Untaken, Too: 12 Days Following the Rapture by author CO Wyler is Book Two in her End Times series. This contemporary Christian book is the sequel to the author’s fascinating Untaken novel. These are books for Christians as well as non-Christians.
The story of Sarah continues in this riveting book. It is interesting to read the author’s perspective on what might occur. I was astounded by the brilliant scenes and the author’s vivid imagination. The writing was inviting, and soon I was once again invested in the lives of all of the characters. It was a page-turning, let the dishes pile up read!
The characters are extremely well crafted and believable. It is obvious extensive research was done for this novel because of the details. I learned some things just from reading it. It sent me back to scripture to compare the two even though I realize this is the author’s fictional story.
This is an exceptionally well written book that has some twists and turns. Even after finishing it, I have been pondering parts of it. It definitely will make you think while reading it and long after.
I highly recommend this inspiring book and would suggest reading Book One first. A reading group would have a lively discussion with this as a selection. It receives a 5 out of 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided but these are my honest words.
About the Book:
PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION:
The Rapture has happened. What would you do? You’ve agreed to an artificial intelligent implant so viewers can see, hear, and feel whatever you experience. But are you still in control or is AI? Continue in the protagonist’s mind and learn what happens during the twelve days that follow the incredible event called the Rapture.
About the Author:
Born and raised in Southern California, author Wyler is a Christian who lives in the Pacific Northwest. Having owned a business for over thirty years, she is retired and enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.
The Revelation of Israel: God’s Plan is Our Destiny by author Rachel Baxter is a non-fiction Christian book. It is a reference or study guide for the Bible and end times. This is a book that is meant to be read slowly and digested piece by piece. If it is read quickly, much of it will be lost.
Author Baxter has obviously done extensive research and devoted much time in writing this thought provoking and edifying book. Divided into eight chapters, it begins with a forward, dedication, and introduction. It concludes information about the author and a reference table. The author has a pleasant style of writing. As I read, I felt like I was in a discussion with a knowledgeable friend. She reveals revelations from God as she was writing as well as guidance from the Holy Spirit. The first being that she start with the book of Zechariah.
This is a book about end times and why Israel is important. It is about God’s promises and Jesus’s triumphant second coming. The author explains her perspective of how the ten tribes of Israel’s Northern Kingdom were scattered all around the globe and how God is calling them back to Himself. She discusses God’s prophecies affecting the nation, Israel, as well as their fulfilment, historically and into the present time. It is a fascinating book.
The author’s thoughts are supported by scripture and are credible. I definitely will read and savor this edifying book again. It is still swirling around in my mind. I wish I had been part of a discussion group for this. It would be nice to chat with others who have read it, also. This is one book that I will definitely keep around for future reference.
I highly recommend this to everyone that wants to delves deeper into their Bible. There is so much information to glean from it. The author mentions that she has a website for this with more references, which include pictures and maps among others. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: The Revelation of Israel
Author: Rachel Rebecca Baxter
Genre: Christian Non-Fiction
Release date: January, 2022
In the Revelation of Israel, God’s plan to regather His people from all 12 Tribes of Israel is unveiled. He promises to, again, raise up the Josephs, so that His lost children from the 10 Tribes of the Northern Kingdom of Israel may know who they are, be provided for, and protected through the Tribulation, which is nearly upon us.
Rachel Baxter has a professional background in engineering, with a Bachelor’s of Science in Industrial Engineering, and an MBA. Rachel currently works in the field of business process consulting with over 20 years of experience.
Rachel grew up in the Lutheran Church where she was baptized, confirmed, and married. She was born again and spirit-filled in 2014 when she received inner healing through a ministry called One Whole Heart in Omaha, Nebraska. She now serves as an elder and volunteer for this ministry. Rachel also serves her local church in various capacities.
Rachel is married to Garrick, and they have 4 children from elementary to high school age. Rachel led a Christian school and homeschool coop called Valor for 5 years. This was a missional spirit-led school where every day began with worship, and the children were taught to hear and follow the voice of the Lord, as Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice and follow me!” Rachel continues to have a heart for Kingdom youth education.
When she was baptized in the Holy Spirit, Rachel began to have dreams and visions from the Lord. He began to speak with her about the days that are ahead, the time before Jesus returns, so that she could write them down and release the prophetic words for those who were willing to hear. Rachel has received several angelic visitations. (A primary purpose of an angel is to be a messenger.) An angel of the Lord came to Rachel to tell her that she was, “Called to see that which was coming upon the Earth and to tell others what is coming.” This book is an act of obedience to that call.
More from Rachel
It’s been a year since I co-labored with the Lord to write this work. I have used it myself on a weekly basis as a reference. There is so much insight here that is beyond me. The Lord, in His glorious wisdom, is able to make the complicated and mysterious – clear and beautiful when He takes His truth and allows us to absorb it into our bones. This is the essence of a revelation! The Revelation of Israel is God’s story of His plans written before time began. It starts with a people under Father Abraham who were meant to know their God. Those people fell short in every way and were scattered across the earth. We know that Jesus came to redeem God’s people to Himself through His atoning sacrifice – but the story of God does not end there. God’s story has continued the last 2,000 years and is about to be fulfilled in the last seven years of tribulation on the earth that culminates with the return of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah at the last trump!
I recently read an advanced copy of Daughter of Eden and wanted to share some thoughts with you. Since reading it, I have not been able to stop thinking about this incredible novel. I urge all of you to get it. You will not regret reading this thought provoking, God glorifying book!
Daughter of Eden by Jill Eileen Smith is a poignant biblical fiction novel that had me captivated from page one until the end. I am still pondering the author’s perspective of the Garden of Eden and Heaven. This is Eve’s story and so much more.
This depiction of creation and the life of Eve is simply endearing. It is evident that author Smith did extensive research on the subject. She worked out how many of my questions might have been. Her skillful pen painted a beautiful picture of Eden and a heartbreaking look at how the Fall could have played out. As I read I could feel the majesty of the Almighty and imagine His mighty works and love.
My heart softened for Eve and what I previously envisioned her to be. There is so much to love about this creative, heartfelt book. It had me going back to my Bible to reference the story. Her version of the Nephilim was credible and aligned with what I have read. I was happy and sad all throughout this emotional book.
This is a book for everyone. Non-Christians and Christians both should enjoy this extraordinary novel. It brings the Bible and its people to life. Any reading group should definitely choose this, as members will want to discuss it as it is read. There is so much to ponder and talk about with this mesmerizing book.
At the end of the amazing story, you will find author notes and a preview of her next book. I am looking forward to this one. It is sure to be another great read, although Daughter of Eve will be tough to top.
I highly recommend it to everyone. It would make a thoughtful gift for any reader. My rating is a 5+ stars. A copy was provided by NetGalley but these are my honest words.
Meet the Author:
Jill Eileen Smith is the bestselling, award-winning author of the Wives of King David series, the Wives of the Patriarchs, Daughters of the Promised Land, Heart of a King, Star of Persia, Miriam’s Song, and The Prince and the Prodigal. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Old Testament times.
When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable, “helpful” cat Tiger. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
The first time she opens her eyes, Eve gazes on One whose beauty nearly blinds her, whose breath is in her lungs. Her Creator takes her hand and gives her to one like her and yet different. Together, she and Adam experience pure joy as they explore Eden. But her favorite moments are when the Creator comes to walk with them, day after day.
Until everything changes. With one act of disobedience, Eve finds that her world is no longer a friendly place. With remorse in her heart, she must face the unknown future–the births, the deaths, the sacrifices, the loss of the one home she has ever known. Perhaps worst of all is the loss of trust, not only with her Creator but with the man who shares her life. How will they ever survive out of Eden?
Grief Exposed: Giving a Voice to the Unspeakable by author Mike Sollom was not an easy book for me to read. My husband died a year ago, so my emotions are still raw. Even though it was my husband and not my child that died like Mike’s, I could still relate to his story.
Mike Sollom displays transparency in his writing. He never suggests that he has answers. He simply wants to tell his story in the hope it might encourage someone else. He gives voice to the despair and grief that come with the passing of a loved one.
One of the things that really hit home with me was when he talked about people that thought their words were encouraging, but actually those words made him feel worse. He does share bits of healing, which were very encouraging. All throughout my reading, I found myself nodding in agreement and crying in empathy. It is a very emotional book.
I highly recommend it for someone grieving, knowing someone grieving, a church library, or those that help someone who has lost a loved one – a pastor or Sunday School teacher, perhaps. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided from Celebrate Lit, and these are my honest words.
About the Book
Book: Grief Exposed: Giving a Voice to the Unspeaking
Author: Mike Sollom
Genre: Non-fiction / Grief
Release date: March 15, 2022
In those dreadful early days and nights after Mike’s son died, the only thing he could think to do, when he collided with the morbid memories of his son’s suffering and the unbearable ache of Jim’s absence, was to find some way to describe how he was feeling. So, he found a spiral-bound notebook and wrote. And wrote and wrote and wrote.
Mike believed if he could assign words to the grief and pain, he might find a way to endure them. If he could bring those words into the light, it might make the whole thing bearable. Many of the words were dark and raw and angry and did little more than chronicle ten interminable years of wrestling and railing. But there were island of hope and yes, there were words of light.
Through the gentle and generous encouragement of friends, Mike came to wonder if those words of light, which he discovered in the darkest of nights, might also help someone else endure the unbearable realities of their grief and loss—that they might become someone’s guide. If they could, then how could he keep those words buried in a stack of spiral-bound notebooks?
Mike Sollom is a hard-working, Midwest-born, farm boy married to his high school sweetheart. He and LuAnn have raised four children.
Mike is the son of a father who died of cancer at a young age. He is the father of a son who also died of cancer at an even younger age.
In the consequences and aftermath of their son’s death, Mike and LuAnn lost nearly everything. They are “houseless” and living the challenging and adventurous life of modern-day nomads and pilgrims. You can follow their journey at http://www.mikesollom.com.
More from Mike
My “One Day” Has Come
“One day you will tell the story of how you overcame what you went through and it will become someone else’s survival guide.”
I don’t know who wrote that. I saw it on a poster with no credit given. But it’s a good description of how this book came to be and what I hope will be its outcome—its path and its purpose.
Here’s the truth of it: I didn’t set out to write anything. Much less a book. I still don’t see myself as a writer. Yet, here I am.
I went somewhere I didn’t want to go. I went through something I never dreamed I’d have to go through. I didn’t have a choice. I went there. I went through it. And now I’m telling my story.
My first-born son died of cancer.
In those dreadful early days and nights after Jim died, the only thing I could think to do—when I collided with the morbid memories of his suffering and the unbearable ache of his absence—was to find some way to describe how I was feeling. So, I found a spiral-bound notebook and wrote. And wrote and wrote and wrote.
I believed if I could assign words to the grief and pain, I might find a way to endure them. If I could bring those words into the light, it might make the whole thing bearable. Many of the words were dark and raw and angry and did little more than chronicle ten interminable years of wrestling and railing. But there were islands of hope and yes, there were words of light.
Through the gentle and generous encouragement of friends, I came to wonder if those words of light, which I discovered in the darkest of nights, might also help someone else endure the unspeakable realities of their grief and loss—that my voice might become someone’s “survival guide.” If so, then how could I keep those words buried in a stack of spiral-bound notebooks just because I didn’t see myself as a writer?
I’m taking a huge risk by plunging back into that bottomless pit of loss and dragging myself through that incessant slog of sorrow once again, unclear of the worth or usefulness of the outcome. I’m exposing my most intimate grief, with all its messiness and vulnerability, uncertain of its reception or the consequences it will bring. I’m giving a voice—my voice—to the unspeakable pain of death and suffering, unaware of who will hear me or how they will respond. Yet, in the face of all of that, I’ve decided it’s a risk I’m willing to take.
“One day you will tell the story of how you overcame what you went through and it will become someone else’s survival guide.”
“End-Time Shaking and Revival” by best selling author Guillermo Maldonado is a Christian, Spiritual Warfare, Charismatic, Eschatology End-Times book of 208 pages. It is the first book I have read by this author. Far as long as I can remember people have been talking about how “now at this very time” the world was living out its last days. Obviously they were wrong, but what about the people saying it now?
This book takes a look at relevant things happening in today’s world and compares them to what scripture says about End Times. Covid-19 and the Pandemic are discussed along with a variety of other note worthy occurrences such as wars, natural disasters, earthquakes, and severe weather that confirm the predictions. The author backs up his claims with scriptural references in his book. He includes a prayer and explanations on why we as Christians need to wake, show up, and stand up for God during these difficult times.
The author has an authentic style of writing. His words flow together into well planned sentences which make well organized chapters. It is easy to see he has studied End-Times and knows this subject really well. While I agree with the majority of his book, there is much that I thought did not need to be included. The author himself agrees that scripture states we will not know the exact date nor time that Jesus will return. It is prudent, however, to be ready and prepare your loved ones for it, also.
I would recommend this to those that enjoy non-fiction books about End Time and Spiritual Warfare. It is good to have Bible knowledge and this is heavy on scripture. At times the testimonies felt like a commercial for the author’s ministry, but that is his prerogative. It gets a 4 star rating from me. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. These are my own, honest opinions.
About the Book
Book: End-Time Shaking and Revival
Author: Guillermo Maldonado
Genre: RELIGION / Christian Theology/Eschatology
Release date: October 5, 2021
Shaking…Then Revival…Then Harvest!
The end times are unfolding before our eyes.
First, there will be unprecedented shakings.
Today, the world is shaking in alarming ways. And this is just the beginning. Nations, institutions, economies, families, individuals, the earth’s environment, the cosmos, the spiritual realm—in every dimension and sphere of life, we will see powerful waves of shaking that disrupt the course of our lives and take away our false sense of security in earthly resources, compelling us to return to our Creator.
The main purpose of these shakings is to judge the people of the world for their sin and rebellion against God. Yet God is using the shaking we are now experiencing to refine believers so we will be purified to become the remnant that is ready for Jesus’s imminent appearing.
Second, there will be unprecedented revival.
As we respond to the shaking with repentance and wholehearted devotion to God, we will be prepared to take an active role in the coming last-days revival in which God’s sovereign glory will be revealed! There will be an all-inclusive supernatural movement characterized by miracles, healings, salvations, financial provision, prophetic visions, renewed holiness, powerful worship, strong discipleship, and profound love.
Finally, there will be an unprecedented harvest of souls with global impact!
The Holy Spirit will empower the church to reach the lost with the demonstration of miracles, signs, and wonders. Millions of people worldwide will come to genuine repentance, surrendering their hearts to the Lord Jesus.
In End-Time Shaking and Revival, best-selling author Guillermo Maldonado expands on last-days themes introduced in his previous books, revealing how to…
Avoid God’s judgment
Respond correctly to the divine shakings in your life and in the world
Be revived and continuously filled with the Spirit
Participate in the worldwide harvest
Move in supernatural power
We must understand God’s cycle of end-time events so we can align our lives with His momentous purposes in these last days!
Active in ministry for over twenty years, Apostle Guillermo Maldonado is the founder of King Jesus International Ministry—one of the fastest-growing multicultural churches in the United States—which has been recognized for its visible manifestations of God´s supernatural power. King Jesus Ministry currently has a membership of more than 25,000, including the main church in Miami, Florida, its campuses, its daughter churches, and its online church. Apostle Maldonado is also a spiritual father to 500 churches in 70 countries, which form the Supernatural Global Network, representing more than 750,000 people. In addition, he is the founder of the University of the Supernatural Ministry (USM). Apostle Maldonado has a doctorate in Christian counseling and a master’s degree in practical theology.
More from Guillermo
The end times are unfolding before our eyes. First, there will be unprecedented shakings in every dimension and sphere of life. Second, there will be unprecedented revival. Finally, there will be an unprecedented harvest of souls with global impact! The Holy Spirit will empower the church to reach the lost with the demonstration of many signs and wonders. In End-Time Shaking and Revival, best-selling author Guillermo Maldonado explains how to respond to God’s cycle of end-time events so we can align our lives with His momentous purposes in these last days!
“I Never Knew You” is a contemporary Christian book by author Patrick Higgins. This powerful fiction book is saturated with scripture and biblical references. The message is so moving that it will linger in your mind a long time after finishing the book.
The author takes on the subject of false prophets, false preachers, and the “name it and claim it” mega-churches. Using a riveting story, believable characters, and most importantly scripture, the author shows readers the true way to God and what He wants for His children. Illustrations of how people misconstrue Bible verses or twist them to suit their own needs are eye-opening. He also warns against adding our own words to God’s.
This is the story of highly successful Charmaine and her Christian walk. She belongs to the Blessed and Highly Favored Full Gospel Church of Seattle. Her boyfriend, Rodney, is music leader. The pastors, Imogen and Julian, are both mentors and friends of the couple. Everything is going smoothly until a pastor from China is introduced to Charmaine in a business deal.
The author has a spectacular style of writing. The point of his book is clear. He wants to bring glory to God and help other people find salvation. This book is so captivating, I read it from front to back in one day. I could not put it down! So many parts of it stand out to me even now. The church in China is unforgettable. The plane ride home touched all of my emotions.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. If you have had questions about those reward driven churches, please read this. If you are searching for Jesus, this book will show you the way. It would make a wonderful book club selection. There are no discussion questions in the back, but groups should have no trouble coming up with some of their own.
This definitely gets a 5 star rating from me. It has so many life and spiritual messages sprinkled throughout it that it is phenomenal. This would make a perfect gift for any reader. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my own opinions.
About the Book
Book: I Never Knew You
Author: Patrick Higgins
Genre: Christian Fiction
Release date: September 9, 2020
Is the God you serve the true God of the Bible? If you profess faith in Christ, this book will challenge you mightily from beginning to end, GUARANTEED!
Charmaine DeShields thought she had it all. A promising career. Good health. A beautiful house. A promising relationship. Most importantly, she was a proud member of the largest and most popular megachurch in all of Seattle—the Blessed and Highly Favored Full Gospel Church.
Everything started changing in her seemingly perfect life after a pastor visiting from China created such an uproar at her church, with messages most members found both mean spirited and judgmentally offensive, that Mark Lau was asked to leave and told never to come back.
It took traveling all the way to Shanghai, China, with her best friend, Meredith Geiger, for Charmaine to discover the many differences between her church, which was opulent in every sense of the word, and Pastor Lau’s church, which was located beneath a dry cleaners, of all places.
Even more telling were the messages both pastors preached. Despite that they taught from the very same Book, their messages couldn’t have been anymore polarizing. While Charmaine was instantly intrigued by the whole “underground” experience, Meredith was so traumatized that she cut short what had been the best vacation of her life, to go back to the States.
But not before alarming Charmaine’s boyfriend of the grave danger they faced. Rodney Williams then told lead pastors, Julian and Imogen Martín, who flew 5,700 miles from Seattle to China, to rescue her from the so-called pastor who’d already caused some to leave their megachurch.
Upon arriving, they learned their suspicions were quickly confirmed. Mark Lau had used his subterranean gathering place to radically change Charmaine’s way of thinking. Despite her strongest protests, they flat-out refused to believe that God had used him to transform her life and deepen her faith, to the extent that she finally had eternal assurance.
Tragically for the Martíns, by the time they discovered the prosperity Gospel they’d been preaching was a false one, it would be too late…
Patrick Higgins is an Amazon bestseller and award-winning author of the end times prophetic series, Chaos In The Blink Of An Eye. The “CHAOS” in our present world is well documented in this series, which won the Radiqx Press Spirit-Filled Fiction Award of Excellence, soon after the first installment was published. Download now and see for yourself why JUST UNDER 3000 POSITIVE RATINGS – REVIEWS have been posted on Amazon and Goodreads, on the first 6 installments…and counting!
Once completed, there will be 12 installments…
Higgins also wrote “I Never Knew You”, “The Pelican Trees”, “Coffee In Manila”, and “The Unannounced Christmas Visitor”, which won the 2018 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Award in Christian fiction.
More from Patrick
Is the God you serve the true God of the Bible? Charmaine DeShields always thought so. How could she not after practically going from rags to riches in the seven years she spent as a full-fledged member of the most influential church in all of Seattle—the Blessed and Highly Favored Full Gospel Church? From a financial and materialistic standpoint, she felt incredibly blessed by her Maker.
It took traveling all the way to Shanghai, China, and spending a few days in an underground church—with persecuted believers who’d lost everything for their faith in Christ—for Charmaine to discover that the relationship she had with Jesus wasn’t nearly as secure as she had always thought it was.
In fact, the biblically-sound preaching she was exposed to in Pastor Mark Lau’s subterranean house of worship was so profound, it forced her to question whether or not she was even saved at all…
Based on Matthew 7:21-23, if you profess faith in Christ, this story will challenge you from start to finish—GUARANTEED! Since its release in September 2020, the reviews on Amazon and Goodreads have been nothing short of stellar. Many are calling it Patrick Higgins’ best book to date and predict it will become an award-winner like his other books.
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness’” (Matthew 7:21-23).
It has often been said that it takes a village to raise a child. This is absolutely true. Between parents, grandparents, other family, and friends, children are nurtured in many ways. I was fortunate to have a large village caring for me. One of the leaders of my village was my aunt, Eva June Wilson. I affectionately called her Auntie June. I treasured her. A few days ago she was called home by Jesus. Yes, I am broken-hearted that we are now separated, but I know with certainty we will see each other again.
Auntie June was my father’s elder sister by two years. She was a delightful, quaint, lovely woman. From my earliest memories of her, I knew that she loved me. I recall being rocked in a rocking chair and swung in a porch swing by her. She liked to be in motion and passed on that love to me. Her husband, my Uncle Sam, was a jokester and teased me relentlessly. Both of these relatives have special places in my heart. Everyone that knew my aunt loved her and sang her praises. She was one of a kind, the best kind.
I learned many things from my aunt. She had a sharp mind and gave sage advice:
a. Family is forever. Always be ready to help them. Never forget their stories.
b. Forgiveness is a requirement and not an option. Do not withhold it.
c. There are certain words a lady doesn’t say, and always remember you are a lady.
d. If you can’t say anything nice, then be quiet.
e. If you don’t know what to do, pray. You can’t go wrong talking to Jesus.
f. Don’t go where you aren’t invited. If they wanted you there, you would know.
g. If it’s not your story, don’t tell it. That is called gossip.
h. Be nice to everyone. You don’t know what they have been through in life.
i. Look for the silver lining in each situation. There is alway something good
j. Make sure your lipstick is fresh. Somebody might take your picture.
k. No one loves you like your family. Always tell them you love them.
There are many other things she taught me. She and Grandmother were skilled in the kitchen. They could cook, freeze, and can until the cows came home. Chicken tasted better fried in lard. The best thing to drink was iced tea. It was okay to use paper plates so you could spend more time with your guests. German tomatoes were fine raised besides the patio, and a yeast roll was better than a cookie anytime. Angel rolls were fluffy and great to have on hand for surprise company. If you had more than enough, share with someone. When you hug someone, close your eyes and savor it. Let your love seep through to them.
Auntie June was fun. She loved playing games and winning. When she lived on her farm she had peacocks. They were beautiful but squealed like a cat or baby. Since she had received a teaching degree, she was the best person to explain anything. Her patience was unmatched. She was a natural born story teller. We had no trouble talking for hours. I could call her and chat for an hour, unless her Kentucky Wildcats were playing ball. Then I needed to wait until after the game. She was frugal but not stingy. Things were cared for and lasted years. I remember the same family room loveseats, living room set, bedroom set, and even lamps at her house. Perhaps being content was her secret.
Auntie June grew up in Southern Indiana, but moved to Kentucky to live with family there after her sophomore year. She skipped her junior year of high school to graduate early with her cousin, Phyllis Ann. After graduation they attended college together. My grandmother was anxious that if she did not have a college buddy, my aunt might not go. She went and graduated with a bachelors degree in business. Like many others in her family, she became a teacher. Learning was important, and she continued to read and educate herself. I valued her opinion.
She was an animal lover. When she lived in Louisville, I remember her dog, Smoky. It was a black cocker spaniel, and I thought it was the most beautiful dog ever. A few years later they moved to the big farm house after her father-in-law died. She had a gorgeous collie. I remember cattle, a calf, a pony, kittens, a dog, and the peacocks at that stately place. I was certain the country estate had seen some civil war action and had many untold stories itself. Like my granddaddy, she was petrified of snakes and passed that right along to me. She had a few heart stopping stories of being trapped inside her house by a big, very big, snake.
My family lived in Clarksville, Indiana. Once when Auntie June had surgery she came to our house to recover. Grandmother stayed as her ever attentive nurse. I remember sneaking to chat with her. She would pat the side of the bed and wink. I quietly asked her if this surgery meant she could have babies or could not because she would be a wonderful mother. She told me that she was praying God had the right baby He would send just for her. Well, He did. In fact, in His generous way, He sent her three, twin sons and a daughter, my cousins: Kevin, Gavin, and Ruth Ann. She was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and greats.
Not only did I love her, but I respected her. Her life was full of trials, but she managed each one with a smile. The glass was always half full for her. She had a life full of hard work, but she also volunteered at church and other places. She was very giving. Others were more of a concern to her than herself. Mother and Auntie June remained close after my daddy died. Many times they chatted and laughed like schoolgirls. They shared precious memories.
I was the first grandchild on Daddy’s side so obviously I was spoiled rotten. Many nights and weekends were spent at my grandparents and later my aunt’s. I was like a sponge wanting to soak up every bit of information I could about the Winburn branch of my family tree. Now that Auntie June is gone I can no longer glean any more information.
Auntie June was a Woman of Faith. She walked her faith as well as talked about it. She loved church and her church family, too. There are many story of God’s blessings in her life. He healed her from breast cancer and various other maladies. He kept her safe during the many (many) storms in her life. She live a long life of 91 years. Auntie June worshipped and praised God for guiding her through them all. She told me that her deepest desire was that all of her family would know Jesus and be saved. She would laugh and say “you know there will be enough room in Heaven.”
During our last conversation she spoke to me a lot about our family: her parents, my parents and sister, her children, grandchildren, and greats. Family was important to her. She spoke a lot about her brother, my father. This was the first time she had talked about Daddy in a very long time. We talked of the goodness of God. She always told me she loved me before we hung up. I assured her of my love, too. The very next day she got sick and after a week went to Glory. People I tell me “I’m sorry you lost your aunt.” Dear friends, I did not lose her. I know exactly where she is. She has gone home and is happier than she has ever been. I miss her more than mere words could express, but I will see her again in Glory. Maybe our rooms will be close together.
Words can be golden. Movies can be identified by a memorable quote and songs by a few lyrics. For the most part words are remembered whether for good or for bad.
What would you say to someone if you knew it was the very last time the two of you would speak? What would your last words be? Facebook and social media are filled with nonsensical posts of quizzes designed to tell you which type of flower or animal you are. They are also overflowing with venomous attacks on people we personally do not know. That’s correct, politicians. The colorful adjectives used are appalling.
Petty arguments and grudges can slither their way into relationships and do irrevocable damage. The hurtful last words spoken are forever engraved upon hearts. Those hearts are left broken and yearning for healing. Forgiveness withheld robs us of years of happy times and memories. Perhaps “I’m sorry” are words that are long overdue to someone. It would be devastating to miss that opportunity.
What legacy do you want your words to leave? If you knew you were having the last conversation with a friend or family would it change your words and tone? Life changes everyday, and tomorrow is not guaranteed. Scripture tells us not to let the sun set on our anger but to make amends.
Me? What would I say? I would not waste my breath on small talk, but rather go straight to the things that I wanted my family or friend to understand. Wouldn’t you? Treasured memories would be shared as we relived them once again. Yes, I would apologize for any wrong that I had done or they felt I had. Perception is real to the beholder. Most importantly, I would give forgiveness and love.
When I speak to my parents, children, and best friend the last thing I say to them is I love you. Three little words that mean so much. Those words should chase away any doubt they might have if they were loved. Absolutely, whole heartedly, and forever they are loved. I would make sure they knew that God loved them, too.
My words for you are that you, too, know you are eternally, unequivocally loved by your Creator. The Bible overflows with verses verifying this. Never doubt it, even in times of turmoil. Call to Him and let His love fill you and give you peace.
It would be wonderful if we had the foresight to know when we were speaking to someone for the last time. Since we don’t, the next best thing is to temper our words with love and speak as if those were our last words. Let’s make all of our words be worthy of being famous last words.
The first time she went to Hell and years later she went to Heaven. Obviously she returned to her human body both times.
I am unsure how to review this book. My beliefs and what I have been taught are that when you are unsaved and die, that is the end. You have no chance of redemption after that and cannot go to Heaven. The author tells a very different story.
The God-glorifying and inspirational parts of the book are wonderful. The author has listed many things that are worthy of repeating. She stresses that we should always praise and thank God despite what our circumstances might be. God wants to heal us of all the addictions we suffer from and will help us receive freedom when we truly ask for His help. She reminds us of God’s everlasting love, patience, and kindness.
This book is a perplexing one for me. I found so much good in it, but I had so many questions on it. Honestly I am not equipped to answer them. Maybe only Jesus is. If you want to read this book I would suggest you do it prayerfully. A few things did not seem right to me in my soul, but this was not my experience. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but these are my own, honest words.
About the Book
Book: Climbing into Eternity
Author: Michele Pulford
Genre: Non-Fiction
Release Date: April 2018
“I died twice and came back to tell about it.”
Michele flirted with death for six years, trying to numb her pain following a sexual pervert’s attack. Attempting to protect herself, she allowed hatred of men to control her, and used mind control to manipulate others. Suffering with acute anorexia nervosa, she was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital at age twenty-three.
She woke up in hell, a place of eternal damnation, horror, torment, and fire. Rescued by the Savior whose soft, gentle voice she had rejected, Michele was given a new chance at life and turned wholeheartedly to the Lord.
When her body was completely paralyzed from an anaphylactic allergy attack as a young mother, she found life leaving her body once again. “This time,” she says, “I was ushered into the splendorous glory of Heaven—a place of almost indescribable light and love.”
Sent back to tell her story, Michele Pulford warns others of the horrors of the kingdom of darkness, and tells them of the glory of true abundant life in God’s kingdom of light.
This personal love story, as well as a story about death and eternal life, is both a warning and a promise, and ultimately an unforgettable account of the love of God that would not let a young woman go.
Michele Pulford trained and worked as a fashion designer and textile lecturer from 1982 to 2009. After attending evening Bible school, she was further trained at MES Aksie, an evangelical missions ministry, before doing missionary outreach and relationship building among the locals in the Maghadighadi Pans of Botswana from 1990 to 1996. A marketplace intercessor and teacher on prayer, she makes her home with her husband Charles in South Africa. Their family consists of a son Cyle-jay, his wife Natasha, and grandson, Asher Ethan; and a daughter Brontii-ann.
More from Michele
After a sexual pervert’s attack at ten years of age, I invited evil into my life. I became an embittered, hateful teenager consumed by acute anorexia with murderous hate towards men. This led me into an abusive marriage of two years which ended with a failed murder attempt. Due to my failure I landed up DOA at my local hospital from premeditated suicide. On dying, I was taken to the evil and fiery demon invested accusing, tormenting pit of hell. It was here where the miraculous Light and Life of Jesus ripped through and rescued me.
I began my new life with my best friend, the Holy Spirit. Miraculously I married my high school sweetheart. The miraculous continued when after being declared completely barren, God’s love and grace stepped in resulting with me giving birth to a son and a daughter. Our family joy was shadowed by my soul-destroying bulimic addiction which God’s grace eventually set me free from. The life-death challenges did not end there. I found myself in an intense battle with witchdoctors as well with the dangers of onset anaphylactic attacks. It was one of these attacks that found me dying once again, with my husband and doctor watching. This time I was taken to the gates of heaven and glory. This is my story of life and death, heaven and hell, blessing and cursing.
From the Garden into Eternity by author Pearl Nsiah-Kumi is a short seventy-seven page book that packs so much essential important information between its covers. This Christian book is about being saved and living the Christian life. Doesn’t that sound like a book everyone should read?
I enjoyed the author’s style of writing. It was easy to read and understand. Her book was well thought, organized, and researched. I loved all of the biblical references.
Whether a seeker, fledgling or seasoned believer something can be gleaned from this book. This book sticks to the basics – salvation and living as a Christian. Sometimes we need to read or hear it again to breathe fresh life into us.
I highly recommend this book to anyone. Reading it would be good for your soul. This would be a nice Christmas gift for most anyone, even an older child. It receives 5 stars from me. Celebrate Lit provided a copy but these are my own thoughts.
About the Book
Book: From the Garden into Eternity
Author: Pearl Nsiah-Kumi
Genre: Religious-Christian Evangelism
Release Date: June 25, 2018
From the Garden into Eternity tells of mankind’s fall from God’s grace beginning in the Garden of Eden, all the way through to one’s individual choice: Will eternity be spent in Heaven with God or Hell with Satan?
As a result of sin, mankind suffered a loss of close fellowship with God – but do not fret! The relationship can be restored in this life right into the next! God does not, however, force anyone into a relationship with Him. We are free to choose Him or the alternative: Satan.
This book, fully-supported by Bible verses, helps you determine where you are in this journey called “life”. Rest assured that God loves you and longs to give you eternal life in Heaven with Him, but you must first repent and place your faith in Jesus Christ. If you have never taken that step, please don’t wait any longer. The alternative eternity – which will be by default – will be dreadful.
Call on Jesus today!
Start the relationship that guarantees your eternity in Heaven with God!
Pearl Nsiah-Kumi is a retired Registered Nurse; she grew up in Ghana, West Africa. She has lived in the USA for forty years and has three adult children, one son-in-law and four beautiful grandchildren. Pearl has authored two books in the past two years and loves to express her understanding of the Bible through writing articles and poems. Her goal is two-fold: To reach people with the truth of God’s word in inviting them to experience faith in Jesus Christ, and also to encourage Christians to mature in walking faithfully with their God through obedience to Him. In addition to writing, Pearl is also a Volunteer Counselor at a local Crisis Pregnancy Clinic.
More from Pearl
I wrote this book: FROM THE GARDEN INTO ETERNITY, because I felt the need to explain step-by-step how we, people created in the image of God lost our relationship with Him, and how that relationship could be restored. Along with the explanation, I also felt the need to stress the urgency of the restoration of that relationship. Why the urgency? It is urgent, because time is running out for all of us, and if one’s relationship isn’t restored in this life, eternity will be awful. Since no one knows how much time they have left in this life, we each need to respond to God’s love now, so we can have the assurance of a blissful eternity in heaven. Each person has to make a personal decision about their eternity.
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 