Beloved by Francis Chan

Beloved
by Francis Chan

ISBN-13: 9780830789054
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: David C Cook
Released: October 7, 2025

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Plus I bought a copy.

Book Description from Goodreads:
Despite pastoring for decades and reaching thousands of people through his books and preaching, Francis wrestled with deep-seated insecurity. He understood God’s love conceptually, but struggled to actually experience it. This resulted in a life that was far from the thrilling and peaceful life God saved us for. Francis prayed fervently for God to intervene, and asked his friends and family to do the same. The result was a fresh revelation of the depth of God’s love and affection. This brought about newfound freedom and enjoyment of God that only continues to grow.

As Francis shared this journey with others, he realized that many in the Church are burdened by the same insecurity, and God is zealous to change this. In Beloved, Francis Chan gives biblical insight our restlessness and striving is a symptom of our disbelief of God’s love and Satan’s schemes to keep us trapped in doubt and insecurity. Discover abiding in our identity as God’s beloved children and how God’s love overflows to a life of radical obedience and joy. God longs for His children to rest securely in His holy love. It’s what we were made for, and it is this inward confidence that causes us to be light unto the world.


My Review:
Beloved is about focusing on God's great love for us and how it can free us from the burden of trying to earn God's approval. The book "was written primarily to those who tend to focus on their own failures rather than His mercy, grace, and love." The author pointed out verses describing how much God loves us. He explained why we may not accept this and ways that Satan can keep us distracted from God's love and looking at ourselves. He described things you can do that will help you focus on God's love and counteract Satan's deceptions. He also looked at if we serve God out of our overflow of God's love or to try to earn God's love.

There were many good points, but my favorite quote was about how John called himself the beloved disciple and how "John was expressing faith in Christ's love, not in his own lovability." The book was written in a causal, conversational tone, and it was easy to follow his points. Overall, I'd highly recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep by Hannah E. Harrison

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep
by Hannah E. Harrison

ISBN-13: 9780310161493
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Zonderkidz
Released: February 4, 2025

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher.

Book Description from Goodreads:
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a humorous and heartwarming picture book about God's unconditional love. This story beautifully captures the essence of Psalm 23, showing the importance of trusting God, our Good Shepherd, with our lives.

Meet George, a silly and sometimes stubborn sheep living happily under the care of a Good Shepherd. But when shearing time comes, George decides it’s time to make a run for it, and soon finds himself on a journey full of unexpected disappointment, discomfort, and danger. Ultimately, he finds rescue and learns why he really does need a shepherd.

The Bible is full of references to sheep and shepherds, but what does it mean to be a good shepherd? And how are we like sheep? The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep uses a riveting story to bring biblical truth to life for kids and illustrate the many comforting and loving attributes of God.


My Review:
The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is from the point of view of George, a sheep. He talks about what life is like for sheep and why they need a shepherd. But he runs away because he doesn't want a haircut; he like how he looks. He soon regrets his decision (dirty hair, danger, etc.), but it's the good shepherd that seeks him out and brings him home. George is grateful and now trusts that the shepherd wants what's best for him.

The pictures are very nicely done, illustrating the text while also being interesting to look at. George presents things in a humorous way, even when he's threatened by a scary wolf at the end and he can't save himself. (Don't worry, the shepherd saves him!). Psalm 23 is written on the last page. Overall, I think my nieces will enjoy this story, so I bought a copy to give to them.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

R Is for Risen by Crystal Bowman

R Is for Risen
by Crystal Bowman;
Teri McKinley

ISBN-13: 9781496487292
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Released: February 4, 2025

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Jesus is the RISEN One,
our Savior and our Friend.
Jesus is the A and Z,
the beginning and the end.

In this charmingly illustrated story, children will learn the alphabet and the biblically accurate reason for the season: Jesus’ resurrection! Unlike other ABC books that attribute a random Easter-themed word to a letter, R Is for Risen thoughtfully tells the chronological Easter story of salvation. It features:

Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem
Garden of Gethsemane
Jesus’ arrest and interrogation
Jesus carrying the cross
Jesus’ death and resurrection
Jesus’ Great Commission



My Review:
R Is for Risen tells the main events of Jesus' death and resurrection in a way young children can understand. Each page is alphabetical, with the letter up top and a cartoon-style picture around the letter illustrating the text. A rhyming verse is below that describing events in chronological order, from Jesus riding into the streets of Jerusalem on a donkey to the Passover dinner to the empty tomb and the disciples seeing Jesus after the Resurrection. It ends with Jesus telling his disciples to tell the whole world the good news. Bible verses are included below each rhyme to show where the events or prophecies can be found in the Bible. Overall, I'd recommend this children's book as a way to teach young kids what 'Easter' is really about.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Never Walk Alone by Kathryn Joy MacDowall

Never Walk Alone
by Kathryn Joy MacDowall

ISBN-13: 9780830790159
Hardcover: 36 pages
Publisher: David C Cook
Released: March 4, 2025

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher.

Book Description from Goodreads:
Inspired by the Hillsong Worship song “Never Walk Alone,” this rhyming adventure through Egyptian deserts, Australian beaches, and even outer space teaches kids ages 3-8 that no matter where we go, God is always by our side.

I wonder and I’d like to know
If there’s any place that I could go
Where I would be SO far away
That you couldn’t hear me when I pray.

An adventure-loving boy travels around the world in his imagination to discover that no matter what, God will always be with him. Delightful illustrations, hand-lettering, and fitting Bible verses make this fun-filled exploration of every continent a beautiful celebration of God’s faithful presence with each of us.


My Review:
Never Walk Alone is a book for children aged 3-8 years old. The young boy in the story basically asks: If I'm hiding from people or high in a tree or on the sea or in a distant land, can God hear me when I pray? Will God be with me wherever I go? Will God be able to find me if I'm in a big crowd in a big city? The answer: "Your Word says you won't disappear, You'll never leave and always be near. You're always there, You are my guide, I can be bold as You're by my side. Wherever I go, You're always with me, from home to lands across the sea. I can explore the great unknown, and I know I'll never walk alone."

The last two pages provided related Bible verses in child-level language so you can read the actual Scripture, too. The text was easy to understand. The text talked like the child had already decided to follow Jesus and knew how to pray. The illustrations were very good even though they're cartoony. It's clear which animals and places are being shown, and the pictures are colorful and fun to look at. The pictures illustrated the words, so you can engage with them as you read the story. They also illustrated what's meant, like the boy was reading a book with a cross on it when "His Word" was mentioned. Overall, I'd recommend this well done children's book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Ephesians by Mark D. Roberts

Ephesians
by Mark D. Roberts

MasterLectures Video
Publisher: Zondervan Academic
Source: Free month offer from MasterLectures.

Video Series Description:
This series on the book of Ephesians features author and professor Mark Roberts teaching through the book in eighteen engaging and challenging lessons. Based on Roberts' Ephesians commentary in The Story of God Bible Commentary series, lessons tackle the historical distance between the New Testament and contemporary culture. Roberts offers a clear and compelling introduction to the entire book of Ephesians, guiding viewers in creatively and faithfully living out the book's message in today's context. Using a story-centric approach, these lessons are ideal for formal and informal students alike, and for anyone who wants to better understand Ephesians today.


My Review:
The total series takes about 7 hours 20 minutes to watch.

Ephesians is a video Bible study series on Ephesians. The series is based on his Ephesians commentary in The Story of God Bible Commentary series. He talked about the cultural background to the verses and also explained the meaning where the translation from Greek to English doesn't capture the full meaning. He ended each session by describing modern day examples of how to apply what we learned in the verses. He was easy to listen to and understand. Overall, I'd recommend this series.

Session 1 - Introduction
Session 2 - Ephesians 1:1-2
Session 3 - Ephesians 1:3-14
Session 4 - Ephesians 1:15-23
Session 5 - Ephesians 2:1-10
Session 6 - Ephesians 2:11-22
Session 7 - Ephesians 3:1-13
Session 8 - Ephesians 3:14-21
Session 9 - Ephesians 4:1-6
Session 10 - Ephesians 4:7-16
Session 11 - Ephesians 4:17-5:2
Session 12 - Ephesians 5:3-14
Session 13 - Ephesians 5:15-20
Session 14 - Ephesians 5:21-33
Session 15 - Ephesians 6:1-4
Session 16 - Ephesians 6:5-9
Session 17 - Ephesians 6:10-20
Session 18 - Ephesians 6:21-24



If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Survival Guide for the Soul by Ken Shigematsu

Survival Guide for the Soul
by Ken Shigematsu

MasterLectures Video
Publisher: Zondervan Academic
Source: Free month offer from MasterLectures.

Video Series Description:
We live in a society that pressures us to achieve professionally, socially, and through the constant acquisition of material possessions. Drawing on a wide range of sources including Scripture, church history, psychology, and neuroscience, as well as a rich variety of stories from his own life, author and pastor Ken Shigematsu demonstrates how the gospel redeems our desires and reorders our lives.

The Survival Guide for the Soul Video Study, along with its accompanying book, Survival Guide for the Soul, offers fresh perspective on how certain spiritual practices help orient our lives so that our souls can flourish in the midst of a demanding, competitive society. Lessons conclude with a liberating and counter-cultural definition of true greatness.

This video study will appeal to anyone who longs to experience a deeper relationship with Christ in the midst of the daily pressures to succeed, as well as to those on the borderlands of faith seeking to transcend the human tendency to define ourselves by our production and success.

Watch the Trailer.


My Review:
The total series takes just about 3 hours to watch.

Survival Guide for the Soul is a video series about redefining true greatness by using God's definition instead of the world's. The speaker also explained some spiritual practices that help us stay on track. He talked about taking on the yoke of God's love for us, our tendency to strive to 'be enough,' and things we can do to grow closer to God, like meditation on Scripture, doing the Sabbath, practicing gratitude, giving money to help others, serving others, being a good friend, and through the job that we choose. He was easy to listen to and understand. Overall, I'd recommend this series.

Session 1 - Introduction
Session 2 - The Divided Self
Session 3 - The Whole Self
Session 4 - Spiritual Practices
Session 5 - Meditation
Session 6 - Sabbath
Session 7 - Gratitude
Session 8 - Simple Abundance
Session 9 - Servanthood
Session 10 - Friendship
Session 11 - Vocation
Session 12 - Redefining Greatness


"And our sense of being 'enough' isn't something we achieve, it's something we receive. It's not something we create, it's something that's confered upon us by another." God.
from Session 2, Survival Guide for the Soul by Ken Shigematsu


If you've wached this video series, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

A Journey to Victorious Praying by Bill Thrasher

A Journey to Victorious Praying by Bill Thrasher ISBN-13: 9780802415639 Paperback: 256 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: June 6th 2017

Source: review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
It’s something many Christians can relate to: the desire to pray but the failure to execute. A Journey to Victorious Praying will tell readers why this is—and how to move past it. Addressing common misconceptions about prayer, then offering biblical truths and practices instead, Bill Thrasher teaches readers how to honestly share their desires with God, turn temptations into victorious prayers, experience the Spirit’s motivation in prayer, get help when they don’t know how to pray, implement fasting into their prayer life, move from anxiety to peace, and more.

Filled with practical insight and pastoral warmth, this book will give readers renewed enthusiasm for embarking on the essential journey of prayer. And its brief chapters, organized around various themes, make it perfect for quick reference, as does the appendix with tips for stimulating prayer.


My Review:
A Journey to Victorious Praying talked about various aspects of praying. Each chapter was about 4-8 pages long, and there were 30 chapters. This book would work well as a daily devotional as each chapter leaves you with something to think about throughout the day. The author talked about things like praying Scripture, gaining strength through prayer, the benefits of fasting and how to do it, and transforming your anxiety into peace. The author was easy to understand, his points were biblically-based, and his tone was encouraging. Each chapter left me wanting to pray rather than feeling that prayer was too difficult to get right. He also told stories about praying people in the past and present to help illustrate a point or encourage the reader. At the end of the book, there were journal writing prompts, some verse references for prayers from the Bible on various topics, and ideas to stimulate prayer. Overall, I'd highly recommend this encouraging and useful book.

"What is prayer? O. Hallesby, one of Norway's leading Christian teachers, said that prayer is an attitude of our hearts towards God. It is an attitude of helplessness. This attitude of helplessness is not meant to drive you to anxiety but rather to drive you to God. In other words, prayer is helplessness plus faith. We may stumble over this until we realize that faith is simply coming to Christ with our helplessness. When we petition God in prayer, we come to Christ and tell him what we and those for whom we pray are lacking. It is opening up our needy lives to him." From page 25.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Growing in Holiness by R. C. Sproul

Growing in Holiness by R. C. Sproul ISBN-13: 9780801075926 Paperback: 192 pages Publisher: Baker Books Released: January 21st 2020

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
The Christian life is a process of growing in holiness, our natural response to the good news of our redemption in Christ. This kind of growth is gradual, and obstacles are plentiful. What is the nature of our own personal involvement in the process? And how do we know if we are making progress? Drawn from the lectures of beloved theologian R. C. Sproul, Growing in Holiness explores the doctrine of sanctification, offering insightful commentary on themes such as developing perseverance, overcoming barriers to growth, cultivating love for others, exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit, and much more.


My Review:
Growing in Holiness talked about sanctification and justification. He started off with some basics, like how growing in holiness takes a lifetime. He suggested setting goals with deadlines; basically, a 'to do' list like: master the Scriptures, be more active in prayer, attend church regularly, etc., and that simply doing these "means of grace" will sanctify you and produce fruit. He talked about some struggles and obstacles that stand in the way of sanctification and how we should reflect God's character and imitate Christ. He made it clear that Christ's righteousness is what justifies us and saves us, and it's by faith in what Christ did that we are saved. He talked about how people can think they are saved when they are not and how to tell if you're saved. He talked about how God's love for us allows us to love others, the love chapter (1 Corinthians 13), and using the Fruit of the Spirit to measure our spiritual growth.

Throughout the book, he made the process of growing in holiness sound like a duty you do in gratitude and in your own strength. On only one occasion did he mention doing good works out of love for God. He also didn't discuss deepening your relationship with God, just obediently doing activities that will sanctify you along with following His commands.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

The Power of the Cross by Tony Evans

The Power of the Cross by Tony Evans ISBN-13: 9780802411181 Hardcover: 208 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: February 2nd 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
The cross is an historical event that can bring us to heaven, and a current event bringing heaven to bear on us. In The Power of the Cross, Tony Evans applies Christ’s work to life today. In three parts, he systematically and pastorally explains three aspects of the cross:

Its Person: What makes Christ unique, and how He is the center of salvation history

Its Purpose: What was accomplished on it, and how it is to be the centerpiece of our lives

Its Power: The stability and deliverance it provides in our everyday living

We wear crosses around our necks, but do we apply it to our lives? Jesus’ work holds incredible power for us. It’s time we embrace it, for God’s glory and our joy. Read The Power of the Cross to find out how.


My Review:
The Power of the Cross looked at how properly understanding what Jesus Christ did on the cross brings transformation to your life. The author started by talking about Christ and what makes him unique. He then talked about what Christ accomplished on the cross (and in his resurrection) and how this impacts how we live our life. He then talked about how understanding these things brings powerful transformation to our lives.

The author was easy to understand, and he used good analogies to help the reader to understand his points. I know some people will say that what he is teaching here is basic Christianity, but I agree with the author that many Christians don't seem to fully understand it yet. Therefore, I would highly recommend this book to any Christian. Even if you already understand, it never hurts to be reminded of these powerful, basic principles of Christianity.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Whole Armor of God by Iain M. Duguid

The Whole Armor of God by Iain M. Duguid ISBN-13: 9781433565007 Paperback: 128 pages Publisher: Crossway Released: August 13, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
The Christian life is a battle. We are in a daily struggle against the world, sin, and Satan. But God didn't leave us to fend for ourselves. He gave us his own armor--armor that Jesus has already worn on our behalf all the way to the cross. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is now at work inside of us. This book unpacks each of the pieces of spiritual armor Paul describes in Ephesians 6, inviting us to take up the armor each day, all while resting in the finished victory of Christ and the assurance that our strength for the battle comes from him.


My Review:
The Whole Armor of God examines the pieces of spiritual armor found in Ephesians 6. The author was easy to understand even though he dug deep into what the different pieces of armor were and how to use them. He drew in references to this same imagery in the Old and New Testament to help gain insight into the spiritual armor. He also pointed out how Jesus used this same "armor" and how that should encourage us. He ended by also talking about prayer and how prayer pulled all these pieces of spiritual armor together. I gained new insights into Ephesians 6. Overall, I'd highly recommend this interesting, encouraging book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Chosen for Christ by Heather Holleman

Chosen for Christ by Heather Holleman ISBN-13: 9780802416872 Paperback: 192 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: Oct. 2, 2018

Source: review copy of this book from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
As we pursue a sense of purpose and scramble to be the ones chosen for internships, graduate schools, marriages, careers, or some special honor, we often tie our identity to people, places, and clear plans that leave us frustrated and unfulfilled. We feel like we’re missing the life we’re supposed to live and we somehow veered off course. We ask questions like, “Is this God’s plan for me? How do I know? What is His plan, anyway?” What if Scripture not only answered these questions but also taught us an entirely new way of living? Instead of waiting for the perfect person, place, or plan, what if we lived, above all else, as chosen for Christ?

Chosen for Christ invites you to step into the life you’ve been missing. You were chosen for a Person, not a plan. Now it’s time to live out your calling to: worship Jesus, live as His treasured possession, belong to a new household, become like Jesus, display God’s power, complete the good works He designed for you, and live differently from the rest of the world. Each chapter includes discussion questions that will help women embrace their identity as chosen ones and step into a new way of living each new day.


My Review:
Chosen for Christ explores what it means to be chosen by God and chosen for His purposes. Understanding that you are chosen (even if you don't feel like that's true) helps you combat the fear of rejection and fills your desire for significance. The author explored Scripture to find out what it means to be chosen by God and what God chose us for: to worship Jesus (with a look at what worship is), live as His treasured possession, belong to a new family, complete the good works He designed for you, display God’s power, become like Jesus, and live differently from the rest of the world. And we're a chosen priesthood. Each chapter included four discussion questions that help you process and apply what you learned in that chapter. Overall, I'd recommend this insightful book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Untangling Emotions by J. Alasdair Groves, Winston T. Smith

Untangling Emotions by J. Alasdair Groves, Winston T. Smith ISBN-13: 9781433557828 Paperback: 240 pages Publisher: Crossway Books Released: March 31, 2019

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Christians often view their emotions in one of two ways: either they don't matter at all or they are the most important thing that defines a person. However, neither extreme is true to God's good purpose for emotions. Written by two experienced counselors, this book sets forth a holistic view of emotions rooted in the Bible, offering a practical approach to engaging with both positive and negative emotions in a God-honoring way. Readers will be encouraged to see their emotions as an opportunity to explore themselves, their values, and their affections, and to move toward deeper worship of God.


My Review:
Untangling Emotions examines why God gave us emotions, what emotions tell us about what we love and value, and how to develop healthy, God-honoring emotions. The authors started by looking at what emotions are, what they tell us, and how even "negative" emotions can be good. It is through sharing emotions that we connect with others. Emotions like anger (in cases like injustice against the helpless) are designed to motivate us to do something and grief helps us see the brokenness of this world and long for God to make things right.

They talked about how the culture tells us to view our emotions versus how the Bible talks about emotions. They provided a list of things you can do to encourage healthy emotions. They talked in detail about how to process your emotions to see what they're telling you about what you value and if your response to your emotions is God-honoring. They devoted time to specifically look at fear, anger, grief, and guilt and shame. The tone was encouraging, and it's easy to understand (not highly technical or scholarly sounding). Overall, I'd highly recommend this book to any Christian.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Flourish by Lydia Brownback

Flourish by Lydia Brownback ISBN-13: 9781433560651 Paperback: 144 pages Publisher: Crossway Books Released: Jan. 31, 2019

Source: ARC review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description from Goodreads:
All women are looking to live a life that will satisfy their deepest longings. Worldly thinking offers false hope found in self-focused saviors such as acceptance from others, a checklist for better living, emotional fulfillment, comfort, accomplishments, and more—some of which has crept into the church. Featuring 6 chapters aiming to free women from self-consciousness, self-improvement, self-analysis, self-indulgence, self-condemnation, and self-victimization, this book will help readers discern subtle false messages from the truth in God's Word—exchanging a self-focused life for the abundant life Jesus promises them in the gospel.


My Review:
Flourish is about how we need to focus on Christ, what He's done for us, and our new identify rather than focus on ourselves. The author examined six main areas where we might struggle, and she pointed out (often using Scripture) how a wrong focus is at the root of each problem. There's a study guide at the end of the book which provides 5 days worth of questions for each chapter--so you or a group can read a chapter, then spend the next 5 days working through the questions about what was said in that chapter or looking up verses related to that topic and answering questions about them. Overall, I'd recommend this Christ-focused book.

She talked about: Focusing your decisions around what people might think of you or your actions. Struggling to be a better person. Basing your decisions on the pursuit of constantly feeling happy. Prioritizing comfort and pleasurable experiences, especially as a way to deal with bad things in life. Not feeling forgiven (i.e. taking the place of God in declaring what is sin and what has been forgiven rather than accepting what God has said and believing that Christ's work on the cross is big enough to cover every sin). Holding on to an identity of "victim."


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Discovering the Good Life by Tim Savage

Discovering the Good Life by Tim Savage ISBN-13: 9781433530371 Paperback: 176 pages Publisher: Crossway Books Released: March 31, 2019

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
We're all searching for "the good life." Too often, however, we encounter discouragement, failure, broken relationships, guilt, and dashed dreams, all of which leave us yearning for more. In this book, Tim Savage examines the fullest life ever lived: the life of Jesus Christ. Savage invites us to tap into that life--and experience the riches of the joy, satisfaction, and purpose offered to us in Christ.


My Review:
Discovering the Good Life looks at three important trees mentioned in the Bible: the Tree of Good and Evil (in the Garden of Eden), Jesus and the Cross, and the Tree of Life (as referred to in Revelations). The author explained the significance to us of these three trees. He included relevant Bible verses that helped explain the purpose of these these trees and the results of our choices in how we react to these events. He ended by explaining how a good understanding of these things (resulting in "plugging in" to Jesus) leads to an overflowing love and abundant life. The author stayed focused on the topic (so no funny story filler), but it was easy to understand and follow his points. Overall, I'd highly recommend this insightful, Christ-focused book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Always Near by Robert J. Morgan

Always Near by Robert J. Morgan ISBN-13: 9780718083380 Hardcover: 192 pages Publisher: Thomas Nelson Released: April 2, 2019

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
God is both everywhere and always near, yet we often miss Him. In our ever-on, busy world, it requires intentionality to encounter God and learn to enjoy Him.

We often feel alone, outmatched by trouble, and overwhelmed by life. Bestselling author and pastor Robert J. Morgan recognizes that the very core of personal spirituality is knowing God. In Always Near, Morgan provides 10 ways we can cultivate the blessings of God's presence. It is time to nurture a sense of the abiding nearness of Him so that you’ll know more of His joy, strength, and comfort. Experience a relationship with the God who made you, who loves you, and desires for you to enjoy His presence. Seek the Lord and soon discover He was, is, and always will be Always Near.


My Review:
Always Near contains 24 short devotional readings about how to know God better and delight in Him. Each devotion was 3-9 pages long (but usually 5-7 pages long), so it was a quick read but left me with things to think about. The author talked about events in his own life and things he's learned throughout life to illustrate points, but his focus remained on God. Each devotion was topical (prayer, Bible reading, worship, spiritual mentors, etc.), and the author quoted Bible verses to show what the Bible has to say on each topic. (Though, obviously, it wasn't an exhaustive listing of topical verses.) The tone was encouraging and grace-filled. Overall, I'd highly recommend this book if you like short devotionals.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

What If It's True? by Charles Martin

What If It's True? by Charles Martin ISBN-13: 9780785221326 Hardcover: 320 pages Publisher: Thomas Nelson Released: Jan. 29, 2019

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook Bloggers.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Years ago, Martin cracked open his Bible and began wrestling with a few fundamental questions. He asked, “What if every single word of Scripture is absolutely true and I can trust it? How do I respond? Something in me should change, but what? How?” This book is the result of that exploration.

Writing as our guide, he uses a storyteller’s imagination to illuminate key moments from the Scriptures, primarily from the life and ministry of Jesus. In addition, Martin shares key moments from his own journey as a disciple—and bondservant—of Christ and a mentor to others. The result is a striking exploration of truth that helps us to live differently.


My Review:
What If It's True? was part story format and part commentary. The author started the chapters with a scene from Scripture in which he filled out the details with speculation. He was pretty clear about what was directly from the Bible, what was his speculation, and what he based that speculation on. Many of the scenes were about the crucifixion or events leading up to the crucifixion, but one was based on a parable and another on an experience he had. After the scene, the author talked about what impresses him about how Jesus acted in that moment. He drew in Old Testament references and cultural background information that provided insight into the events. He ended each chapter with a long prayer about the theme he talked about in that chapter, like forgiveness.

While I liked the first half of the book, I had some problems starting in chapter 8. He's earnest and means well, but the focus of the book started to shift at that point. He urged Christians to repent for your ancestor's sins. While I can see confessing (stating what is true, like "I and my ancestors have sinned against you, God"), I don't agree that people can repent (turn away from) sins committed by your ancestors unless you are also committing them. This is a very long chapter as he tries to convince people that his view is true, but I was not convinced. The next chapter centered around a semi-fictionalized conversation between him and God. Happily, he did get back to focusing on scenes from the Bible before the end.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Daniel Key by Anne Graham Lotz

The Daniel Key by Anne Graham Lotz ISBN-13: 9780310091936 Hardcover: 160 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: March 27, 2018

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
What are the secrets of a successful, steadfast, and godly faith? Daniel's faith did not waver facing those who were against him, serving new kings in power, or even confronting hungry lions. How can you have that kind of faith? Daniel made 20 intentional, key choices in his life. Those choices took him down a path to a close relationship with God and a model for godly living to all around him. Daniel’s choices can be your choices—choices such as:

The choice to trust, to obey, to pray, to worship, to repent, to live humbly, to have courage...


My Review:
The Daniel Key looks at 20 habits or actions that Daniel did that led to him being a successful, well-known man of God. The book is a hardbound, gift-type book and has a devotional format. Each chapter started with a verse (usually from Daniel) which had the characteristic focused on in that chapter. Then the author told a story--from Daniel's life or from her own or another's life--that demonstrated that characteristic. She clearly summed up the spiritual point, then provided a few questions to think about relating to that topic and a prayer asking for help in that area. She made good points. Overall, I'd recommend this book, especially for new Christians or young Christians (like teens).

The 20 keys were: faith (in God), worship, loyalty (to God), prayer partners, praying for others, praying God's word, attitude (and gratitude), listening (to God), daily prayer time, perseverance, desperate prayers, values (worth dying for), focus (on God), courage, confession (of sins to God), fasting (from things we hold tight to), humility, a personal relationship with God, and commitment (to God).


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

God's Grace in Your Suffering by David A. Powlison

God's Grace in Your Suffering by David A. Powlison ISBN-13: 978-1433556180 Trade Paperback: 128 pages Publisher: Crossway Released: Feb. 28, 2018

Source: Advanced reader review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description from Goodreads:
It's easy to see God's grace when things are going well. But in the midst of suffering--when we don't sense any positive change in our circumstances on the horizon--we can start to question God's goodness. Exploring the biblical truths found in each stanza of the classic hymn "How Firm a Foundation," experienced biblical counselor David Powlison invites us to hear God's perspective and see God's purpose in our suffering. Rather than offering abstract theory or mere sentimentality, Powlison writes to anchor our hope in the God who promises to be with us and transform us in the midst of even our darkest trials.


My Review:
God's Grace in Your Suffering looked at how God works in the midst of your pain and suffering. The author urges you to examine your specific, personal sufferings by answering questions that he poses throughout the book. In turn, he shares his experiences of fear, betrayal, and pain, and how he grew in his walk with God through those experiences. He doesn't make you feel bad about not liking your suffering but rather he encourages you.

He used the stanzas of the hymn "How Firm a Foundation" as a framework for his chapters. He looked at God's promises--He is with you, he is for you, and he will never forsake you--as well as God's Sovereignty and how He uses our sufferings to refine us and draw us closer to Him. The author explained how suffering can develop a steadiness and depth of faith and expose hope placed in false saviors. The author also looked at our brokenness/sinful predisposition, death, and Satan. He also examined Scripture. I had no trouble understanding his points. Overall, I'd highly recommend this quick read.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Enjoying God by R. C. Sproul

Enjoying God by R. C. Sproul ISBN-13: 9780801075483 Paperback: 240 pages Publisher: Baker Books Released: Sept. 19, 2017

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Confused, angry, and hurt after the death of his father, a young R. C. Sproul began his personal search for ultimate truth with these piercing questions: Who are you, God? And why do you do the things you do?

In Enjoying God, readers journey with R. C. Sproul to discover the attributes of God through the questions many of us have asked: Where are you, God? Can I trust you, God? and more. Dr. Sproul communicates deep truths in a fresh and easy-to-understand style as he shares his passion to know God and urges the reader to dig deep and seek the God who is alive, who is real, and who loves each one of us.


My Review:
Enjoying God looked at several of God's attributes, like omniscience, omnipotence, omnipresence, infallible, truth, justice, love, unity and diversity. Though written for the lay person, it's more an exercise in logic and philosophy than worshipful contemplation. For example, he tried to explain infinity (though he admits that finite beings have trouble with this concept). He delved into what is a being and how this shows that God is the Supreme Being. He explained how God is present in all places, yet He's not creation. He talked about how omnipotence means that God has complete power over His creation, not that He has the power to do things that go against His nature.

I appreciated the author's theology and enjoyed what he wrote. He did a decent job of explaining concepts that most people have trouble grasping. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Fire Road by Kim Phuc Phan Thi

Fire Road by Kim Phuc Phan Thi ISBN-13: 9781496424303 Trade Paperback: 336 pages Publisher: Tyndale Momentum Released: Oct. 3, 2017

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description from Goodreads:
"Get out! Run! We must leave this place! They are going to destroy this whole place! Go, children, run first! Go now!" These were the final shouts nine year-old Kim Phuc heard before her world dissolved into flames—before napalm bombs fell from the sky, burning away her clothing and searing deep into her skin. It’s a moment forever captured, an iconic image that has come to define the horror and violence of the Vietnam War. Kim was left for dead in a morgue; no one expected her to survive the attack. Napalm meant fire, and fire meant death.

Against all odds, Kim lived—but her journey toward healing was only beginning. When the napalm bombs dropped, everything Kim knew and relied on exploded along with them: her home, her country’s freedom, her childhood innocence and happiness. The coming years would be marked by excruciating treatments for her burns and unrelenting physical pain throughout her body, which were constant reminders of that terrible day. Kim survived the pain of her body ablaze, but how could she possibly survive the pain of her devastated soul?

Fire Road is the true story of how she found the answer in a God who suffered Himself; a Savior who truly understood and cared about the depths of her pain. Fire Road is a story of horror and hope, a harrowing tale of a life changed in an instant—and the power and resilience that can only be found in the power of God’s mercy and love.


My Review:
Fire Road is a memoir that describes how Kim Phuc found peace for her soul. She told her life story, which includes descriptions of the bad things that happened (the napalm burns, how political officials prevented her from pursuing her dream and used her as a propaganda tool) and how these events affected her emotionally and physically. However, she didn't dwell on the bad things so it's a sad but not depressing story during these worst parts. She initially followed her family's religion with great devotion, but the gods didn't help her. When a Christian pastor came into her orbit and answered her questions, she realized that Jesus also bore scars and endured pain.

As she told the story of her life, she also told the story of her spiritual growth and how God provided for her. She described how, as a new Christian, she fought depression and a desire to commit suicide by memorizing Scripture and praying the Psalms back to God. She talked about how she slowly came to forgive those who abused and wronged her by praying for them (as Jesus instructed us to do). And she talked about how she deals with the physical pain by singing praises to God (among many other things).

I'd never heard of Kim Phuc before, partly because I was born several years after she was burned. I found her story interesting and touching. People who do know her story will likely enjoy knowing some of the things that have happened in more recent years. As Kim acknowledges, everyone carries their own scars and pains, though not all are as obvious as her scars. I'd recommend this story to anyone, but especially to those who want to know how she found peace despite the pain and scars she still carries.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.