Which None can Shut-Reema Goode

 Taken from the verse in Revelation 3:8, See I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it. In this Powerful collection of personal stories Reema takes us deep inside her Arab neighborhood to show how God is opening doors in just one of many Islamic communities.

Very moving and eye opening, hard to put down once you start. Using the stories from the missionaries own encounters we are shown the miracles God is performing in the lives of Muslim people. Even though it is dangerous Muslim believers are converting and sharing the faith and love of Christ to those around them, because of the efforts of missionaries like the Goode family. But as Reema points out it all started long ago with the prayers of people who'd never been to the middle east, but felt a compulsion to pray.

I recieved a copy to review from Tyndale House Publishers, all opinions expressed are my own.

A Year With God-R.P.NettelHorst

A Year With God is a collections of daily readings and reflections on God's own words, make His thoughts your thoughts. Arranged by topic, it highlights God's words to his people so you can know what really matters to Him  and to you.

I've been using A Year With God for my daily devotions and I love that unlike most devotionals that only use one verse and then devotional thoughts, this book uses a passage scripture and the devotional thoughts and the scripture is God's own thoughts from His own word. I also love that it is undated using only numbers to represent each reading so if I miss a day I don't feel like I have to skip one to be on track.

I recieved a copy from Thomas Nelson to review and all opinions expressed are my own.

City On Our Knees-TobyMac

From grammy award winning singer, producer and songwriter, TobyMac, City On Our Knees is the stories behind the popular song by the same name. Each section takes a phrase from the song and tells the stories of real people making a difference in the world around them. The stories represent people of all ages, races, religions and places and times in history and show what life can look like when people step out in courage and in love, and strengthen the family of God.

City on Our Knees is an easy read, all stories will inspire and some will leave you in tears but it will show you how just a little could make a big difference. Now when I hear the song I don't just sing the words I remember the stories.

I recieved a copy of this book from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group to review, all opinions expressed are my own.

The Strategically Small Church-Brandon J. O'Brien

I recently recieved a copy of The Strategically Small Church by Brandon J. O'Brien and it couldn't have come at a more appropriate time. Having recently relocated to a very small church where my husband is on staff I was interested in O'Brien's take on the advantages of a small church.

In The Strategically Small Church, O'Brien shows how small churches are uniquely equipped for success in todays culture and shows how other churches can learn from their stategies. He states small churches, facilitate a higher level of commitment from laypeople, focus attention on fewer programs, increasing effectivness and nurture close relationships across age and life-experience barriers. He uses examples from real life small churches such as the authentic, nimble, equipping, intergenerational, and the training church, showing what works with each.In a world where bigger is considered better, O'Brien shows that sometimes small is just right.

I recieved a copy for review from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group, all views expressed are my own opinion.

Transforming Church in Rural America-Shannon O'Dell

I recently recieved a copy of Shannon O'Dell's Transforming Church in Rural America, breaking all the Rurals, and it couldn't have come at a more appropriate time. My husband was recently hired as a youth pastor of a very small rural church much like the one described in O'Dell's book, so I was interested in his take on how to transform such a church.

Using the acronym V.A.L.U.E, vision, attitude, leadership, understanding and enduring excellence, O'Dell shares his struggles and humble beginnings of transforming a small rural church desiring change but not wanting to let go of the past to get there. With humor and bits of sarcasim he shares exactly what it's like to worship and live in a rural community but also how using his VALUE system and listening for Gods ultimate timing a church can go from rural to virtual. He states the key is not in growing a congregation but growing the congregants, which I'd have to agree with.

This was a very interesting and well written book with alot of great ideas for rural churchs wanting change. Though I don't think some of these methods would work with alot of rural church's there were many methods in the book that would benefit church's of all sizes.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the 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.”

DVD-The Way Home

I had the privilege this week of reviewing "The Way Home" a DVD based on the inspirational true story, starring Dean Cain. The Way Home is the story of a husband and father torn between the demands of his job and commitment to his family, something alot of husbands and fathers today struggle with. But when asked to watch their 2 yr old son for a few minutes, Randy is distracted by work and 2 yr old Joe disappears. What follows is their desperate search alongside hundreds of  friends, family and churches in the community. It is the story of Randy's powerful spiritual journey back to love, faith and a Godly understanding of what must always take first priority in a man's life-his family.

My 16 yr old daughter and I loved this movie. The way Home shows what happens when we let the demands of life interfer with our family life and how God can point us back in the right direction. Great family movie that can be watched by all ages, just have the kleenex standing by. The film also includes several special features to enjoy. Will recommend this to friends and family looking for good, clean, christian viewing.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the 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.”

100 Prayers God Loves to Hear 100 Praise Songs-Stephen Elkins

I love, love, loved this book for children! It is packed with 100 days of prayers; from scripture including David, Moses, and Jesus, from famous and well known people like Chales Wesley and Abraham Lincoln and beloved childrens prayers like Now I lay me down to sleep. Reading through this book will teach your young children how, what and when to pray while making praying fun.

One of my favorite parts of the book is the, My Little Prayer Reminders at the end of each prayer with quotes or bible verses. These would be perfect for copy work for homeschool children to use, which we plan on doing. Also included is two cd's with 100 praise songs that kids will want to listen to over and over reinforcing the prayers in the book. All in all this is a simple little childrens book that is packed full with great little treasure you are sure to enjoy.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the 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.”

Out Live Your Life-Max Lucado

Out Live Your Life is a book about making a difference. These are devastating times: 1.75 billion people are desperately poor, one billion are hungry. Lonely hearts indwell our neighborhoods and attend our schools. In the midst of it all here we stand: you, me and our one of a kind lives. We are given a choice...an opportunity to make a difference during a difficult time. What if we did? What if we rocked the world with hope?

In 16 short chapters Lucado gives scriptural backing on why we should and are required to make a difference. Each chapter along with scipture uses real life stories and illustations on how some people are already using what they have to impact the world around them. Accompaning each chapter is a discussion and action guide that can be used to dig into the Word and see what it has to say on each subject tackled in the book, and an action section to push you out of your comfort zone and into making a difference to those around you.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the 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 Lord's Prayer by R.T.Kendall

The Lord's Prayer is R.T. Kendall's attempt to "uncover the transforming truths contained within each line of this familiar prayer, including when and why to pray the Lord's Prayer and how unanswered prayer can by a sign of  God's favor".

This book starts off with glowing reviews of author Kendalls teaching and writings, maybe a few to many for my taste, but he's a very well respected teacher and it shows. The Lord's Prayer contains 5 parts with 3 chapters in each part, and each chapter focusing on a different aspect on the Lord's Prayer. Many people know the prayer and can recite it by rote but often we don't really stop to focus on what we are saying and why and when we should say it. R.T. Kendall goes in to great detail and depth to explain the who, what, when and why's of the famous prayer using lots of inspiring quotes of well respected Bible scholars.

While it starts out a little slow it picks up and is well worth the read. It will have you using The Lord's Prayer in a more intentional way in your daily private and public prayer times.

I recieved this book from Chosen Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group as a part of their book review program. All views expressed are my own.

Flight to Heaven-A Pilot's True Story by Capt. Dale Black

This is definately an edge of the seat kinda book! This is one that you can't put down long enough to go fix dinner, you just have to read one more chapter and then one more.

Flight to Heaven, written by the man who experienced it Capt. Dale Black, is the true story of the authors near brush with death in a plane crash. It cronocles the painful recovery that followed along with the later realization, due to memory loss, that during his ordeal he'd visited Heaven, and how he chose to deal with that knowledge.

The thing that endeared me to this book was the fact that the heavenly visit while beautiful and not to be underscored was not the main point of the book. Capt. Black wanted to show how his life was changed by this experience and how he's tried to help others because of it. He wants others to experience their own heavenly journey and not just focus on his. Thanks to wonderful advice from a godly grandfather he's lived his experience, not just lived to tell about it.

This book is full of drama, sadness, happiness, and as I said edge of your seat excitement. It contains pictures of the planes mentioned, and crash site photos to help you envision the story as you read. It will leaving you wanting your own 'flight to heaven'.

I recieved this book from Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. All views expressed are my own.

Unburdened by Chris Tiegreen

The subtitle of this book is what caught my eye, 'the secret to letting God carry the things that weigh you down', as my family has been going through numerous things of late that have really gotten us down I thought this book would really hit the spot. And that it did!

In the introduction, author Chris Tiegreen states, "This book won't come across as a how-to manual. No, this is more like a series of personal reflections on what it's like to struggle with heavy baggage and, more important what it's like to release that baggage to someone more capable of handling it." It doesn't give you step by step instructions on handling burdens and trials, such as do this and this and then your burdens will magically disappear. But it does make you think about what your burdens are and why they are in your life and he then takes you to 'the source' for unburdening yourself.

I enjoyed this book, it didn't solve all my problems but it did remind me of who can solve all my problems, something that gets pushed aside when you are weighed down with the stresses of life. My copy of Unburdened is now colorful with lots of highlighting and underlining so I can go back when I need more reminding, and many quotes I copied in my Bible for future reference.

I recieved this book as a part of Tyndale House Publishers, book review program. All opinions expressed are my own.

Hermie & Friends DVD: Who is in Charge Anyway?

Tonight my daughter and snuggled up and watched Who's In Charge Anyway?, from Max Lucado's Hermie and Friends dvd collection. This lesson was based on Psalm 90:16, "show your servants the wonderful things you do; show your greatness to their children." It showed that God even cares about a little flea, and how He makes everything for a purpose and doesn't make mistakes. It inclueded newly animated flashbacks along with scenes from classic episodes.

I loved the story line, simply put and easy for the youngest child to understand, that God makes us all unique and special and it takes time to understand and learn to use our own special talents. My daughter loved trying to figure out what each bug was and how he was going to use his ability in each situation. Her favorite bugs were the colorful ladybugs and she loved the opening scene, but I won't spoil it.

This dvd contains several bonus features including read and sing alongs, screen savers, trivia games and more, and features the voice talents of Sam Mercurio and Tim Conway. Its a simple, colorful, fun story with a great message kids need to hear. We loved it!

I was given a copy to review from the Booksneeze Reviewers program. The opinions expressed are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.

DVD Read and Share Bible: The Jesus Series, Life and Miracles

My 5 year old daughter and I recently had the privilege of reviewing The Jesus Series, DVD Read and Share Bible, about the Life and Miracles of Jesus. This is an animated video straight from the pages of the popular Read and Share Bible by Gwen Ellis, a Bible which we love. The video is an uninterrupted half-hour presentation of Jesus' ministry along the shores of Galilee. Children see Jesus call his disciples, feed the 5,000, heal the sick, teach about God's kingdom and introduce the Lord's Supper.
This dvd uses cutting edge 3D animation, charming watercolor illustrations from the original story Bible and detailed scenery. Bonus material also included in the DVD are cd rom coloring pages of the movie scenes, complete storyboards, trailers and interviews with the writer/director. Plus in comes in an easy to use auto-start so kids can watch simply by inserting the DVD.

I loved the simple, brightly colored scenes, attractive to both kids and adults. The stories are told in an easy to understand, nononsense way that kids will clearly recognize from the Read and Share Bible. My 5 year old daughter loved the stories, she now wants to see more. She also loved the fact that with the coloring pages she could create her own bible and stories like the movie. Overall a very well done DVD and story of Jesus and his life and miracles, that would be perfect for a sunday school class viewing also
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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 Hole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns

In The Hole in Our Gospel, Richard Stearns tells the agonizing story of how God lead him to his current position as president of World Vision as he wrestled with the decision to leave behind the worldly success he'd worked so hard for. 
The heartbreaking stories of the people and places he's encountered in his work with World Vision accompanied with a section of full color photos makes those people and places come alive and their plight much more real and close to home. Stearns ask the question What does God expect of us?, and the book is all about the answer that changed his life and might just change the world.

The Hole in our Gospel is a thought provoking book full of facts and statistics supporting the need for the work of relief organizations and what we can do to help. He uses supporting scripture throughout along with a scripture index and has included a study guide to use along with the book. Also added is a QandA with Stearns' wife Renee, and several chapters on what we can do by partnering with World Vision and additional resources to use.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com 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 gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

An Army of Ordinary People by Felicity Dale

An Army of Ordinary People is simply that, ordinary, everyday, untrained people making an extraordinary difference for the Kingdom of God. Felicity Dale shares stories of ordinary people she and husband Tony have encountered in their journey to build God's Kingdom through "house churches" or "simple churches". Using the New Testament principles as stated in Luke 10, she chronicles the lives of everyday individuals as they become the church and share the gospel with friends and neighbors where they are.

This book has changed the way I think about 'church'. Using the Luke 10 model brings the church to the people, therefore reaching those who wouldn't normally darken the door of a church building and enabling them to then reach friends and family members within there own sphere of influence in a homey natural environment. The examples prove you don't have to be a Bible scholar to reach and teach others just be willing to be used, and always be on the lookout for that "person of peace". This type of church is a perfect example of "where two or more are gathered in my name". This book should be a must read for anyone wanting to reach those around them and see His kingdom advanced.


To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, please mention as part of every Web or Amazon review that Tyndale House Publishers has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book or ARC

You Can Be Everything God Wants You To Be-Max Lucado

According to Lucado "God gave you a zone in which you were made to dwell. He tailored the curves of your life to fit an empty space in his jigsaw puzzle. A sweet spot, if you will. And life makes sweet sense when you find your spot. But what pills do you order, class do you take, or infomercial do you watch? None of the above. Simply quarry...Your Uniqueness."

'You can be everything God wants you to Be' is a short (127 page) hardcover book encouraging you to discover your "sweet spot". Perfect for the graduate, or those feeling stressed and stuck in an unfulfilling career. Lucado urges you to look for your uniqueness. God created each of us with a purpose in mind, when He gives you an assignment, He also gives you the skills to achieve that assignment.

Each chapter is a short, easy read, with lots of examples of real life and bible characters fulfilling or in search of their purpose. Lucado gives lots of encouragement in looking for the you-niqueness in you but not alot of detail is given in the specifics of how to find and develop those traits and make it work for you.

If you are feeling discouraged and unfulfilled this is the book for you to get you on track and looking for the details of your life that will elevate it and create a purpose and joy for you and fullfill a purpose and joy for the one who created you.

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.”

How should a Christian Live?-the Word of Promise Next Generation Devotional

How Should a Christian Live? is a devotional and journal from The Word of Promise next generation. Geared toward the preteen and teen crowd this devotional guide includes twelve sessions based on 1 Corinthians through Philemon. Each session begins with listening to the included cd of that portion of scripture usually around 5-6 chapters narrated by popular teen stars such as Emily Osment, Cody Linley, Corbin Bleu and more. Then the session includes Get It, Grab It, Hold It, Live It, and Give It activities to dig in to the Word, along with define it and quizes and games to keep the teens engaged in the learning activities. Then at the end of each session are blank journaling pages for the participants to write what they've learned and taken away from each lesson.

I loved the devotional guide each session was short enough to keep most teens interest but had plenty of background and pertinent info to really understand the scripture being studied. The define it portions had words such as sovereign, sanctified, salvation and idol with definitions in an easy to understand language perfect for teens or those new in their faith. Then the games and quizes reinforced the scripture and made the learning fun and easy to remember. I was suprised to see so much room for journaling, most devotional guides are lacking in that area, having inadequate space to record your thoughts and insights, but not so in this guide there is plenty of room for writing all you want to remember or have learned.

The scripture cd's would be very appealing to the younger crowd with the recognizable voices of teen favorites. The version selected was easy to understand with music and background sounds that were soothing but not distracting. It made you feel like you were sitting and listening to Paul transcribe his letters.

I think this would be perfect to use for a homeschool devotional time or in a teen group setting. It is easy to do without being too simplistic.


I recieved this copy to review free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their booksneeze.com reviewers program. All opinions expressed here are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255.

Bible in 90 Days

Finished the Bible in 90 days challenge today! It was definately a challenge but one well worth the effort. Reading it straight thru and at this pace was like reading a novel and really made the whole picture come alive. The challenge really gave me even more of a hunger for the word. Going thru so quickly didn't leave time for indepth study but I was able to mark lots of passages I plan to now go back and study more indepth. It has also allowed me to form the habit of getting into the word daily which I plan to continue, plus go thru the 90 day challenge again in July. I challenge every one to read your Bible cover to cover, whether in 90days, 6 months or one year, it will change you. You won't regret it!