Fearless- just what the Doctor ordered. This new book by world renowned author Max Lucado is a soothing balm to a world filled with fear, anxiety and worry. The nightly news is selling fear. Just turn on any one of the 24 hour news channels. We have the swine flu epidemic, the economy, violent crimes, and a host of other terrifying events that can keep you awake all night! In classic Lucado style this book examines the root causes of fear, and the only real solution to it-Jesus Christ.
Mr. Lucado examines scriptures diligently in order to provide more than sufficient evidence for the claim that Jesus does not want us to fear. In fact the gospels are chock full of examples, which, Max helps shed light upon with updated current real life stories as well as utilizing his uncanny ability to take us on the dusty roads around Jerusalem to walk with Jesus as his disciples did. Most people will be able to relate to the way author presents story after story about how Jesus affected calm amidst the storms of life.
Max Lucado does not sugarcoat the truth either. This book is no name it and claim it, if I can only imagine my life will be perfect type fiction. The entire basis for the book is the fact that Jesus is to be trusted especially in challenging or mind boggling circumstances. Times are tough now and they will get worse. God tells us so in his word. On page 153 the author writes “ Sitting on the Mount of Olives, in full view of the temple and the City of David, Jesus issued a buckle your seat belt, no kidding; life can be fatal to your health warning.”
It was comforting to read the description of when the disciples nearly fainted with fear when they saw Jesus glorified during the transfiguration. Peter, James and John literally fell to their faces thinking that was the end of them. Jesus in all of his loving mercy came over and touched them and told them to not be afraid. The fact is they were afraid. Jesus recognized this, and did not condemn them-he came to their side to reassure them. Mr. Lucado also recognizes that we have a lot to fear these days. Fear is a normal human emotion, but it is optional. As the author points out-Jesus is there amidst the fear telling us not to worry, don’t be afraid, and trust Him.
Trust Him. He is our firm foundation, our ever present help in times of trouble. Hard times are a part of life. We can live life well in our tough circumstances. As the author points out in multiple ways, God is in control. Everything that we experience is sifted through His loving hand.
The book chapters are segmented into different topical areas that people fear most such as: Fear of Death, Fear of not mattering, Fear of violence, Fear of not having enough (Money) and several other relevant topics. The in-depth discussion questions and suggested scripture at the end of the book help add depth and volume to another Lucado Classic. Fearless is a very enjoyable, and encouraging read.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Real Church-Does it Exist?
At first glance of this book, my burning question was-“Am I going to make it through the first section of this book?” I also initially thought that I might lose interest like the author describes regular and faithful churchgoers are experiencing across the country. Dr. Crabb warns us early on that he is moving slow and goes to great lengths to provide a firm foundation of his beliefs. The introduction describes why people are losing interest in church, and what makes a gathering a church. Section I discusses why people should go to church and three answers that do not work for Dr. Crabb. Section II explores what kind of church we should want to go to. Finally, section III states what type of church the author wants to be a part of.
I doubt that it is merely a coincidence that I began reading this book in the midst of one of the ugliest experiences that I have ever had with fellow churchgoers. The situation was not handled well at all levels. Initially, I thought that it might not a good idea for me to read the book, because it may cause me to want to leave my church in search of more desirable circumstances. It did not. It did however help me want to confront my own self-redemptive strategies in this situation and other areas of my life. Real Church gave me real hope that God can and is changing me into the woman He wants me to be, and reminded me that He is very well aware of what is going on in His church.
The backbone of this book is written in the introduction where Dr. Crabb points out “Christians in community (Churchgoers) should be and could be the most potent force on the planet for personal transformation, for powerful evangelism, and for cultural influence, not mainly through political clout and certainly not through moralistic judgment but through offering a different kind of love than most people have ever seen or felt-a wise love that speaks with power into where people live.”
The depth of thought and emotion which this book brings to the surface was both surprising and very encouraging. Don’t mistake Dr. Crabb’s book as the next church “Movement”, formulas for obtaining God’s favor, or a list of things to do in order to have an effective church ministry. It goes much deeper than those ideals. This book should encourage every believer in their lifelong walk with God. Statements such as: “Does going to church help people want to know God more or use God more?” Or, “Spirit of God let me hear the music of heaven with the ears of my soul. I never want to mistake the gospel for reasonably good news” drive home the point that life is all about living to please and worship our God.
As a whole this book is excellent. It does take a little time to make the most promising points, but it is worth wading through the early sections that do help bring a lot of clarity to the later chapters. Dr. Crabb is an author that seems to honestly deal with his humanness, and is humble enough to bring his imperfections to public attention. His style of writing and openness helps to normalize our lack of enthusiasm and sometimes utter contempt for formalized religion. It also helps to draw us closer to our Maker.
I doubt that it is merely a coincidence that I began reading this book in the midst of one of the ugliest experiences that I have ever had with fellow churchgoers. The situation was not handled well at all levels. Initially, I thought that it might not a good idea for me to read the book, because it may cause me to want to leave my church in search of more desirable circumstances. It did not. It did however help me want to confront my own self-redemptive strategies in this situation and other areas of my life. Real Church gave me real hope that God can and is changing me into the woman He wants me to be, and reminded me that He is very well aware of what is going on in His church.
The backbone of this book is written in the introduction where Dr. Crabb points out “Christians in community (Churchgoers) should be and could be the most potent force on the planet for personal transformation, for powerful evangelism, and for cultural influence, not mainly through political clout and certainly not through moralistic judgment but through offering a different kind of love than most people have ever seen or felt-a wise love that speaks with power into where people live.”
The depth of thought and emotion which this book brings to the surface was both surprising and very encouraging. Don’t mistake Dr. Crabb’s book as the next church “Movement”, formulas for obtaining God’s favor, or a list of things to do in order to have an effective church ministry. It goes much deeper than those ideals. This book should encourage every believer in their lifelong walk with God. Statements such as: “Does going to church help people want to know God more or use God more?” Or, “Spirit of God let me hear the music of heaven with the ears of my soul. I never want to mistake the gospel for reasonably good news” drive home the point that life is all about living to please and worship our God.
As a whole this book is excellent. It does take a little time to make the most promising points, but it is worth wading through the early sections that do help bring a lot of clarity to the later chapters. Dr. Crabb is an author that seems to honestly deal with his humanness, and is humble enough to bring his imperfections to public attention. His style of writing and openness helps to normalize our lack of enthusiasm and sometimes utter contempt for formalized religion. It also helps to draw us closer to our Maker.
Monday, July 6, 2009
A Max Lucado Masterpiece
I have been a fan of Max Lucado's for a long time. The elegance and simplicity with which he writes is as near genius as I have ever seen. No one can hammer a point so quickly and softly as Max (as if I know him personally) can.
"His Name is Jesus" is a compilation of some of Mr. Lucado's previous wonderful works. Even though I have read many of the books quoted, it still does not dissapoint. The artwork is incredible. The layout is fantastic. The best part is that the book describes in great detail different phases of Jesus' life. The previous works point to " His Birth, His Mission, His Death, His Resurrection, His Legacy. Specific chapters and segments are brilliantly put together to make this incredible book flow and leave you wanting more Max Lucado!
This book will make a beautiful gift for someone who is a Max Lucado reader or someone who wants to know more about the simplicity and love of Jesus. You can purchase the book directly through Thomas Nelson Publishers.
"His Name is Jesus" is a compilation of some of Mr. Lucado's previous wonderful works. Even though I have read many of the books quoted, it still does not dissapoint. The artwork is incredible. The layout is fantastic. The best part is that the book describes in great detail different phases of Jesus' life. The previous works point to " His Birth, His Mission, His Death, His Resurrection, His Legacy. Specific chapters and segments are brilliantly put together to make this incredible book flow and leave you wanting more Max Lucado!
This book will make a beautiful gift for someone who is a Max Lucado reader or someone who wants to know more about the simplicity and love of Jesus. You can purchase the book directly through Thomas Nelson Publishers.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Is it a Crisis?
Hank Hanegraff's "Christianity In Crisis" speaks to the damage prosperity/faith preachers as well as the continued New Age movement is causing in our postmodern culture.
Initially, I did not agree with the authors viewpoint. I thought he was being too picky and lacking grace especially toward people in the faith movement. The continued overuse of one or two statements throughout the book created an appearance of having something personal against certain teachers in the faith movement. For example, the author uses one example of Joyce Meyer blaming Job for his losses-ad nauseaum throughout the book. I got the point. Mrs. Meyer was rude and inconsiderate and said something stupid. A mistake most of us humans make. Mr Hanegraaff's repeated use of that same error-did not really justify any of his points.
I am interested in the truth, so I kept reading the lengthy book and to my astonishment found that the author is on to something-something big! I checked his footnotes and references and had several different bibles at my fingertips as I continued to study the book. The author gives tremendous insight and has a great ability to compare and contrast what faith movement teachers are dishing out vs. what God's word really says.
We can not create alternate realities with our thoughts or words. As claimed by some in the faith movement and New Age propaganda books such as "The Secret." To prove the point-Try to change your computer screen into a bowl of oatmeal by believing and speaking it out. Did it work? Of course not. Metaphysical change is not real. It does not work. We cannot speak and make something happen in our favor.
There is no magic formula in this life. Matthew 6:33 says "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV) The things referred to in this scripture verse are food, clothes, and material possessions as noted in Matthew 6:25. God wants us to look for a real relationship with him first. He is not Santa Claus. We should not submit a list of things we want and then expect him to deliver them. I once heard a pastor state "I have tithed all of my life, and I still don't have everything I want, but I have everything I need. Yes, God takes care of His people but we will not all live in plush mansions. I love the point the author makes about none of the prosperity preachers being on the Forbes 500 list! Why not? If their principles really work shouldn't they all be the richest people in the world?
Life can be tough, we can work really hard for decades and watch as the stock market plummets and takes our life savings away. My sister got laid off last week from a company she worked with for over 18 years. A few months ago a colleague who is past retirement age was fired without cause. Loved ones get sick and die, no matter how hard we pray.
Christianity In Crisis really helps to illuminate the Truth. The "Back to Basics" section is invaluable and a must read for every Christian. The Apologetics appendix is an eye opener and something that should be taught in every church to every believer.
Like the faith movement teachers say-"Check it out for yourself, don't just take my word for it!" Do check out the Bible for yourself. Don't let anyone deceive you or misrepresent the Holy word of God. Get your hands on a copy of Christianity in Crisis-21st Century as well to add to your knowledge base.
Initially, I did not agree with the authors viewpoint. I thought he was being too picky and lacking grace especially toward people in the faith movement. The continued overuse of one or two statements throughout the book created an appearance of having something personal against certain teachers in the faith movement. For example, the author uses one example of Joyce Meyer blaming Job for his losses-ad nauseaum throughout the book. I got the point. Mrs. Meyer was rude and inconsiderate and said something stupid. A mistake most of us humans make. Mr Hanegraaff's repeated use of that same error-did not really justify any of his points.
I am interested in the truth, so I kept reading the lengthy book and to my astonishment found that the author is on to something-something big! I checked his footnotes and references and had several different bibles at my fingertips as I continued to study the book. The author gives tremendous insight and has a great ability to compare and contrast what faith movement teachers are dishing out vs. what God's word really says.
We can not create alternate realities with our thoughts or words. As claimed by some in the faith movement and New Age propaganda books such as "The Secret." To prove the point-Try to change your computer screen into a bowl of oatmeal by believing and speaking it out. Did it work? Of course not. Metaphysical change is not real. It does not work. We cannot speak and make something happen in our favor.
There is no magic formula in this life. Matthew 6:33 says "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV) The things referred to in this scripture verse are food, clothes, and material possessions as noted in Matthew 6:25. God wants us to look for a real relationship with him first. He is not Santa Claus. We should not submit a list of things we want and then expect him to deliver them. I once heard a pastor state "I have tithed all of my life, and I still don't have everything I want, but I have everything I need. Yes, God takes care of His people but we will not all live in plush mansions. I love the point the author makes about none of the prosperity preachers being on the Forbes 500 list! Why not? If their principles really work shouldn't they all be the richest people in the world?
Life can be tough, we can work really hard for decades and watch as the stock market plummets and takes our life savings away. My sister got laid off last week from a company she worked with for over 18 years. A few months ago a colleague who is past retirement age was fired without cause. Loved ones get sick and die, no matter how hard we pray.
Christianity In Crisis really helps to illuminate the Truth. The "Back to Basics" section is invaluable and a must read for every Christian. The Apologetics appendix is an eye opener and something that should be taught in every church to every believer.
Like the faith movement teachers say-"Check it out for yourself, don't just take my word for it!" Do check out the Bible for yourself. Don't let anyone deceive you or misrepresent the Holy word of God. Get your hands on a copy of Christianity in Crisis-21st Century as well to add to your knowledge base.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Is Happiness Possible in These Uncertain Times?
According to Dr. Earl Henslin in his book titled "This is Your Brain On Joy" living a joyful life in spite of troubles is absolutely possible. The good Doctor takes an inside look at the brain and its specific mood functions. Over the past decade Dr. Henslin has worked closely with well-known Dr. Daniel Amen, author of "Change Your Brain, Change Your Life." Together they help people utilizing a revolutionary brain imaging method called SPECT that can pinpoint potential problem areas in the brain such as Attention Deficit Disorder, depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Actual photographs of brains that have gone throgh a SPECT scan powerfully demonstrate healthy brains vs. brains that has problems in a specified area.
Because the brain scans themselves can cost anywhere between $1,500-$5,000, a very useful self-test is offered in chapter four, that may help to begin to identify potential problem areas. The author then takes the time to explain specific, and most of the time easy to implement changes to help remedy potential problem areas. I appreciate that the author utilizes various methods such as nutritional supplements, medication, aromatherapy, foods, cinematherapy, scripture, and humor to help with whatever ails you. Dr. Henslin goes to great lengths to treat the whole person and not just the problem.
The book goes into detail about the five mood centers in the brain. Thankfully, you won't need a medical degree to understand the down to earth terminology used to explain this complex subject matter.
The author uses very helpful tables to explain how different areas of the brain control every day functions such as organization, empathy and emotional control. The table then compares how the healthy mood center functions and how an unhealthy mood center may function.
In addition, personal stories about real people who have struggled with over or under active mood centers helps make this book more real. Sometimes issues like depression are caused by a chemical imbalance, or a result of poor nutrition or wrong thought patterns. The author covers all the bases in a practical and helpful manner. I highly reccomend this book for everybody to read. Even if you don't have a brain issue, you probably know someone who does. This book could help you to better understand your loved ones.
Because the brain scans themselves can cost anywhere between $1,500-$5,000, a very useful self-test is offered in chapter four, that may help to begin to identify potential problem areas. The author then takes the time to explain specific, and most of the time easy to implement changes to help remedy potential problem areas. I appreciate that the author utilizes various methods such as nutritional supplements, medication, aromatherapy, foods, cinematherapy, scripture, and humor to help with whatever ails you. Dr. Henslin goes to great lengths to treat the whole person and not just the problem.
The book goes into detail about the five mood centers in the brain. Thankfully, you won't need a medical degree to understand the down to earth terminology used to explain this complex subject matter.
The author uses very helpful tables to explain how different areas of the brain control every day functions such as organization, empathy and emotional control. The table then compares how the healthy mood center functions and how an unhealthy mood center may function.
In addition, personal stories about real people who have struggled with over or under active mood centers helps make this book more real. Sometimes issues like depression are caused by a chemical imbalance, or a result of poor nutrition or wrong thought patterns. The author covers all the bases in a practical and helpful manner. I highly reccomend this book for everybody to read. Even if you don't have a brain issue, you probably know someone who does. This book could help you to better understand your loved ones.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Think and Make It Happen Book Review
Don't let the limp title of this book fool you. It is not one of those name it and claim it...think happy thoughts and everything will be ok kind of books. Author Dr. Augusto Cury and his highly acclaimed Multi-Focal Intelligence Theory provide a stimulating read in the book subtitled "The breakthrough program for conquering anxiety, overcoming negative thoughts and discovering your true potential."
The book is well written in twelve chapters or 12 "Principles" that include managing your emotions, learn to listen and dialogue, as well as unleash creativity. This is more than your typical self-help book. The concepts are interesting and will be challenging for people to apply consistently in their lives.
Of particular interest is that in nearly every chapter, Dr. Curio, a former devout atheist writes about Jesus Christ, the man and his responses to stress in his own life, how Jesus embraced those who persecuted him, and did not let anything deter him from his life mission. The good doctor studied Jesus's ability to think correctly and his capacity to manage his thoughts in very tense situations. I have never read a book that had the courage to delve into the psychology of Jesus Christ in this way. It is fascinating.
While this book is not written from a religious frame of mind, Dr. Curio embraces religion as an essential part of life.
The book is well written in twelve chapters or 12 "Principles" that include managing your emotions, learn to listen and dialogue, as well as unleash creativity. This is more than your typical self-help book. The concepts are interesting and will be challenging for people to apply consistently in their lives.
Of particular interest is that in nearly every chapter, Dr. Curio, a former devout atheist writes about Jesus Christ, the man and his responses to stress in his own life, how Jesus embraced those who persecuted him, and did not let anything deter him from his life mission. The good doctor studied Jesus's ability to think correctly and his capacity to manage his thoughts in very tense situations. I have never read a book that had the courage to delve into the psychology of Jesus Christ in this way. It is fascinating.
While this book is not written from a religious frame of mind, Dr. Curio embraces religion as an essential part of life.
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