The Prayer of Agur by Jay Payleitner

Posted on July 17, 2020July 17, 2020 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

The Prayer of Agur by author Jay Payleitner is my introduction to him. I had not before heard of him nor known he had written any books. This short little book was a brilliant, heart stirring explanation of a prayer that is often over looked in Proverbs, or at least it has been by me.

The Prayer of Agur from Proverbs (30:8-9) is where Agur asks for only his daily bread. He does this for two reasons. If he gets an abundance he could forget about God, and if he doesn’t have enough he might steal and dishonor the Lord’s name. Reminiscent of the Israelites in the desert, isn’t it?

Payleitner has a nice, easy style of writing. I found it very enjoyable. He writes clearly and concisely. Each chapter is dissected and explained so that a novice or seasoned student will easily understand it. There are questions at the end of them, also.

The author says: “Open your heart to Agur’s wit and wisdom, and you can learn to

• escape imbalance
• overcome fear of failure and eliminate envy
• joyfully pursue your passions
• reap the eternal rewards of trusting God
• find your personal sweet spot”

I have read through the Bible many times. Obviously I just glossed over parts of it, such as this one. Now I am hungry to reread it all over again and see what I have missed.

A big take away from this book for me is that God has always used ordinary people to fulfill His purpose and always will. The saying still holds true, “God doesn’t call the qualified, He qualifies the called,” today. We just need to listen for Him.

Agur was an unknown man that asked God to provide the exact amount he needed for each day. He trusted God and was rewarded for that. It sounds so simple yet is sometimes difficult for mere humans.

I highly recommend this encouraging, inspirational book to everyone. There is much to ponder within the pages. I will definitely return for a second read again soon. It would make a great small group study or book club choice. Ministers would easily be able to build a sermon on it. It gets a 5 out of 5 star rating fro me. I received a copy from the author, but these are my honest words.

About the Author

Jay Payleitner is one of the top freelance producers for Christian radio, having worked on Josh McDowell Radio, Today’s Father, Jesus Freaks Radio, and Project Angel Tree with Chuck Colson.

Jay is a long-time affiliate with the National Center for Fathering and Iron Sharpens Iron. He speaks at men’s retreats, marriage weekends, writers’ conferences, and weekend services. Jay has sold more than half million books including the bestselling 52 Things Kids Need from a Dad, The Prayer of Agur, and What If God Wrote Your Bucket List? His books have been translated into at least ten languages. And he has been a guest multiple times on The Harvest Show, Moody Radio, Cornerstone TV, and Focus on the Family.

Jay and his high school sweetheart, Rita, live in the Chicago area where they raised five great kids, loved on ten foster babies, and are cherishing grandparenthood.

Something Needs to Change Book Review

Posted on September 3, 2019September 3, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Review:

Something Needs to Change, A Call to Make Your Life Count in a World of Urgent Need by best-selling author David Platt is 224 page phenomenal book. This is a thought provoking, soul searching, stick with you read. I am still pondering it days later.

Author Platt is transparent as he takes excerpts from his diary from a mission trip in the Himalayan mountains. There he brings the Word of God to people in the area and provides encouragement to Christians. Isn’t that what we are all called to do?

Reading the book I was aware that I was privileged to be raised in a Christian home and always know about Jesus. It hurts to think there are still so many people that do not know Him. Platt is right…something needs to change.

This is a gritty, tear-jerking account of the author’s mission trip. He bares his heart and poses questions that will step on most Christians’ toes. It is scripturally based and brutally honest. I could not put it down even though I read most of it through tear-filled eyes.

Favorite Quote:

“Because you and I need to remember that our homes and our health and our bank accounts and our vehicles guarantee us nothing… one day (and it could be today), they’re all going to be gone, so we need to remind ourselves to live today for what lasts forever.”

Yes, I highly recommend this powerful book. It just might change your life or cause you to change someone else’s life. It would make a great group study. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by the Publisher but these are my honest words.

About Book:

The New York Times best-selling author of Radical takes readers on a soul-searching journey through impoverished villages in the Himalayan mountains, daring them to make a difference in a world of urgent need, starting right where they live.

“Grippingly vulnerable and unforgettable. I could not put this book down.”—Ann Voskamp, author of One Thousand Gifts

While leading a team on a week-long trek of the Himalayas, bestselling author and pastor David Platt was stunned by the human needs he encountered, an experience so dramatic that it “changed the trajectory of my life.” Meeting a man who’d lost his eye from a simple infection and seeing the faces of girls stolen from their families and trafficked in the cities, along with other unforgettable encounters, opened his eyes to the people behind the statistics and compelled him to wrestle with his assumptions about faith. In Something Needs to Change, Platt invites readers to come along on both the adventure of the trek, as well as the adventure of seeking answers to tough questions like, “Where is God in the middle of suffering?” “What makes my religion any better than someone else’s religion?” and “What do I believe about eternal suffering?” Platt has crafted an irresistible message about what it means to give your life for the gospel–to finally stop talking about faith and truly start living it.

Advance praise for Something Needs to Change

“Rugged. Authentic. Gritty. Real. Worshipful. There are no other books like this one. I always pick up David’s books with a sense of excitement and, quite honestly, apprehension—because I know that areas of compromise and complacency in my life are going to be exposed. But this book exceeded even my high expectations, for which I am grateful. And so will you be. As David writes, it’s time to run, not walk. Let’s go.”—J. D. Greear, president of the Southern Baptist Convention

“Extraordinary and challenging. I’ve just never read a book like this before. I am so moved. Bring your full heart to this story and watch how God opens your eyes, changes your mind, and broadens the dreams you have for your life.”—Annie F. Downs, best-selling author of 100 Days to Brave and Remember God

“If you dare to read this book, you might just have an unexpected encounter with Jesus that leaves you weeping on the floor, as David’s experience did. Something changes within us when the seemingly overwhelming needs of the world present themselves simply in the life of a single person. Ultimately, I pray your compassion will be transformed to action.”—Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado, president and CEO of Compassion International

About the Author:

David Platt is the author of three New York Times bestsellers, including Radical. He is Lead Pastor at McLean Bible Church in metro Washington, D.C., the former President of the IMB (International Mission Board), and founder of Radical Inc., a global center for the unreached that serves churches in accomplishing the mission of Christ. Platt received his Master of Divinity (M.Div), Master of Theology (Th.M), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He lives in Virginia with his wife and their children.

Chase the Lion Weekly Planner by Mark Batterson

Posted on September 1, 2019September 1, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Review:

Chase the Lion Weekly Planner, Organize Your Life, Achieve Your Goals by author Mark Batterson is a wonderful planner all around. It doesn’t matter if you have read his book Chase the Lions yet or not, this is a planner that will benefit anyone.

I absolutely love it. It contains everything I need for a yearly appointment book and more. Mr. Batterson has thought of everything. He even starts us off with instructions on how best to use it.

The cover is compelling. Actually it is gorgeous. Men and women will find it attractive. Being a medium size, 6.2 x 8.2 inches, it easily fits in my purse or tote. The pages and cover are good quality. There is even a ribbon bookmark.

Pages are laced with quotes and inspiration from Chase the Lion. There is space for notes in the margins. Listing prayer requests, goals, progress, even things to do is encouraged. Besides months at a glance and weeks at a glance, there is a multi-year calendar for quick reference when needing a date.

The book is a mixture of planner, diary, appointment book, and devotional. It will definitely help with time management, keeping better organized, and becoming closer to God.

I highly recommend it. It would make a thoughtful gift to a pastor or church worker. Any businessperson or college student would enjoy the benefits it gives. I rated it a 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by the publisher but this is my honest opinion.

About the Book:

The perfect companion product to New York Times bestselling author Mark Batterson’s compelling manifesto, Chase the Lion

Diary: 176 pages
Publisher: Multnomah (August 20, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0525653422
ISBN-13: 978-0525653424
Product Dimensions: 6.2 x 0.5 x 8.2 inches

This undated week-at-a-glance 12-month planner features excerpts from Chase the Lion sprinkled throughout to encourage the user to face their fears, defy the odds, and hold tight to God. Each week has space in the margin for trackable items such as the week’s goals, goals met, prayer requests, to-do lists, etc. At the end of each month is a page of self-evaluation questions and space to write a step toward a personal manifesto. Finally, the planner will wrap up with a multi-year calendar for user reference.

About the Author:

Mark Batterson is the author of sixteen titles including the New York Times bestseller, The Circle Maker, and his newest title, Whisper: How to Hear the Voice of God, which hits shelves on October 24, 2017. A few of his titles include include In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, Wild Goose Chase, All In, The Grave Robber, If, and Chase the Lion. Mark is the lead pastor of National Community Church, one church with eight campuses in Washington, DC. Mark has a doctor of ministry degree from Regent University and lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children. Learn more at http://www.markbatterson.com.

“Dear Grandchild…This is Me” Book Review

Posted on August 30, 2019August 29, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Dear Grandchild…This is Me by Waterbrook Press is a wonderful way for grandparents to share information about themselves. This eighty page hard cover book provides the template for all different things a grandmother might want to let her grandchildren know. There are even spaces for pictures.

This is a beautiful book. The cover is eye catching and the title simple but to the point. It is a hard cover book so it should last. There is plenty of room for customizing. When opened it is flat so writing is easy.

This delightful book is divided into sections. Each section (beginning years, middle years, grandparent years, and advice section) starts with a quote and Bible verse and covers a section of the grandparent’s life. They are color coded with several pages of questions. My favorite part is they each include an envelope to hold letters to grandchildren when they are facing different stages of their life.

This is an absolute treasure. I wish I had one from each of my four grandparents. It is their story in the words and handwriting along with personal letters. Genius! Every grandparent should do one for each grandchild. This would make a lovely gift for any grandparent or grandparent-to-be.

I highly recommend this book as a loving gift to your grandchildren. It would make a lovely project for some grandparents. A book club would be very hands on with this! It receives a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by Waterbrook but these are my own true thoughts.

Core 52: A Fifteen-Minute Daily Guide to Build Your Bible IQ in a Year by Mark E. Moore

Posted on May 21, 2019May 21, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

Core 52: A Fifteen-Minute Daily Guide to Build Your Bible IQ in a Year by author Mark E. Moore is a useful tool for anyone wanting to delve deeper into studying the Bible. It has a remarkable 15 minute daily lesson on popular, key or core scripture. Everything is covered from Creation to Heaven.

In this easy to follow guide the daily lesson includes an essay about a theme found in the Bible, verses to memorize, scripture to read, an “overachiever challenge,” along with a book suggestion that goes with the theme for the week. Some of the topics were prayer, grace, creation, prophesy, the Holy Spirit, heaven, among many others. I found the lessons kept my interest, gave me a fresh or newer perspective on some things, and enhanced my Bible study time. It increased my hunger for deeper study of the Word.

If you have ever wanted a book to assist with Bible reading and home study, this is it. I loved the concept, lessons, and everything about it. The author has done an exemplary job in his research, notes, planning, organizing, and writing this God glorifying book. Whether you are a seasoned Bible reader or new fledgling just beginning, you will glean much from this spirit filled book.

Some of the lessons were easier for me than others and the time flew by. Others I needed to slow down and let the information sink in. I had to ponder about what I had read. Don’t rush through the studies with a 15 minute timer. If you need more time, then slow down and let the words slowly flow from the pages.

This will be a staple in my home library and a gift giving idea for many years. It will be a perfect Bible Study for the Small Group I keep wanting to have even though it is for individuals. My dog was the recipient of many comments on this book as was my cat. It has the type of lesson you want to share.

I highly, most highly, recommend this fabulous study tool to everyone. It is in one word – amazing. The rating I give this is a high 5 stars out of 5. A copy was provided by the publisher but I was under no obligation to provide a review.

About the Book

In just fifteen minutes a day, you can master the 52 most important verses in the Bible in a year.
While there are lots of one-year Bible reading plans, few help you understand the words that you’re reading. What if we could introduce you to a Bible reading plan that would dramatically increase your mastery of the Bible in one year? Mark Moore coaches you through 52 of the Bible’s most important verses. These are the “core” of the Bible. Each verse clears the path to master and manage dozens of other verses that run along the same principle path. At the end of this journey, you will move from curiosity about the Bible to competence in the Bible. It is the quickest onramp to understanding the whole of God’s Word for your life.

About the Author

MARK E. MOORE is a teaching pastor at Christ’s Church of the Valley in Phoenix, AZ, one of the fastest growing and most dynamic churches in America. Here he leverages two decades in a college classroom teaching New Testament. His goal is to make Scriptures accessible and relevant to people trying to make sense of Christianity. His two worlds of academic Bible study and practical Christian living come together in this powerful new tool called Core 52.

What is Being Said about the Book

“Core 52 will allow you to bridge the gap between your biblical training and your professional impact. If you want to speak confidently on biblical topics while helping to lead others on their faith journey, this resource is for you!”
—Kirk Cousins, pro quarterback

“When it comes to knowing and teaching the fundamental insights of Christ, Mark Moore is a maven. In Core 52, you will gain the tools you need for living the life God has called you to. His innovative ideas and colorful illustrations will grab your attention and motivate your will to know Christ and make him known. Start today with chapter 1, be diligent through chapter 52, and you will be satisfied.”
—Kyle Idleman, senior pastor of Southeast Christian Church and author of Not a Fan and Don’t Give Up

“As a women’s Bible study leader, my heart is to help women know God’s Word better so they can learn to connect their everyday frantic lives with their faith in Jesus. Core 52 is a godsend and a perfect tool to help them do just that. Anything I can offer that will help women get the most out of their time in God’s Word is a precious gift indeed. That is what Core 52 does for me as a teacher and the women I lead. What a gift this is from a notable teacher who I have come to trust as an invaluable resource.”
—Lisa Laizure, Bible study teacher at WomensBibleStudy.com

“Through his earlier books, Mark has taught me more about the Bible than any other author. His clear teaching and sly wit always make me read more pages than I plan. Core 52 is his best yet. Move it to the top of your daily reading list.”
—Phil Smith, coauthor of Created to Flourish and creator of Eyewitness Bible Series videos

“With a pastor’s heart, a scholar’s mind, and a sage’s pen, Mark Moore has given us a gift in Core 52 to help us understand God’s words, be changed by them, and live them out!”
—Caleb Kaltenbach, author of Messy Grace and God of Tomorrow

A Silken Thread by Kim Vogel Sawyer Book Review

Posted on April 3, 2019April 3, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Thoughts

Author Kim Vogel Sawyer has written a poignant tale of life in Atlanta, Georgia during the 1890’s. Filled with history, family, friends, and faith this is a beautiful story. It captured my attention quickly and held it until the end.

In the beginning of the book, Laurel Millard is ambushed by her six siblings and told “Someone will need to care for Mama into her dotage, and we believe the right person is you.” Not a care is given that this beautiful eighteen year old is in the stage of her life where she should be courting and thinking about a family of her own.

The characters, four main ones, are well described and come to life on the pages. It is easy to become engaged with them and their lives. The story has been well planned and researched. Attention has been given to historical accuracy. I learned about the 1895 Atlanta Cotton Exposition and silk weaving. I love learning things from books I read for entertainment. The language, customs, and dress were all well done and took me to the time period and place of the novel.

It is important that a Christian novel has an inspirational message and makes mention of God. This book does not disappoint. It clearly gives glory to God and discusses His direction for our lives.

This is a delightful book. It is filled with issues that are current today such as loyalty, hope, marriage, family, friendship, romance, racism, and envy. The romance is a bit light but sweet. The story touched my heart and pulled on my emotions.

I highly recommend this amazing Christian historical fiction book. It has Discussion Questions for in-depth and group study. I gladly give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided by the publisher but these are my own honest thoughts.

About the Book

Paperback, 352 pages

Published April 2nd 2019

Waterbrook Press

For readers who love a heartwarming romance and a rich historical setting comes a tale of a young woman with a heavy burden, the International Cotton Exposition, and the pursuit of true love.

Eighteen-year-old Laurel Millard, youngest of seven children, is expected to stay home and “take care of Mama” by her older siblings, but Laurel has dreams of starting her own family. Operating a silk loom at the Atlanta Exposition will give her the chance to capture the heart of a man wealthy enough to take care of Laurel and any children she might bear, as well as her mother.

Langdon Rochester’s parents have given him an ultimatum: settle down with a wife or lose his family inheritance. At the Exposition, Langdon meets Laurel. Marrying her would satisfy his parents’s command, she would look lovely on his arm for social events, and in her besotted state, he believes she would overlook him continuing pursuing rowdy adventures with his unmarried buddies. Langdon decides to woo Laurel. Willie Sharp is not well-off and must take on an extra job at the Atlanta Exposition as a security guard. When mischief-makers cause trouble in the Women’s Building, Willie is put in charge of keeping the building secure. He enjoys visiting with Laurel, who seems like the little sister he never had, but his feelings for Laurel change to something much deeper. Can Willie convince Laurel that he can give her better life–even with so little to offer?

About the Author

Award-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer’s Return. Kim’s titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different language. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim’s passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn’t writing, you’ll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or–as time allows–participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim’s writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com.

Eat, Live, Thrive Diet, A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism

Posted on March 26, 2019March 26, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

My Review

Here I am again reading another diet book. I probably have read or opened most every one of them. This one is finally different. A book written by two qualified women for midlife women bodies. Let’s see how this one compares.

I was impressed with the writing style in the book. In parts it was scientific as it explained metabolism and different foods, but it did it in easy to understand terms. The concept is timely and needed. Every woman wants to look and feel better. I know I do. The authors are transparent with their own struggles and trials. They understand what obstacles might pop up and are ready to help readers navigate them. Once I started reading this informative book, I read it cover to cover. I was like a sponge wanting to soak up as much information as possible.

This health book has Christian-based concepts and scripture. It begins with an introduction and is divided into five parts and a total of fifteen chapters. The diet preparation, plan, foods, life changes, and recipes are broken down by sections in paragraphs with sidebars, highlights, charts, and marks. Concluding the book I s a note from the authors, resources, acknowledgments, notes, index, and recipe/ingredient indexes. It is a well research, well planned, and well organized book.

My favorite thing was the Christian aspect. It was there to help but was not preachy. Our mind, body, and soul all need to be healthy to work properly. The authors address this and acknowledge the importance of changing habits lmentally and emotionally, also.

This book taught me many things. I found the plan to be similar to a Keto diet I have tried but yet there are differences. The plan basically emphasises nourishment with “real” food. Processed foods are discouraged. While vegetables can be unlimited, fruits and grains are not. Refined foods are to be avoided and carbohydrates controlled.

As with every plan, there were some things I did not quite think would be for me. The extras that they use are not things I want to buy. The plan itself, yes. That I am trying successfully.

I really liked this book. It would benefit any woman. Younger women would learn healthy lifestyle choices early. Older women could implement this plan and get healthier. I highly recommend it and give it a 4 out of 5 stars. An advanced reader copy (ARC) copy was provided by the publisher, but I was under no obligation to write a review. This is my own opinion.

About the Book

Authors: Danna Demeter and Robyn Thomson

272 pages, paperback

WaterBrook (March 26, 2019)

From the well-known health and lifestyle coaches of the widely popular website Lean Healthy Ageless (formerly Ageless Woman Living) comes a practical, science-based diet book that unravels the mystery of why women gain weight as they age and includes a sustainable plan to permanently lose the pounds and inches.

Eat, Live, Thrive Diet shows women how they can not only lose excess body fat permanently but also improve their overall health in critical areas such as brain function, resistance to disease, slowing down external aging, and increasing energy. This highly effective eating plan is presented in a compassionate voice by two experienced health coaches who share personal experiences of battling weight and emotional eating issues. Whereas most diets are short-lived or require substantial upkeep to maintain, Eat, Live, Thrive Diet is a viable eating plan that women can adhere to indefinitely. In addition to minimizing sugar intake, the plan emphasizes the importance of short-term intermittent fasting–a simple lifestyle change that makes it easier and more effective for many mature women to reach their health and weight loss goals. The book also highlights health risks and drawbacks of many popular fad diets that can be harmful on a long-term basis.

About the Authors

DANNA DEMETRE, RN, is an author, speaker, and cofounder of Lean Healthy Ageless. She has been a guest on a variety of national and local shows to include, Fox News Dallas, The 700 Club, ABC News NOW, and Moody Broadcasting’s award winning Midday Connection. Danna, who is in her sixties, lives with her husband in the foothills outside San Diego.

ROBYN THOMSON, an advance clinical weight loss practitioner, has worked with cutting edge nutritional companies and received training from some of the top doctors and scientists in the industry. Through seminars, workshops, and coaching, she helps people lose weight, improve their nutrition, and get more active. She is in her fifties and lives near the beach in San Diego with her husband, Rob.

Reforesting Faith by Matthew Sleeth

Posted on March 21, 2019March 20, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

“Reforesting Faith, What trees teach us about the nature of God and His love for us, is a most interesting book on faith, walking with God, and trees of the Bible. Author Matthew Sleeth has written a 224 page Christian Living book divided into three parts.

The first part is “Laying the Groundwork”. It has three chapters followed by “Seeds of Faith” which has six. The last section is “Fruit of the Tree” with four chapters. The book finishes with an Epilogue, “Why I wrote this book”, and notes. I was disappointed there were no study or discussion questions .

This is a refreshing look at book nature, trees, and God’s love. It was the first selection from author Sleeth that I have read and I really enjoyed his style. He has an easy way of making his point as if in a conversation. The words moved steadily and effortlessly without a hitch across the pages.

Scripture was not sprinkled but given in a heavy handed dose throughout this God glorifying gem. The author had done research on every chapter and it shows. This book is well planned, well organized, and well written.

It gave me things to ponder. Did I realize all of these references were in the Bible which I have read numerous times? Well, no. I missed a lot. I thought of so many people I wanted to share this book with while savoring the nuggets of information it taught.

Both men and women will enjoy this wonderful book. Nature enthusiasts especially will appreciate it. I highly recommend it. It gets a 5 out of 5 rating from me for the writing, because I have never read anything like it, and it is a book that will help strengthen one’s Walk with God.

An advance reader copy (ARC) was provided by the publisher but I was under no obligation to write a review. This is my honest opinion.

About the Book

The Bible talks about trees more than any living creation other than people. Perhaps you’ve missed the forest…and the trees.

In this groundbreaking walk through Scripture, former physician and carpenter Dr. Matthew Sleeth makes the convincing case why trees are essential to every Christian’s understanding of God.

Yet we’ve mostly missed how God has chosen to tell His story–and ours–through the lens of trees. There’s a tree on the first page of Genesis and the last page of Revelation. The Bible refers to itself as a Tree of Life (Proverbs 3:18).
Every major Biblical character has a tree associated with them. Jesus himself says he is the true vine (John 15:1). A tree was used to kill Jesus–and a tree is the only thing the Messiah ever harmed.

This is no accident. When we subtract trees from Scripture, we miss lessons of faith necessary for our growth.

This is the rare book that connects those who love the Creator with creation, and those who love creation with the Creator. It offers inspirational yet practical ways to express our love for God–and our neighbors–by planting spiritual trees and physical trees in the world.

Join Dr. Sleeth as he navigates the Bible’s trail of trees to explore the wonders of life, death, and rebirth. You’ll be amazed at how science is just beginning to catch up to the truths described in Scripture thousands of years ago. Once you discover the hidden language of trees, your walk through the woods–and through Scripture–will never be the same.

About the Author

MATTHEW SLEETH, MD, a former emergency room physician and chief of the hospital medical staff, resigned from his position to teach, preach, and write about the biblical call to be good stewards of the earth. A highly sought-after speaker, Dr. Sleeth has spoken at more than 1,000 churches, campuses, and events, including serving as the monthly guest preacher at The Washington National Cathedral for a year. Recognized by Newsweek as one of the nation’s most influential evangelical leaders, Dr. Sleeth is a graduate of George Washington University School of Medicine and has two postdoctoral fellowships. He is the executive director of Blessed Earth and author of Serving God, Saving the Planet; 24/6; the introduction to The Green Bible, as well as numerous creation care books and articles. Dr. Sleeth lives in Lexington, KY, with Nancy, his wife of nearly 40 years.

Of Fire and Lions by Author Mesu Andrews

Posted on March 18, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

I was well acquainted with the story of Daniel and Shadrack, Meshack, and Abednego. My young years in Sunday School taught me those stories and we even sung songs about them. However, “Of Fire and Lions” taught me so much more about this biblical story.

Author Mesu Andrews is an exquisite author of biblical fiction. She does her research diligently and produces an exemplary novel. It took me one paragraph, that’s all, to become invested in her latest masterpiece. Her penned words picked me up and gently set me down in Daniel and his wife Abigail/Belili’s home. With the author’s talented style I was able to glimpse the land, feasts, customs, and life of Daniel’s time. Her eloquent words flowed gracefully and never stumbled.

Emotions seemed to transfer to me as I felt snubbed or frightened as Abigail admitted she did. Daniel became frustrated and so did I. Even with the three men, I felt their anxiety and then strength. This novel confirmed what we already know, our God is powerful and a safe refuge in times of trouble.

The author knows how to get readers involved and feel what she has written. Descriptions were vivid and to the point. Every word had a responsibility in this work of art and together they produced a stunning, God-glorifying retelling of a biblical story or two.

Each chapter begins with scripture. That was a favorite thing for me. The point of view alternates between Daniel and his wife throughout the book. I adored that. Since this was fiction, I had to remind myself that it did not necessarily happen this way. Blanks were just filled in by the author. However it seemed possible.

All of the essentials for a Christian book were met. First and foremost, it was easy to see this was a Christian fiction that honored a God. Secondly, I gleaned information. It is refreshing to come away from reading a novel with information that I previously did not know. Thirdly, there are discussion questions.

I highly recommend this book. It made me feel closer to God as I read it. Anyone would benefit from reading it. A reading group would find this to be the perfect choice. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by the publisher by I was under no obligation to write a favorable review. These are my own, honest thoughts.

About the Book

Paperback, 400 pages

Published March 5th 2019 by Waterbrook Press

Survival. A Hebrew girl first tasted it when she escaped death nearly seventy years ago as the Babylonians ransacked Jerusalem and took their finest as captives. She thought she’d perfected in the many years amongst the Magoi and the idol worshippers, pretending with all the others in King Nebuchadnezzar’s court. Now, as Daniel’s wife and a septuagenarian matriarch, Belili thinks she’s safe and she can live out her days in Babylon without fear–until the night Daniel is escorted to Belshazzar’s palace to interpret mysterious handwriting on a wall. The Persian Army invades, and Bellili’s tightly-wound secrets unfurl with the arrival of the conquering army. What will the reign of Darius mean for Daniel, a man who prays to Yahweh alone?
Ultimately, Yahweh’s sovereign hand guides Jerusalem’s captives, and the frightened Hebrew girl is transformed into a confident woman, who realizes her need of the God who conquers both fire and lions.

About the Author

Mesu grew up with a variegated Christian heritage. With grandparents from the Pilgrim Holiness, Nazarene, and Wesleyan Churches, her dad was a Quaker and mom charismatic. As you might imagine, God was a central figure in most family discussions, but theology was a battlefield and Scripture the weapon. As a rebellious teenager, Mesu rejected God and His Word, but discovered Jesus as a life-transforming Savior through the changed life of an old friend.

The desire for God’s Word exploded with her new commitment, but devotional time was scarce due to the demands of a young wife and mother. So Mesu scoured the only two theology books available–children’s Bible stories and her Bible. The stories she read to her daughters at night pointed her to the Bible passages she studied all day. She became an avid student of God’s Word, searching historical and cultural settings as well as ancient texts and original languages.

Mesu and her husband Roy have raised those two daughters and now enjoy a tribe of grandkids, who get to hear those same Bible stories. Mesu’s love for God’s Word has never waned. She now writes biblical novels, rich with spiritual insight learned through fascinating discoveries in deep historical research.

Her first novel, Love Amid the Ashes (Revell)–the story of Job and the women who loved him–won the 2012 ECPA Book of the Year in the Debut Author Category. Her subsequent novels have released with high praise, shedding light on some of the shadowy women of Scripture. Love’s Sacred Song (Revell, 2012) tells the story of the beloved shepherdess in King Solomon’s Song of Solomon. Love in a Broken Vessel (Revell, 2013) tells the story of Hosea and Gomer and is the final stand-alone novel in the Treasures of His Love Series. Her fourth novel, In the Shadow of Jezebel (Revell, 2014) tells the fascinating story of Queen Athaliah and the courageous Princess Jehosheba.

The Treasures of the Nile series (Waterbrook/Multnomah, 2015-16) included The Pharaoh’s Daughter and Miriam and spanned Moses’ life from birth to the Exodus. Her 2017 release, Isaiah’s Daughter (Waterbrook/Multnomah), explores the life and ministry of the prophet Isaiah and the tumultuous days of Judah under the reigns of Ahaz and Hezekiah but focuses on the woman Hephzibah–a fascinating character in Jewish legends.

Mesu writes in their log cabin tucked away in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Her best friend is an American Staffordshire Terrier named Zeke, who keeps her company on long writing days. Zeke also enjoys watching movies, long walks in the woods, and sitting by the fireplace on rainy days.

The Way of the Warrior: An Ancient Path to Inner Peace by Erwin Raphael McManus

Posted on February 24, 2019February 27, 2019 by abbasprayerwarriorprincess

About the Book

Print Length: 238 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1601429568
Publisher: WaterBrook (February 26, 2019)
Publication Date: February 26, 2019
Sold by: Random House LLC

Best-selling author, pastor, futurist, and cultural thought leader believes that to experience and establish peace, we must first confront the battles that rage within.

McManus shows that encountering peace does not occur by accident, but rather by artful intention. Warrior is a call to decisiveness, self-examination, and the pursuit of spiritual wholeness. Through the ancient biblical practices of humility, focus, ownership, clarity, strength, and vulnerability, he guides readers to a deeper understanding of their inner workings and provides the guidance they need to establish peace and tranquility in their homes, neighborhoods, communities, and even the world! In the style of a battle-wizened teacher, McManus delivers wisdom, instills passion, and provides the sacred movements needed to become the warrior you were meant to be.

My Thoughts

The title drew my attention to this book. The Way of the Warrior: An Ancient Path to Inner Peace sounded like a book I needed to read. I like the way the book started out stating there is something wrong with the world. Yes, I totally agree. We need to get together soon and change things.

This is the first book I have read by Author McManus. His style of writing is smooth and eloquent. It flows without a hitch and is easy to understand. The pace was slow but necessary for this type of book. Readers need time to ponder and reflect.

Author McManus writes about being a warrior and his ways. Warriors can be competitive but still be humble. A warrior can be great and yet a servant. He knows what feeds his soul. The statements are prose which I wanted to write on sticky notes and put on my mirrors for inspiration. They are very encouraging.

However, there were many things that just didn’t sit right with me. “The Warrior is one with all things.” is one example of those statements. In my opinion, that sounds rather New Age. There were others that did not align with my beliefs, also.

It takes some inspiration from samurai warriors and other places. Scripture and faith are sprinkled throughout the book, but there is no mention of how to have a relationship with Jesus, our Savior. Nor was there mention of getting our peace (that passes understanding) from Him.

I am not sure what I expected but this book was a disappointment to me. I wanted more Christian inspiration and wisdom. More practical advice on how to accomplish the result instead of what a Warrior was.

The author is a talented writer. This book is just not for me. Men will like it more than women and relate to the warrior references. I would recommend reading it with a watchful eye on the scripture. I rated it 3 out of 5.

About the Author

Erwin Raphael McManus is the founder of MOSAIC, a church movement started in the heart of Hollywood with campuses across Los Angeles, Orange County, and Mexico City, and a global community that spans around the world. He is the author of several previous books. He and his wife live in Los Angeles.