Star of Wonder ~ Review

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for 

 Star of Wonder by Angela Hunt 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Star of Wonder 

By Angela Hunt 

Star of Wonder takes the reader into the little-known, forgotten truths of the First Christmas. Spend the days of December taking a new look at what the world Jesus was born into was really like. 

But this is more than just a collection of dry facts broken into 25 readings. No, this is much more. Star of Wonder goes into detail about the various aspects, people, places, and their significance into the whole of what we consider the Nativity story. This story began with the Creation of a Garden and the gift of free will. A gift that was poorly used, as demonstrated by humanity's first decision to sin. This decision, this choice freely given, was the catalyst of a thread throughout history that brought about both Jesus's birth and His death.

This book is broken into four parts so that it can be experienced not only on a daily basis but so one's family can add a weekly touch to the Advent season. The four parts focus on different aspects of the story: Places, Prophecies, People, and Purpose. Altogether, one comes away with a deeper, richer understanding of the story that has run through much of HIStory. A story that will only mean something IF you believe.

* The one issue/concern that could be raised is the author's statement: "Scripture leads me to believe that Jesus was born with the same free will and tendency towards sin that you and I were born with. Which makes His resistance to temptation-not only on one occasion but throughout His life-all the more amazing. If He was born with a sin nature like all people, He never once surrendered to sin, even as a child."

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Star of Wonder 

Author: Angela Hunt 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: September 26, 2023 

Genre: Advent Devotional 

Come, Rediscover the Wonder and Reality of the Very First Christmas 

We all love the Christmas season, but have we buried the truth of the day? 

Bestselling author Angela Hunt weaves together visceral storytelling with overlooked biblical historical truths to help you rediscover the places, people, prophecies, and purpose of Christmas. Each of the engaging twenty-five devotions includes scriptural insights, historical facts, and personal application, which--along with weekly family activities--will have everyone saying, "I didn't know that!" as the Nativity comes to life anew. 

Explore Bethlehem and Nazareth. Walk with Mary, Joseph, and others. Be amazed by the words of the prophets of old. And be warmed by God's great purpose that culminated in the birth of the Messiah. 

Star of Wonder is perfect as an individual Advent devotional or for family and small group study. You will see Christmas with new eyes, create lasting holiday memories, and shine a light on the wonder of that night so long ago. 

"This Advent devotional is written with passion, showing patterns and prophecies that filled me with renewed hope and wonder."--FRANCINE RIVERS, bestselling author of The Lady's Mine and Redeeming Love

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | Christianbook | BookBub

Also Available

---

About the Author

Angela Hunt is a New York Times bestselling author of more than 160 books, with nearly 6 million copies sold worldwide. Angela's novels have won or been nominated for the RWA RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the HOLT Medallion. Four of her novels have received ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year Award, and Angela is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from both the Romantic Times Book Club and ACFW. Angela holds doctorates in biblical studies and theology. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs and chickens.

Connect with Angela by visiting angelahuntbooks.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will receive one Angela Hunt book released by Bethany House Publishers from the last two years (winner's choice)!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway began at midnight on October 11, 2023, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 18, 2023. The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

---

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

A Saint A Day ~ Review

A Saint A Day:

365 True Stories of Faith and Heroism

By Meredith Hinds

Illustrated by Isabel Munoz

A Saint A Day is a year-long devotional that each day presents a different recognized Saint. From the introduction, we learn that the Saints have been vetted by the Catholic Church and have either achieved sainthood or are on their way to becoming a named Saint. Now I will admit, not having been raised within the Catholic Church to having only a passing familiarity with a few of these individuals. 

January 1st opens the book with Mary, the mother of Jesus and references Luke 1:38 where Mary declares her willingness to be used by God. The devotional text puts the Scripture reference in the context of just what God was asking of her - to carry His Son as her own. May 30th references Joan of Arc and the courage it took for her to listen and follow God's calling. June 4th shares Julia Greeley's serving heart and care of the poor. There is a wide range of people throughout history from the early days of the church through the 20th century who are presented.

This book though geared for children 8-12 could be used by older readers easily. Would be a good gift for special occasions.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Teach your child to walk in faith, act justly, and lead with kindness and humility with this 365-day devotional for kids. A Saint a Day includes fascinating historical stories as it introduces young readers to over 300 saints who did extraordinary things for God.
Mother Teresa left her family at age 18 to become a missionary. St. Patrick helped spread Christianity to Ireland. St. Jerome translated the Bible into Latin--and also had a pet lion!
Written for ages 8 to 12, A Saint a Day inspires young readers with remarkable stories of people who made extraordinary choices to love and serve God. Featuring popular saints such as Teresa of Avila, Francis of Assisi, Juan Diego, and Thomas Aquinas, each of the 365 devotions includes:

• A Scripture verse and prayer

• A short summary or an inspiring story of a saint

• A notable fact

• Artwork with a fresh, kid-friendly design

 
This daily devotional for kids is:

• An ideal gift for First Communion, Confirmation, or Advent

• A unique book for strengthening a child's faith

• A great way to share Catholic Church history with kids

 
A Saint a Day will help your child realize the long history of people of faith. As you journey through this yearlong devotional, your children will grow in their understanding of Church history and better understand how they can love and serve God.
Meredith Hinds is a freelance writer and editor who develops books for all audiences and ages, particularly in the Christian market. She’s worked with bestselling authors Philip Yancey and Mark Batterson, and she’s served as a collaborator, abridger, consultant, and teammate for many others. She’s always up for a good story. She lives in Colorado with her husband and three young children.
Isabel Muñoz studied fine arts at the Complutense University of Madrid, Spain. To paint for a living was her dream, and now she’s proud to be the illustrator of several children’s books. She works from a tiny and colorful studio in the north of Spain. You can follow her work at isabelmg.com.

Author Bio

Reviews:

Monday, November 1st: @lovemybooks2020

Wednesday, November 3rd: @jenniaahava

Friday, November 5th: The Bookish Dilettante

Monday, November 8th: @irishgirliereads

Wednesday, November 10th: @arrow_reads

Friday, November 12th: Blooming with Books and @bloomingwbooks

Tuesday, November 16th: Diary of a Stay at Home Mom

Thursday, November 18th: She Just Loves Books and @shejustlovesbooks

Friday, November 19th: View from the Birdhouse

Wednesday, November 24th: @rozierreadsandwine

Monday, November 29th: @parksidereads

Instagram features:

Wednesday, December 1st: @shobizreads

Thursday, December 2nd: @nerdy_book_lover_1987

Friday, December 3rd: @books_with_bethany

Monday, December 6th: @travelerswife4life

Tuesday, December 7th: @barr_bookworm

Wednesday, December 8th: @kristens.reading.nook

Friday, December 10th: @djreadsbooks

My Bedtime Bible Prayers ~ Review

My Bedtime Bible Prayers
By Karoline Pahus Pedersen
Illustrated by Gavin Scott

My Bedtime Bible Prayers is a book that is geared to young readers that attempts to show that prayer is a conversation with God. There are 44 offerings that are 2 pages each. The first page offers 2 scripture references while the second page offers a prayer. The prayers are not carbon copies of each other thus reinforcing the concept of prayer as a conversation. God is referred to as God or Dad in the salutation of the prayers.

All too often prayer is presented as a scary and unknown aspect of the Christian life so that all too often it is avoided. But thinking of prayer rather as a conversation takes away some of the trepidations one might feel. And for many, this can change the frequency of prayer from seldom to daily.

This book is 93 pages in length and none of the prayers are long so short attention spans should not be a problem. There are color illustrations throughout and a table of contents so that you can pick a prayer depending on the needs of your day. Each prayer ends with "good night" so it is obvious that this is meant for nighttime reading but if you want to use it for a morning devotional it is easy to just say "good morning" instead. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Kregel Publications with no expectations buts that I provide my honest opinion.


About the Book:
My Bedtime Bible Prayers is creatively designed to encourage Bible reading and prayer as a natural part of any nighttime routine.

Inside are 44 prayers, each based on a Bible verse and Bible story, along with a takeaway question. The whimsical illustrations featured throughout depict both Bible scenes and contemporary life. With this caring guidance, children ages 6-8 will learn to share their hearts and thoughts with God--while also discovering how much He loves them!

A Cloud by Day, a Fire by Night ~ Review

A Cloud by Day, A Fire by Night
By A.W. Tozer
Compiled and Edited by James L. Snyder

This book is a collection of the sermons that Tozer gave to his Chicago congregation before he accepted a call to a church in Toronto - it focuses on how we can find and follow God's will for us. His message, though written quite a few years ago, is still relevant to today.

How can we know God's will for us? One of the first things to do is quiet our hearts - we are all too often caught up in the chaos and noise of what the world throws at us. Technology is always present and a distraction from hearing God's voice. We need to discipline ourselves daily to make time to listen to God. It is only by listening to God's voice that we can obey Him. And obedience gives us the promise of God being our strength and foundation in our battle against our enemies - Satan, sin, and the fallen world around us. And our obedience is a sign of our commitment to God a commitment that has eternal ramifications.

We need to be careful though and not romanticize the positives of following God. We need to be aware that there will be difficulties and trials that will test us. We need to remember that Jesus carried a cross and we are to take it up and follow Him. But it is through these times of obedience during trials that we find the "joy, privilege, and glory of God." And disobedience can have long term effects as we see through Israel's 40 years of wilderness wanderings. Even when it appears that blessings are not something that we're experiencing we have the promise of what is to come. Sometimes the blessing is delayed because we need to learn something from the wait. We must not be discouraged as that is what the enemy wants instead we need to see that we can lean on God to get us through this time of darkness - He is always present waiting for us to listen and take the hand that He is offering to us.

I found this to be an excellent book and one which I plan to read again as there is much to contemplate and to be learned. I liked that each chapter opened with a prayer and ended with a few lines from a hymn. Some of the hymns I was familiar while others were new to me but each was well suited to the chapter that had just concluded. This book is well suited to any Christian whether they be a new believer or one with years to their faith. One can always use encouragement along the journey.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations but that I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:

Discover Where God is Leading You!

How can I know God's will for me, personally? It's a question that haunts us all at times--maybe when we're looking for the right job, thinking about moving to a new city, or deciding whether or not to get married. At every stage we have difficult decisions to make, and we long for God's direction and His warm reassurance that we're heading the right way.

A Cloud by Day, a Fire by Night captures A.W. Tozer's teaching on the will of God. Taken from sermons he preached just before he left his successful church in Chicago, the title comes from the story of God leading His people out of Egypt and into the promised land.

Tozer was no stranger to facing difficult decisions. His wisdom and biblical insight will help guide you in decisions of your own and reassure you of God's presence every step of the way.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A.W. Tozer (1897-1963) was a self-taught theologian, pastor, and writer whose powerful words continue to grip the intellect and stir the soul of today's believer. He authored more than forty books. The Pursuit of God and The Knowledge of the Holy are considered modern devotional classics. Get Tozer information and quotes at www.twitter.com/TozerAW.

Reverend James L. Snyder (www.jamessnyderministries.com) is an award-winning author whose writings have appeared in more than 80 periodicals and 15 books. He is recognized as an authority on the life and ministry of A.W. Tozer. His first book, In Pursuit of God: The Life of A.W. Tozer, won the Reader's Choice Award in 1992 by Christianity Today. Because of his thorough knowledge of Tozer, James was given the rights from the A.W. Tozer estate to produce new books derived from over 400 never-before-published audio tapes. James and his wife live in Ocala, Florida.

Day by Day Through the Gospel of John ~ Review

Day by Day Through the Gospel of John
365 Days in the Presence of Jesus
Compiled and Edited by Lance Wubbels

This is the time of year when one has to look for a new devotional for the coming year. 365 Days in the Presence of Jesus is for whole a year ~ a whole year which is spent focused on the Gospel of John. This offers a unique perspective as the works of a variety of authors, preachers, and teachers are compiled in this book.

Now just to be clear every single verse is not addressed but some verses have several days of devotionals offering different viewpoints on it. I really like this as it makes one stop and think about what one can get out of these verses.

This book includes an introduction and an overview of the contributors so one has a passing familiarity with the authors. There is not an index or table of contents so if there are notes you want to go back to, be sure to mark the pages with a little tab (like a post-it tab or a ribbon). There is space at the margins for making quick notes and there are a couple of blank pages in the back so that you can mark down the dates (as the pages are unnumbered) that make an impact on you (or if you are like me just have a small notebook for your notes).

This would make an excellent gift for a new believer or for someone seeking as it is the Gospel of John. It would also make a wonderful couple's or family devotional to read together. I would highly recommend this devotional to any and all.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Bethany House with no expectations except that I offer my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Words from the past can have a remarkable ability to refresh us today. The writings of legendary preachers and Bible teachers, such as Charles Spurgeon, Hudson Taylor, Catherine Booth, and Andrew Murray continue to provide encouragement and truth for Christians around the world. 

From the classic writings of these revered saints, Lance Wubbels has compiled and edited the best of the best of their inspirational insights into this 365-day devotional. Chapter by chapter, through the Gospel of John, readers will gain an unforgettable understanding of the life, words, and ministry of Jesus Christ. 

Excerpts are taken from the writings of:
· Charles Spurgeon 
· Alexander Maclaren 
· Joseph Parker 
· S. D. Gordon 
· Alexander Whyte 
· George MacDonald 
· John Wesley 
· R. A. Torrey 
· Hudson Taylor 
· Charles Finney 
· Matthew Henry 
· Frances Ridley Havergal 
· Catherine Booth 
· Adam Clarke
· Andrew Murray

Here is a one-year devotional that is packed with profound biblical commentary, brilliant wisdom, and practical application that you'll look forward to reading every day.

Big and Little Coloring Devotional ~ Review

Big and Little Coloring Devotional
Written by Rachel C. Swanson
Illustrated by Jacy Corral

Big and Little Coloring Devotional is a fun and relaxing way to spend time together with your younger family members. The facing pages go together one is a simpler design while other is more intricate. They are themed so that these two pages go together offering a verse of Scripture on both pages and corresponding devotional message on the big page.

The book is softcover so while it does not lay-flat it can get fairly close to it and is an excellent opportunity for parent and child to learn to work together if coloring at the same time. The pages are of a heavier weight but I'd recommend crayons or color pencils just to be sure the color doesn't bleed through to the other side.

One page pairing has the verse: Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. The parents are then offered a small insight - they are to lead their children in the Lord. The pages have a penguin family to color as you think on these things.

If you have more than one child you may have to come up with an alternating day coloring system or get a second book to double the enjoyment. This would also be a lovely visit to Grandma and Grandpa's house activity. Do you know someone expecting a new sibling soon - this would be a great big brother/big sister gift with the promise that there will still be a special parent time to come (unwinding de-stressing time for Mom).

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher BH with no expectation except that give my honest opinion ~ all opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:

Kids crave constant activities and attention. Adults crave quiet moments of refreshment. How can we achieve both? Big and Little Coloring Devotional engages adults’ minds with appealing biblical devotionals while providing a creative outlet through coloring to diffuse stress.

Let’s have fun with our children through coloring and facilitate their spiritual growth with Scripture. Big and Little Coloring Devotional will incorporate physical, spiritual, and emotional refreshment by providing authentic faith-filled devotionals combined with therapeutic doodling for both the adult and child.

About the Author:

Rachel C. Swanson is a dental hygienist turned author and speaker. She’s founder of the blog community RefineAndRestore.com where she pours out "R&R for the Heart and Soul." Her writing is featured on multiple websites worldwide. She’s been married ten years to her husband who loves her despite her love for coffee and often impulsive nature. They rear their tribe of identical twin boys and (nineteen months later) their baby girl ... and a Weimaraner (dog) who thinks she’s human. They reside in a wannabe country town just on the outskirts of the big city Los Angeles, CA. www.RachelCSwanson.com

About the Illustrator:

Jacy Corral (pronounced "Jackie") is an illustrator, hand lettering artist, graphic designer, wife, and mom. After enjoying an extensive career in corporate marketing and design, she traded fancy slacks for yoga pants to focus on the great privilege of raising her daughter, investing in her home and marriage, and creating artwork that helps people to connect and reflect. Jacy lives with her husband, daughter, and miniature poodle in West Los Angeles, CA. She shares her creations regularly on Instagram and at www.hyssopdesign.com.

The Most Important Women of the Bible ~ Review

The Most Important Women of the Bible
Remarkable Stories of God's Love and Redemption
By Aaron Sharp and Elaina Sharp

The Most Important Women of the Bible covers the lives and key moments of 31 different woman who can be found in the Bible. These women are found in both the Old and New Testaments. Some have entire books carrying their names such as Ruth and Esther. Others are known only by their location of residence or their societal status. Some were Jewish while others were Gentile. But they all had one thing in common God felt that they were important to His story.

Overall this is an interesting book. I like how each chapter opens with a quoted statement about each featured woman and then the Scripture reference that they are found in. A short biography follows with a how they are important in the plan of humanities redemption.  

If you are someone who likes to read a devotional a day this book would be perfect for a month-long study. Another possibility is for this book is a group Bible study that meets once a week or month where several of the women would be discussed at one time. I highly recommend this book for, however, you plan to read through it. This would also make a nice gift for anyone who enjoys reading and studying the Bible.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Bethany House with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

About the Book:

Powerful Stories That Reveal God's Love and Mercy

The Bible is the story of God's relationship with people--Jews and Gentiles, saints and sinners. From well-known characters like Eve and Esther to those less known like Jochebed and Zipporah, women play a vital role in the biblical drama. Authors Aaron and Elaina Sharp highlight three dozen of the most important women in Scripture, each handpicked by God to play a crucial part in His plan to redeem humanity.

Discover how each woman fits into the overall narrative of God's good news, and let it remind you that their story is also the story of His powerful love for you.

Read the short, lively chapters day by day as a devotional, or use them as a Bible study on your own or with a group.

About the Authors:

Aaron and Elaina Sharp are both Master of Theology graduates of Dallas Theological Seminary. Aaron works for Insight for Living Ministries, and Elaina owns and operates a small business.

Aaron is the author of Everything the Bible Says About Parenting and Children and What Does God Say About That? Elaina writes and develops curriculum for ministries such as Cru. Aaron and Elaina Sharp live in Little Elm, Texas, with their three children.

365 Classic Bedtime Bible Stories ~ Review

365 Classic Bedtime
    Bible Stories
Inspired by Jesse Lyman Hurlbut's Story of the Bible
Illustrations by Alessia Girasole

Looking for a new Bible bedtime devotional for the upcoming year? One that you can share with your little reader? Well, this one might be what you are looking for. The stories start with Creation and continue through Revelation. Each page is one day and is a summarization of a Bible passage. The Bible passage from which each story is taken is referenced before the story is related.

The illustrations are throughout and should capture children's attention. My only complaint with the illustrations is the lack of skin pigmentations. This area of the world was a major trade route so there should have been more racial diversity.

There is an index at the back broken down into Old Testament and New Testament so that one can search for a person, place, or thing based on the Testament.

The book is hardcover with what appears to be a stitched binding. There is a red ribbon place marker attached to the spine so that one's place can be easily marked through the year. This book is aimed more towards younger children, I'm thinking 3 - 8 years of age. This is a time to share with your children so be sure to read the Bible references with your children to add more depth to the story.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Your children or grandchildren will delight in this fully-illustrated storybook that brings 365 read-aloud classic Bible stories to life for impressionable young hearts.

Beginning with the creation story, "God Creates the Earth," and ending with "In Eternity with God,” your children will develop faith in an almighty God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever, while journeying alongside Bible characters like Samuel, Jonah, Esther, David, John the Baptist, Mary, Joseph, and many more.

#Truth ~ Review

#Truth
365 Devotions for Teens
Connecting Life and Faith
By Josh McDowell

Looking for a devotional that will take you through the year?

Well, #Truth from Josh McDowell just might be what you are looking for. Each month is themed meaning the devotions fall under this theme.

And as a point of note #Truth has 29 days in February so you can read this devotional any year. Though this devotional is targeted at teens the messages are of importance to all who want to learn more about God and the truth about Him. Each day is a whole page - no shared pages or days with this devotional.

What is each month's focus you ask? Here is a brief synopsis along with the stated theme at the beginning of each month.

January = An Awesome God
The power of God over life and nature and His holy and pure being are examined.

February = Totally Inspired
God's words won't change or end while this world exists and we can know His thoughts through the Bible, which reveals all we need to know.

March = You Choose
Sin is a choice and we need to determine if we will choose to follow and trust God or choose the separation that sin brings.

April = He Entered My World
Jesus gave up His divine powers to experience life as us so that we would have the chance to know eternal life and freedom from sin's deadly consequences.

May = The Price of Forgiveness
Humanity's redemption was at the cost of Jesus' death and His temporary separation from God as He took our sins upon Himself.

June = The Power to Save
Salvation is a gift from God, not something we can boast of earning. God alone has this power, He is the only way to salvation and life after death if we accept His gift.

July = A New Person
Accepting God's gift makes us want to change, to be who we were meant to be if sin hadn't had an effect on us.

August = No End in Death
Death was the sacrifice that Jesus made to save us, but His death would have been meaningless if He had not risen from death. He conquered sin and death with His resurrection.

September = Empowered
The Spirit of God (Holy Spirit) was the internal presence of God in the life of those who believed (trusted) that Jesus was the Son of God. This presence identifies us as being with God and allows us to exhibit spiritual gifts.

October = How You View the World
A relationship with God changes how we see our place in the world, we view ourselves as members of a kingdom that has not yet come, to our perspective, in a physical sense, a kingdom free of sin and death.

November = Real Community
The true Church is not a building but rather all believers (think how all the different parts of your body make up you) the same is true of the Church. We are there to comfort and to encourage one another and be thankful for ALL He has done for us.

December = Waiting for His Return
After He arose from His death Jesus ascended into Heaven (which can be a difficult concept to fully understand). He remains there today waiting for us while preparing a new home that is without sin, sorrow, or pain.

This is a perfect start or end to your day - a way to learn more about God and His gift given freely to any willing to accept it. The devotionals passages are not overwhelming in giving too much, but rather a small portion perfect for reflection and examination upon finishing.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.  

About the Book:
This brand-new devotional from Josh McDowell unpacks spiritual truths that inspire, challenge, and fuel young people every day of the year--from January 1 through December 31. Practical and relevant, each month of devotional readings shares a common theme--
January: The Truth That GOD Exists  -  December: The Truth About CHRIST'S Return.

The Most Misused Stories in the Bible ~ Review

The Most Misused Stories in the Bible
by Eric J. Bargerhuff

Surprising ways popular Bible stories are misunderstood

All too often we are taught from a young age what a story in the Bible is all about. But these stories are often made to fit the lesson that is being made. In this book, Eric Bargerhuff attempts to dispell our misconceptions about some of the most used stories.

David and Goliath - the classic example of facing and overcoming our fears is not about facing fear at all. David wasn't afraid of Goliath - in fact, he seemed to be the only Israelite not afraid of Goliath. Rather this is a story about trusting in God and in His strength.

Cain and Abel's story is explained and how too often we misunderstand the point of the story - which is not the rejection of one sacrifice over another or even murder. Rather the point is the condition of one's heart which only God can see. When we study the story of Jonah we tend to focus on the fish, rather than on God and what He accomplished. And the woman caught in adultery is not a shield giving us permission to sin with a free pass to "get out of sin card". Through this book, we will examine not only these stories but 10 additional ones that will help us to read in context and not add personal biases or beliefs to our interpretation of the Bible.

This book is both interesting and informative. A definite must to have on hand and share with those you know. In my opinion, this would be any excellent choice for either a group or family Bible study. Often we never look beyond the stories we heard in Sunday School and study them on our own to learn the truths that they have to offer us. Eric Bargerhuff offers us a look beyond that can help us decern other truths that we have allowed to lay hidden behind the comfort of the children's stories that we are comfortable and familiar with.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Are you sure you know what your favorite Bible stories mean?

A surprising number of popular Bible stories are commonly misused or misunderstood, even by well-intentioned Christians. In this book, Eric J. Bargerhuff helps you sort through modern-day distortions of these well-known stories and grasp their meaning and purpose for us today. See with fresh eyes the life-changing truths in stories such as:

David and Goliath

Jonah and the Big Fish

The Woman Caught in Adultery

Zacchaeus, the tax collector

Gideon and His Fleece

Judas, the Betrayer

Filled with fascinating historical and scriptural insights, this concise yet thorough book will help you learn how to read and apply all of God's Word more faithfully.

Eric J. Bargerhuff, PhD, teaches in the Bible and Theology department and directs the Honors Program at Trinity College of Florida.  Author of the acclaimed book The Most Misused Verses in the Bible, he served in pastoral ministry for more than twenty years. Eric received his doctorate in biblical and systematic theology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.

The Story Devotional ~ Review

The Story
365 Devotions

Discover your role in God's Story...

This devotional uses excerpts of The Story to take one through the Bible in a year. No this is not an exhaustive complete trip through the Bible but rather an overview. Day 1 is Genesis 1:1-3, Day 2 is Genesis 1:11. The daily verse selection is then pondered and sometimes further verses are offered for further contemplation.

Day 243 is the change over from Old to New Testament in which God's silence to humanity is addressed. Days 244 - 253 address the birth of Jesus through the family's escape to Egypt.

The Appendix in the back of the book references where the excerpted verse selection is taken from in The Story so that the reader can read this in conjunction with this devotional and get a fuller picture of the whole story. I have a copy of The Story so I compared this feature and it is an excellent aid.

This is a quick devotional nothing requiring deep thinking, one could say it is an appetizer to start off your day or a snack before turning in for the night.  This would also be good for family devotion time as the readings are not long and could facilitate a deeper discussion.  The majority of the verses are taken from the New International Version (NIV) according to the title / copyright page information in the front of the book.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through BookLook Bloggers, a positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.



About the Book:

Find your place in God’s Epic Story.

This 365 devotional shows how God weaves His plan throughout time. As you enjoy moments with Him daily, you’ll see His plan for this place and this time of your life begin to unfold.

The Story Devotional is also a wonderful companion to the bestselling Bible The Story.

Spend every day reading God’s story, and let Him be the author of your life.

All is Bright ~ Review

All is Bright
A devotional journey to color your
             way to Christmas
Written by Nancy Guthrie
Illustrations by Lizzie Preston

Coloring has become the new activity of choice, but whether you are a new colorer or one who has never given up a favorite childhood activity All is Bright is the perfect addition to this year's holiday celebrations.

All is Bright can become a part of your Christmas family devotion time or a perfect way to celebrate the season on your own. All is Bright will take you from December 1 through the 31. There is a devotional study with the facing page one that can be colored and it corresponds to the day's devotion.

After the the 31 daily devotions there are 12 conversation starters with a Bible selection to read with questions to discuss the verse and a prayer. There are additional coloring pages that follow.

The pages are 9-3/4" x 9-3/4" and paper is a heavier weight and should take most coloring mediums with no fear of bleeding.  I'm personally a fan of coloring pencils and pastels and these work well with these books. Perfect for almost any age, this would make an excellent gift.

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary review copy of this book with no expectations of a positive review ~ all opinions expressed are my own.

This is a sample of what can be found within these pages

~ colors were added using paint.net ~

·         Tyndale’s Inspire Creativity board on Pinterest has downloadable samplers and shareable coloring pages from their coloring and Bible journaling line, the Living Expressions Collection!

·         Check out www.livingexpressionscollection.com for the latest news and information on Tyndale's  coloring and journaling products.

About the Book:
The perfect gift for the creatives and coloring-book lovers in your life! Includes bonus activities and kid-friendly coloring pages for the whole family!This Christmas season, celebrate the birth of our Savior through beautiful design and devotion. Grab your colored pencils, cozy up with your favorite blanket and a cup of tea, and settle in for a night of peace and wonder with All Is Bright. For lovers of the Secret Garden and Enchanted Forest coloring books, All Is Bright is the perfect way to transform the Advent and Christmas seasons for your whole family, re-centering the holidays on the miracle of Jesus’ birth. Combining 31 days of rich content by the beloved and inspirational Nancy Guthrie with intricate designs that will reconnect you with the heart of Christ, this coloring book devotional journey reminds us all of what the season really calls us to: worship.

Watch for the Light ~ Review

Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas 
with writings from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Annie Dillard, C. S. Lewis, Henri Nouwen, and more
Released by Plough Publishing

Watch for the Light is a collection 45 selections to read and contemplate throughout the Advent season.  The selections are dated beginning with November 24th and continuing through January 7th (Epiphany).  

This book allows us to take a step back from the hectic and relentless pace we've let ourselves be caught up in, to truly grasp the meaning that this season should hold for us.  It's not endless activities - parties, programs, present buying, year-end brag-bemoan letters.  But rather this is a time of remembered celebration of a simple, humble birth and a life of sacrifice that ended not on a cross but continues yet today and is endless.

If you have ever wondered what it's all about take the time to Watch for the Light and reawaken the wonder of the season in your life this year.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Plough Publishing House through Handlebar in exchange for my honest review.



The Book:


 Though Christians the world over make yearly preparations for Lent, there's a conspicuous lack of good books for that other great spiritual season: Advent. All the same, this four-week period leading up to Christmas is making a comeback as growing numbers reject shopping-mall frenzy and examine the deeper meaning of the season. Ecumenical in scope, these fifty devotions invite the reader to contemplate the great themes of Christmas and the significance that the coming of Jesus has for each of us--not only during Advent, but every day. Whether sampled at leisure or used on a daily basis, Watch for the Light gives the phrase "holiday preparations" new depth and meaning. Includes writings by John Donne, Meister Eckhart, Dorothy Day, T. S. Eliot, Gustavo Gutierrez, Eberhard Arnold, G. M. Hopkins, Martin Luther, Edith Stein, Thomas Aquinas, Dorothee Soelle, Philip Yancey, and others. 

From Publishers Weekly:
   It's hard to go wrong with writers such as these. . . . Born of obvious passion and graced with superb writing, this collection is a welcome--even necessary--addition.

Radically Normal ~ Review

Radically Normal
By Josh Kelley

You don't have to live crazy to follow Jesus...

Do you ever feel that you're just not good enough to call yourself a Christian?  Do you feel guilty when you attend church services because you aren't out on the mission field taking the Gospel to other countries?  Did you grow-up with the understanding that only those who were out actively preaching and pointing out the sins of others the only true believers?

Well, this isn't the message Jesus taught.  Jesus reached out to the sinner, but He didn't do it from a position of power.  He didn't try to draw attention to Himself - He even asked those He healed to speak not of this.

Living life with a 9 - 5 job is not a sin in God's eyes.  You can find joy in this life living the life God gave you.  How you live a normal life can be a witness to those around you.  You can get rid of the guilt and live with a hope to your future new life.

I really enjoyed reading chapter 17 This Life Matters we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (God) and how we treat our bodies can be a sign of how we honor God.  And our care for others, Christians or non-Christians, is an outward reflection of God's care for the least of these and our love for Him.

Normal is good and not something to be ashamed of, so be Radical by being you!

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher though BookFun/TBCN in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

What if being a radical Christian didn’t have to mean selling everything and becoming a missionary to India? What if it could mean settling down and enjoying your normal, God-given life in extraordinary ways? It’s time to reexamine the Bible, put an end to the guilt, and get on with living the abundant life Jesus promised. Radically Normal: You Don't Have to Live Crazy to Follow Jesus is an invitation to do just that. Along the way it takes a new look at several old challenges:

How to be a good Christian (and witness) with out being weird

How to find greatness in your everyday life

Why spiritual stuff isn’t innately better or holier than earthly stuff.

How holiness leads to happiness and obedience is meant to increase joy.

Why selling all your possessions is not necessarily holier than keeping them.

How enjoying this life is meant to increase your desire for the next.

Read an excerpt.

About the Author:

Hi, my name is Josh. I grew up in western Washington in a loving Christian home. In 1999, I graduated from LIFE Pacific College in San Dimas, CA, with a BA in Biblical Studies and a minor in Biblical Languages. Later I did graduate work in Biblical Studies at Trinity Western University in Langley, Canada and was also an adjunct professor at Pacific Life Bible College in Surrey, Canada for one year. Marilyn and I met at college and got married in 1999. We have two daughters who are the joy of our life. Aside from my family and my God, my two greatest joys are reading a good book and enjoying the all the glories of this world God has made - from sunsets to good food and drink with friends.

Since 2007, I've been the the pastor of The Gathering Christian Church. Prior to that, I was an assistant pastor at His Place Community Church and continue to serve as their “Bible expert.” I'm also on the President of the Board of Directors for our local homeless shelter, The Friendship House.

The Quick-Start Guide to the Whole Bible ~ Review

The Quick-Start Guide to the Whole Bible
Understanding the Big Picture Book-by-Book
By Dr. William H. Marty and Dr. Boyd Seevers

Do you ever get lost in the Bible as to when certain events take place in a historical reference?  Or do all the begatting bog you down so you just throw your hands in the air and decide to figure it all out later?

Well The Quick-Start Guide to the Whole Bible just might be what you need to help you have a better understanding of the Bible.  The setting explains what is taking place in this period of history and why it is significant.  The book is then summarized so we have a have an understanding of what events or messages of significance take place,  And then the truths of the book are applied so that we may take away a message or truth that we can use in our own day-to-day living.

This book would make an excellent self-study guide or would a nice addition to a Bible Study group as an introduction to each book before the study begins.  For Christian school or homeschoolers this would be an excellent book to use for a course on Bible history.  It could be a semester study or a whole year.

This book would also make a great on hand tool to just pull off the shelf when you have a question arise about any book of the Bible.  And with weddings, birthdays, holidays, and graduations always popping up this would be a lovely gift to have on hand for those near and dear to you.  I know this is one book that I'll  be turning to again and again.

I was provided a copy this book by the publisher Bethany House through their blogger program in exchange for my honest review.

A Friendly Overview of Every Book of the Bible
Reading the Bible can be intimidating. Made up of sixty-six "books" ranging in subject matter from history to instruction, from poetry to prophecy, this all-time bestseller is frequently misunderstood, even by those who read it regularly.

In this easy-to-read handbook, two respected Bible professors will help you make sense of the Bible, book-by-book. Using a conversational tone, they cut right to the heart of the matter, focusing on two main questions: "What does it say?" and "Why does it matter?"

Whether you're a seasoned reader of Scripture or reading it for the first time, you're sure to come away with a better understanding of what the Bible is all about and why it is the most important book you'll ever read.

About the Authors

Dr. William H. Marty (MDiv, Denver Seminary, ThD, Dallas Theological Seminary) is Professor of Bible at Moody Bible Institute. He teaches and writes on both the New and Old Testaments and is the author of The Whole Bible Story, which has sold over 100,000 copies, and the recently released The World of Jesus. Dr. Marty lives with his wife in Chicago, Illinois.
Dr. Boyd Seevers (ThM, Dallas Theological Seminary, PhD, Trinity Evangelical Seminary) is Professor of Old Testament Studies at University of Northwestern, St. Paul, in Minnesota. Dr. Seevers studied and lived in Israel for eight years and has published one book, Hidden in Plain Sight. He lives with his wife and four children in Minneapolis, Minnesota.