Book Giveaway!

As part of a blog tour introducing this new book, I have been presented with a copy to give away!  If you would like a chance to receive As One Devil To Another by Richard Platt, simply post a comment below.  I will randomly choose a winner one week from today :)

Many Christians have heard of the book The Screwtape Letters by C.S.Lewis.  The book is composed of a collection of fictional letters sent from a senior devil to a devil in-training, instructing him in the art of deception.  While the concept intrigued me, I have never been able to read through the whole book because of the scholarly language and writing style.  So when I saw As One Devil to Another was the same type of book, yet written to a modern audience, I wanted to check it out...

The story is a collection of letters from senior devil Slashreap to his nephew and trainee, Scardagger.  The letters are meant to teach the aspiring devil how to keep humans from joining with and living for The Adversary (God).  The trainee is given a female college student as a "client" who he is to keep within their grasp.  This case study is intertwined with basic education from the devil's worldview.  Is Scardagger successful in his task?  You will have to read to find out!

This type of writing is a creative way of highlighting the spiritual dangers and failures of our society today.  The author makes a point of saying that all of God's creation is inherently good, but it can also be twisted for evil purposes.  Things like technology, media, art, literature, beauty, sex...all can be used for either good or evil.  Are we aware of how we are being influenced by the world?  One letter states that most humans would not like a society designed by the Adversary "because it would exist to help them grow, not simply for their amusement and distraction."  There are some great insights shared about the purpose of suffering and the power of prayer.

While I liked much of the content, I found the writing language to be very similar to C.S. Lewis, which for me was the downfall.  I'm not sure if the point is to make the senior devil come across as well-educated, but the way the letters are composed are very scholarly and sometimes confusing to an everyday gal like myself.  I had to depend on context clues to understand what was being said at times because I certainly was not going to continually look up words in the dictionary.  I would have enjoyed the book much more if it were written in a more common language.

Overall, Richard Platt uses an interesting format to convey some thought provoking (sometimes even convicting) ideas.  One tidbit I will share that hit home with me was the devil's technique of distraction.  His advice is: "You should never allow the client to attend to the moment she is in.  You must be forever in the moment, but you must forever push her thoughts elsewhere.  Get her thinking of work when she is at play, and of recreation when she should be at work...If you can render this habit of mind chronic, it will be particularly helpful to you when she is on her knees in prayer...with a little repetition you can have her thinking of her dinner when she ought to be attending to the Adversary".  (Yep, I can relate to that one, how about you?)

If you would like a chance to win a free copy of this book, remember to leave a comment below!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for an honest review.

How We Love Our Kids by Milan & Kay Yerkovich

The majority of this book is centered around 5 Love Styles that the Yerkovich's have identified.  They first wrote a book entitled How We Love that introduced these Love Styles and applied them to marriage.  This book shows how they can be applied to parenting.  The 5 Love Styles of Parenting are the Avoider, the Pleaser, the Vacillator, the Controller, and the Victim.  Each Love Style is explained, provides a self-assessment, shows how these traits might present themselves when dealing with different age groups of children, and has goals for growth.  There is also a section with parenting tips for those who find their children developing with these traits as well.

I discovered a website for these books which allows the user to take a Love Styles Quiz online, found here.  I got around 50% in the first 3 styles, and less in the others. Basically that means that I could identify with some traits in a few styles, but there wasn't one style that "defined" me.  Unfortunately, not fitting into a category made the content in this book not very relevant to me.  There were bits of wisdom here and there, but I think this book would be much more beneficial to someone who scores high in one style.

The last section of the book dealt with 7 gifts that we can give our children: insight, comfort, power, frustration, confession, laughter, and God.  I liked what the authors had to say in the last chapter. "What God does for us is what love looks like in action.  This is our perfect model for our job as parents.  As we grow out of our love styles, out of our injuries, and toward the ideal secure love style, our love will become a clearer picture of God's.  And by the time our kids leave home, relating to God will feel a lot like relating to Mom and Dad.  In our humble opinion, that's the greatest gift parents could give their kids."

I like the importance that this book places on us as parents to fix our own dysfunctions as a means of helping our kids fix theirs (or even to prevent our kids from getting them in the first place!)  Whether we fit into a "Love Style" or not, it's always good to be striving to become the best we can be for the benefit of our kids.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook Press in exchange for an honest review.

Spirit Rising by Jim Cymbala

Jim Cymbala writes that "the Holy Spirit is God's agent on earth, yet he is the least understood, least preached about, and least discussed member of the Trinity."  Wouldn't you agree?  This is a great resource for learning about who the Holy Spirit is, what he does, and what we can expect when our lives are surrendered to him.  It took me longer to read this book than most because it isn't full of fluff that I'm tempted to skim over.  Instead it kept my mind at attention and my hand busy underlining!  The teaching is intermixed with testimonies from some of the members of the Brooklyn Tabernacle that demonstrate how the Spirit can move. 

If we want to be filled with more love and joy, to overcome fear, to have a deeper understanding of God's Word, to desire holiness, and to have a more powerful prayer life - we need the Holy Spirit.  Often when we discover our failings we simply decide to try harder.  But Jim Cymbala writes that "without Holy Spirit power, we'll never have enough of what we need to become the people God wants us to be."  This book has inspired me not to try harder to change on my own, but to develop a more sensitive spirit so I can hear and respond to his prompting.

The final chapter talks about when Israel lost God's blessing and presence, and didn't seem to care.  The author writes "Could that be happening today?  Hymns and praise choruses are sung; a sound doctrinal sermon is preached; our church services are timed and orchestrated perfectly.  Too often, however, there is little of the presence of God that produces awe, conviction of sin, overflowing joy, and life-transforming ministry.  We can easily settle for "church" instead of God.  And every succeeding generation shaped in that mold makes it harder for anyone to dare ask, "Where is the Lord?" "

We need to be seeking the Lord and evaluating the temperature of our own spiritual lives.  This book is a great tool to get started!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

He Chose the Nails by Max Lucado

These past 15 days (leading up to Good Friday), I decided to read a chapter of this book a day as a devotional to help me focus on the cross and what Jesus has done for me.  Max Lucado does an excellent job blending the truth from Scripture with stories and analogies that help the reader understand God's love and plan for redemption.  Each chapter in this book focuses on one aspect of the crucifixion/resurrection.  Since this section of Scripture is commonly known it can be easy to read through without slowing down to focus on elements such as the soldier's spit, or the crown of thorns, or the blood and the water.  This book can help us to slow down and think about our Savior and why he chose the nails...for us.  There is also a study guide included with discussion questions.

In Chapter 7, Max writes a beautiful allegory about a father and daughter that demonstrates God's heart toward us.  I had read this story before in a tract entitled "He Did This Just For You" (which was taken from this book).  It touches me every time I read it.

If you like books with short chapters that are easy to relate to and contain biblical truth, this is a great one.  In addition to the serious subject matter, Max's humor also shows through in his storytelling.  It's nice to get a few good laughs every now and then too :)

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

My Own Worst Enemy by Janet Davis

Matthew 5:16 commands us to let our light shine before others, so that they may see our good deeds and give glory to God.  Yet so often women tend to hide their lights instead of letting them shine.  We can get stuck in cycles of fear, insecurity, and self-doubt.  This is what Janet Davis explores in her book, in what she calls self-sabotage.  Each chapter is structured around a specific topic and includes a story of a modern day woman and a biblical woman.  There are also discussion questions at the end of each chapter.

I think this book does a great job of bringing awareness to the ways our thinking can hold us back from being all that God calls us to be as women.  I especially identified with the first chapter which talks about our refusal to shine as a sin of omission (good works we fail to do) and results in the absence of the fullness of what God has called us to do and be.  I know my own fears, insecurities, and self-doubt hold me back at times from living the way I desire to live, which is one reason I picked up this book in the first place.  The back cover claims the book will help women to "break destructive patterns in order to live out your purpose in God's kingdom"....unfortunately I didn't find this to be true.  Her advice was more along the lines of choosing to be vulnerable, say no when necessary, tell your story, persevere, realize your worth....all of which are helpful things...but simply not enough.  This book ignores the influence of spiritual warfare and how to fight with the sword of the Word of God, which I believe is necessary to break these cycles of "self-sabotage".

Another aspect I liked about the book were the insights the author shared about various biblical women.  While I'm not sure I agree with all of them, I like to learn about different viewpoints and applications that others see in the biblical stories.

Overall, this book contains some good thoughts, but wasn't what I expected it to be.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

Luci's Simple Secrets to a Happy Life

This book caught my interest because it is written by a well-respected Christian leader who has lived nearly eight decades.  If she has advice to share, I figured I could benefit from it!  The book is organized into 50 short chapters, only 2-3 pages each.  Each chapter focuses on a "simple secret" that Luci has learned during her life.  The advice is easy to read, especially for those who want a quick thought to ponder in only a few minutes (great bathroom material!) ;)

For those who know Luci Swindoll, this will be a book to be treasured.  She shares short stories from her life and reveals what has been important to her.  Others may enjoy this book for its simplicity and practical advice.  Luci has lived a fulfilling life as a single woman and shows that one does not need to be married with children to be happy.  As for me, I was neither inspired, encouraged, nor educated...so this will not be a book that I re-visit or recommend.  We only have so much time to read.  If you want that time to be spent reading only the very best, my advice is to let this one pass you by...

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

Unshaken by Dan Woolley

This book was a real page-turner!  Dan Woolley is on staff with Compassion International and was in Haiti working on a film project when the 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck in January 2010.  He was trapped inside the rubble of his hotel for 65 hours before being rescued, and decided to share his experience with others in order to bring glory to God. 

There were several reasons why I enjoyed this book.  First, it gave me an inside look into Compassion's Child Survival Program in Haiti.  I am already serving as a child sponsor through Compassion, so I was interested to learn more about their ministry and the impact they are having on families in Haiti. 

Then, of course, is Dan's story of survival.  This book not only details the physical challenges that he had to overcome, but lets the reader feel his emotional and spiritual journey through this time....his worries about his family...his need to renew his commitment to God...and conflicting moments of despair and peace.  My favorite part was his conversation with a Haitian man who was trapped near him.  While facing death, Dan was able to lead this man into life in Christ.  He says "It was his moment of decision, and I could tell he was sincere in his choice to live for God.  The moment changed his eternal fate, guaranteeing him everlasting life in heaven...even if the rest of the building collapsed and killed us or we died in a few days because we didn't have any food or water, Lukeson's decision meant he would be with Jesus in heaven".  Amen!

The third topic that is discussed in this book is told through flashbacks, remembering his wife's depression and fearing that it could return if he didn't make it out alive.  While I didn't think all the detail given to the depression was necessary, it was eye opening and helped the reader understand the challenges his family has already walked through.  There are also a few chapters near the end of book told through his wife's perspective as she learns of the earthquake and then his eventual rescue.

Overall, this is an inspiring story of God's grace and faithfulness, showing how He can bring good out of all circumstances.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

Lazarus Awakening by Joanna Weaver

Joanna Weaver's previous two books have focused on Mary and Martha.  She writes, "We all know Jesus loved Mary...after all, look how she worshiped.  And we can even understand how Jesus loved Martha.  Look how she served.  But what about those of us who don't know where we fit in the heart of God?"  This final book of the Bethany trilogy dives into the story of their brother Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead.  The book brings insight into the account of Lazarus as told in John 11:1-12:11, as well as expanding on various related themes.  For those who wonder....Does Jesus really love ME?  What does it mean to be a friend of God?  Why isn't He answering my prayers?  Can I truly be free?  How much faith do I need to have?  How can I hear God's voice?  What would it look like to be awakened, living in the light of eternity?...this book is for you.  There are also study questions included for use in a small group.

I found this book to be very well-written, pulling together insights from many sources.  But it wasn't until Chapter 8 that my pencil started underlining frequently and God really started speaking to my heart.  I'm at a point in my life where my struggle is not with whether or not God loves me (I've thankfully got that truth moved from my head to my heart already)...it's if and how He can use me.  That's what Unwinding Graveclothes is all about.  When Lazarus came out of the tomb, resurrected but still wrapped in graveclothes, Jesus instructed others to "loose him, and let him go." (John 11:44)  This chapter explores what our part is in helping to free others.  Jesus does the work, but we get to be involved in "loving someone back to life."  Joanna learned a few lessons that were important reminders for me.  "First, that I'm not responsible for everyone, but I am responsible for the ones God lays upon my heart...Second, to lay down my expectations for the people I try to help...and finally to obey God and His promptings, then leave the outcome to Him."  As Mother Teresa once said,"God has not called me to be successful.  God has called me to be faithful."  Great words of wisdom for any ministry leader!

I now enjoy seeing the story of Lazarus through a new set of eyes, and I'm sure the truths in this book will stick with me in the years to come.  Click here to read the first chapter for yourself...

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.

Sticky Faith by Powell & Clark

What is sticky faith?  It is a faith that is internal, as well as reflected in one's actions.  It is personal and expressed in relationship with others.  It is mature, yet always growing.  All Christian parents desire for their children to have this kind of faith....but we often wonder what we can do to transfer our faith to them in a way that sticks.  This book has done extensive research to help parents and youth leaders find the answers.  While the authors admit that there is no easy formula to follow, there are many factors that make the development of a sticky faith more likely.  This book shares those findings, ideas for practical application, and discussion questions at the end of each chapter.

I found this book to be very insightful...one that I will probably re-visit every five years or so to get fresh ideas as my boys grow older.  Right now (at ages 4, 6, & 8) I recognize the need for my husband and I to model and talk about our faith with our boys, also including them in serving others.  The book talks about the need to surround children with a web of healthy adult relationships who will encourage and care about them.  There are also many helpful suggestions for the later teenage years and to help with the transition to college.  While I feel a long way off from that phase, I can remember my own college experience, and the advice provided seems to be right on target.  The authors "top suggestion is this: trust the Lord with your kids and continue to ask - maybe at times beg - the Lord to build in them a sticky faith."   There are certainly things we as parents can do, but ultimately we need to trust them into His hands.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

What a Son Needs From His Dad by Michael O'Donnell

Even though I'm not a Dad, this small book caught my interest because I have 3 sons and I want them to be prepared for life.  So I read about Michael O'Donnell's advice to other fathers.  He tells dads how to prepare their sons to be disciples of Christ, good citizens, responsible workers, choosers of good friends, able to enjoy life, sexually pure, and lovers of their wives.  There are a few discussion questions at the end of each chapter which would work well guiding a men's small group into a discussion. 

I thought the ideas presented are a good summary of some things dads should strive to teach and model for their sons.  However, some of the book felt more like reading a psychology textbook than conversational in style, which made it difficult to keep my interest.  I would personally liked to have read about more real life stories and practical application than was presented.  Overall, it's a good conversation starter, and may give men some additional insight in how to prepare their sons to succeed in life.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.