Living Hope

On The Seventh Day - Review

2013-05-07T15:54:00.000-04:00

No one wants to be alone. The only one standing for a cause against an innumerable force.

We cry out as Elijah, fearing we are left all alone and destined to fall.

“I have been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.” (1 Kings 19:10, ESV)

The Lord answered this fear by reassuring Elijah that not only was God in control of the situation, but that he also had seven thousand more who were faithful to him in Israel. Though Elijah may feel alone in his trial, there were in fact many who stood just as he.

Yet I will leave seven thousand in Israel, all the knees that have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.” (1 Kings 19:18, ESV)

We need this same assurance today. That we are not alone and that God is in control. We need to see the seven thousand.

This is why a book such as, On the Seventh Day, is so important. In the fields of science and academics the pressure to conform to the secular ideas of evolution and humanism can be overwhelming. Believers can feel isolated and alone, without the support they need to continue on in their faith.

On the Seventh Day is comprised of articles written by forty of these believers who struggle to shine as lights in these dark places. In it they share their love for Jesus and science, how they came to faith, and remain faithful in an environment that has mostly rejected even the idea of God.

The book is broken into two sections. The first includes writings on the reasons the writers have embraced the faith, while the second deals more with what the individuals have experienced as the result of their faith in their studies and work.

The charge has been made that Christians are afraid of science and reason, yet it is science and reason themselves that often reveal to many the reality of our Creator God.

One of the surprising finds, is that the same curiosity and desire for knowledge is one of the main factors in many of those who contributed for believing in God. As they examined the beauty and complexity of nature and life, they arrived at the logical conclusion that there must be a designer who created with a purpose and plan. Time and chance could not explain what they have seen.

In the second half of the book, they share their experiences. They tell of God's supernatural leading in their lives. How what at the time may have confused them, turned out to be for their own good and God's glory. Each of them reveals how though they love science, they haven't closed their eye's to the miraculous.

I recommend this book to those who are in or looking to have a career in science or academia. The message is that, You are not alone. There are believers out there. You don't have to choose between on or the other. You can love and obey the God who has established all science.

I would like to thank Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group, for this free review copy.

Contentment, Prosperity, and God's Glory - Review

2013-04-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

Contentment, Prosperity, and God's Glory

Contentment

We often think of its importance in times of want and adversity.

But what if finding contentment is even more difficult in times of prosperity and ease? America is the wealthiest nation on the planet. Its citizens live at a standard most of the world can only dream of. Yet, are we happy? Are we satisfied? Or are we constantly hungering for more, looking for that missing piece in our puzzle of peace?

Though he lived 400 years ago, Jeremiah Burroughs, has provided for us a timely message that speaks to our heart's condition in this land of plenty. Contentment, Prosperity, and God's Glory, should be handed out to congregations across this nation. Burroughs wrestles with the unique dangers that come with wealth and possessions, and shares with us how to identify and overcome the temptations to live for God's Glory.

The thrust of the book, is that we need to learn how to be full. We need to be able to enjoy and utilize the material blessings God has provided us, while offering them back to God in grateful service. This requires that we see clearly our condition and motives. The dangers are many, yet with God's grace we can heed the warnings and find contentment in our Lord.

This work was originally published as the appendix of Jeremiah's most famous book, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment. Reformation Heritage Books has graciously published this work with updated language making it more accessible to modern readers. It is an excellent read, cutting to the heart of the matter. I can't emphasize enough how powerful and important this message is. One I needed to hear myself.

I would like to thank Cross Focused Reviews for sending me this free review copy.

Humble Orthodoxy - Review

2013-04-24T10:06:00.000-04:00

Humble Orthodoxy: Holding the Truth High Without Putting People Down

Nobody likes a jerk.

Even a right jerk. I don't care how "right" their words may be, I'm not hearing it from them!

As bad as this situation is, it's devastating when the jerk is talking about Christ and his church. How many souls have been turned off to the Gospel because of situations like this one?

My wife has been telling me for years, "It's not what you say, but how you say it!" How can we share a message of mercy and grace when we act as though we possess neither?

Sadly, one of the biggest culprits of this are those who care most about having right doctrine. The Bible refers to them as Pharisees. You remember, the ones Jesus reserved his harshest words for. It seems as though the stronger the desire to obtain sound doctrine, the more likely it is to become prideful in one's new found knowledge.

So, is it possible to love theology and people? To have a humble orthodoxy?

Joshua Harris explains how we can in his book, Humble Orthodoxy. Though it is a quick and easy read, the sting of conviction will last. It seems we are often the last to know just how much we are in need of this message. Ouch!

Sometimes our problem is that we forget that it is all about God and what he has done for us, not our own accomplishments.

One of my favorite quotes,

"When you truly understand the doctrine of grace in the gospel, you don't go around checking people's IDs to see if they are in or out. You walk around with tears of gratefulness in your eyes, saying, "Why in the world would he choose me?"

Humble Orthodoxy is a must read for every lover of doctrine. The danger of becoming a pharisee is just too great. Joshua Harris gives us the gentle reminder, that even if we have all the right theology, but have not love, we are nothing. (1 Corin. 13:2)

I would like to thank WaterBrook Multnomah publishing for sending me this free copy for review.

The Genesis Factor: Myths and Realities

2013-04-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

The Genesis Factor: Myths and Realities

Normally, I'm not much of a conspiracy theorist, but I have to ask, why isn't this information confirming Biblical Creation and refuting evolutionary models of origins, receiving more attention? Having just finished reading The Genesis Factor: Myths and Realities, I'm at a loss as to why the challenges to the currently accepted evolutionary framework are ignored by the very scientists that claim they are seeking the truth, wherever it may lead. What are they afraid of? I guess "who" are they afraid of would be the better question.

The Genesis Factor is a compilation of articles written by leading scholars of creation science. While they all affirm that everything won't be known this side of Heaven, they present compelling evidence for a young earth. The writers reveal evidence found in everything from geology, the oceans, and the atmosphere, which support Bible's record of a recent creation. And yes this is real science, so much so that while I could easily understand the points being made, some of the facts were beyond my less than scientific mind. It goes to show, that while the scientific community tries to cover their eye's to the truth, it is out there waiting for biblically minded men and women to uncover.

I recommend The Genesis Factor for all who desire to learn more about the realities of God's miraculous creation.

I would like to thank Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group, for this free review copy.

Tower of Babel: The Cultural History of Our Ancestors - Review

2013-04-17T09:43:00.001-04:00

Tower of Babel

The Tower of Babel
If you're like me, you probably think of bad guys building a big tower and God confusing their languages. What else is there?

Well it turns out there is more to the story than first meets the eye. Bodie Hodge reveals the often overlooked truths to this world changing event in his book, Tower of Babel. If you've ever wanted to explore this subject in greater detail, then this is the book for you.

The book is arranged in concise, easy to read chapters, covering everything from the why, when, how, and now what. Hodge, takes us deep into this ancient and mysterious world, unlocking that which may be hidden from modern readers.

What surprised me most, was the ability to follow the different languages and people after the dispersion. Up until recent times, scholars utilized the Bible and the account of Babel to study the movements of ancient man. It is amazing the amount of data we have that corroborates the biblical narrative. I can assure you, that I never learned that in public school!

I highly recommend the, Tower of Babel, to any who are curious of this monumental moment in mankind's history.

I would like to thank Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group, for this free review copy.

Crucifying Morality - Book Review

2013-04-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

Crucifying Morality

They say that a person tends to remember exactly where they were when they first experience a major event. It is a little before my time, but many people remember exactly where they were when JFK was shot. I remember sitting in my Elementary School's cafeteria when I first learned of the Challenger shuttle explosion, and who can forget the moment they watched the towers fall on 9/11?

Well, I have a snapshot stored in my mind of the first time I read the Sermon on the Mount. Chapters 5-7 of Matthew blew my mind. Immediately I went back and re-read every word. I don't know how much I actually understood at that point, but I knew there existed an unfathomable depth of wisdom and truth, just waiting to be discovered in those precious words of our Savior.

It is for this reason I jumped at the chance to review R. W. Glenn's, Crucifying Morality: The Gospel of the Beatitudes.

In this book, Glenn seeks to correct the multitude of wrong teaching that often accompanies the subject of the beatitudes. So often these verses are treated as commands, guidelines of morality.

"Thou shalt be poor in spirit."

"Thou shalt mourn."

"Thou shalt be meek."

You get the point.

But, what if instead of commanding, Jesus was describing those who have already entered his kingdom as opposed to those who are working to enter in?

Glenn, walks us through these oft misunderstood verses revealing how it is Jesus, and not us, who fulfills this perfect righteousness. Our focus should be on Jesus, and how the beatitudes were expressed in his life, and not on the beatitudes themselves.

You will come under the conviction of the Holy Spirit while reading, Crucifying Morality. Many times I felt a sting, as I was exposed to areas of my life that I have been less than Christ-like. But this isn't a reason to avoid this book, but on the contrary, only the more reason to read it. May it wake you from your slumber as it did me.

I'd like to thank Cross Focused Reviews for sending me this free copy.

Broken-Down House: Living Productively in a World Gone Bad - Review

2013-02-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Broken-Down House: Living Productively in a World Gone Bad

This world is a mess. We all know it. We can't deny it. But we must live in it.

For most of us, all if we are honest, the question we seek to answer each day is how? How do we, how should we, live in this mess?

Paul David Tripp has written an excellent book answering this tough question. In Broken-Down House, he shares hope and wisdom on how we as Christians are to live in this sin cursed world.

Broken-Down House

The first thing the author makes clear, is the fact this world isn't the way it was meant to be. What started out as good, quickly began to fall apart once sin entered in. Now death, disease, sorrow, and pain, are experiences which are common to all. None of us can escape the damage that has been done. Paul Tripp compares our world to a broken-down house. For sure it is a house, but nothing is quite right. Everywhere you look you can see the deterioration and experience the inconvenience of its dilapidated condition. Living here is anything but easy.

I would have to say that this is one of the best books I have read on Christian living. Tripp's advice and insights are both biblical and practical. Time and again I was convicted as he opened my eyes to areas to which I had been blind. His lifetime of Christian counseling and teaching manifest themselves in the loving and honest truth, he presents in every chapter. This is one book I would recommend reading more than once.

The Kindle edition is on sale for $1.99 here Broken-Down House

David Sticker Book - Review

2013-02-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

David Sticker Book

Yes, you read that right. It's a sticker book. Seeing that I'm not adequately qualified to review such material, I enlisted the help of an expert. Meet Neo. Nehemiah for long, as he likes to say.

At 6 years of age, I figured he would set me straight.

The story is a simple retelling of the events of 1 Samuel 16-19. It includes the anointing of David by Samuel, his battle against Goliath, and his rise to the throne of Israel. It's quick moving and action packed. Just right for the preschool and kindergarten crowd.

But the highlight is the stickers! Four pages of beautiful, child entertaining stickers. The David Sticker book would work well as a family devotional resource as well as in a nursery or small Sunday School setting. It's simple,to the point, and has STICKERS!

I'd like to thank Kregel Publications for sending me this free copy for review.

Good Mood Bad Mood: Help and Hope for Depression and Bipolar Disorder

2013-02-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Good Mood Bad Mood: Help and Hope for Depression and Bipolar Disorder

When I first heard of this book I was more than a little skeptical. When it comes to issues of depression and bipolar disorder, there quite few opinions out there, even amongst Christians. The two camps that I usually hear from the most are the demon spotters and Job's friends. The one believes you only need to find a good deliverance ministry and the other has the uncanny ability of being able to clearly see your sin and God's corresponding judgment.

Thankfully the author, Charles D. Hodge M. D., is a member of neither of these groups. His approach is one of a compassionate Christian and a concerned doctor.

Why now?

He begins Good Mood Bad Mood, by asking the question of why the number of cases of depression and bipolar disorder have skyrocketed in recent years. What factors could account for this sudden and drastic change?

Drawing from his medical background, he walks us through the difficulties in diagnosing diseases such as depression and bipolar disorder. The biggest obstacle being the lack of an objective test to determine their presence. He uses the example of strep throat to demonstrate. If strep is suspected, then procedure dictates that a culture is taken from the back of the throat. Eight minutes later, the test will reveal the presence or lack of strep, enabling a diagnosis to be made or ruled out. Unfortunately, when it comes to depression and bipolar disorder, there is currently no such test available.

So how is a diagnosis made?

Doctors are to use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) as a guideline for determining if a person is depressed or bipolar. This doesn't sound so bad till you see the list for yourself and realize you have most likely qualified at some point in your life. The experts are beginning to realize that more people are being labeled as depressed and bipolar than actually are. Many are simply experiencing sadness due to loss or some other tangible factor, yet are mistakenly diagnosed.

How do we help?

Contrary to what all of the television commercials would have us believe, recent studies have revealed that only a small percentage of those who are treated with antidepressants experience any lasting improvements. In fact, the placebo test group generally responds as well as or better than those who actually receive the drugs.

Is medicine our only hope?

So if we are miss labeling people as sick who aren't, and the meds for their not-sickness isn't helping, then what will?

Here the author shares the blessedness that comes from having hope that lies beyond medicine. He shares the peace and assurance that comes from knowing Christ and his promises, while detailing many of the scriptures that speak of God's love and care for each and everyone of us. The Good News really is good news!

Sadness - What's it good for?

He also explores sadness and its worth. Yes, its worth. Today sadness is regarded as a dangerous intruder who needs to be eliminated at all cost. We are told that we deserve to always be happy! But is this how scripture speaks of sadness? While we aren't to be without hope, there are times and benefits to our sadness. Paul speaks of the good work sorrow had brought to the Corinthians. Their sorrow over their sin showed forth the earnestness of their faith, leading them to repentance. Here we see the good that come from sadness, if we seek to serve God and allow him to work in us for his glory.

This leads us to one of the main points that Charles Hodge makes in dealing with our sadness. Our focus should never be on our sorrow and how to treat it. Our first responsibility is to our God. He ask his patients the question, "Do you want to glorify God with your life, more than you want to breathe?" Often sadness is the result of our priorities being misplaced. When we begin to think of ourselves more than others, depression often follows. Correcting one's focus is one of the best ways to relieve suffering.

So does anyone need the medicine?

Yes. I'm am thankful for Charles Hodge's gentle tone and careful explanation, that there are indeed cases of depression and bipolar disorder that should be treated with medication, and that while many are misdiagnosed, there are those who are truly suffering from a disease in need of treatment.

A Great Resource

I greatly enjoyed Good Mood Bad Mood, and recommend it to those who are or know someone who is suffering from depression or bipolar disorder. The concerned heart of a doctor and Christian shows itself on every page.

I would like to thank Cross Focused Reviews for sending this free copy for review.

Advice for Seekers by Charles H. Spurgeon - Review

2013-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Advice for Seekers

The Prince of Preachers

Reading Charles H. Spurgeon is like reading theological poetry. Often I've heard the precious truths of the scripture and listened to many bold proclamations of the Gospel, but none have I found as colorful and inviting as from the pen of Spurgeon. God has truly gifted this man with the ability to beautifully articulate the Word with power and passion.

Originally published in 1896, Advice for Seekers, was the result of Spurgeon's desire to compel all of those whom he saw wandering just outside the gate of salvation to come in. These were the precious souls who had been awakened to their sinfulness and the destruction that lies ahead, but had not yet laid hold of the eternal life that is found in Jesus Christ. Some simply needed to be shown the way. Others thought they were beyond saving. All needed the truth revealed and their fears relieved.

These same souls are stumbling before the gate today, and C.H. Spurgeon's timeless message is just as powerful and relevant now as it was then.

Advice For Seekers

The book itself is a thing of beauty. Attic Books has recreated this edition in its original form. The pages are rough cut and the text block is printed in the old style. Even the language and spelling remains the same. This printing would make an excellent gift for any Spurgeon fan.

This book is published by Attic Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group. I would like to thank Master Books for sending me this copy for review.

Talked Myself into a Chromebook

2013-02-12T16:54:00.001-05:00

Acer C7 C710-2847 Chromebook 11.6" Intel Dual Core

It's been a little over a week now since I purchased my first Chromebook, the Acer C7. Yes, it is the $199 model. Money doesn't grow on trees you know.

Here were my thoughts on trying out this whole Chrome OS thing. I had read everything I could find, trying to decide if this was just a toy or something I could really use. I heard all of the typical complaints.

"You can't use it offline."
"You can't install any programs on it."
"Why would you spend the money on something that doesn't do everything you need it to do?"

You still have your old computer, right?

Some of these are valid points. While most of what I do is on the web, there are a few things I use a windows laptop for. My budget software being the most important. I've written about YNAB (You Need A Budget) before and I'm still a user. This software is nice because it installs on a PC and can also be accessed by an Android or ios app. Everything can be done through the app except the actual placing of money in the individual budgeting categories. So this wasn't as big of a problem after all. Once a week or so I just have to log in to my other computer or use Chrome Remote to access it through my Chromebook.

The next biggest program I was worried about, was my Calibre ebook library. This is a must have program for ebook readers. Unfortunately, this is another case of having to depend on a traditional computer, but the problem is minimized by having the calibre library synced with a folder in my box account. I can still access my ebook file online.

I still have the old laptop, so these problems aren't really problems after all.

Spend $199 for a Nexus 7 or a Chromebook

Now the biggest complaint. "Why would you spend all that money on a limited function device?" I thought about this one. If I was going to spend $199 on any other tech device, what would it be? Without a doubt, I would get a Nexus 7. That is one sweet two hundred dollar tablet, but can it do everything? As awesome as it is, there are some things that either aren't possible or not practical to do on a tablet. The same goes for my phone. My Galaxy S2 Skyrocket is handy, but it's not a laptop.

So I came to the realization that, most of the tech we own today is limited in function. If I was wanting to get a Nexus 7 for $199, then how can a Chromebook at the same price be wrong?

No regrets

So far I'm impressed. The Acer Chromebook has turned out to be very nice. It boots up fast and I can get at it right away. I hated starting up the windows 7 laptop. I would often turn it on, login, and then go do something else till it finished loading and starting everything.

I have been using the Chrome browser for years, so it wasn't that much of a stretch moving to Chrome OS. I just get online and get to work. When I logged in for the first time it immediately synced all of my bookmarks and passwords. The whole system is simple and just disappears into the background.

Another welcomed change from windows, is that security is built in. No more messing around with cpu hogging anti-virus software. Updates are easier as well. They download in the background and install on the next reboot. All of this means, that I can spend more time working and less time managing my computer.

The Hardware

I was worried about the build quality of a two hundred dollar laptop. You get what you pay for, right? Well, it turns out that two hundred dollars looks pretty good. The machine on a whole feels solid. The keyboard and the buttonless touchpad are responsive. The one area that I read the most complaints about was the screen. There were concerns about viewing angles and washed out colors. Now, granted I've never owned any top of the line computers, but I find the screen to be quite nice. I think those that review every new thing have a much higher standard than the average Joe. I don't know if I meet the requirements of average, but I like this Acer a lot.

Conclusion

I'm happy with my decision. Is the Chromebook right for you? It honestly depends on what you plan on doing. Moving to the cloud sounds scary, but more than likely you are already spending most of your time there as it is now. When was the last time you used a computer offline? How often does the need arise? For most people I think a Chromebook would be an excellent choice. The only exceptions would be if you absolutely had to use windows programs as part of your job or school, though there are many alternatives and workarounds for most any situation.

So have I talked you into it? I would love to hear your thoughts below!

Boy Scouts and Morally Straight?

2013-01-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

There are so few organizations left that are willing to fight against the ever increasing pressure of the homosexual agenda and now there appears to be one less. The Boy Scouts of America are rumored to be reconsidering their refusal to allow homosexual scouts and leaders from joining and participating.

Albert Mohler has written a great piece on the matter here. I encourage you to read it.

I've also included the the Scout Oath and Law below. Read them and consider just how strongly this decision goes against everything the Boy Scouts have stood for.

The Scout Oath:

On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.

The Scout Law:

A Scout is:
Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful,
Friendly, Courteous, Kind,
Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty,
Brave, Clean, Reverent

The Wormling Book 1: The Book of the King - Review

2013-01-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Book of the King (The Wormling #1)

My kids loved this book. The mystery kept them guessing. The action held their attention and the fantasy set their imagination ablaze. What more can you ask for out of a book?

The short, quick-paced chapters are just right for younger audiences, as the ever thickening plot pulls them in. My only complaint being that the abrupt ending had my kids (and I) wanting to jump right into Book 2.

Reading to the kids at bed time has been such a blessing, especially in seeing them get excited over a story. I pray that by sharing good books such as this one, they will grow into avid readers themselves.

If this sounds like one you would be interested in trying out, right now The Kindle Edition is only $1.99

Awesome Science - Mount St. Helens

2013-01-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Awesome Science - Mount St. Helens

Science and children - The Christian's Dilemma!

I want to instill a love for and appreciation of science in my children, but I don't want to poison them with today's evolution and godless propaganda. So what do I do? I'm always on the lookout for helpful resources created from a biblical, Christian perspective.

The Awesome Science Series

The Awesome Science Series features field trips to various geological locations to explore how and what we can learn in support of young earth creationism. My kids and I recently watched the episode featuring Mount St Helens. We greatly enjoyed the fast paced and info packed presentation. The main thrust of this particular program was to demonstrate how much of what we see today can be explained through a catastrophic model rather than the generally accepted uniformity model of development. The eruption of Mount St Helens provided creationists with a window into the past. Their studies of the eruption and subsequent geological formations allowed them to learn first hand the effects of cataclysmic catastrophes enabling them to spot these occurrences in many other areas of the world. The study of the decomposition processes of the massive amount of trees and timber that were washed into Spirit lake even allowed scientists to learn the true origins of the petrified forests.

It's a winner

I highly recommend Mount St. Helens - Amazing Science. It held the attention of my three (well two anyways) boys and I found it to be educational and informative as well.

I'd like to thank Master Books for allowing me to review this episode.

Simple Method of Becoming a Better Historian

2013-01-19T09:37:00.000-05:00

And I thought the process would be more difficult and time consuming. :)

Thus, the secret to becoming a better historian is really no secret at all: be aware of the various errors and fallacies noted in this book; read widely in the discipline; as you do so, ask not simply what is being said, but how the historian is going about the work of saying it; read widely in the culture of your chosen period; read eclectically across the disciplines, pillaging anything from other fields of intellectual endeavor that might help you understand the complexity of human action; read the classics of history; know the history of your discipline; and read sane accounts, by proven historians, of how they themselves pursue their craft. When you have done all this, you will find that you are a better historian than when you started.

From Histories and Fallacies: Problems Faced in the Writing of History by Carl Trueman

Read my review here.

Histories and Fallacies by Carl Trueman - Review

2013-01-18T19:43:00.000-05:00

Histories and Fallacies: Problems Faced in the Writing of History

Over the past couple of years I have become increasingly skeptical of history. It seems as though today we have everyone just re-writing history, re-interpreting events with the sole purpose of promoting their agenda. Everything is propaganda. America was founded as a Christian nation. None of the founding Fathers were Christians. What is a Christian?

Can any historical account be trusted?

Thankfully, Carl Trueman has written an insightful book explaining the problems we are faced with in the writing of history. Histories and Fallacies is a delight to read and filled with wisdom. Trueman walks the reader through real life examples of some of the rights and wrongs that are frequently committed. I was just as fascinated by the subjects he chose as examples, as I was with the lessons he was teaching. Tackling issues such as Holocaust Denial, Marxism, and was Luther an anti-Semite are just some of the real world histories he explores.

I found Trueman's work to be very enlightening. I learned much that I can now apply in my research of historical events and in rightly interpreting scripture. I highly recommend this book to everyone who could benefit (and who couldn't?) from a behind the scenes look at the work of discerning historian.

Lit!: A Christian Guide to Reading Books - Review

2013-01-14T18:06:00.002-05:00

Lit!: A Christian Guide to Reading Books

Yes. I did just read a book about reading books. (and you should too!)

Why should I read?
What should I read?
What shouldn't I read?
Is it okay to read books that aren't "Christian"?
How can I get the most out of the books I do read?

These are just some of the questions Tony Reinke tackles in his book, Lit!: A Christian Guide to Reading Books.

Tony shares the lessons he has learned through his life-long love of reading. Some that I found to be the most helpful, were his thoughts on the value of non-fiction and imagination. Rather than fearing such things we should appreciate the truth that is represented in such, recognizing that God often speaks his truth through those who may not even acknowledge him.

Another point the author brings out is the effect that the internet and digital media has on our reading habits. I agree that these changes have reduced us to mere skimmers of information as opposed to deep readers and thinkers. I often find my self rushing unnecessarily and easily distracted. It can be a struggle to maintain focus. This tendency is something we must be aware of and seek to conquer.

This was truly an enjoyable read. I was reminded of much and learned even more, but most of all it stirred in me a desire to lose myself in a good book.

The Conviction to Lead - Review

2012-12-19T17:08:00.000-05:00

The Conviction to Lead: 25 Principles for Leadership that Matters

There are an innumerable number of books on the subject of leadership. Everyone wants to be a leader and everyone is willing to tell you how to do it.

So how is this book any different?

First off, it is written by Albert Mohler, who is one of the clearest and most insightful voices in all of Christendom. If you aren't currently subscribed to his blog, you should be. He is also the president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and is responsible for leading the institution back to its founding principals. To make a long story short: He is the epitome of the Christian Leader.

So is this book is only for leaders or those who desire to be?

No. There are nuggets of wisdom there in that will challenge or inspire everyone. Besides, everyone leads something. I was challenged most in the area of being a father, the leader of the family. While some chapters do deal more with those who are business or organizational leaders, the majority easily translate to all who aim to be good stewards in their Christian life.

The point Mohler aims to drive home is that leaders need to lead through their convictions. Hence the title! Rather than only focusing on material and financial goals, he challenges us to first construct our vision as a purpose as opposed to a plan. Asking ourselves "Why we are here?" instead of "What are we doing?"

Once we have established a purpose, the next step is to allow our beliefs to lead our actions. Often times there are many ways to achieve a desired result, but does it matter how we get there? Our beliefs will guide which actions we take. As Christians we need to lead by our convictions, beliefs, and morality. Even if plans and situations change, the shared convictions of the organization should remain.

These initial points are carried on and expanded throughout the rest of the book, and they really got me thinking. As the leader of my family, do I have a purpose, a vision? Am I leading and processing everything in accordance with my convictions? Have I shared these with my family so that we may be united in purpose? Tough questions indeed.

If you find yourself being drawn towards the leadership shelf at your local bookstore, make The Conviction to Lead: 25 Principles for Leadership that Matters the one you choose.

I'd like to thank Bethany House Publishers for sending me this free copy for review.

One Day Will We Look Back on Abortion As We Now Do Slavery?

2012-12-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

It has always baffled my mind.

How in the world did we allow slavery to go on far so long in this country? Couldn't everyone see the evil of it?

I guess not everyone was for it, but the ones that were, were willing to fight for it. Their selfishness, greed, and hatred blinded them to the reality of their sin. They participated in a practice that today we look back onto in horror and shame that we could have ever lived in that world. Surly had we been there, things would have been different. Slavery either would have never happened or would have at least abruptly halted. Today we see clearly just how wrong it was and is.

It is because of this lesson that we as Americans have learned, that I am dumbfounded that we would continue to count life, any life, as disposable, worthy of less dignity than the life of any other. Have we forgotten how precious life is? How we are all given the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?

We have gone from bad to worse. From the legally sanctioned enslavement of the "less than human," to the legally sanctioned murder of the "less than human." The one we oppressed, the other we kill. How is it that we still believe that we can dictate another's fate? The evil of abortion is the "right," a vocal few who in our time has come to fight for with the same vehemence that was formally associated with the pro-slavery crowd. They have willingly closed their eyes to the sin-filled murder of abortion while they lay claim to a "choice" that was never theirs to make.

My prayer, is that one day this wickedness will be behind us.

That future generations will look back with baffled minds asking, "How could we have allowed abortion to go on for so long in this country? Couldn't everyone see the evil of it?"

After exhausting all wit and sarcasm...

2012-12-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 1 Peter 2:15

Tell me the truth. Just how often do you find yourself heeding this advice? Before you answer that, you may want to go back and read some of your Facebook statuses and comments. Yeah, it doesn't look so good.

For most of us this is more of a last resort, to be deployed after we have ran out of witty comebacks and pointed sarcasm.

But what if...

What if rather than fighting fire with fire, we simply continued to obey God? If we would watch our tongues, control our tempers, and place more value in how God sees us, as opposed to how the world sees us? If we would realize that we have nothing to win in this world, because we have already have it all in Christ?

Just think how powerful this would be. Your adversary digs in, readying himself for the fight, only to learn that their opinions of you aren't the measure of your self worth. That your confidence rest in the love of God, allowing you to bless in the face of cursing and having the freedom to love instead of defend.

The result...

How would they react to this unexpected, unheard of tactic? For one thing, most will quickly lose interest in tormenting when they realize that they can't use you for sport. What fun is a game if there's no one to play with?

Secondly, they'll be left scratching their heads as to your ability and reason for withstanding them so. You're different. How? Why? Aren't these the questions we want them to ask of us as witnesses of Jesus Christ? How awesome would it be to have them ask you, "for the reason of the hope that is in you," (1 Peter 3:15) rather than always trying to convince them that it's really there?

No, it's not easy...

Peter spends a lot of time on this issue of maintaining a loving, steadfast response in the face of adversity. Why? Because it's difficult, unnatural, and quickly forgotten. We need frequent reminders and the realization that we can only succeed through the grace and power of our Lord Jesus Christ. Prayer is a necessity. Our conversations with others won't be made right, without our actively conversing with God first.

So the next time you're faced with the ignorance of foolish people (you won't have to wait long), let's try using God's method of silencing them.

Now if you will excuse me, I've got some praying to do!

Walking with Sin

2012-12-08T17:08:00.002-05:00

It is one thing to be a Christian who struggles with sin, and something entirely different to be "Christian" who openly accepts it, condoning its practice.

The one struggles to walk with Jesus. The other refuses to follow.

The Lie: Evolution / Millions of Years - Review

2012-12-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Lie: Evolution (Revised & Expanded)

"If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?" (Psalm 11:3)

The foundations of Christianity are under attack. People have left the Word of God as their absolute authority and have replaced it with the word of man. No longer do we have God as our starting point. All things are open to debate. None more so than the origin of man. Science has put forth the proposition that we have no Creator God, time and chance had their dance and from monkeys we became man. This idea of evolution without God has exploded among the worldly. Finally, they could leave all this god stuff behind.

Since Darwin had first put forth the idea, it has been almost unanimously adopted by scientists and taught as fact to generations of school children. Generations have been instructed by those who oppose God and its effects are being seen in the church. Why believe in God and his Word when you have been taught that most of what it says is wrong? If Genesis isn't true then why believe the rest?

The situation is bleak and many are seeking to take up the banner of God's word and confront the deceiver head on. Ken Ham has been leading this charge for most of his life. Recognizing the danger that evolution presents to Christianity, he has pushed the fields of Creation Science and Creation Evangelism forward in a quest to show the world that the Word of God is sure and always to be trusted. With his ministry Answers in Genesis, he provides resources to defend the faith against those who would seek to destroy it. The team has also built the Creation Museum where the truth of God's Word can be witnessed in the story of creation and in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

One of the best ways to learn more about these issues and how to confront them is through Ken Ham's book The Lie: Evolution / Millions of Years. In this revised and expanded 25th anniversary edition Ken lays out in detail the dangers of evolutionary thinking and of removing the Bible as our foundation for truth. Everything is clearly and powerfully explained and the steps we must take to regain our foothold are presented as well. This book truly is an eye-opener and I highly recommend it to everyone.

I'd like to thank Master Books for sending me this free copy for review.

Made in Heaven - Review

2012-11-26T18:51:00.001-05:00

Made in Heaven

Time and again we have learned that God in his wisdom has done all things well. Much of man's ingenuity has ultimately come from our observation of what God has already shown us through his design in all of creation.
It is this truth that Ray Comfort and Jeffrey Seto seek to share through their book, "Made in Heaven."

Did you know that pine cones are inspiring researchers to look into clothing that adapts to temperature? Or that the study of the human eye could lead to better cameras? What if we could design a computer anti-virus program that works with the efficiency of our own immune system? Should we look to the mosquito for clues on how to make the needle prick of an injection less painful? Would our paper producing abilities be where they are today if it weren't for the humble wasp? Would we know the marvels of Velcro if it weren't for the prickly burrs of the field that cling to our clothes? God has already handed us our greatest advancements, it is simply up to us to acknowledge his wisdom.

Made in Heaven is a colorful book extolling the glories of God in creation. It is as much worshipful as it is educational. How great is our God? This book seeks to remind us.

I'd like to thank Master Books for sending me this free copy for review.

The Genius of Ancient Man: Evolution's Nightmare - Review

2012-11-17T13:29:00.000-05:00

The Genius of Ancient Man

What if we've got it all wrong?

I grew up watching cartoons with grunting cavemen, unable to communicate except for some hand motions and simple scratchings on the wall of his cave. In history class I read all the speculations on when primitive man may have first learned how to make fire, or invented the wheel, or developed language. These poor creatures lived in this undeveloped state for many, many years, till thankfully we evolved into the sophisticated beings we are today. End of story. Nothing to see here.

But, what if?

What would it look like if rather than slowly evolving through millions of years, we came into being, created so to speak, endowed with intelligence, language, and purpose? You know, sort of like the Bible describes in Genesis. What would we find when searching into our past?

Would we find magnificent structures whose construction baffles even our engineers today? Would we see evidence of advanced art and musical instruments since they wouldn't have been limited by their lack of communication and cultural development? Would we find that maybe they weren't so different from us after all?

What does the evidence suggest?

Well color me surprised, it just so happens that we find all of this and more. Don Landis and Jackson Hole Bible College have put out an incredible book detailing how the biblical model of man's origins agrees with the evidence better than the evolutionary model. The Genius of Ancient Man: Evolution's Nightmare, explores the many evidences that support the Bible's explanation of man's development. By starting with the presupposition of God's creation of man fully formed, intelligent, and social, and the bible as the inerrant Word of God, they reexamine the the same evidence that the world refuses to attribute to the workings of a Creator God. Their findings are both intriguing and powerful.

First off, this book is nice. The paper is of a heavy weight with beautiful glossy pictures and helpful charts. Great for kids and adults who desire to see the truth of our beginnings. I love that everything is openly and unashamedly directed towards restoring a biblical worldview to this muddied and distorted topic. We Christians have surrendered this field of study over to the world for too long. We know the scriptures are true, so let us explore in confidence knowing that our foundation cannot be shaken.

Very helpful chart showing the overlap of lifetimes recorded in the Bible
Click to enlarge

I highly recommend this book. It will challenge some of your previously held beliefs and lead you into thinking much more deeply about those fast paced, beginning chapters of Genesis. There is more there than often meets the eye.

I'd like to thank Master Book publishing for sending me this free copy for review.

When To Speak Up and When To Shut Up - Review

2012-11-07T19:05:00.001-05:00

When to Speak Up and When to Shut Up: Principles for Conversations You Won't Regret

The first thing I thought when I read the title was, "Boy, I know some people who need to read this!"

All joking aside, everyone could use the information in this book. Sedler lays out a biblical and practical guide to effective communication. Using Biblical examples he shares the times when when the situation called for speaking up and those when silence was in order. God's Word truly does have all the answers!

Now it's Personal

It's amazing how God works and places things in our lives. I had not finished this book but for a few hours, till I was presented an opportunity to apply what I had learned. I was quickly embroiled in a workplace confrontation. Immediately, many of the points that Dr. Sedler discussed flashed before my mind. Was it time to give a defense? Should I simply listen? Though there were many inaccuracies, what were my motives for wanting to react and correct? Was I willing to work towards reconciliation or was I gunning for revenge?

I'm thankful that these thoughts were fresh in my mind. Probably one of the most difficult responses that was presented was also one of the most important in these situations, resting and remaining confident in Christ when facing accusations. According to scripture, the meek shall inherit the earth, but in the eyes of the world meekness is regarded as weakness. It's difficult to "lose" in order to win. Pride is a powerful adversary. Lord, help me to seek the glory that comes from you and not that which is of the world.

Conclusion

When To Speak Up and When to Shut Up is one book that you will never regret having read. How we handle conflict and communication is essential in our sanctification and efforts to show Christ's love and grace to the world. May we all seek to glorify God with our words and relationships, and may he give us the grace and wisdom to not place a stumbling block before those whom Christ has died.

I'd like to thank Bethany House Publishers for sending me this free copy for review.