I had never heard of Mike Flynt before I picked up this book. However, as I read about his life and his convictions, I remembered that he was the man who returned to college football at the age of 59 to complete his senior year. He mentions his college playing days in his book The Power Based Life: Realize Your Life's Goals and Dreams by Strengthening Your Body, Mind, and Spirit. However, that is not the focus of the book. This book talks about different areas that can become power bases for you to help you live a more loving, productive, healthier life. Flynt discusses aspects of life such as mindset, visualization, commitment, compassion, and more.
For each aspect of life, Flynt dedicates a chapter to define what the aspect means to him and how it can be cultivated to better your life. He talks about its impact on your life and practical ways you can learn from yourself. Flynt also references Scripture and the impact God's word should have on you as you become the best person you can be.
I appreciated Flynt's honesty and style of writing as he shared personal stories of his past to help the reader understand grace and the idea of overcoming your past. However, at times, his writing almost felt too optimistic and preachy. In several chapters, it seemed simplistic. If you would just follow his advice and read your Bible, you would be able to make the changes he has made in his life, and your outlook will be better. I felt that his intentions were good, but sometimes it sounded too simplistic and trite. There is more of a struggle to improve in the areas he talks about than he lets on in some of his writing.
Overall, the book is worth the read. Some of the advice is practical and adaptable to your particular situation. He extols the virtues we know we should have, and he frequently ties wellness into a relationship with God. He challenges readers to work toward becoming better people and investing in goals, relationships, and spiritual facets of life. I appreciated his purpose and found the book enjoyable, although I would have liked more practical advice in some areas. I would recommend this book in particular to people who are athletically-inclined and need some motivation to work toward self-improvement.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Start! The Bible for New Believers
Start! The Bible for New Believers is edited by Greg Laurie and is a great source for those new to the Christian faith. This Bible is a New King James version. The text is easy to follow and clearly referenced. What makes this Bible a great tool for newer believers and for those curious about Christianity is the supplemental material included. In the beginning of the Bible is an article titled, "The Plan of Salvation." This article gives a story of one man's path to the Lord and explains why we need salvation and how to become saved. Following this article is one titled "Secrets to Spiritual Success" that defines Christianity and discusses ways to be spiritually successful, such as reading the Word, praying, confessing sins, forgiving others, and being part of a local church. This article has practical methods to help new believers in understanding the basics of Christianity. In the back of this Bible, there is also an article listing and explaining the essentials Christians need to understand about God and Jesus. There are truths listed here that help new believers understand God's plan and His characteristics. Each book of the Bible has an introduction that helps the reader understand who the author of the book was and the purpose for it being written. Finally, throughout the books, there are small sidenotes and articles to explain further important truths and facts within each book. These small articles will help new believers grow in their faith and understanding.
I enjoyed reading this Bible for several reasons. First of all, the layout was helpful and I found the introductions to each book to be beneficial to understanding of the context of the book. I also enjoyed the additional insight given within the small articles to help in understanding important concepts. The print was easy to read, and the size of the Bible makes it practical to easily carry with me. Each main section within the books is set off with red type and a title, making it easier to understand the main idea of each passage. With the additional articles for new believers, I think this Bible would be a wonderful gift for a new Christian. It is easy to find references and breaks down many concepts into easy to understand language. I intend to pass this Bible on to someone I know who is new in the faith.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
I enjoyed reading this Bible for several reasons. First of all, the layout was helpful and I found the introductions to each book to be beneficial to understanding of the context of the book. I also enjoyed the additional insight given within the small articles to help in understanding important concepts. The print was easy to read, and the size of the Bible makes it practical to easily carry with me. Each main section within the books is set off with red type and a title, making it easier to understand the main idea of each passage. With the additional articles for new believers, I think this Bible would be a wonderful gift for a new Christian. It is easy to find references and breaks down many concepts into easy to understand language. I intend to pass this Bible on to someone I know who is new in the faith.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Transforming Church in Rural America
In his book Transforming Church in Rural America, Shannon O'Dell gives a glimpse of life as a rural pastor. He began his pastoral duties in a large church, but after several years, felt God calling him to a small rural church. When he arrived, things were very different than his past experiences. However, he felt called to stay. This book is the story of his journey with Brand New Church.
But the book is more than a personal biography. O'Dell also gives insight into his beliefs regarding leadership and church growth. He says leaders are people who do not settle. They are always striving for more, looking for potential. And above all, leaders have vision that they can share with others, and make others believe in the vision too. O'Dell says all leaders must deal with the cycle of change, conflict, and growth. He shares personal stories about the beginning days in his church when he had the vision, but needed changes to see that vision come about. When proposing changes, he struggled with conflict within the church. However, moving forward led to growth. As of today, Brand New Church has multiple sites and delivers its message to most of the world via satellite and internet.
O'Dell gives rural churches biblical advice, as well as advice from his own experiences. His purpose in this book is to show churches that it is not about the number of people in the congregation, but it is about growing congregants. There are members in every church ready to step up when they have a leader with vision.
Overall, the book is an easy read, with many personal stories and humorous quips. It is geared more toward pastors and leaders in the church, but any member of the congregation could benefit from the information in this book. I think it would offer people from differing backgrounds a good glimpse of life in a rural church setting.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
But the book is more than a personal biography. O'Dell also gives insight into his beliefs regarding leadership and church growth. He says leaders are people who do not settle. They are always striving for more, looking for potential. And above all, leaders have vision that they can share with others, and make others believe in the vision too. O'Dell says all leaders must deal with the cycle of change, conflict, and growth. He shares personal stories about the beginning days in his church when he had the vision, but needed changes to see that vision come about. When proposing changes, he struggled with conflict within the church. However, moving forward led to growth. As of today, Brand New Church has multiple sites and delivers its message to most of the world via satellite and internet.
O'Dell gives rural churches biblical advice, as well as advice from his own experiences. His purpose in this book is to show churches that it is not about the number of people in the congregation, but it is about growing congregants. There are members in every church ready to step up when they have a leader with vision.
Overall, the book is an easy read, with many personal stories and humorous quips. It is geared more toward pastors and leaders in the church, but any member of the congregation could benefit from the information in this book. I think it would offer people from differing backgrounds a good glimpse of life in a rural church setting.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Monday, September 27, 2010
You Were Made to Make a Difference
Max Lucado teams up with his daughter, Jenna Lucado Bishop, and Natalie Gillespie to write You Were Made to Make a Difference. This book is similar in theme to his recent title, Outlive Your Life. However, this edition is aimed toward teenagers. To begin with, the book is designed to look like a journal. It invites interaction with the text, and is written with excerpts from both Lucado and his daughter. There are also pictures and heart-warming stories. However, the text is challenging for young adults, encouraging them to live to their potential and make a difference in the lives of others.
The book ties in scripture, quotes, and related facts to inspire teenagers to look around them and see where they can affect others. Stories help teenagers see that it doesn't matter what their circumstances are, where they live, or what their age is. They can make a difference in others' lives just by looking around and committing themselves to helping others. The stories in this book center on sacrificial living. They demonstrate that teenagers do not have to focus on doing big huge things on their own, but instead to look for small acts of kindness they can do daily. The book encourages students and teens to talk to the kids who are left out, to donate time to help a neighbor, and to offer encouraging words to those who need them. These are small steps that anyone can do, and they make a difference daily to others.
The book also includes questions to help teenagers begin thinking about their strengths, their interests, and the areas in which they could benefit others. Lucado reminds teens that they need a willing heart and an open mind, and God will direct their intentions into something positive. He reminds teenagers that they too are children of God, and if they focus on sharing His love with others, they will benefit along with those they help.
The format of the book makes it an enjoyable read for all ages. By differing the font and format, and alternating between Lucado's storytelling and his daughter's voice, the book holds the interest of the reader. It can be read in short sittings, but does invite the reader to think more deeply about the concepts introduced. It would make a great study for youth groups, and I would recommend this book to all adult leaders of youth groups as well. It is inspiring, while containing practical advice for teenagers.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The book ties in scripture, quotes, and related facts to inspire teenagers to look around them and see where they can affect others. Stories help teenagers see that it doesn't matter what their circumstances are, where they live, or what their age is. They can make a difference in others' lives just by looking around and committing themselves to helping others. The stories in this book center on sacrificial living. They demonstrate that teenagers do not have to focus on doing big huge things on their own, but instead to look for small acts of kindness they can do daily. The book encourages students and teens to talk to the kids who are left out, to donate time to help a neighbor, and to offer encouraging words to those who need them. These are small steps that anyone can do, and they make a difference daily to others.
The book also includes questions to help teenagers begin thinking about their strengths, their interests, and the areas in which they could benefit others. Lucado reminds teens that they need a willing heart and an open mind, and God will direct their intentions into something positive. He reminds teenagers that they too are children of God, and if they focus on sharing His love with others, they will benefit along with those they help.
The format of the book makes it an enjoyable read for all ages. By differing the font and format, and alternating between Lucado's storytelling and his daughter's voice, the book holds the interest of the reader. It can be read in short sittings, but does invite the reader to think more deeply about the concepts introduced. It would make a great study for youth groups, and I would recommend this book to all adult leaders of youth groups as well. It is inspiring, while containing practical advice for teenagers.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Outlive Your Life
Max Lucado is a bestselling author because he has a way of taking biblical concepts and stories and helping the average, everyday person relate to them. In his newest book, Outlive Your Life, he does it again. He begins by reminding us that each of us is an individual. No one else in the world has all of the same characteristics, thoughts, or genetics. We are individuals with differing loves, abilities, and desires. But this is part of God's plan. We cannot be replaced.
The second thought running throughout this book is the idea that the current generation of individuals are commissioned by God to use those unique traits to help with human suffering. God wants us to outlive our life by making a difference in the lives of others, and He equips us with everything that we need to be able to do that.
Throughout the book, Lucado uses characters from the Bible to demonstrate how God used ordinary individuals to help others in their times of need. He demonstrates that one person can make a difference when following God's lead. Then he asks us to think about where we are called to make that difference. God loves all people, and each of us is designed to care about people as well. Lucado asks us to consider with whom we feel we can most easily relate, and for whom do we feel compassion. Using these desires that are given to us by God, we need to ask what God wants us to do. Because sometimes the needs are so overwhelming, we must follow God's prompting. We pray for those people and we are able to act because God provides.
Lucado reminds us that God is moved by a humble, prayerful heart. And that when we choose to listen to Him, and truly listen to those we are called to help, a way will be revealed. God always gives us the resources and tools to follow the path He calls us to.
In this book, Lucado once again tells Bible stories to support his points, and he is a master at relating those stories to today's society. He talks to the reader as if he is a friend sitting in the room sharing a cup of coffee. His style of writing makes for an easy read, but his message is challenging. He combines stories that are easy to understand and relate to, with deep biblical concepts that require a response from the reader. His ability to merge these two is what makes him a bestselling author.
This book is to the point and I would recommend it to all who struggle with their purpose or feel too small to accomplish what they desire to accomplish. It is encouraging while challenging and worth reading over and over.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The second thought running throughout this book is the idea that the current generation of individuals are commissioned by God to use those unique traits to help with human suffering. God wants us to outlive our life by making a difference in the lives of others, and He equips us with everything that we need to be able to do that.
Throughout the book, Lucado uses characters from the Bible to demonstrate how God used ordinary individuals to help others in their times of need. He demonstrates that one person can make a difference when following God's lead. Then he asks us to think about where we are called to make that difference. God loves all people, and each of us is designed to care about people as well. Lucado asks us to consider with whom we feel we can most easily relate, and for whom do we feel compassion. Using these desires that are given to us by God, we need to ask what God wants us to do. Because sometimes the needs are so overwhelming, we must follow God's prompting. We pray for those people and we are able to act because God provides.
Lucado reminds us that God is moved by a humble, prayerful heart. And that when we choose to listen to Him, and truly listen to those we are called to help, a way will be revealed. God always gives us the resources and tools to follow the path He calls us to.
In this book, Lucado once again tells Bible stories to support his points, and he is a master at relating those stories to today's society. He talks to the reader as if he is a friend sitting in the room sharing a cup of coffee. His style of writing makes for an easy read, but his message is challenging. He combines stories that are easy to understand and relate to, with deep biblical concepts that require a response from the reader. His ability to merge these two is what makes him a bestselling author.
This book is to the point and I would recommend it to all who struggle with their purpose or feel too small to accomplish what they desire to accomplish. It is encouraging while challenging and worth reading over and over.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The Boy who Changed the World
The Boy who Changed the World is a book by Andy Andrews. It is written for children following the same premise as his adult version, The Butterfly Effect. In this book, Andrews uses the examples of several people, including Norman Borlaug, Henry Wallace, George Washington, and Moses Carver.
He writes about these famous people in a way that children can understand, demonstrating the acts that made them famous. Each story portrays the way these people made a difference in the lives of others.
For example, in the story of Norman Borlaug, Andrews shows kids how Norman became interested in plants and used his knowledge to create special seeds of corn, wheat and rice. These seeds turned into plants to help feed hungry people in all areas of the world. Over two billion people were saved from starvation. And Norman was just an ordinary person.
Through these stories, Andrews reminds his readers that anyone can make a difference, and that is how we should live our lives. We are here to effect others, and even small things can add up to large differences with lasting effects. He explains that when one butterfly flaps its wings, it moves tiny pieces of air, moving even more pieces of air, until it can create a large wind on the other side of the world. Andrews wants kids to know that their actions can be like those butterfly's wings. They can effect many people for a long time by living intentionally. They can choose their actions so that others receive the effects. He reminds kids that every little thing they do matters to someone, somewhere, whether they are aware of it or not.
This book has colorful illustrations and is easy to read for young readers. The point is easy to understand, and the stories and examples are entertaining. I would recommend this book for kids up to about age twelve.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
He writes about these famous people in a way that children can understand, demonstrating the acts that made them famous. Each story portrays the way these people made a difference in the lives of others.
For example, in the story of Norman Borlaug, Andrews shows kids how Norman became interested in plants and used his knowledge to create special seeds of corn, wheat and rice. These seeds turned into plants to help feed hungry people in all areas of the world. Over two billion people were saved from starvation. And Norman was just an ordinary person.
Through these stories, Andrews reminds his readers that anyone can make a difference, and that is how we should live our lives. We are here to effect others, and even small things can add up to large differences with lasting effects. He explains that when one butterfly flaps its wings, it moves tiny pieces of air, moving even more pieces of air, until it can create a large wind on the other side of the world. Andrews wants kids to know that their actions can be like those butterfly's wings. They can effect many people for a long time by living intentionally. They can choose their actions so that others receive the effects. He reminds kids that every little thing they do matters to someone, somewhere, whether they are aware of it or not.
This book has colorful illustrations and is easy to read for young readers. The point is easy to understand, and the stories and examples are entertaining. I would recommend this book for kids up to about age twelve.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The Butterfly Effect
The Butterfly Effect is a gift book written by Andy Andrews. The subtitle to this book is "How your life matters." In this small book, Andrews discusses the thoughts all of us have had at one time or another about the importance of our lives. He talks about how every person questions whether or not he makes a difference and effects the lives of others. It is about the community of people and the idea of the "butterfly effect".
Andrews says the butterfly effect is the idea that one butterfly, in motion, moves molecules that travel around the planet, and can cause a hurricane on the other side of the world. Andrews argues that the butterfly effect is true in relationship to people, and that the small acts we do each day can have worldwide, changing effects.
In the process of sharing this idea, Andrews includes multiple stories to demonstrate his ideas. He mentions Chamberlain, who held his ground during war, making it possible for an army without any ammunition to capture over four hundred enemy soldiers. One person changed the course of the battle.
What it boils down to for Andrews, is that every move we make and every action we take matters, not only during the moment, but because it effects others and continues to have effects. He wants each person to live their lives in such a way that they continue to effect others even generations from now. We are to live intentionally.
Andrews uses examples and stories that drive this point home. And the gift book is colorful, attractive, and easy to read. It can be read in one sitting and serve as a reminder of living a meaningful life that matters. I would recommend this book to everyone and keep it nearby as a source of daily inspiration.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Andrews says the butterfly effect is the idea that one butterfly, in motion, moves molecules that travel around the planet, and can cause a hurricane on the other side of the world. Andrews argues that the butterfly effect is true in relationship to people, and that the small acts we do each day can have worldwide, changing effects.
In the process of sharing this idea, Andrews includes multiple stories to demonstrate his ideas. He mentions Chamberlain, who held his ground during war, making it possible for an army without any ammunition to capture over four hundred enemy soldiers. One person changed the course of the battle.
What it boils down to for Andrews, is that every move we make and every action we take matters, not only during the moment, but because it effects others and continues to have effects. He wants each person to live their lives in such a way that they continue to effect others even generations from now. We are to live intentionally.
Andrews uses examples and stories that drive this point home. And the gift book is colorful, attractive, and easy to read. It can be read in one sitting and serve as a reminder of living a meaningful life that matters. I would recommend this book to everyone and keep it nearby as a source of daily inspiration.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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