One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Stick with me okay?

I began reading this book about 5 months ago via the audio format from Audible downloaded to my Kindle. I listened to the first chapter and never touched the book again. I had heard rave reviews and chatter from bloggers and non-bloggers both about how this book changed their perspective and what a wonderful author Ann Voskamp is. However, I just could not get into it and the first few pages had me loosing focus and interest. It felt wordy and drawn out and frankly, I just couldn't see the point clearly enough.

However.

Yes, however, I picked it back up because I knew there had to be something good in there that I was missing. After all, not every book has an app to go along with it! So I once again plugged it in and this time confined myself to baking for a whole day while I listened to this book being read by the author.

I am not quite sure why this happens, but at times there is just "a right time" to read a certain book and until that time arrives one just never appreciates such a book. This was finally the "right time" because this time I found myself absorbed into the flowing words and vivid descriptions of ordinary moments in life that - seen through the lens of grace - were extraordinary, life altering moments.

While the book could be so much shorter, and the point a lot more clearer at the outset, it would be too easily read and forgotten - leaving no lasting impact and thoughts to ponder. It was a challenge to get into at first but quickly became pure enjoyment. The more I read the more I was encouraged, challenged, convicted, delighted, overwhelmed, and in awe. Ann Voskamp paints a beautiful picture of what it is like to live in every moment - what we deem good and bad - with a heart that seeks God's gifts to us. She strips us of our idea of "good gifts" and invites us and walks with us on a journey to see every moment as a gift from God.

I feel like no words I possibly write could do justice to describing this book. At first if felt like a hard read, but now I stand at the back cover realizing it was hard because sometimes life is hard and yet there is a deep beauty that comes from hard things.

One Thousand Gifts is a perfect read for anyone no matter what your stage or phase of life is. We all need to be dared to live life more fully right where we are.

Because He Loves Me by Elyse Fitzpatrick

Because He Loves Me: How Christ Transforms Our Daily Life by Elyse Fitzpatrick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

If anyone - anyone! - would ask me what the number one book is that I would recommend, this book would be my answer. There are not enough words to describe this book!

Elyse is a great communicator, but beyond that is what she shares. In this book she takes you back to the basics that we so easily and quickly gloss over, and in some cases, we never pay attention to in the first place. In twelve chapters you are either are reminded or discover for the first time how the gospel applies to your daily life not just to a one-time decision. Reading this book is like putting together a puzzle and while you may first be confused, by the time you reach the end you will be very encouraged and on some things be quite convicted.

I personally love this book because for it was the first book I had read that really explained how what I knew should actually change my moment by moment life. It is deep enough to make you re-read some portions as you allow the meaning to really sink in, but easy enough for any person to read who is willing to give it their attention. For me, this has been the one book that has helped my dig into the Bible with excitement and passion as I understand more and more how it really applies to my life on a daily basis.

While the cover of this fabulous book showcases some pretty flowers and a butterfly, it's intended audience is for anyone, including men. I would highly recommend this book to anyone and quickly encourage you to put it at the top of your list to read. If you are a guy, then cut up a brown paper bag to make a book cover...but read it! It will change your thinking!

BOOK OVERVIEW:

God’s love has the power to change lives. Christians, then, should exhibit the greatest transformation of all because, rightly understood and cherished, God’s love makes them increasingly more like the One who has lavished his love on them.

So why do we so often struggle to exhibit God’s love? Biblical counselor Elyse M. Fitzpatrick asks one simple question: “In your pursuit of godliness, have you left Jesus behind?” We need to be rescued from our “identity amnesia” and pointed to our true identity as God’s beloved children—adopted by the Father, united with the Son, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Fitzpatrick shows how a genuine transformation of identity leads to a transformation of our daily lives. Those who struggle with either legalism or lawlessness will find encouragement to return to God’s love, the source of authentic and lasting change. Study questions and invitations to further discovery conclude each chapter. Now available in paperback.

Jump Off The Hormone Swing by Lorraine Pintus

Jump off the Hormone Swing by Lorraine Pintus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Encouraging. Inspiring. Convicting. Comforting. Exciting. Practical. Just a few words I would use to describe this book.

As a woman, have you ever thought about how your hormones and monthly cycle are a reminder of God's redeeming love?

Yeah. I thought not.

Neither had I...until I read this amazing book by Lorraine Pintus. Until now I have hated hormones and their affects on my body. But now I have a new appreciation and perspective on God's amazing creation in the female body. Not only has my thinking been changed about such matters, but I am now armed with a whole lot of understanding and practical ideas to embrace my hormones rather than antagonize them.

This book is extremely practical and very comprehensive as it not only addresses the physical and emotional components, but the spiritual ones as well. Lorraine, with both love and humor, shows us how the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects are all tied together and how we should treat them individually and as a whole. Reading this book will open your eyes to God's grace - even to a woman who can go from feeling wonderful to crummy in 5 seconds flat.

This book is a perfect handbook for woman of any age - from teen to post-menopause. It will enable you to understand your own body and be more compassionate to the women around you. I also highly recommend it as reading for husbands who truly want to be a student of their wife or for a Mother/Daughter study together. Anyway you read this you will be blessed.

Where Was God When…? by Mike Calhoun & Ric Garland

Where Was God When?

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Relevant. Straight-forward. Personal. Hands-on.

Ric Garland and Mike Calhoun join forces to give us a book that addresses 8 attributes of God - omniscience, immutability, faithfulness, sovereignty, love, wisdom, omnipresence, and mercy/justice - through the lens of hard questions like "Where was God when...?". Not only do they probe hard questions but do so in a teen-relevant approach that is easy to understand without being watered down and vague.

I appreciated this book for how relevant it is to the youth of today. Where Was God When...? doesn't just offer opinions but truth from the Word of God and hands-on application of how each attribute can and will change a person's life. I liked the straight-forward chapters that are short and filled with not just theory, but also with personal stories from the lives of the authors and others.

Not only will teens benefit from this book, but also adults looking how to answer the hard questions for teens or even for themselves. If you want to understand God's sovereignty, or faithfulness, or any of the other 6 attributes without reading a very long theology text, then this book is for you. I highly recommend this book to teens and adults both.

Because He Loves Me – Reading & Music CD

I got the CD for free with the purchase of some DVD’s from Elyze Fitzpatrick and while I was glad for that, I didn’t give it much thought.

Until I got home and listened to it.

W.O.W.!!!

As I worked in the kitchen doing dishes and preparing supper the other night, the tears trickled down my face.  The music and readings on this CD cause you to reflect on what Christ did for you and the love that the Father has for us.  It’s a beautiful collection that will draw you to worship the Savior, celebrate His love, and stir your heart for holiness.  The collection is both calming and uplifting at that same time and a wonderful addition to everyone’s listening selection.

You can read more about this product here.

I want to encourage each one of you to invest the few dollars to buy this CD, listen to it, and then let me know how it impacted your life.

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven by Kevin Malarkey

The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven by Kevin Malarkey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MOM'S REVIEW:

A true story about a father and son who survived a terrible car accident, although son Alex remained in a coma for two months afterward. Upon awaking, Alex shared some unexpected experiences of time spent with Jesus in Heaven. He also shared some personal insight on angels and their ministry.
Kevin and Alex share their faith journey; a journey that will stir in you a longing for your future home in heaven. This is a wonderful book making me wish that I could meet this family.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

In 2004, Kevin Malarkey and his six-year-old son, Alex, suffered an horrific car accident. The impact from the crash paralyzed Alex—and medically speaking, it was unlikely that he could survive. “I think Alex has gone to be with Jesus,” a friend told the stricken dad. But two months later, Alex awoke from a coma with an incredible story to share. Of events at the accident scene and in the hospital while he was unconscious. Of the angels that took him through the gates of heaven itself. Of the unearthly music that sounded just terrible to a six-year-old. And, most amazing of all . . . Of meeting and talking to Jesus. The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven is the true story of an ordinary boy’s most extraordinary journey. As you see heaven and earth through Alex’s eyes, you’ll come away with new insights on miracles, life beyond this world, and the power of a father’s love.

Comforts from the Cross by Elyse Fitzpatrick

Comforts from the Cross: Celebrating the Gospel One Day at a Time by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Comforts From The Cross is beyond excellent!

I don't even know where to begin in writing a review because this book is that good. It is theologically deep, yet ever so easy to understand. It is intensely invigorating, yet overwhelmingly sobering. It is just what everyone needs to read.

Elyse takes you back to the foot of the cross to not only take another look, but to soak in the comfort found there. It is a place of utter suffering, yet a place of amazing love so deep that we must continually reflect upon it.

This book is a 31 day devotional that casts light on many scripture passages we take for granted. In short chapters - easy to consume in a only a matter of minutes - you will dig into the the depths of God's Word to walk away with a better understanding of His overwhelming love for us. This book is a celebration of what we have, yet fail to enjoy.

Comforts From The Cross is a book for the old or new Christian, the zealous or weary saint, the young or the old of age. No matter where you are on your journey through life with Christ you should take 5 minutes for the next 31 days to read this book. You won't regret it.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Daily comforts from the gospel of Christ provide busy Christian women with brief but deep reminders of how his truths powerfully connect to their daily lives.

Nothing comforts a woman’s soul more than a fully understood and embraced gospel. But many women aren’t finding solace in their relationship with Christ because they don’t see how his life, death, and resurrection connect with soccer practices and swim lessons. Besides, they just don’t have time to sit down and read a theology book, no matter how much they might hunger for God’s truths.

That’s where Elyse Fitzpatrick’s latest book comes in. Comforts from the Cross provides those well-intentioned women with bite-sized readings to remind them of their place in Christ and of his love and ministry in their busy lives. It also dusts off the facts of the gospel to show how ancient truths such as justification, sanctification, and redemption can free and enliven their souls every day. Even more, these five-minute celebrations of the gospel relieve readers of legalistic condemnation and empower them for joyful obedience by engendering fresh love for the Savior.

A perfect choice for gift-giving or personal encouragement, Fitzpatrick’s book helps active women grasp the practicality of the gospel message and experience its deep comforts.

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This book is published by Crossway.

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This book gets awarded with the To Read, Or Not To Read badge of distinction  - Best Of The Best - for the fact that because it is so good, it has been added to Mandy’s bookshelf!

God Knows My Name by Beth Redman {GIVEAWAY!}

God Knows My Name: Never Forgotten, Forever Loved by Beth Redman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Beth Redman touches the heart of women with her vulnerability and deep biblical encouragement in this thought-provoking book. She shares what God thinks about us in light of scripture and how we can know that God KNOWS our name!

Her personal sharing ranges from down right hysterical to heart-wrenching. I appreciate her friend-to-friend approach and honesty through out this uplifting volume. While it is not the easiest book to read, and can seem a little disjointed at times, I still recommend it for those struggling with the love of God and their identity in Christ. Beth feeds women theology in a personal and applicable manner and anyone will find encouragement in these pages.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of The B&B Media Group but the opinions expressed are my won.

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GIVEAWAY!

I am giving away a copy of this book!  To enter leave a comment.  For the official rules click here.  A winner will be randomly drawn on Tuesday, October 12th.

His Princess Girl Talk with God by Sheri Rose Shepherd {Giveaway!}

His Princess Girl Talk with God: Love Letters and Devotions for Young Women by Sheri Rose Shepherd

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Girl Talk With God is a bff and confidant for any young woman. It is aimed at teen girls, but I would recommend it for older teen girls (15 & up) and even younger college age girls. This well written, and easy to read, devotional type of book offers comfort, hope, and encouragement for those who have or do struggle with a wide range of issues. From beauty to bulimia, friends to fashion, dating to drugs, purity to popularity, Sheri Rose Shepherd offers refreshment for the heart of girls reading this book.

I appreciated how Sheri dealt with many issues in a short yet personal way. She got to the point, and the heart, quickly and effectively. My favorite part of this book were the love letters from God - letters written based upon scripture that applied the Bible to the heart and mind of the woman reading it.

This book is considered a devotional, although it's more encouragement than devotional, and does address topics that some may not want their daughters reading about yet or through this type of format depending on the parenting style. I think this book can be a great tool for teens and young women, but highly advise the parent to know what their daughter is reading before she begins to read.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

You're the daughter of the King!

Like a loving father, God holds you in the palm of His hand. He loves you no matter what you wear, what you say, what you've done, or how you feel. And He wants you to live a wonderful life.

In His Princess Girl Talk with God, Sheri Rose Shepherd helps you experience God's unending love for you through forty devotions. Sheri remembers what it was like to be a teen girl, and she connects your experiences with God's love. Through these stories, love letters from God, Scriptures, and prayers, you'll feel just how much God treasures you--His Princess.

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This book was provided courtesy of Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, and is available July 2010 at your favorite bookseller.

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GIVEAWAY:

I have 1 copy of this book to giveaway this week to 1 randomly drawn winner.  Leave a comment below (on this post) and be sure to include an e-mail or link to use to contact you in case you should win.  A winner will be drawn on Saturday the 14th of August.  U.S. address only, please!

UPDATE: Congrats to comment #4 (Genevieve) the winner of this book!

God Strong by Sara Horn

God Strong by Sara Horn

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I can't imagine how hard it is to be a military wife, but I do know that I am extremely thankful for each wife who sacrifices for me by facing the challenges on the home front while their husbands serve the USA. I am also very thankful for Sara Horn and her excellent resource of encouragement, hope, and help in the low times for the women who do know what it means to be a military wife.

God Strong is a 238 page spiritual survival guide for women who have a husband who serves our country in any military capacity. This guide addresses real issues and challenges that a military wife faces in 10 easy-to-read chapters. Each chapter is then followed by Strength Builders which gives quick access to verses pertaining to the topic at hand as well as Strength Trainers which provide questions for thought and application of the topic. I especially liked the Survival Sisters section which gives real life stories and comfort from other women in the trenches of military wife life.

I give this book 4 stars for being a solid friend and comfort for those women facing the challenges known only to them as wives military men.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Currently, more than one million military wives care for their families and their homes, often while their husbands are deployed out of state or overseas for months at a time. These women can experience a roller coaster of emotions including disappointment, loneliness, and fear. Sara Horn, the wife of a navy reservist, understands the challenges these women face. She knows how to talk about faith and spiritual truths through the filter of military life. In her encouraging book, Horn shares her personal stories, as well as wisdom and anecdotes of other wives from all branches of service. She reminds readers that: • God is in control. • You can have joy, no matter what. • Superwomen get grace, too. • God knows where you hurt. Horn’s reliance on Scripture and confidence in God’s comfort during difficult times will remind military wives they don’t have to be an army of one when they are God Strong.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Zondervan, but the opinions expressed are my own.

A Prayer Journey Through Deployment by Donna Mull

A Prayer Journey Through Deployment by Donna Mull

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I don't know what it's like to find out my spouse or family member is shipping out for active duty. But if I did know what that was like, I think I would make sure Donna's book was on the top of my nightstand reading stack.

A Prayer Journey Through Deployment is a simple book that will aid you in the most powerful resource you have - prayer. Each chapter is a topical prayer and can be read for encouragement, as a prayer prompt, or both. It would be a great tool for either personal use or a group setting.

I appreciate the simplicity of this book yet the depth in which it will minister to those dealing with being apart from their loved one. This is a great gift to give anyone with a family member serving our country.

BOOK OVERVIEW

"I just received orders for deployment to Iraq."

Such words have the power to make you weak in the knees and bring a parade of disturbing images to your mind. A sense of helplessness and dread forces you to your knees but you can't seem to get beyond the repetitive cry, "Keep them safe, Lord." Such was the paralysis Donna Mull felt when her son was deployed. Her heart ached for his family. Determined to surround them with prayer, she wrote weekly military prayer devotionals and emailed them to a network of friends and family to encourage focused, faithful prayer. What followed was a year-long journey that led far beyond the generic, "Keep them safe." An excellent source of hope, comfort and Scripture-based prayers, A Prayer Journey through Deployment gives voice to the heartfelt needs of soldiers and families like loneliness, fear, guidance, unity, loss, endurance, perspective, courage, etc. A compilation of 52 devotionals chronicles the journey of prayer through this experience of deployment. Even if you have no military connection, you may find that the prayers minister to you in the midst of your own "life battles."

AUTHOR BIO:

"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands...." 1 Thessalonians 4:11 is a good descriptive life verse for Donna Mull—quietly going about the work of serving children and families as a pediatric home care nurse. That is, until life presented a challenge completely outside her realm of understanding. Her son received orders for deployment to Iraq. She felt compelled to pray and engage others to pray concerning a world she knew little about. The one essential qualification she had was a deep love for her son and his family. The equipping and understanding God would provide when she committed to this assignment.

Donna lives in a picturesque RI town with the oldest, longstanding 4th of July parade honoring civic and military servants (224 successive years). She has two married sons and four grandchildren. Donna enjoys walking, biking, outdoor concerts and the brief "mini" vacations of sitting beside the Narrangansett Bay before heading off to work. Best of all is spending time with her grandchildren, for whom she created a scrapbook to help them deal with some of the extraordinary challenges of having a deployed parent. Donna also has the unique privilege of developing long-term relationships with some exceptionally courageous families as a Home Care nurse for medically fragile children.

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This review copy was provided by WinePress Publishing. The opinions expressed are purely of my own.

What Happened to My Life? by Danna Demetre

What Happened to My Life?: Finding New Passion, Purpose, and Joy by Danna Demetre

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

What Happened To My Life? is a book that will help women find new passion, purpose, and joy in their life. Danna Demetre knows what it is like to be searching for those three things and now she is helping others to find it through this book and the included 40 day devotional.

I appreciated the honesty and vulnerability with which Danna wrote. She not only wrote about some important things, but openly shared how her own life has been changed. Encouraging doesn't even seem to begin to cover the refreshing content of this book! It is biblical, applicable, and helpful.

My favorite part of the book was the message she wove through the whole book about the importance of what we are feeding our minds. Danna excellently explains the power of scripture to change your life by transforming your mind. She does not give "just another program" but rather real answers for life change.

The 40 day devotional is simple to use for any woman at any stage of life. While the devotional thought is different each day, the application section keeps the same thread going through all 40 days to help you keep building as you establish new changes. It is easy to use and highly effective in being a tool to help you grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ.

Whether you choose to do the 40 day devotional or not, the first 2 sections of this book are easy to read and wonderfully helpful, uplifting, and comforting. This book is a must-read in part or in entirety.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Though they may not voice their frustrations aloud, many women are faced with the aching feeling that their lives have fallen short of their hopes and dreams. Instead of joy and celebration, they seem filled more with frustration and heartbreak. ‘What happened to my life?’ they ask with disappointment.

Danna Demetre, popular conference and motivational speaker, knows that this scenario is all too common in the lives of women today. Many are reeling from broken relationships, unfulfilling careers and other personal disappointments, leaving them feeling discontent and empty. That’s why Demetre, also an accomplished author, has released her latest book, What Happened to My Life?, where she helps readers discover authentic and lasting joy—despite the dispiriting circumstances they may face.

What Happened to My Life? is a 40-day journey that teaches readers a few simple yet transforming life habits that will help them discover the joy and passion that God has in store for their lives. With daily devotionals and thought-provoking questions, readers will learn to break the cycle of discontentment.

As readers work their way through Demetre’s 40-day journey to joy, they will learn:

• How to fight discontentment in every situation
• What the Bible says about discontentment
• How to “walk in the Spirit” and rely on God's strength for joy that will last
• How other women have changed their lives using these principles

Demetre invites women to “Join me on a journey to discover the one thing worth pursuing, to implement a few simple yet transforming life habits, and to realize the incredible life God has for those who love him.”

Whether dealing with a life crisis or simply feeling that life is not all they'd hoped for, readers will find that this new book will help them discover authentic contentment and joy, regardless of their circumstances. And it will help them transition from simply surviving to truly thriving once again.

AUTHOR BIO:

Danna Demetre is an author and popular conference and retreat speaker. She is the president and founder of Women of Purpose, an evangelistic outreach ministry. Danna lives in San Diego, California, with her husband, Lew, and adopted 13 year-old grandson, Jesse. They also have three grown children and are expecting a new grandchild.

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This review book was provided courtesy of Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, and is available at your favorite book store starting in May 2010.

When Life Is Hard by James MacDonald

When Life is Hard by James MacDonald

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

No matter if your life is hard or easy or somewhere in between right now, this book is for YOU. As the back cover says: "Find Hope. Right Here. Right now."

I picked up this book to read for review knowing that it would be good, but completely unaware of just how good it would be. James unpacks 4 scripture passages and what they each mean to us when we face various trials - big or small. Not only does this book open up new thoughts and understanding on timeless passages, but it also gives practical ways of applying what you are learning and ideas for processing and dealing with the trials you are or will face.

When Life Is Hard is real and despite the hard subject, this book is refreshing, uplifting, and incredibly challenging in an invigorating way. It is deep stuff explained in simple terms. It is biblical truth in a format that is easy to follow and read. You will be encouraged by this book no matter what you reading level or skills are. James MacDonald ministers to you from personal experience and a relationship with Jesus Christ. This messages hits home no matter where home may be. It is a must-read and must-own for any Christian, but especially for anyone in full-time ministry.  This book is one of the Best Of The Best!

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This book was provided for review courtesy of Moody Publishing. However, the opinions expressed in this review are solely that of the reviewer - Mandy.

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Below is a video clip that James mentions in the book.  Watch it now and you will laugh hysterically when you read about it in the book.  Or bookmark this page and come back and watch it after reading the book.

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You can go to www.whenlifeishard.com to access more resources and information about this book.  If you want to buy this book you can click on the amazon link below and To Read, Or Not To Read will get a few pennies from your purchase.

I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy by Angie Smith

I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy by Angie Smith

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Grab a box of tissues.

For those who followed Angie Smith and the story of Audrey unfold on her blog this book feels like a chat with Angie over a nice warm drink. And for those who are new to the Smith's dance with joy and grief you will quickly fall in love with this family and their testimony.

Angie puts into words the thoughts and emotions of a mother who clings to hope while grieving, lives life fully while preparing for the worst, and who begs God for a miracle all the while praising Him no matter what. I Will Carry You is the story of the life of Audrey and the huge impact this small little girl had on her family and on the world. It will leave you counting your blessings, living with abandon, and celebrating life - no matter how long or how short.

I was touched by Angie's honest and vulnerability with her readers and her simple, yet profound, explanations of what her dance was and continues to be like. I have been touched by the music of Selah for years and since 2008 even more so with the music being backed up by authentic lives. Though their road has not been easy, they have blessed many lives through their tears and their joy in the time of great grief.

Whether you are a Mom or not, this book will have you crying and rejoicing all at the same time. Both Angie's writing and Todd's chapter from a man's perspective will be an encouragement in your life.

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Thank you to B&H Publishing Group for providing the review copy.

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Dwelling In His Presence by Cynthia Heald

Dwelling in His Presence: 30 Days of Intimacy with God: A Devotional for Today's Woman by Cynthia Heald

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Dwelling in His Presence is a wonderfully refreshing and uplifting devotional for any woman of any age. This book is beautifully bound in an inviting cover and embossed title. Inside you will find 30 days of thought-provoking devotionals all drawing you to intimacy with God.

Each day is neatly organized and simple to work through with an encouraging opening devotional thought followed by a scripture passage to read and a few questions to think about. A quote and prayer prompt bring each day to a close to make this a delightful and insightful resource for women. You could easily use this book in 10 minutes a day and still enjoy something of substance.

Whether you want something to supplement your daily quiet time or to stand-alone for your time with God, I highly recommend this beautiful devotional to you.

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The review copy was provided courtesy of NAV Press.

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Desperate Hope by Candi Pearson-Shelton

Desperate Hope by Candi Pearson-Shelton

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX—As her older brother battled for his life in the ICU, Candi Pearson-Shelton sat waiting and praying with her family for a miracle. The Scriptures were more precious to them in those hours than ever. As Candi poured over the words from Isaiah chapter 40, a song was born. A voice cries in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight in the desert a highway for our God.... Then every eye will see the glory of the Lord revealed. The days and months and years that would follow would be painful, but Candi and her family found in the words of this biblical song a sort of mission—a call to find the glory of the Lord shining through the sorrow and to reflect that glory to all those around them.

And when death finally came, by the grace of God, they were able to find purpose through the pain. In fact, they found a depth of beauty in the abyss of the loss that they never could have imagined. Candi discovered that her vision was too narrow, that her lens was too tainted by her own perceptions of fairness and justice and her own desire to control the outcome.

In the fiercely honest yet faithful book, Desperate Hope: When Faith in God Overcame My Despair, Candi shares the lessons that came to them along their journey, offering a song of praise to One who, in the midst of tragedy, pain and confusion, revealed not only His glory but also beauty, unexpected graces, a hope more grounded in faith and a shifted perspective that changed nothing but somehow made all the difference.

“I write these thoughts out of necessity,” the author reflects. “There is value in recording the gentle whispers and hard-learned faith lessons that make up the aftermath, springing up like tender shoots of vivid green grass through the contrasting blackened dry soot. These are my blades of grass, the lessons in the aftermath, told with the heart of an adventurer fresh from the adventure, brimming with tales of terror and scars, of beauty and redemption.”

All of the profits from the sale of Desperate Hope will go to the Rick Pearson Memorial Fund, a non-profit that exists to extend the hope of Christ to others by championing the interests and organizations that Rick passionately supported. Monies that are donated to the Rick Pearson Memorial Fund are used to help support organizations like Compassion International, Bigstuf Camps, The 410 Bridge, Passion Conferences and most recently, a scholarship fund for students who want to pursue a ministry of music with an emphasis on missions.

There is a song entitled “One Breath, Then Another,” that will accompany the book. There will be a code inside each book to redeem online for a free download of the song.

MY REVIEW:

Desperate Hope is the amazing story of human suffering and the hope we have in Jesus Christ. This book is proof in black and white of how God can be glorified even in the worst times of our lives.

Candi Pearson-Shelton explains how our own plans can get in the way of enjoying the things God brings into our lives, how our desire for control lessens our view of God, and how difficulty brings about growth in our life.

This book was such an encouragement to read and a wonderful balm to the soul as we all grapple with suffering at some point in our life. I enjoyed the candid details of this family's journey in one of life's deepest valleys and how they saw God through it all.

AUTHOR BIO:

Candi Pearson-Shelton is a worship leader, songwriter and independent artist. Known for her involvement with the Passion worship movement, she also wrote and performed the title track on the Dove-award-winning album, Glory Revealed. She and her husband Jonathan live in Southern California with their son, Elias.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of David C. Cook and The B&B Media Group.

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