “Boys Should be Boys: 7 Secrets to Raising Healthy Sons”, and “The Ten Habits of Happy Mothers: Reclaiming Our Passion, Purpose, and Sanity”. In “Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters”, author Meeker outlines the importance of the father’s role in a daughter’s development and ultimate happiness; and she provides ten key “secrets” to guide fathers in navigating the path they must take for success. Secret #1 - “You (the father) are the most important man in her (your daughter’s) life” – is the overarching theme throughout the book. When she is 25, she will mentally size her boyfriend her husband up against you; when she is 35 the number of children she has will be impacted by the life she had with you.” Fathers are critical to a daughter’s self-worth and growth - physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. The father is a far more effective protector of his daughter than anyone else in life. Meeker goes into great depth on each of the 10 secrets, providing supporting data and ample real life examples of prodigal daughters that are sure to resonate. My children are now doing the same for their children (my son has two and my daughter has five). Key take-aways of this book include the essential virtues of strong fathers; how a father’s modeling contributes or denigrates a daughter’s self-esteem; the importance of boundaries and how to enforce them; the biggest mistake a dad can make; the importance of faith; and how girls depend on their dad’s guidance well into adulthood. What will your daughter’s life say about you?"
"Only 70 something pages into it and it seems like a very powerful message."
"Very relevant and at times very scary analysis of young girls and what I need to do as a Dad to guide her through her life."
"I really enjoyed reading this book."
"I thought this book would be more spiritual/Biblical but it wasn’t."
Best Christian Holidays
Beginning with Jesse, the father of David, The Greatest Gift retraces the epic pageantry of mankind, from Adam to the Messiah, with each day's profound reading pointing to the coming promise of Christ, so that come Christmas morning you find that the season hasn't blurred past you but your heart's fully unwrapped the greatest gift you've always yearned for. " The Greatest Gift isn't simply words on a page; it's a song your heart already loves : a song about Jesus from the beginning to end...a glorious way to celebrate the season!" " Leave it to Ann Voskamp to powerfully and poetically call our hearts to respond to the real meaning of Christmas . Her pen crafts a beautiful masterpiece that slows us down only long enough to lift us up to see Him more clearly.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"The idea is that over 25 days of devotional reading, you and your family will come into the Christmas season fully steeped in the meaning of Christmas and have a beautiful Christmas decoration to remind you of the journey. If your family is looking for something to make a more meaningful Christmas and retain the Christmas message amid all the jollity and distractions of the season, I can hardly think of a better idea."
"You can also access a website to print off ornaments to go along with the devotion, though we already had a set from when Voskamp provided a similar devotion online before this book was published."
"In any case, it's the kind of book where you can jump in and read "today's" chapter and not feel lost because you hadn't read for a few days (but I always wanted to catch up on what I missed because it was so worth it!)."
"Our women's group at church chose to read this book beginning December 1st up till Christmas to prepare our minds and hearts for Advent."
"Her writing flows like milk and honey, transporting you to the time Mary’s womb was swollen with Child, until the moment Christ was born and the three wise men visited him."
"Ann Voskamp is an incredibly gifted writer and her creative way of reminding you of old Truths will leave you inspired and better appreciating the season of Advent and the Jesse Tree!"
"Like in her previous book, "One Thousand Gifts," Ann Voskamp inspires thankfulness in the small & forgotten treasures."
"I did not like the poetic style in which this book was written..."
Best Christian Leadership
It's easy for American Christians to forget how Jesus said his followers would actually live, what their new lifestyle would actually look like. Finally, he urges you to join in The Radical Experiment--a one-year journey in authentic discipleship that will transform how you live in a world that desperately needs the Good News Jesus came to bring. Read Radical , be blessed, and be changed.” —Johnny Hunt, president, Southern Baptist Convention, and pastor, First Baptist Church of Woodstock “ Radical will cause you to bounce on a spectrum between two words: ouch and amen. Read Radical if you’re ready to live differently.” —Gregg Matte, senior pastor, First Baptist Church of Houston “David Platt’s book will leave anyone who sincerely engages with his challenge dissatisfied—and faced with a decision: What will authentic faith look like in my life? This book has the potential to revitalize churches today to practice a radical, biblical lifestyle that can transform society and reach a lost world.” —Jerry Rankin, president, International Mission Board, Southern Baptist Convention “The church of the Lord Jesus has been seduced by a skilled seductress: the American dream. But you’ll find here another Way, one you know to be true, because you’ve heard it before in the words of the Lord Jesus, perhaps most forcefully in the simple call ‘Follow me.’” —Russell D. Moore, dean, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary “Through solid examination of the Scriptures and compelling testimonies from believers enduring persecution, my friend David Platt pulls back the curtain on subtle dangers weakening the church in our Western culture.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I subsequently volunteered to analyze and review the significance of "Radical" for "Mission Frontiers," a major mission strategy magazine. Before dismissing "Radical" based on nothing more than the plausibility of a negative review, I encourage you to use Amazon's "look inside" feature or read the first chapter, available free on-line [Google "Someone Worth Losing Everything For"]. - David Platt". BOOK SUMMARY. David Platt's book "Radical" reflects a wider move of God through which He is stirring His people to live radically for Him to finish discipling all nations (Mt. "Radical" overlaps heavily with Francis Chan's Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God in urging God's people to live "all out" for Jesus, but puts forth a much clearer picture of the global purposes which God is working to accomplish through His people, and a more practical suggestion for how God's people can begin intentionally engaging together in obeying God and impacting His world. From the one out of eight reviews of "Radical" which are negative, it is apparent that: - some will read "Radical" as a guilt trip or an appeal for wealth distribution, - others will question Dr. Platt's motives, lifestyle or position, and. - those who love money will mock the idea of living sacrificially as the Pharisees did. Extracted from the caring tone of Platt's audio presentations, some will experience the book as a guilt trip. While Dr. Platt effectively develops God's intention for those He has blessed to join Him in caring for the poor, inexperienced Western Christians far too often translate this simplistically as "giving to the poor." Unfortunately the current edition of "Radical" does nothing to address this problem (a later edit may), but to his credit Dr. Platt asks that all of his small group leaders read Fikkert and Corbett's When Helping Hurts: Alleviating Poverty Without Hurting the Poor. - Most real friends of the True King will find value in "Radical" and want to share it with others. Google "Mission Frontiers Radical not about me"]. "Radical" is NOT likely to be appreciated by those who. - are prone to feelings of guilt, - want to justify their attachment to the things of this world, or. - are not prepared to give their lives to drawing close to Jesus and joining Him in His global purpose. ---. Today, 11/7/2010, I have moved the following items to a comment under today's date: - my own transformation of perspective toward "Radical,". - how God is using "Radical" like He has used "Crazy Love,". - my unusual involvement in promoting "Radical," and. - related free resources to help you live radically for our King."
"Other books after this are repetitive and seem biased toward his denominational and personal ideologies, but these two books - "Radical" and "Radical Together" are excellent."
"In his book “Radical,” David Platt presents a challenge to the American church, which he believes is obsessed with over-indulgence and living the American Dream."
"I like to form my own opinions about my faith and base it off the Bible so I take all my Christian living books with a grain of salt."
"Great book with great discussion points!"
"In the least, it's good to consider the ramifications of our lifestyle and what God is commanding and/or asking of us. Does our lifestyle get in the way of our relationships? The author is encouraging us to find what stands in the way of our lives, our relationships, our relationship with God, and God's mission for the world, and do the hard work he has done and take steps to eradicate from our lives that which we have enthroned above God."
"This is a challenging read and really pushes a believer to examine where they stand in this life."
Best Christian Marriage
Whether your relationship is flourishing or failing, Dr. Gary Chapman’s proven approach to showing and receiving love will help you experience deeper and richer levels of intimacy with your partner—starting today. Updated to reflect the complexities of relationships today, this new edition reveals intrinsic truths and applies relevant, actionable wisdom in ways that work. GARY CHAPMAN --author, speaker, counselor--has a passion for people and for helping them form lasting relationships.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I was once asked to read this book by the only person in the world I love.....I refused. It's not a good feeling as a man to agree to read a book on relationships because you feel like you're putting everything into the authors hands.....and what if he "doesn't understand" or what if the advice doesn't apply to us.....what if it makes things worse between us because he advises things we don't believe in.....no....I'm not reading that I told her. I thought no matter what we would always figure each other out and we would be ok......I didn't see being asked to read this book , was a cry out from the woman I love hitting a boiling point and her attempt to communicate to me in a different way......the same things she's been trying to for a long time..... Instead of being some guys opinions or......typical shrink talk that in no way could apply to each specific relationship.......I found it to be a book that opens up the mind to the understanding of love.....and how it is not this one universal "language" we all feel we should be the same with.....I once told her...."nobody taught me how to love, I'm growing....learning".....I pleased with her to understand I love her.......we simply didn't have an understanding of how and why we didnt approach love the exact same way as each other.....only makes sense that it should be the same right? I will just end it like this..... last night I took a stretch that I have been doing for over 2 years and I changed it in a slightly different way....... a lot of the pain I normally get daily is gone....... just to put a spotlight on that sentence .....I'm saying that what I had been doing for so long..... trying to cure one of the biggest problems in my life that hadnt been working............that I continued doing........ believing in and depending on.... to be my much needed answer.......It wasn't until I allowed the idea of the same stretch applied in a different way, that I ALLOWED life to be better for me. You have to go into the book with an open mind because if you do it with the mindset of wanting it to say what it is that you want to hear.....then you can never let the life-changing words happen.......you're learning a language as you read...not what's right and wrong but what was being lost in life. Keep in mind this is a book about the language of love so if you think about when you go to school to learn a different language...you are taking the difficult step of taking time there in order to understand.....be able to take what you understand and apply it.....and be able to communicate in a NEEDED way once you learn....AND THEN USE......communicate and UNDERSTAND eachother."
"My wife and I have 2 small children and our house is hard to stay clean because every room feels like a mess. A big part of improving your relationship with your spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend is to sticking with a date night to make sure you have quality time together. My wife and I have been together for 10 years and got stuck in the rut of an endless routine of doing everything we could for our kids, followed by daily chores and left little time for ourselves. Committing to 1 date night a week has really helped our relationship and improved our communication."
"The male libido is very intricate and is based in the brain not in the physical build up as in this quote from the book. "That is, the desire for sexual intercourse is stimulated by the buildup of sperm cells and seminal fluid in the seminal vesicles. Thus, the male’s desire for sexual intercourse has a physical root.""
"Learning what your LOVE language is, is essential to learning whom you should be connected to."
Best Christian Counseling
“Incredibly rich with wisdom and insight that will leave the reader, whether single or married, feeling uplifted.” — The Washington Times Based on the acclaimed sermon series by New York Times bestselling author Timothy Keller, this book shows everyone—Christians, skeptics, singles, longtime married couples, and those about to be engaged—the vision of what marriage should be according to the Bible. He is the author of The Songs of Jesus , Prayer , Encounters with Jesus , Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering , and Every Good Endeavor , among others, including the perennial bestsellers The Reason for God and The Prodigal God . Kathy and Tim then moved to Virginia, where Tim started at his first church, West Hopewell Presbyterian Church, and their three sons were born.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"This book had its roots in the early 1990's when he did a series of sermons on marriage because of the skepticism, fear, and arguments that many of the singles in attendance had toward marriage in the beginning stages of the church - and still do today. However, most importantly he wrote this book to give a compelling vision of what marriage was designed to look like from the Bible from Genesis to Revelation - from the first marriage of Adam and Eve to the last marriage of Christ and the Church. I believe that Keller succeeds in giving a very compelling case for marriage from the three stands above - from his experience, his realistic apologetic of building a case for the benefits and values of marriage, and then giving a compelling biblical vision throughout the book for the beauty of marriage when it reflects the glory of Christ at the center of it all. Some of the ambivalent views and objections to marriage Keller elaborates on and dispels in this book are as follows: "Marriage is just a piece of paper that only serves to complicate love". "Marriage was originally about property and is now in flux". "Marriage crushes individual identity and has been oppressive for women". "Marriage stifles passion and is ill-fitted to psychological reality". The Outline of Keller's book is as follows: Chapter One - A rich and deep discussion of Genesis 2 and Ephesians 5 bringing Paul's discussion into today's context and demonstrating "why the gospel helps us to understand marriage and how marriage helps us to understand the gospel." Here is a sample of some guidelines he gleans for singles in relationships before marriage: "Recognize that there are seasons for not seeking marriage." Dr. Keller knows what he's talking about and has done an outstanding job of building a great case for marriage in a culture that simply doesn't understand it and hasn't been consulting the Creator's manual and applying it in our marriages."
"There are a lot of books about dating and relationships out there (the more of which you've probably read, the older you are), but not a lot of them are focused on what it is you're aiming at: the marriage relationship. I've had the good fortune to grow up in a family with several long-term, healthy marriages (parents 34 years, two sets of aunts and uncles nearly 50 years, grandparents more than 70 years and still going), so a lot of what Keller says about the nature of marriage made intuitive sense, but I can't remember the last time I heard someone articulate it so clearly. This perspective dovetails very well with John Van Epp's advice in "How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk - The Foolproof Way to Follow Your Heart Without Losing Your Mind)," about the variety of settings in which one should get to know a potential partner."
"NYC Manhattan Pastor Keller with Kathy, his wife, offer a biblical context for marriage and guidance from each."
Best Christian Social Issues
When the prophecy later fell into the hands of New York Times bestsellers Don and Mary Colbert, God used this new team of passionate individuals to lead the nation into a fervent prayer chain that would accomplish one of the most incredible miracles our country has ever seen. In THE TRUMP PROPHECIES readers will discover: *How the Lord can and will use anyone regardless of education, background, or health to communicate His message to the Church of Christ. *What led to the miracle of the 2016 election, the role of we the people for the will of God in the future, and what the Body of Christ needs to do to keep His blessing on our nation. *How the enemy has utilized techniques of distraction to keep the Body's focus off of God and onto internal, demoralizing disputes and how this can be overcome. *Astounding, world-altering changes in our US government Mark sees on the horizon. *The positive message of hope and encouragement that points to fresh methods of spreading the Gospel to the lost.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I especially liked the part about her organizing a "telephone prayer chain" that would take place every day at 9 AM from Labor Day until election day. PS - I'm ready for the next 2 phases of the prophecies, which are (1) Some of these high-profile crooks (Obama, ALL 3 CLINTONS, Lynch, Rice, Comey, etc) going to jail, and (2) corrupt judges and justices being replaced by men & women of God. Can't wait for President Trump to appoint 4 more Supreme Court justices."
"When I heard that Mark was publishing a book about his experience on receiving the Trump prophecy, the avid reader in me NEEDED to get my hands on it like now! I have never trusted YouTube prophets, but I make an exception for Mark Taylor because he truly did hear from God on April 28th, 2011."
"While I knew about the prophecies, I was interested in hearing the background about the messenger."
"Thanks to both Mary Colbert and Mark Taylor for their transparency in sharing their journey."
"Several of the prophetic signs given four - six years ago have come to pass and some are still on the horizon but it gives great prayer points for those of us praying for our president and this country to focus on."
"I had seen many videos with Mark Taylor already but I really appreciated reading his background and Mary Colbert’s involvement."
"I believe God's HOLY SPIRIT revealed this prophecy to Mark."
"God bless Mark Taylor and our president!"
Best Christian Devotionals
Penned by one who loves Jesus and reveres His Word, these writings will help your love for Jesus grow as you spend time with Him each day. “I’ve given this beautiful book to so many people I love, and I’ve come back to it myself again and again. “Jesus Calling has been such an inspirational tool in my daily walk with Jesus.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"The scripture at the bottom of the page is already written out for you, you don't have to go searching unless you want to read it in a different version, which is good too."
"I gave my last one away and ordered this one but it doesn't have the scripture references typed out like my last one."
"This is much nicer than the original version and has the scriptures quoted instead of just the references."
"BUY THIS BOOK! It orders my thoughts and action each day."
"I pray that all who read this devotional will be greatly blessed and will find a more personal relationship with the Lord."
"I love this little book and look forward to using it everyday. for my Bible study."
"I highly recommend this book for those who are seeking guidance and answers."
"Each day is like reading a loving message/call from Jesus."
Best Christian Men's Issues
In a letter to his children, not meant to be seen unless the worst happened, he wrote, “I’m not afraid of anything that might happen to me on this earth, because I know no matter what, nothing can take my spirit from me.” Fearless is the story of a man of extremes, whose courage and determination were fueled by faith, family, and the love of a woman. It’s about a man who waged a war against his own worst impulses, including drug addiction, and persevered to reach the top tier of the U.S. military. It succeeds where all the others have failed.” —Anonymous SEAL Team SIX Operator “Adam Brown’s zest for life led him down a few dark alleys and more than one dead end. In his latest book, Fearless , Eric Blehm does a marvelous and moving job uncovering the man—the men—beneath the SEAL mythology of elite, rock-hard warriors, renowned for their courage and skill. The SEALs in Fearless hug their children, seek comfort from their wives, wear Batman briefs, answer to names like Big Bird and Fozzy, mourn lost buddies, and risk their lives to rescue civilians from the field of fire. This book will motivate you to challenge yourself to be…fearless.” —SEAL teammate of Adam Brown, BUD/S Class 226 “There is a quote from the Bible etched onto the memorial that stands in the shadow of World Trade Center steel that resembles a massive trident: ‘Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, Whom shall I send? Fearless is a clear and deeply honest portrait of an authentic American man who lived and loved with an intrepid personal velocity. “ Fearless stands unique among works of modern combat literature through author Eric Blehm’s masterful weaving of a fallen Navy SEAL’s professional war-fighting life with his complex personal victories and travails. "Be prepared for the full range of emotions as the true adventures of a real American hero demonstrate that 'with God, all things are possible.'".
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I didn't regret it the first time I bought it, or the second time I bought it to replace my ruined book."
"While any journey to wear a SEAL Trident takes a monumental effort, Adams journey is even more incredible with all the stumbling blocks he encountered. The author spoke with his childhood friends and family and in the first 80 pages outlined the story of a fun-loving kid. He was a kid who liked to push himself and loved dangerous feats, like jumping off of bridges into the river. I have seen first-hand the damage that drugs like crack can do, so this story is even more amazing that he reached the top tier of the Navy SEALs while having to overcome the constant call of his crack addiction. He caved in his shinbone, had back problems, arthritis, walked around in constant pain all while fighting the urge to smoke crack, yet he still managed to overcome these issues, any one of which would disqualify a normal man, yet he still forged on. In Afghanistan he would never leave any checkpoint or observation post without helping fill sandbags or in some way fortifying the outpost. He would regularly give away his MREs to the local children and even organized his church to send kids sneakers when he realized that the local Afghan children had to wear open sandals during the harsh mountain winters."
"This deeply moving book is about a man who overcame huge challenges as a husband, father, and Navy SEAL."
"Like many of us, his family is affected by his actions and suffers their own doubts and fears until they turn to a local Pastor who shares some of their experience. Adam's story is told by his family, friends and fellow Seals who were anxious to tell of their friends willingness to volunteer for the tough assignments, to struggle on even when wounded and his strong team spirit all which made him a fearless hero in their eyes."
"Great book."
"This book had me from the beginning."
Best Christian Death & Grief
What will heaven be like? In the most comprehensive and definitive book on Heaven to date, Randy invites you to picture Heaven the way Scripture describes it-a bright, vibrant, and physical New Earth, free from sin, suffering, and death, and brimming with Christ's presence, wondrous natural beauty, and the richness of human culture as God intended it. Now, Randy Alcorn brings eternity to light in a way that will surprise you, spark your imagination, and change how you live today. If you've always thought of Heaven as a realm of disembodied spirits, clouds, and eternal harp strumming, you're in for a wonderful surprise.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"He writes that in our seminaries, churches, and families, we have given “little attention to the place where we will live forever with Christ and his people—the New Earth, in the new universe”. Selected Bibliography. Alcorn writes that most people do not find their joy in Christ and Heaven. He writes that many Christians who’ve gone to church all their adult lives (especially those under fifty) can’t recall having heard a single sermon on Heaven. Alcorn states that nearly every notion of Heaven he presents in this book was stimulated and reinforced by biblical texts. He also states that we should ask God’s help to remove the blinders of our preconceived ideas about Heaven so we can understand what Scripture actually teaches about it. Alcorn writes that when a believer dies, he or she enters into what is referred to in theology as the intermediate state. Rather, we will live with Christ and each other forever, not in the intermediate, or present, Heaven, but on the New Earth, where God will be at home with his people."
"This is a very deep look into the aspects and reality of Heaven as defined and described in the Bible."
"This book is life changing."
"I liked the story in that it suggested that Heaven might tank place right here on this present Earth and that one might be with and remember your Neighbors, Friends and Family."
"This was recommended by a friend that received a PHD and studied the book of Revelation for 1 year."
"This is a new and exciting look at what Heaven will be like after the new Earth is created by God."
"This is a fantastic book and I wish I had read it sooner."
"This is the most exciting, yet probable, view of Heaven and the new earth I have ever read."
Best Christian Spiritual Growth
When Katie Davis Majors moved to Uganda, accidentally founded a booming organization, and later became the mother of thirteen girls through the miracle of adoption, she determined to weave her life together with the people she desired to serve. But joy often gave way to sorrow as she invested her heart fully in walking alongside people in the grip of poverty, addiction, desperation, and disease. She invites us into her story and pushes us to the edge, challenging us to dare to hope no matter what life throws at us.” —Jefferson Bethke , author of Jesus>Religion and It’s Not What You Think. Her words and heart for Jesus will stay with me forever, and I’m honored to be on the sidelines cheering for all the chapters to come.” —Angie Smith , speaker, blogger, and author of Seamless.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I was motivated by the focus on serving others even in the seemingly mundane daily tasks or the bigger challenges Katie chose to tackle head-on supported by her faith."
"I would love to know more about her situation, life in Africa, but i know enough to marvel at her life!"
"To all who are struggling to find the hope in the hard, read this book!"
"Who would not love this book and be amazed of the faith, the "walk-the-talk" life, and the stark honesty of the struggle that Katie Davis Majors shares in this book."
"If you liked Katie's first book, you'll love this second one!"
"I love this book so much."
"The continuing story of Katie's life in Uganda, sharing God with those she meets, raising a houseful of children, and finding God's goodness in tragic events as well as the good times."
"Wonderful story of overcoming hardship and finding faith and trust in God."
Best Christian Spiritual Warfare
Bible Study Book includes 6 weeks of homework that can be completed between 7 group sessions Includes leader helps and perforated prayer cards that can be used to develop a prayer strategy Leader material (guides to questions and discussion with small group). Benefits: Equip women to get serious, specific, and strategic in their discipline of prayer Turn challenges and discouragement into opportunities for prayer Grow spiritually as you dig deeper into Scripture and expand your understanding of prayer Develop and implement practical, purposeful prayer strategies Appropriate for new or inexperienced Bible study students as well as those well-versed in Scriptures Leaders can be assured of a trusted teacher in every group Opportunity for multiple leaders or facilitators. Priscilla's gift for boldly proclaiming the uncompromising truths of Scripture while ushering people into daily, intimate, destiny-driven experience with Christ takes her around the world, sharing the Word in person with tens of thousands each year.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"BUT THIS WAS WAY BETTER AS A WORKBOOK, than simply a book BECAUSE Priscilla has one identify their current life issues (ex -strain with a boss, feeling defeated as a mom with parenting issues, financial concerns, upcoming holidays with troublesome relatives, etc. Whether you like to think about Satan or not, THE TRUTH IS THAT WE ALL HAVE INNER STRUGGLES and OUTWARD CHALLENGES at times, that often spill out into our relationships with others. THIS IS A GREAT DEVOTIONAL book to draw you closer to the Lord and strengthen your faith. (from a Pastor's wife, Sunday School teacher to both teens and to K-5th, who also has read a lot of books as the Church Librarian and yet grown tremendously from this Study. I've been a Christian since I was 9 and yet over the past 50+ years, with great joy, I continue to grow in my walk with the Lord through good times and hard!"
"Some of my favorite quotes: *prayer activates your spiritual armor. *battles in this world are directly related to the wrestling match being waged in the invisible spiritual world. *the armor of God is your action plan for putting on God's armor and giving you a personalized strategy to secure victory. *our prayers will be targeted secret weapons divinely authorized by God to stop the devil in his tracks. *God's armor is industrial grade survival gear."
"If you want the individual sessions to watch you can purchase them online and download them at lifeway.com for about $7 each. I find myself delving into the scriptures to the point that I usually only get through half a lesson each day."
Best Christian Inspirational
Penned by one who loves Jesus and reveres His Word, these writings will help your love for Jesus grow as you spend time with Him each day. “I’ve given this beautiful book to so many people I love, and I’ve come back to it myself again and again. “Jesus Calling has been such an inspirational tool in my daily walk with Jesus.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"The scripture at the bottom of the page is already written out for you, you don't have to go searching unless you want to read it in a different version, which is good too."
"This is much nicer than the original version and has the scriptures quoted instead of just the references."
"I gave my last one away and ordered this one but it doesn't have the scripture references typed out like my last one."
"Several years ago I was diagnosed with lupus, kidney failure, high blood pressure and many more complications. Including giving birth to my baby girl 4 1/2 months early (she weighed 15 oz when she was born at 23 weeks...She is our miracle child....She is my little joy bug!)."
"As a 64 year old legally blind man who was forced into early retirement I have become a pro at discovering new ways to give my life structure."
"I believe God touched Sarah Young in an incredible way, to allow her to share with me what she feels He would have to say each day."
"I look forward to each new day to read that new passage and the walk that God is taking me on with the words he inspired this author to write."
"This is not a Christian book, but is popularly disguised as one."
Best Christian Dating & Relationships
By renovating homes in Waco, Texas, and changing lives in such a winsome and engaging way, Chip and Joanna have become more than just the stars of Fixer Upper , they have become America’s new best friends. Even back then Chip was a serial entrepreneur who, among other things, ran a lawn care company, sold fireworks, and flipped houses. Four children and countless renovations later, Joanna garners the attention of a television producer who notices her work on a blog one day. The time Chip ran to the grocery store and forgot to take their new, sleeping baby Joanna’s agonizing decision to close her dream business to focus on raising their children When Chip buys a houseboat, sight-unseen, and it turns out to be a leaky wreck Joanna’s breakthrough moment of discovering the secret to creating a beautiful home Harrowing stories of the financial ups and downs as an entrepreneurial couple Memories and photos from Chip and Jo’s wedding The significance of the word magnolia and why it permeates everything they do The way the couple pays the popularity of Fixer Upper forward, sharing the success with others, and bolstering the city of Waco along the way. Chip Gaines and his wife, Joanna Gaines, are co-founders and co-owners of Magnolia Homes, Magnolia Market, and Magnolia Realty in Waco, Texas.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"They have overcome adversity and have built a life full of love, family, talent, professionalism keeping their faith first and foremost."
"Great reading couldn't put it down made me smile,laugh and see some things in life we all go through similar."
"I have been a huge fan of Joanna and Chip right from the very first show."
"This is a must read for all Fixer Upper fans."
"I really didn't know much about Chip and Joanna, other than catching snippets of their nationally-broadcast show Fixer Upper, but now I feel that they're the type of next-door people that you would love to sit down and share a meal with and get to know. Toward the end of the book Joanna says teasingly how Chip is like the President of the United States - always running around shaking hands and kissing babies."
"Jo's sense of style and Chip's sense of humor make the show irresistible and makes me wish I lived in Waco, Texas so I can hire them fix up a house for me. I can honestly say, I had no idea what the hell shiplap was until I watched this show and apparently, Texas homes are loaded with it behind the walls."
"Chip and Joanna solved that problem magnificently - I always knew who was speaking which brought additional richness to the work. It is also a very encouraging book in a time when we all need that little boost to chase our dreams, but don't be deceived into believing all has been rose petals and blue skies."
"Loved, Loved, Loved this story."