A Woman of Strength and Purpose

I was excited to dig into this book.  The title pulled me in and I eagerly began.

After reading a chapter I thought maybe this book really wasn't for me.  This book was written from a strong-willed woman. She was writing how to manage this will in a godly manner.

At times I am strong-willed. (others call it stubborness), At other times I cave in to everyone around me.

We all know someone who fits the strong-will persona.  Sometimes they come off manipulative other times respected. The author explains it's almost as if they can't help it.

The saying "just because you can do it, doesn't mean you should" jumped out at me.  This can pertain to mild or strong personalities.

The book did shed some light on how to use a strong-will to glorify God, This ministry can go by leaps and bounds.

I ended up enjoying this book and recommend it for every woman no matter what you display for personality.  We can learn both ends of the spectrum and use it for God's glory.

"I was given this book by Multnomah Publishing Group for this review."

Be Light

This book has a huge source of information about light.  Different types, ways to use it and how it compares to God's true light.

At first I thought the science instruction would be boring and long. But the author explains it so that even I got the idea.

 I was thoroughly entertained with this book and enjoyed it immensely.  It inspired me to look at how I reflect myself to others.

Want to be the light like Jesus? If so, than you need to read this book.

"I was given this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah for this review."

Modern Printmaking

This book about printing is thorough. A little too detailed.  I wanted to learn a little about printing and I ended up feeling overwhelmed.

There were beautiful pictures and many different processes. This book is full of information for the right person. I think an artist or anyone wanting to expand their knowledge of printmaking will benefit from it.

"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multomah Publishing for this review."

Meet the New You

I was very excited to read this book. It said on the front cover it was a 21-day plan for embracing fresh attitudes and focused habits for a real life change.  It's the beginning of the new year, so a perfect time to start this new book.

The author mentioned many different angles to change up the same old thing.  One of the first subjects was what fills out time.  After playing games on my iPhone I realized how wasteful that time is.

There were websites to help you reveal what your spiritual gifts are and one to get your personality type.  These are very helpful with any ministry.

I was pleased throughout this book and recommend it for all who are ready for a change in the better.

"I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multomah Publishing for this review."

The Ragmuffin Gospel

There are times reading this book that I had to reread to really understand what the author meant.  There are some things I disagreed with,  He states some sins can be a gift because when we turn to God it is good.  I do believe God can turn it to His glory, but I never consider sin to be a gift.  I think that takes God's grace for granted in that evil brings about God's good.

Manning also says we need to be open-minded where we rarely resort to creation or evolution, sacred or secular. I believe we need to be one or the other. These issues cannot blend.  Jesus was very open about giving up worldly thoughts and He is exclusive.

We cannot say all religions can come together. Unlike the author, who says we are looking for demons in those we disagree, most Christians love and care for others even when disagreeing.

I do agree with the author that many have lost their sense of wonder and that grace is brutally devalued. Those that have the disease called Jesus will never be cured.. Something to think about.

I liked this book, but disagreed with too many points to give it a high recommendation.

"I received this book for free from Waterbook Multomah Publishing for this review."

Good Things

This book brings up a great truth that God wants to give us good things. Too often we look for the black cloud over our head.

Kevin Gerald states that God's goodness outweighs the pain of life's hardships. We can keep our mind on God's favor, not on our failures.  Grace and favor are intertwined.

We can train our eyes to see the favor all around us. God is for us and always seeking to give us good things.

The most difficult question I felt the author asked was, "What do you think God thinks about you?"
Probing into the answer can reveal things about us.  Bottom line God's favor is forever!

"I received this book for free from Waterbook Multomah Publishing for this review."

Five Years in Heaven

This book reminded me of the best selling book Tuesdays with Morrie.  The great friendship between this young man and an aging nun is priceless.  I definitely wanted to meet Sister Augustine and also see her amazing works of art.

When I read she painted ceramics and the gushing praises of the author, my eyes rolled.  I figured it was the plain Jane busts we see at vendor shows.  I immediately went online to see the nun's work. I was pleasantly surprised at the beauty and uniqueness in each piece.

It is a heart tugging story that connected these two people. I appreciated how the author brought out Sister Augustine's down to earth spirit, yet heavenly credit where it is due.

I recommend this book to anyone who loves a heartfelt friendship.

"I was given this book for free for this review from WaterBrook Multomah Publishing Group."