Dr. Reggie Anderson Offers Hope During Life's Most Trying Times

Dr. Reggie Anderson won readers over with His best-seller "Appointments With Heaven: The True Story of a Country Doctor's Healing Encounters With The Hereafter".  He has had over twenty five years of emergency room experience witnessing diverse deaths often at the patient's bedside.  Now he gifts us with his newest publication "The One Year Book of Healing."  After witnessing suffering first-hand, he lends thoughts on overcoming these tribulations with Faith.

Presented as a devotional, the reader will be soothed and uplifted each day with a story, experience and/or scripture.  He reminds us that all of us experience heartache and that we are not alone.  This book targets physical, spiritual and emotional wellness.  The hope that he offers is priceless.  No doubt this much needed resource will rank high among best sellers as Dr. Anderson's books have achieved in the past. Tyndale Bloggers gave me the opportunity to read this stellar book in exchange for my thoughts.

Welch's Passion is Infectious

   
           Brian 'Head' Welch's newest release With Eyes Wide Open kept me captivated for fourteen hours. The time it took me to read his book from cover to cover.  My youngest daughter is the Korn fan.  I read for the spiritual journey.  I was eager to learn about Brian's walk with Christ and was astounded by what He already knew.  He spoke like a seasoned christian putting away any doubts about His submitting everything over to the Lord.  Most new christian's are naive thinking  that once they promise to serve God, their lives will be perfect.  Welch knew better that God doesn't promise us a rose garden but He does promise to be there to get through the rough spots.  The author is very humble and sincere in doing things God's way and his story is a testimony of how God works during our difficult times to bring about a brighter end for us.
This book should definitely prove why we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover.  I am grateful that the author shared his experiences with us which everyone can learn from.  Book Look Bloggers gave me the opportunity to read in exchange for my honest opinions.

Forgiveness Is Not An Event, It Is a Lifestyle ~Kate Grosmaire

Heart wrenching and compelling, I would rather miss a night of sleep than to put this book down.  It is imperative that the reader read Forgiving My Daughter's Killer in it's entirety to fully appreciate how Kate Grosmaire was able to forgive her sweet daughter's killer.  Something that would seem so unnatural to most parents.  Her faith began as a child when she witnesses a young person die from a gun shot wound in her house.  Her Grandparents and parents lived a Godly lifestyle, instilling a love for God in their children.  Kate grew up turning to the Lord for everything.  This true story is a testament of how those things which are impossible to man; are possible with God.  Her daughter's killer is her daughter's boyfriend.  The family formed a love for him prior to this incident insomuch that they allowed him to live with them when he had a fallout with his parents.  Both Kate (the author) and her husband, Andy share this thought...they could not define Conor (the killer) by one single moment of His life.  Their hearts were truly full of God's Spirit.  I am so grateful Kate Grosmaire despite her loss, wrote this moving book.  So that unbeliever's can see the beauty of God.  The family keeps in contact with Conor after he is incarcerated.  There is an entire chapter devoted to questions and answers with Conor.  Here he elaborates on how the Grosmaire's forgiveness develops his faith in God.  I cannot say enough about this book, it's incredible.  BookLook Bloggers gave me the opportunity to review in exchange for my thoughts.  

Having a Martha Home the Mary Way

Ironically the book, Having a Martha Home the Mary Way, is written by Sarah Mae who did not like cleaning the house.  For those who do not know scripture, in the Book of Luke chapter 10 we read that Jesus was at the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus.  Martha was busy preparing and serving the meal to her guests while Mary chose to sit at Jesus's feet and listen.  Of course this irked Martha and she made it known.  Jesus's response to Martha was that Mary had chosen the better part.  It's not a surprise that the author choose this title for her book.  Perhaps the one thing I have taken from this book and would like to apply to my own life is that, we all have responsibilities we have to do.  Jesus looks at our hearts and what is our priority?
Sarah Mae shares with us how we can incorporate our spirituality into our everyday chores.  She draws strength from scripture daily to motivate her to get her work done.  The book includes a 31 day plan where the reader works on different, smaller projects each day.  This way it doesn't seem so overwhelming.  I enjoyed reading this publication for the Tyndale Network in exchange for my views. It was very good.

Accolades for Peter Szondy's Mustard Seed

                      There is much truth and many lessons to be learnt in Szondy's "Mustard Seed".  This being the primary reason I prefer non-fiction reads and although this story is fiction, it certainly fits the bill.  In fact it is a mix of delight; fun and instruction.  It's one of those books that you won't be able to put down.  Never doubting, my soul is like a sponge whenever it comes to anything about Miracles.  Realizing I am in the minority, I highly recommend this book to all skeptic's.  Read with an open mind.
                       Early in the book we find the Hopkin's family at Church.  Little Sara who is only 8 years old is singing "Amazing Grace" with her entire soul.  She has a faith that would undermine most adult's.  The author ensures the reader recognizes her fond spirit.  Jesus see's something in Her.  Numerous times,  Szondy reverts us to the well known scripture Luke Chapter 18 verse 17  which reads '"Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."'
                       As many know, Sara goes on to perform many miracles (with God's assistance) throughout the novel.  Not wanting this review to be a spoiler, I choose to focus on the type of individual Christ would chose to do his will.  Sarah exemplifies these characteristics:  pure, sincere and childlike. This should be our goal each day.  I am so grateful I had the opportunity to examine this book in exchange for my honest opinion for BuzzPlant.  It deserve's an A+ and can be read for all ages.

Highly Recommended The NKJV Apply The Word Study Bible is Superb~

    The NKJV Apply The Word Study Bible promises it's readers to '"Live In His Steps"' and I confirm with all the extra's this book delivers.  King James devotees will appreciate the study helps, there are numerous.
I noted right off hand a pretty large concordance included.  This is an appealing feature because I always had to buy a separate concordance to meet my needs.  The one included is sufficient.  In the long run, this will save the buyer extra costs.
   As I said before, the features are massive, there's way too many to list.  I will list a few.  Thomas Nelson guarantee's this Bible for life.  Pretty awesome.
Every book in the Bible includes an introductory to prepare reader about the writer of the book and key lessons.  Along with this added bonus, there are plenty of notes and sidebars to explain what you are reading with cross references.  There are numerous tables, charts and maps.  Buyers also receive a Download Guide Apply The Word .  And if that is not enough there are videos and reading plans at the NKJV website.
I had the tremendous opportunity of reviewing the above for Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my views. I highly recommend this excellent resource.

Next Cognitive Therapy By Naming What You See in The Clouds

Have you heard?  Right up there with living off the land and getting back to basics, we now have adult coloring books for unwinding and relieving stress.  It really does make sense and now I wonder, Why didn't I think of that?  Waterbrook Press comprised this collection of  beautiful pictures and spiritual quotes from inspired authors or beloved hymns.  Creating is enjoyable.  Coloring is calming.  I recall many fond memories of coloring right along with my children while they were growing up  Using adult coloring books as a tool for therapy is not that far fetched.  

These books differ from children's coloring books in many ways.  For one, the book is quite large and the paper is stronger so that the owner can put their finished products in frames to share.  That being one of the reasons the books are more expensive.  Also these coloring books all have a certain theme to allow the owner to escape their daily problems if but  for a little while.

I have really enjoyed reviewing this outstanding product for Blogging for Books. 

Christmas 2015

                 Last night I was sitting back reflecting on the past year and my heart swelled with such gratitude. I got everything I wanted and feel spoiled not just by my family and friends but also by God.  It's amazing to see how circumstances worked out when I was close to losing Faith.  The end result being much joy and many blessings.  I would plea, never ever give up because God's way truly is the Best even when we cannot see.
       I can't help but contemplate on the things my husband does for us (his family) and always with such love.  What a wonderful world it would be if there were more Harold's; a true gentleman who bends over backwards to help others out.  I could never ask for a better spouse.
       This year my little sister came home twice (spiritually & naturally).  My soul sings with such joy renewing our relationship which was hard to keep up when she lived miles away.  Now back in Michigan it's like we never ever were apart.
        The Lord saw my many fastings and prayer for my youngest daughter.  He initiated a wonderful Miracle in her life and no sooner did things resolve in her life than an unexpected emergency occurred in my eldest daughter's life.  Nicole & Nick being close to twenty years of marriage and who gave me Bailey & Cara (Bailey being 17 years and Cara 16)  became pregnant again.  She had a very difficult delivery and withstood many blood tranfustions but Thank God she is ok today and we are all loopy with love for our newest addition, Brayden,
        Through our Church I became very close friends with a sweet sister from Georgia.  Sister Kenah Knowles.  Although we have never met in person, it's like we knew one another all of our lives.  She has become an inspiration by sharing her experiences and a prayer partner for life.  Pray for our dear sister who lost her husband not long ago.  He being a member and she is my age.  Their love and bond through God was great and the separation has been difficult.
       Oh the Great Love of God.  He is so real and real in our lives if we would but have Him.  I began 2015 with many concerns and I watched as the Lord worked through each situation and only through Him was I able to make it through to enjoy the end results...of pure joy~

Bedtime Devotions With Jesus

             The sweetest little devotional for children which examines a new bible verse daily.  Speaking in terms a child would understand easily, the author relates a story to further examine the verse.  Actually Bedtime Devotions was created by many pastors and church leaders.  The illustrations are adorable.  This book makes for the perfect bedtime story and learning time between parent and child.  I highly recommend as a gift.  A wonderful way to teach our children the value of God's Love in our life.  I was given the perfect opportunity to review this book for the Book Look Network.

God's Tender Messages To A Grieving Father~

                  The Hope of Heaven (God's Eight Messages of Assurance to A Grieving Father) by Alan M. Hallene Jr. is a confirmation that God still speaks to us today even in our darkest hour.  The author of this true story is brave to share every detail of his son's suicide in order to reach others and spare such a tragedy from occuring to them.  Heart wrenching but uplifting, this book is bittersweet and has many powerful messages.  At times it is raw and hard to read making the message more remarkable as we realize the pain the Hallene family had to endure in order to recall and share it.  I was honored to review this book for the BookLook community in exchange for my views.  This book is an excellent resource not only for those who lost loved ones but also is instrumental for those facing depression.  All christains would benefit by reading.
     

Invaluable Lessons for the Little Lady in Your Life

BookLook Blogger's offers me some tremendous experiences.  Reviewing The Sweetest Story Bible for Toddlers has been such an honor.  It's small and sturdy enough to fit into the tiny hands of little girls eager to learn of God's word.  The Sweetest Story is all right adorable.  This precious Zonderkidz Bible features eight scripture stories with just enough information to keep your little ones attention along with lovely illustrations provided by Sheila Bailey.  Diane Stortz gets credit for writing.  The little girl in your life will cherish this pretty pink dainty Bible which contains invaluable lessons she can apply to her young life.

Delivering The Message Of Love At Christmas Through A Child's Eye

Little ears need a special way to understand Bible implications.  Veggie Tales and ZonderKidz make learning fun with Author Karen Poth in "Yuletide Ice Cube Fair."  The writer takes our toddlers (ages 2-4) on a magical journey to discover the true meaning of Christmas.   In their perfect way the story is not too long to lose little one's attention and is exploding with plenty of bright illustrations.  I highly recommend this book as the perfect gift for your children and grandchildren this upcoming holiday 2014.  I was given the fine opportunity to rate and review for BookLook Bloggers,

God Gave Us Angels Will Touch The Hearts of All Who Read

      Lisa Tawn Bergren has a magical way to inspire everyone's hearts and that is through her God Gave Us series.  In simple terms she helps young and old alike to understand the Goodness of serving God.  In her latest creation, "God Gave Us Angels" Papa Cub and Little Cub explore everything about Angels including what they do all day and what they look like.  Laura J. Bryant lends her beautiful illustrations (she does a splendid job).  This special book will give you quality time with your little ones while they learn to praise God.  I was given the great opportunity to review this book for Blogging for Books.  To learn more about the author, click here.

RICH IN SPIRIT

  Brenda Spahn thought she had her entire life planned out.  Being denied the priviledges of nice material items while growing up her only goal was to become rich someday.  Her determination and hard work bring her to her goal until one day she loses it all,  Her true story of how God transforms her thoughts to a higher calling to help others is included in this stellar book "Miss Brenda and the Loveladies~ One woman's brush with prison...A Community of Women fighting the odds for survival on the outside...".  The author discovers the meaning of being "rich in spirit" and how living and giving for God has greater rewards than material things.  I was given the awesome opportunity to read Ms. Spahn's journey from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest thoughts,  I highly recommend her story as it is full of hope and will inspire all who read it.  Read about the Lovely Ladies center on the
Author's website

 

The PERFECT Remedy for Conflicted Souls~

 As a member of Tyndale Network I chose Dr. Reggie Anderson's "APPOINTMENTS WITH HEAVEN" to review with great anticipation to read of the experiences he embraces with those passing on.  These true accounts for me would become the icing on the cake.  His book has much more to offer.  Never before was I so enchanted with each aspect of a book that I deliberately took time to read and re-read my favorite parts.  I wanted to savor in what the writer was telling us without missing anything.  I enjoyed being a part of the doctor's journey from early childhood to adult.  Perhaps because I could relate so well with him, I found that the author and I come from similar backgrounds.  We were both born with a spiritual spoon in our mouths surrounded by a loving, Christian family and very protected by the harshness of the world around us.  Dr. Anderson's childhood was filled with guidance; incredible support; joy and discipline.  His faith was strong during those early years.  When a family of beloved friends are murdered his faith is shattered.  He can't comprehend that a loving God could allow such an evil act to come upon people who have always put him first.  So the young Reggie concludes that there must not be a God.  This book is the perfect remedy for all those who have lost the faith or individuals who ever doubted that there is a God.  As a young man, Reggie choses to believe in Science until he finds that it really isn't the answer.  A miracle happen's to send this prodigal back to his first love, God.  Not wanting to reveal what happens, I recommend all to get a copy of this outstanding biography.  I just couldn't put it down. 

 

The Point Changes Lifes

The Point by William E. Jefferson takes us to the gorgeous Isle of Estillyen where Goodwin & his wife, Hollie Macbreeze try to find some respite from her illness.  Once there they encounter the bitter Oban Ironbout who has been beat up with life's uncertainties.  His soul is tortured.  In this Christian Fiction novel we journey with the three through their struggles to find meaning and faith.  Surrounded by story telling monks they learn about the very real struggle between the forces of darkness and the light.  The monks share pieces of scripture in a poetic way.  The story is deep and caused me to spend a lot of time in contemplation.  Ordinarily I prefer non-fiction Christian books but there is a lot of charm and sweet reflection throughout it's pages.  William E. Jefferson's mode of writing is enchanting and never boring, making it a book you won't want to put down.  I was given the honor of reading this book for Handlebar Publishing.  I definitely would recommend.
 

The 5 Love Languages for Kids by Dr. Gary Chapman

 

Award Winning Author, Dr. Gary Chapman teams up with Rick Osborne and Illustrator, Wilson Williams Jr  to create this phenomenal book with interactive website to teach children the values and importance of Love.  Selling more than 7 million copies confirms the success of the #1 New York Best Seller.  The author categorizes the way love is given and received in five forms; words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time and physical touch.  He has written numerous books not only for children but also adults to teach all ages about the greatest gift of all...charity.  More information can be obtained at The 5 Love Languages Website .  A Perfect Pet for Peyton is the lovely story that I was allowed to review for Moody Press in exchange for my opinions.  The twins, Peyton and Penny are celebrating their birthday and are excited to be going to The Perfect Pet Pal Emporium for their gift.  I was thrilled to see that the children pray throughout their day.  I got attached to this fictional Christian family.  It's a wonderful read for the children to learn respect and manners.  Peyton opens the car door for his mother.  Their parents decide to hold their Birthday party at the Pet Emporium with all their friends. The friends will also  choosing pets for themselves. What's awesome about this peticular place is that it is part zoo, part farm and part aquarium so there is dozens of pets to encounter and choose from.  Without giving away too much of  the story, it centers on the young peoples journey and their great excitement.  It promotes family unity and support.  The Perfect Pet for Peyton is a positive tool for young parents which I highly recommend~

We Live In a Spiritual World

 

Author Steve Sjogren's HEAVEN'S LESSONS- Ten Lessons I Learnt About God When I Died is a fascinating read.  Rarely do I read a book twice, let alone twice in a row but Sjogren's journey was so exciting I just had to reread to ensure not missing one thing.  I thank Booksneeze for the ability to read his story in exchange for my thoughts.  This book will convince the reader that miracles were not done away with years ago and that God still speaks to his people today.  He is a real God wanting to get closer to his children.  Imagine going into the hospital for a very simple  procedure like having your gall bladder removed only to find out you don't have a gall bladder.  The surgeons accidently cut into a main artery which leaks blood into the back of Steve's body and it's nearly an hour later before they discover their error.  By now Sjogren is flat-lining.  Having coded for close to seven minutes can cause enormous damage to the body.  Although Steve suffers with some necrosis he is protected by major difficulties because of the Grace of God.  The Book describes in depth the glory of Heaven that he witnessed and the meeting with Angels.  Not to take from the author's testimony, it is up to you to read.  There is shocking revelations about Bob Dylan and Robert (Bob) Kardashian who was an Elder in the church at one time.  Yes, Kim's dad.  I found great comfort and joy in this book and hope that everyone gets a chance to read it.  Don't shortchange yourself!

 

Enriching Father Daughter Relations

 

   This beautiful one year devotional opens the doors to a more intimate relationship between fathers and daughters.  Fathers are called to be the spiritual leaders in the family and this book will solidify open doors of communication between parent and child.  The One Year Father Daughter Devotions By Jesse Florea, Leon C Wirth & Bob Smithouser is the perfect tool for caring parenting.  Not only is there a daily story to discuss but the authors suggest an activity to go along with the lesson.  After reviewing this copy sent to me on behalf of Tyndale Publishers in exchange for my thoughts I would have to establish that this book is intended for pre-teens or young adult.  This is when parents find that it is the most difficult to have discussions with their offspring.  The lessons are geared towards questions that may arise in a young persons mind while going through struggles and difficulties at their age.  I am envious that this is available now for parents and know that the book will prove to make a positive impact in families.  It will also ensure that young people are aware how proud their parents are of them as seen on Oct. 20th where the topic is A Father's Joy.  It expounds upon the many things that can make a father happy but points out that the most joy a father feels is in his children and backs this up with scripture.  In this case, where a person might not be able to adequately show his love to his child, the doors are opened to a discussion of how he truly feels.  There are so many more beautiful topics which will enrich  father and daughter relationships.  This book is a must have and must read.  The One Year Father Daughter Devotions would make a loving gift for dads and daughters.  I highly recommend~

Break- Through~ Healthy VS Unhealthy Relationships

Dr. Tim Clinton, LPC, LMFT and Pat Springle tackles relationship difficulties  in his new book The Moment that Changes Everything Break Through When to Give In, How to Push Back.  The reader will gain insight on how not to be co-dependent to a partner's destructive patterns.  They will receive the tools to escape intimidation and control  and no longer succumb to abuse.  Real love is defined by Dr. Tim Clinton throughout the books pages.  His accolades include: '"President of the nearly 50,000-member American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) and founder of Light University Online, which has over 160,000 students enrolled. He is also the professor of counseling and executive director of the Center for Counseling and Family Studies at Liberty University."'   Break -Through stands out from other relationship studies in that it offers spiritual support along with counseling advice.  The goal of the authors is offer hope to couples that relationships can work if both are willing to sacrifice and do the work but they don't condone staying in a troubled atmosphere.
The key is to know your boundaries and to set them in exchange for contentment.  I highly recommend this stellar workbook  to use as a reference to keep your relationship in balance.
 Break-Through is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and wherever books are sold.