Life-Changing Bible Verses You Should Know by Erwin & Rebecca Lutzer

Life-Changing Bible Verses You Should Know by Erwin W. Lutzer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Practical. Helpful. Informative.

I got to review this book in kindle format, but this is a book I really want in a black and white print edition! Each chapter addresses a topical issue with key verses one should memorize and then insight into how each of those verses applies. I like it because when struggling with a specific issue this is easy to use in not only finding out what the Bible says, but also exactly how that applies to the problem. This book is easy reading and encouraging. I would recommend it for anyone - teens, adults, families, etc. Also, because it has study questions at the end of each chapter it makes a great simple Bible study or group program for memorizing together.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

After Erwin Lutzer, senior pastor of the Moody Church, and his wife, Rebecca, realized that memorizing Scripture has nearly become a lost pursuit today, they decided to create this practical, relevant resource filled with powerful verses and insightful explanations to help stimulate a spiritual hunger in readers’ own lives. With more than 35 topics and questions for reflection and further study, readers will discover how God’s Word will:

sustain them in times of need
comfort them in seasons of sorrow
strengthen their hearts in times and areas of weakness
direct their steps and decisions toward God’s will

These handpicked verses provide a foundation of wisdom and hope to show readers who God is and what He has done for them, as well as who they are and how they can successfully live the Christian life.

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This review copy was provided by NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers but the opinion expressed is my own.

The Power of a Praying Wife Devotional by Stormie Omartian

The Power of a Praying® Wife Devotional by Stormie Omartian
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I truly appreciate the concept of this book - having devotionals and prayers coming from the three perspectives of "I", "He", and "We" and all focused on a godly marriage. However, while there is truth in the pages, it is presented together with a very weak focus on the gospel and way too much focus on the act of prayer being the magic act needed for change. I believe there is power in prayer and I am not here to bash prayer in anyway, but I do not agree with phrases like: "The more you pray for your husband this way, the more his heart will become sensitive to the Holy Spirit's promptings." [In reference to an unsaved husband.] While I don't disagree with that being possible, I do disagree with the presentation that it will happen if you just pray these prayers. The focus on this book is heavily on our part in prayer rather than praying from a heart overwhelmed with Christ and the gospel.

Again, I appreciate the idea of this book, but I personally think it's lacking in a gospel centered focus and if you choose to read it I highly recommend reading with great discernment.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

New from bestselling author Stormie Omartian is a book close to her own heart—The Power of a Praying® Wife Devotional. Following up on the insights and prayers of The Power of a Praying® Wife (more than 3.5 million books sold) 100 brand-new devotions, prayers, and supporting Scriptures offer a praying wife fresh ways to pray for her husband, herself, and her marriage.

These easy-to-read devotions will increase any wife’s understanding, strength, and peace, as well as provide her with perspective on the situations and challenges she faces. And each prayer will help both husbands and wives be more attuned to the Holy Spirit so they can do what’s right without allowing negative emotions or unclear thinking to get in the way.

A must-have for anyone wanting God’s best for this most important relationship.

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This review copy was provided by NetGalley along with Harvest House Publishers but the opinion expresses is my own.

A Young Man’s Guide to Making Right Choices

A Young Man's Guide to Making Right Choices: Your Life God's Way by Jim George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Fresh. Challenging.

Elizabeth George has been encouraging and challenging women for years and now we get great resources from her husband to use with our sons. Just like the teen girl's series, this book for teen boys is Biblical and applicable. It walks a guy through making decisions about sleep, reading God's Word, how to treat family, clothing, speech, and more. Each chapter is interactive and sends you to God's Word to find the final answer rather than just relying on a man's opinion.

I like the down to earth approach of this book. It meets teen guys where they are rather than expect them to get things together before they pursue growing in their walk with Christ. I personally think this book has a lot of appeal for young men, too, because it's not just reading - it's interactive with questions and things to do now to apply what they are reading. While this book is probably targeted for teens between 14 and 17, I think any teen boy from 7th through 12th grade will benefit from this book. It is great for individual use but also perfect for mentoring or Bible study groups. It is easy to use and relevant to today's teens. And what makes it even better is that you could split guys and girls and to the girls study on choices with the girls while the guys go through this book!

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This ARC copy was provided by Harvest House but the opinion expressed is strictly my own.

A Woman’s Walk In Truth by Vonette Bright

A Woman's Walk in Truth: Devotions for Living a Confident Faith by Vonette Bright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Short. Sweet. Simple. Inspiring.

This small, yet thick book is filled with wonderful devotions for women. They are short, yet ever so sweetly inspiring and tied to the truth of Scripture. I really enjoyed the insightful thoughts and stories and the verse to meditate on. However, my favorite part was the ending thought of each day titled This I Believe. In one sentence, Vonette wraps the devotion up in a truth that will stick with you.

I think this book makes a great mid-day treat to read a page while eating your lunch or waiting at an appointment. Any age woman will appreciate the devotionals and that makes it a perfect gift for any occasion! Bring a smile to a friends day and give her a copy of A Woman's Walk In Truth.

In closing I want to issue a caution that this is indeed a devotional book which is meant for an appetizer, not your main dish. It is a great encouragement book, but in no way is it a Bible study.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Award-winning radio host Vonette Bright is the founder of Women Today ministries and co-founder with husband, Dr. Bill Bright, of Campus Crusade for Christ International. She speaks regularly to thousands of women about the importance and joy of walking in the truth of God’s Word.

In this beautiful padded hardcover filled with refreshing devotions, select verses, “This I Believe” statements, and stories of women modeling remarkable faith, Vonette encourages all women to:

choose God and His character as their foundation of truth
move forward with renewed confidence in Christ
demonstrate their faith convictions in their daily ways
make God the center of their life
experience God’s remarkable purpose for them

Through each meditation, Vonette leads women to give every area of their life to God’s control and experience the blessings of a daily journey lived in Christ’s love.

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This review copy was provided by Harvest House Publishers but the opinion expressed is strictly my own.

My So-Called Life as a Proverbs 31 Wife by Sara Horn

My So-Called Life as a Proverbs 31 Wife: A One-Year Experiment...and Its Surprising Results by Sara Horn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This is one of those books that I had such mixed emotions about. First I liked it, then I didn't, then I did again. It's also a bit different than any other book I have read - not fiction, not really biography, not Bible study...more like reading someone's diary which in turns make you think about your own life.

I recommend this book for those who want another perspective on the Proverbs 31 Woman or for those who think that she's too old fashioned to apply to their lifestyle. While I don't personally agree with every thing that Sara said or concludes with...I appreciated her light-hearted, yet very thought provoking, and personal look at this unnamed woman and how we can learn from her even in today's culture. It was a fun read and made me feel like I had a new friend as I eavesdropped on Sara's life for a whole year. For women looking for a relaxing yet thoughtful read, this is for you.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Author Sara Horn always admired the Proverbs 31 wife, but when she became a busy writer and mother, she deemed this model to be dated and impossible. Or is it? Join Sara as she heads into a one-year domestic experiment and offers full access to see if this biblical model can be embraced by a modern woman—even one who can’t sew.

With humility and humor, Sara sets out to pursue the Proverbs 31 characteristics through immersing herself in all things domestic, but when her family's situation changes and she must return to a full-time job, she's forced to look at the Proverbs 31 woman with a whole new viewpoint. Through it all, she and readers discover:

what it means to be a godly woman and a wife
how investing in family and faith refines priorities as a spouse and a parent
how mistakes are opportunities for growth


This thought-provoking, surprising, and entertaining personal account will inspire women to try their own experiments in living out God’s purpose for their lives.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of NetGalley but the opinion expresses is purely my own.

30 Days to Taming Your Fears by Deborah Smith Pegues

30 Days to Taming Your Fears by Deborah Smith Pegues
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I like the concept of 30 Days to Taming Your Fears - although I don't like the idea of putting an exact number on how long it should take one to tame their fears - but I think that this book on fear misses it's mark on getting to the heart of the matter. Deborah has provided a comprehensive look - day by day - of many of the fears that we face and has also provided many practical tips for overcoming them. But as someone well acquainted with fear, I know that these tips don't dig down deep enough to truly tame the fears that rise up within.

Shortly in to the book Deborah says "I believe with all my heart "that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Roman 8:28) - even if I never comprehend what the "good" is. Therefore, I never asked, "Why me?" Because she leaves off verse 29 no one will ever be able to see the "good" in all situations - which is to grow more and more into the likeness of the Son, Jesus Christ, through the shaping and molding that all things in our life produces. It is faulty, surface level beliefs like this one that continue through out this book and while they may be informative and change your thoughts for a few moments, they do not change the core problem which in turn provides long term change.

It's a cute book with an appealing cover and title, but it's not one to read.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Deborah Smith Pegues, behavioral specialist and bestselling author of 30 days to Taming Your Tongue (more than 500,000 copies sold), sheds light on rational and irrational fears and offers readers a path of hope and assurance.

With her trademark clarity and practical wisdom, Deborah addresses spiritual, relational, physical safety, financial, and emotional fears with godly principles and straightforward helps. Each step of the way, she gives readers power over fear by helping them understand:

-the foundation of their fears
-God's perspective on their specific anxiety, fear, or phobia
-how to respond to fear triggers with information, awareness, and confidence
-ways to embrace healthy fears and to resist unhealthy ones
-how neutralizing their fears maximizes their life

This will be an invaluable resource for anyone walking the minefield of constant apprehensions who is ready to exchange fear for the peace which passes all understanding.

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This book was provided for review courtesy of Harvest House Publishers but the opinion expressed is my own.

The Man Who Makes A Difference by Jim George

The Man Who Makes A Difference: 10 Keys to a Life of Impact by Jim George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Jim & Elizabeth George have been used mightily by the Lord to encourage men and women to pursue depth in their relationship with Him and this book is yet another challenge for all men.

I really liked how Jim gives 10 practical keys for becoming a man who impacts the world for the cause of Christ based on the Bible and the life of Paul. Each key is presented in two chapters; the first being an overview of sorts while the second is how it applies to your life. The reading is probing and convicting all the while being easy to read and comprehend. Jim's writing is personable and humble. I am touched by the spirit in which he writes

While I say I liked everything about this book, I appreciate it for how it can apply to any man no matter what stage of life he is in or what his status is - married, single, etc. It seems to me it's a great companion for Elizabeth's book for women, "A Woman's High Calling".

BOOK OVERVIEW:

The Bible is filled with amazing people, and Paul stands out prominently among them. What made him so effective, so influential? In this book, author Jim George explores how Paul took God’s priorities for life and made them his own. The result? He had a significant impact on everyone around him. From Paul we can learn how to…

• let God’s power work in and through us
• acquire discernment for making right decisions and choices
• pursue holiness that allows God to work through us unhindered
• stay faithful to God’s calling all the way to the end

Because it is God who enables us, these qualities are accessible to every believer. Readers will experience true fulfillment as they take steps toward making a difference in the workplace, at home, at church, and in their community.

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Thanks to Harvest House for the courtesy of a review copy.  The opinion expressed is purely my own and was in no way influenced.

A Wife/Husband After God’s Own Heart by Jim & Elizabeth George

Welcome to Day 6 of the After God’s Own Heart post series!

A Wife After God's Own Heart: 12 Things That Really Matter in Your Marriage by Elizabeth George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

In these more specific books, Jim and Elizabeth George dig deeper into what being a Biblical husband and wife really mean and looks like. I enjoy their honest yet considerate and respectful approach to the wide variety of issues in marriage as they pertain to each the role. They are gentle yet firm and stas true to the Word of God.

I personally liked how these books were basic yet broad at the same time. They were also deep yet easy to understand and apply as well. They push spiritual growth based on the truth - the Bible.

Both of these books are great to be used on an individual basis, in counseling/mentoring situations, as group studies, and as a couple. They would also make some great pre-marital or newlywed counseling material to work through.

BOOK OVERVIEWS:

A WIFE AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART

One secret to marital bliss is for a wife to love her husband the way God designed for her to love him—even with his shortcomings. God hasn’t called a woman to change her husband, but to focus on her calling as a wife. And the rewards for doing so are rich! Elizabeth provides valuable and practical insights on 12 key areas of a marriage, including...

* What it means to be a husband’s helper
* What submission is and isn’t
* Nurturing joy in your home and family
* Excelling in your work...and making time for fun as a couple!

This book can be used alongside A Husband After God’s Own Heart, or as a stand–alone volume.

A HUSBAND AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART

The closer a husband is to God, the closer he will grow to his wife. That’s why it’s so vital for husbands to pursue God’s heart and get to know His perfect design for the man’s role in the marriage relationship. Husbands will find their marriages growing richer and deeper as they discover how to...

* win a wife’s heart through loving leadership
* enjoy better communication through careful listening
* build a happier home through wise guidance
* encourage the family’s spiritual growth by example
* excel at a career without sacrificing family priorities

Jim George addresses 12 areas of a husband’s life, providing men with powerful and practical applications for becoming a husband after God’s own heart. Includes a helpful study guide.

A Woman / Man After God’s Own Heart by Jim & Elizabeth George

Welcome to Day 5 of the After God’s Own Heart post series!

A Woman After God's Own Heart® by Elizabeth George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This is a "must-read" for any and every woman. Elizabeth digs into Biblical truth and shares practical application for our every day lives. She is sweet, kind, and encouraging all the while gently prodding each woman to be a woman after the heart of God.

I enjoy Elizabeth's organized approach and kind, yet direct manner as she shares from the Word of God and from her own life. While I really appreciated and enjoyed the original release, I think that in this updated version she has mellowed a bit and it may be easier for more and more woman to read and enjoy. I like the easy reading and then the study guide portion that helps you think through what you just read - it's a great combination for aiding in spiritual growth.

I personally think this book can be used in just about any setting - individually, one-on-one, group Bible study, and even hand-in-hand with the teen version for a Mother/Daughter study.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

A new cover and fresh updates enrich Elizabeth George’s bestselling A Woman After God’s Own Heart® (over 735,000 copies sold). This very popular selection for personal and group study is filled with rich advice, spiritual wisdom, and practical applications.

With passion and personality, Elizabeth George shares how a woman can follow God and seek His heart in every area of her life—

* her husband
* her children
* her home
* her walk with the Lord
* her ministry

There is peace and purpose for the woman who prepares her heart and mind to embrace God’s plan every day. This new look will complement the other bestselling Elizabeth George titles loved by millions of women.

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A Man After God's Own Heart: Devoting Your Life to What Really Matters by Jim George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Biblical. Accurate. Basic. Practical. Challenging. Convicting. Uplifting.

These are just a few words I would use to describe this book that every man should read. It will take a man at any place in life back to the basics of his relationship with the Lord and how the Word of God can be fleshed out in his own everyday life.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

As a devoted Christian, passionate speaker, and prolific author, Jim George has taught, trained, counseled, and mentored men from all walks of life. He brings more than 25 years of ministry to this bestselling book (more than 110,000 sold), now rereleased with a helpful study guide and new cover. In it he explains that a man’s heartfelt desire to grow spiritually is all that’s needed— God’s grace does the rest. The reader will find instruction and be encouraged to make lasting changes to his:

* Marriage—leading, loving, and protecting his wife God’s way
* Work—cultivating attitudes and actions that make a difference
* Witness—putting God on display in his life and words

Within this book, men are invited to embark on a journey toward greater growth and maturity; to make giant strides toward truly becoming a man after God’s own heart.

A Young Woman & A Young Man After God’s Own Heart by Jim & Elizabeth George

Welcome to Day 4 of the After God’s Own Heart post series!

A Young Woman After God's Own Heart: A Teen's Guide to Friends, Faith, Family, and the Future by Elizabeth George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

The classic book for women - A Woman After God's Own Heart now in format for teen girls of all ages! This book is the perfect Bible Study or simply a pleasure read for a teen girl who desires to know more about Jesus or grow in her relationship with Jesus. While this book is packed full of Biblical truth, sound advice, and practical application, it is also a fun book to read as Elizabeth has fun with 12 to 16 year old girls.

I liked the fun approach of this book to deep issues in a young woman's heart. It addresses the basics of her Christian life in an easy to understand presentation. Elizabeth probes deep without being overwhelming and she encourages hand-in-hand with her challenges to young woman. I especially like how this book can be used for a teen girl while her mother goes through the original version - a fun way to learn together!

BOOK OVERVIEW:

This young woman’s version of Elizabeth George’s bestselling book A Woman After God’s Own Heart® shares the intentions and blessings of God’s heart with teen girls. On this journey they discover His priorities for their lives—including prayer, submission, faithfulness, and joy—and how to embrace those priorities in daily life.

Elizabeth’s mentor style, the “Heart Response” messages of reflection, and the age–significant themes make this an excellent book for groups or for personal study. And best of all, girls will discover that God is a faithful, caring, and loving presence during this exciting and sometimes difficult time in their lives.

To read an excerpt, click here.

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A Young Man After God's Own Heart: Turn Your Life into an Extreme Adventure by Jim George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Just as it's counterpart - A Young Woman After God's Own Heart is encouraging for teen girls - so this book is to teen guys. In this book Jim George has given us a teen companion to his original: A Man After God's Own Heart. This book is easy to read for any age teen guy and very practical to their every day life.

I appreciate this book due to it's Biblical truth and accuracy while being extremely relevant to a young guy's life. It shoots straight while focusing on the heart issues he deals with every day. While intended more for a believing teen, it would be could for those seeking to understand the Christian faith as well. This is a great book to use individually for 12 to 16-year-old guys, in one-on-one discipleship settings, or as a group Bible study. It would also make a great study for Father and Son to work through together using the adult version, too!

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Jim George, author of A Man After God’s Own Heart (more than 74,000 copies sold), takes older teenagers on a radical journey of faith. Through God’s extreme wisdom and powerful insights from the life of warrior and leader King David, readers will—

* get on track with right priorities
* discover God’s amazing will
* live God through their actions
* gear up for serving the Lord
* build meaningful friendships

Young men will discover biblical principles that blaze a trail to godly living. A Young Man After God’s Own Heart helps guys grow into men who honor God in all they do. Great for Sunday school, youth group studies, and individual reading.

To read an excerpt, click here.

A Girl After God’s Own Heart by Elizabeth George

Welcome to Day 3 of the After God’s Own Heart post series!

Girl after God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

It's a Tween Adventure in 10 easy and fun chapters!

I love the fact that Elizabeth George has taken such wonderful spiritual truth and put into a format for younger girl's to enjoy just like their mom's have enjoyed in A Woman After God's Own Heart.

This book takes God's Word and applies it to the lives of 8 through 12 year-olds. (Although my 7-year-old enjoyed it, too.) It's part story, part devotional, part workbook, part fun and games! I found this book to be relevant, catchy, fun, and full of Biblical truth. It's great for an older girl to do alone, a younger girl to do with Mom, or for any girl's club or Sunday school class to use together. It is easy-to-use and the layout is appealing and interactive.

This makes a great gift for any young girl in your life whether it be on a special holiday or for a simple act of encouragement.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Bestselling author Elizabeth George follows her popular teen books (more than 400,000 copies sold), including A Young Woman’s Guide to Making Right Choices, by reaching out to tweens, ages 8 to 12, in A Girl After God’s Own Heart.

Upbeat and positive, Elizabeth provides biblical truths and suggestions so tweens can thrive. She reaches out to girls where they’re at and addresses daily issues that concern them, including—

* building real friendships
* talking with parents
* putting Jesus first
* handling schoolwork and activities
* deciding how to dress

Girls are busy developing new skills and increasing their knowledge as they grow into young women. A Girl After God’s Own Heart shows them how to establish healthy guidelines that honor God, promote their well-being, and help them get the most from this wonderful time in their lives.

Perfect for Sunday school, preteen groups, and individuals.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers but the opinions expressed are strictly my own.

A Woman’s High Calling by Elizabeth George

A Woman's High Calling: 10 Ways to Live Out God's Plan for Your Life by Elizabeth George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

Have you ever sat down and read Titus 2:3-5 and then wondered what exactly does it all mean and how does it apply to your life?

Elizabeth George digs into that passage, and many more, in this book and not only explains the meaning but also how to apply it to your life in simple steps. A Woman's High Calling is part Bible study, part cozy chat with a dear friend, part how-to guide which brings to life the high calling of Titus 2. I love the easy flow of the book that is clear, focused, and above all, Biblical. The study guide in the back of the book helps you work through more Scripture passages to better understand and apply what you have learned.

This is the updated edition and I like how it has condensed the original two-part book and study guide to one book that flows better as well as being simpler to use. However, the one negative that I found was that it seemed to cut out some of the deeper digging passages found in the original study guide. That being said, it still presents a sound Biblical message in a format that is great for individual reading or a group study.

A Woman's High Calling is suitable for new believers and mature believers both young and old. It is a great overview of Biblical womanhood that will encourage and challenge single, married, or widowed women. I also think it would make a great study for a Mother/Daughter Bible study.


BOOK OVERVIEW:

Now updated with an exciting, practical study guide and a new cover—one of bestselling author Elizabeth George’s popular titles, with over 200,000 copies sold.

“Every woman would love to replace a life of survival with a life of meaningful accomplishment,” says Elizabeth. In A Woman’s High Calling, she helps readers to eliminate the clutter and chaos of everyday life and focus on the few things God considers truly essential. And they’re spelled out in Titus 2:3-5, where God shines the spotlight on…
-wisdom
-purity
-wholesome speech
-personal discipline
-love of husband
-goodness of heart
-love of children
-Christlike conduct
-ministry to other women
-love of home

There’s no higher calling for women than making God’s priorities their own. Readers will be eager to simplify their lives, adopt God’s essentials, and pass them on by mentoring other women. With the now-included study guide, they’ll realize immediate results.

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

Tea Party Bible Time for Mom and Me by Mary J Murray

Tea Party Bible Times for Mom and Me: Fun Bible Studies to Do Together by Mary J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

A good cup of tea, the Bible, and my daughters! What a precious way to enjoy all three by having a Mom and Me Tea Party Bible Study!

This book is a very unique and helpful book for Mom's with daughters ages 6 to 12. It clearly lays out an interactive Bible study and tea party from the first detail to the last. I love all the little helps and tidbits through out the book. One of my favorite parts was the emphasis about memorizing scripture together.

I would highly recommend this book to any Mom of young daughters and hope that you too enjoy the creative fun that it can start!

BOOK OVERVIEW:

This charming and unique Bible study offers mothers and daughters aged 7-12 a delightful way to strengthen their special bond and grow in their faith. Author Mary Murray inspires great conversations and interactions with clever Scripture-based activities that explore inner beauty, kindness, friendship, and more as she draws moms and daughters together with

* special tea and treat recipes to cook up collaboration and hospitality
* craft projects to turn thoughts and talk to the Creator
* tea party ideas that serve up fellowship and fun
* Bible readings and memory verses along with journaling sections
* mother-daughter moments that celebrate life and faith

Once completed, this study, journal, and activity book will hold dear memories and will provide great joy and encouragement for years to come.

This gift-worthy gathering of sweet ideas will make every occasion extra special and special occasions more meaningful for moms and their little girls.

BOOK DETAILS:

Published by: Harvest House Publishers
ISBN: 978-0-7369-2862-5
Price: $11.99

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This book was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers but the opinion expressed is my own.

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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!

Who Is God? by Kathleen Ruckman

Who Is God? by Kathleen Ruckman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

I love, love, love this sweet children's book that mixes adorable farm life with theology at an age appropriate level for young minds and hearts. Kathleen Ruckman has written a beautiful story that teaches Biblical truth while it entertains with simple delight. The main characters - Grandpa, Adam, and Annie - are easy to relate to and interact with one another in such a loving way that provides a wonderful example even from within the pages of a colorful storybook. I greatly appreciate how it teaches about God's love for us in practical, every-day terms and explains who God is so clearly for young children. This book is a must-have for any child's book shelf!

BOOK OVERVIEW

In Kathleen Ruckman’s delightful book for kids ages 5-8, colorful illustrations from Greg Hardin animate Annie and Adam’s adventures on their grandpa’s farm and the lessons they learn about God. Every starry sky, barnyard animal, and fishing trip leads to a conversation and an opportunity for young ones to discover God as Creator, Provider, and loving Father.

This delightful story explores the wisdom of the Bible, the love of Jesus, and the joy of being a child of God. A handy scripture reference is included to help parents and teachers in their conversations about God with special little ones in their lives.

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This review was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. 

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These 5 books are awarded with the To Read, Or Not To Read badge of distinction  - Best Of The Best - for the fact that because they are so good, they have been added to Mandy’s bookshelf!

A Warrior Prince for God by Kelly Chapman

A Warrior Prince for God by Kelly Chapman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

This book is recommended for ages 3 to 8 but there was no way my 3-year-old was going to sit through the entire reading of this book. While it has great pictures that are bright and fun, the storyline is just a little too long for the younger ages. However, for older boys - 5 to 7 - this might be the perfect book. It's baseball, warriors, knights and horses, and all about being a warrior for Christ.

A Warrior Prince For God takes the rough and tumble and gives it a purpose and a place in a little boy's life. And what boy won't like the dog named "Burpie"?! This story helps boys understand their purpose in life and how they can be strong warriors for the Lord.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

“Once upon a real time there lived a boy named Luke. He dreamed of being a mighty warrior who was brave and courageous. But there was just one problem. He was afraid…”

In a lively story about baseball, camping, and facing your fears, author Kelly Chapman helps readers see that, no matter what they are afraid of, they can be strong in the Lord and in God’s mighty power. A Warrior Prince for God is all about finding out that a warrior prince is a Christian who lives a life worthy of his calling and enters into battles only when he is called, and then relying on God’s strength and not his own.

For ages 3 to 8 years

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This book was provided for review courtesy of the Harvest House Publishers but the opinions expressed are my own.

Princess with a Purpose by Kelly Chapman

Princess with a Purpose by Kelly Chapman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

It is pink with sparkly poke-a-dots and that alone will get any girl's attention! But as you turn the pages it captures the heart of any little girl as it tells them how they CAN be a princess.

I read this story to my 5 and 7 year old daughters who loved the expressive pictures and the allure of learning how to be a princess. The story line was cute and easy for them to understand. They enjoyed the pictures and descriptions of all the "princess things" and I enjoyed how it gave the message that being a princess is all about being a child of God.

This book is targeted at girls ages 3 to 8. However, the pictures are great for the younger ages and the actual story line (wording) is more for the older end of that age range. I would say it's best for 5 and 6 year-olds and any siblings that fall in and around that age group. Also, the main character lives with her Grandma and has no parents in her life and so this book lends it's self to being even better when used with girls in that type of setting - although any girl will enjoy this book.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

“You became a real princess the moment you prayed and asked Jesus to live in your heart. And since He is the King of Kings and you are His daughter, that makes you His princess.”

Princess with a Purpose is all about finding true identity in Christ. It all began when Kelly Chapman’s daughter, Kendall, then four years old, asked, “Mommy, when I grow up I want to be a princess. Where do I go to be one? Do I go to Mickey Land?” Those words sparked a passion in Kelly’s heart for little girls and women of all ages. In Princess with a Purpose, readers will discover that, as daughters of the King, they truly are God’s princesses. A sweet and simple story, followed by a princess prayer, gives even the littlest reader a royal feeling of being part of the family of God.

For ages 3 to 8

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers but the opinions expressed are strictly my own.

A Woman Who Reflects The Heart Of Jesus by Elizabeth George

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

One of my favorite things about Elizabeth George is that she can take a complicated or deep subject and make it so practical and easy to apply to your own life. This book is no different.

A Woman Who Reflects The Heart Of Jesus explores 30 characteristics modeled for us by Jesus Christ and digs into how we too can "flesh them out" in our own lives. Each character trait is discussed in 1 short chapter that feels very much like a short devotional. You can get the discussion guide to give you homework or you can simple read a chapter a day and be refreshed by the reading alone. Elizabeth creatively goes back and forth between Jesus' example and applying it to our daily lives.

I personally enjoyed this amazing book and the way that each day I could focus on adding a new thought/trait to my life. After 30 days I saw growth in my life in several areas and would enjoy reading this book over and over again as I work more and more on all 30 character traits. I think this is one of Elizabeth's "easiest" books to enjoy because it is a little more "bite sized" than some of her other books. And as always you will be encouraged by her testimony and humble heart.

This is a must-read for any woman at any stage of life.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Elizabeth George has long been a favorite source of encouragement and wisdom for women who hunger to know how God desires for them to live. In her newest release, Elizabeth asks, “Where better can we learn about right character and conduct than Jesus Himself?”

There is much we can learn from this perfect life example: His generosity in caring for the needs of others, the abundance of His kindness and forgiveness even to His enemies, His persistence in watching over His own, and His willingness to give His all even though He had nothing.

Every woman who desires to…

* skillfully make the most of limited time
* give freely without expecting anything in return
* achieve all things in God’s strength and not her own
* let her light shine and glorify God

…will find a treasure trove of truths and applications that enable her to follow well in the footsteps of Jesus.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers but the opinions expressed are strictly my own.

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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!

A Girl After God’s Own Heart by Elizabeth George

Girl after God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

It's a Tween Adventure in 10 easy and fun chapters!

I love the fact that Elizabeth George has taken such wonderful spiritual truth and put into a format for younger girl's to enjoy just like their mom's have enjoyed in A Woman After God's Own Heart.

This book takes God's Word and applies it to the lives of 8 through 12 year-olds. (Although my 7-year-old enjoyed it, too.) It's part story, part devotional, part workbook, part fun and games! I found this book to be relevant, catchy, fun, and full of Biblical truth. It's great for an older girl to do alone, a younger girl to do with Mom, or for any girl's club or Sunday school class to use together. It is easy-to-use and the layout is appealing and interactive.

This makes a great gift for any young girl in your life whether it be on a special holiday or for a simple act of encouragement.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Bestselling author Elizabeth George follows her popular teen books (more than 400,000 copies sold), including A Young Woman’s Guide to Making Right Choices, by reaching out to tweens, ages 8 to 12, in A Girl After God’s Own Heart.

Upbeat and positive, Elizabeth provides biblical truths and suggestions so tweens can thrive. She reaches out to girls where they’re at and addresses daily issues that concern them, including—

* building real friendships
* talking with parents
* putting Jesus first
* handling schoolwork and activities
* deciding how to dress

Girls are busy developing new skills and increasing their knowledge as they grow into young women. A Girl After God’s Own Heart shows them how to establish healthy guidelines that honor God, promote their well-being, and help them get the most from this wonderful time in their lives.

Perfect for Sunday school, preteen groups, and individuals.

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This review copy was provided courtesy of Harvest House Publishers but the opinions expressed are strictly my own.

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

Remy the Rhino Learns Patience by Andy McGuire

Remy the Rhino Learns Patience by Andy McGuire
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MY REVIEW:

It's cute, it's catchy, and it's oh so appropriate for young children. *ahem* And maybe for Mom and Dad, too!

The story is short and oh so sweet with lovable characters and charming rhymes. The concept of patience is simply explained in a way that one to five-year-olds can easily grasp, but also that some older children will enjoy, too. And the whole story lends itself easily to dramatizing it with your voice as Remy goes through many emotions.

The illustrations are adorable and it's quite fun to look at the expressions on the animals faces through out the book. The whole story makes a wonderful read with your children that is more than just entertaining.

I highly recommend this book to anyone with younger kids, but especially to those with toddler age and/or pre-school age.

BOOK OVERVIEW:

Andy McGuire, artist and author of the popular Rainy Day Games, presents enchanting art and rhymes to share the story of Remy, the impatient Rhino. When the other animals annoy him, he snorts and charges right for them.

One day, an aardvark decides not to run, and Remy’s horn gets stuck in a tree! The forgiving aardvark gathers termites to slowly eat away the wood and free Remy—not only of his situation but of his impatient ways.

So as Remy experienced strange new sensations
He took a crash course in the virtue of patience.
He waited through rain and he waited through thunder
He waited through birds climbing over and under…
He waited through elephant balancing acts
Until little by little, he learned to relax.

This hilarious story shows children ages 1 to 5 how to get unstuck from their impatience and enjoy peace and the people around them.

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This review copy was provided by Harvest House Publishers but the opinions expressed are my own.