From the Library of A.W. Tozer by James Stuart Bell

From the Library of A. W. Tozer: Selections From Writers Who Influenced His Spiritual Journey by James Stuart Bell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Over the past two years I have developed an appreciation for the writings of "the dead guys" as a well known speaker affectionately refers to them. The writings of men like D.L. Moody, C.S. Lewis, Martin Luther and others are such an amazing encouragement to me. However, in all honesty, I find myself struggling to read an entire volume by them in my demanding, fast pace life when I have other books waiting to be read that are a easier reads. So imagine my excitement at a book that contains shorter excerpts of their works!

This beautiful book - From the Library of A.W. Tozer - is a compilation of one to three page selections of the writers who influenced the spiritual life of A.W. Tozer. The book is broken into topical chapters with many small portions within each chapter. It's the perfect book to leave on the coffee table and read a page or two a day. It is also a fabulous way for those of us who don't have the self discipline to read an entire work from one of these men of faith to enjoy small bits at a time. Rather than own multiple books you may never finish or use, this is a book you most likely will pick up again and again.

I enjoyed this book for the highly impacting messages in such small portions making it something that was easy to understand and stay with you through out the day. This book is not overwhelming or daunting, but uplifting and addicting!

BOOK OVERVIEW:

A Collection of Writings That Shaped One of the Most Influential Pastors of the Twentieth Century

Pull back the curtain on the life and mind of A. W. Tozer as you read selections from the authors and thinkers who influenced his spiritual journey. Without their words to serve as guides, Tozer never would have become the man of God that he was. Drink deeply from these selections, chosen to emphasize major themes from Tozer's life and ministry--worship, practicing the presence of God, living the Christian life. As you do, you too will grow in your devotion to and understanding of God.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Bethany House but the opinion expressed is my own and was in no way compensated.

The Awesome Word of God by Ken Crocker

The Awesome Word of God by Ken Crocker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Do you have a lovely coffee table or end table in your home that is need of an equally lovely book to adorn it? Pour yourself a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy the beautiful views and encouraging scripture found in The Awesome Word of God by Ken Crocker.

In this hardcover edition you will see people, places, and nature that you have never seen before. It makes for a great read on a relaxing Sunday afternoon as you not only refresh yourself with lovely images, but the Word of God, too.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

The Awesome Word of God is a collection of breathtaking photographs of natural formations, sunsets, clouds, and more. Photographer Ken Crocker has matched Scripture with the photographs to create a compelling piece of work that showcases the glory of God. Six contributing Christian photographers have collaborated with Ken in making The Awesome Word of God a reality, and through their work they share the total love of God with every image. Each photographer brings a fresh perspective to his or her work, and each has been given a unique gift to share with others. Scripture verses from God's Holy Word enhance the photographs and highlight not only the awesome beauty of God and His creation, but also the priceless treasure of His Word.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of WinePress Publishing but the opinion expressed is my own.

Amish Proverbs by Suzanne Woods Fisher

UPDATE 8/25/10 – Congrats to Jody who won this book!

This is a long review post!  First off, let me tell you that I am giving away a copy of this charming little book!  Please leave a comment at the bottom of this post to be entered into the giveaway!  (A winner will be drawn tonight using Random.org)

And now…with out further delay, here is my review and below that you will find a cool contest opportunity!

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MY REVIEW:

This book is simply sweet.

You can't help but become lost in the calming pictures and thought-provoking proverbs that Suzanne Woods Fisher has put together in this beautiful and small sized coffee table book. This is a perfect gift for someone who appreciates the simply side of life or anyone who enjoys the relaxing atmosphere of the country.

My favorite proverb featured in this adorable little book is:

"A task takes as long as it takes."

I get caught up so often in trying to finish as much as possible and usually end up frustrating myself. This simple little phrase is a wonderful reminder that I have no need to get discouraged but rather should enjoy the time that the task takes.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Simplify Your Life with Amish Wisdom
Insights into the Amish lifestyle of peace, simplicity and contentment

Spend enough time with the Amish, as author Suzanne Woods Fisher has, and you’ll hear them repeat a catchy turn of phrase or short words of wisdom, like “Good character like good soup is usually homemade,” or “Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience.” Suspended in these phrases are age-old lessons about how to live wisely and please God. Reiterated day after day, the proverbs are learned by heart and help guide the lives of the Amish, reminding them of what’s truly important.

Fisher has spent a great deal of time with the Amish and has collected more than 200 proverbs that uncover the rich heritage, folklore, faith, values, history, and essence of the Plain People, which she shares in her new book
Amish Proverbs.

These proverbs cover all aspects of life, from finances to faith to family, as well as overcoming life’s frustrations. Serving as teaching tools and maxims for practical living, they're not just for the Amish. Proverbs help point us all toward wisdom, toward good judgment, toward God’s teachings. They're for anyone who seeks God's wisdom and truth for everyday circumstances.

Some of the proverbs that readers will find in Amish Proverbs include:
o "It is better to give others a piece of your heart than a piece of your mind."
o "You are only poor when you want more than you have."
o "A child can read a parent’s character before he can read the alphabet."
o "Bibles that are coming apart usually belong to people who are not."
o "Those who fear the future are likely to fumble the present."
o "Kissing wears out, cooking don’t."
o "If you sense your faith is unraveling, go back to where you dropped the thread of obedience."
o "You only live once, but if you work it right, once is enough."
o "A smile is a curve that can straighten out a lot of things."

Ranging from the simple to the profound, from the serious to the humorous, these sayings will stick with readers through life's joys and sorrows and bring some of the Amish wisdom to everyday life.

With beautiful full-color photos throughout, Amish Proverbs is the perfect gift for any occasion.

AUTHOR BIO:

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the CBA bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, Amish Peace, and Amish Proverbs. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, W. D. Benedict, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Benedict eventually became publisher of Christianity Today magazine. Suzanne is the host of a radio show called Amish Wisdom and her work has appeared in many magazines. She lives in California.

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Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet.

CONTEST OPPORTUNITY!

 

Suzanne's Amish Proverbs just hit the shelves. To celebrate she's giving away a KINDLE and throwing a party! Let the fun begin. See below for info and links.

Find out more about the book, Suzanne and the blog tour here. Enter Suzanne Woods Fisher's Simple Wisdom KINDLE Giveaway!

One Grand Prize winner will receive a Kindle preloaded with Suzanne Woods Fisher titles. The Prize Pack (valued at over $205.00) includes:

* A brand new KINDLE, Free 3G, 6", Latest Generation

* Amish Peace by Suzanne Woods Fisher

* The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form, then tell 5 or more friends about the contest. Oh, and enter soon! Winner will be announced on September 1st.

  Join Suzanne for a Wrap-up Party on September 1st! She’ll be announcing the winner of the Simple Wisdom KINDLE Giveaway, chatting with readers, and giving away copies of Amish Proverbs and The Choice! Be sure to join us on Wednesday , September 1st at 8PM EST at Suzanne’s Author Page Be sure to check out the blog tour here or purchase a copy of Amish Proverbs: Words of Wisdom from the Simple Life!