Book Review - When God Makes Lemonade

About the Book
In When God Makes Lemonade, author Don Jacobson has collected real-life stories from around the world that show everyday folks discovering unexpected sweetness in the midst of sour circumstances. Some are funny, others are sobering, and more than a few will bring tears of amazement. But these true stories all have one thing in common: hope.

There's no question that life gives us "lemons," like issues with health, employment, and relationships. But when those lemons become lemonade, it's as refreshing as a cold drink on a hot summer day.

It's true that in life "stuff" happens, but as you'll see in these stories, lemonade happens too!

My Take on the Book
This is the type of book that will make you appreciate what you have in life and will lift your spirit and inspire you to do more with your life than you are right now! The underlying theme of this book is a message of hope that God can provide. The book was easy to read and what I loved most about the book was the fact that the stories were short, and as a reader you could easily read a few of these in a short sitting to make the book an easy one to get through. I found the book to be a compelling read and one that I did not want to put down. It is not be easy to endure the lemons, but the lemonade that comes is definitely sweet!

I definitely recommend this to anyone that wants to be inspired, as the book will open your eyes and help you to redefine the way in which you are not only living your life, but the way in which you view your life!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Christian Mama's Guide to the Grade School Years

About the Book
Prepares moms for the time when their school-aged kids take their first few steps into the world and away from mama's nest.

Sending a child off to school is a whole lot more than stocking up on school supplies and packing a (somewhat) healthy lunch. This helpful guidebook walks Christian moms through:

• discovering a long-term vision for the person that Christ has purposed for your child to become
• instilling a sense of "who I am and where I came from" in your child
• choosing a school for your kids
• helping your kids to develop key attributes—courage, kindness, perseverance—that lead to success in school
• dealing with teachers, sports, and lessons
• navigating those difficult conversations that will come sooner rather than later
• a special feature includes sidebars "From the Principal's Office" with insights from a 35-year elementary school principal and educator
• Moms will learn how to cover their children in prayer so that their launch into the world, and away from her control, is done with grace and wisdom—helping them grow into the men and women God intended them to be.

My Take on the Book
I had not read any of the books in the series before, but in reading this I have to say that I loved the topics and how honest and practical the advice that the author gives. I saw one other review that mentioned that there were some concerns regarding the credibility of the author. I thought the advice that she gave was sound but there were a few points where you could tell that she had not yet experienced or explored the area as much as in others. Though I say this, the ideas that she provided were valuable and I found some new ones that I have already started to implement myself. The book looks at both heavy and light-hearted topics and gives parents resources to maneuver through them all. Any parent will gather valuable insights from this book that they can put to good use right away which is part of the power of this book!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Love No Matter What

About the Book
How will you respond when your child makes a decision you don't agree with?

Parents and kids will never agree on everything but what can mom and dad do when that decision—whether a matter of preference, spirituality, or morality—is something they think is totally wrong? Author and speaker Brenda Garrison knows all too well that how parents respond will either build a wall or a bridge between them and their child.

Brenda and her husband were forced to answer this question when their oldest daughter Katie abruptly moved out of the house with no means of support. It was not an illegal or immoral decision, but it was one that wasn't good for her. Their determination to keep an open door of communication is documented not only by their story, but by comments from Katie in each chapter as she offers insights from her own perspective.

Also included are other family scenarios—everything from matters of preference to foolish, immoral, and even illegal decisions—as well as insights into different styles of parenting such as servant, checked-out, gotcha, scared, and controlling parents.

With practical tips and relatable stories, Brenda shares how to model God's parenting style and explains the difference between the parent's responsibilities and the child's, then helps mom and dad discover ways to develop and nurture a relationship with their child that will last a lifetime.

About the Author
Brenda Garrison is an enthusiastic and authentic speaker and author. She ministers to women in all stages of life but especially to moms—encouraging them by keeping it real and based on God's Word. Brenda speaks at retreats, workshops, professional groups, and government agencies that work with families. She has appeared on FamilyLife Today, Moody Radio, and The Harvest Show as well as other media outlets. Brenda and her husband, Gene, have three daughters.

Katie Garrison is a college student and talented artist. Her artwork is currently displayed prominently thoughout her parents' home, but hopefully someday her art will be enjoyed by countless others. Katie will graduate soon with a bachelor's degree in fine arts, with a concentration in 3D studio, after which she plans to pursue a master’s in fine arts.

My Take on the Book
This was a great book that opened my eyes to how I can and should probably respond as a parent as my kids get older and I will not agree with what my daughters choose to do (I know there will be many examples of this in the future). I loved the practicality of this book and the real life scenarios that the author shares as well as the commentary provided by the author's daughter. The book is definitely put together in a way that makes it easy to understand and follow and offers down to earth advice that all parents can learn and grow from. I really enjoyed the spirituality that she was able to incorporate into her parenting that helped her through some of the hardest times and which really helped her to get to a point where she could build an even stronger relationship with her own daughter in the end. This was a powerful book that I would encourage all to read!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - What On Earth Am I Here For

About the Book

Licensed in over 85 languages, The Purpose Driven Life is far more than just a book; it is a guide to a spiritual journey... Once you take this journey, you’ll never be the same again.

On your journey you’ll find the answers to 3 of life’s most important questions:

• The Question of Existence: Why am I alive?
• The Question of Significance: Does my life matter?
• The Question of Purpose: What on earth am I here for?

Living out the purpose you were created for moves you beyond mere survival and success to a life of significance—the life you were meant to live.

Five benefits of knowing your purpose:

1. It will explain the meaning of your life.
2. It will simplify your life.
3. It will focus your life.
4. It will increase your motivation.
5. It will prepare you for eternity.

This new, expanded edition has been created for a new generation of reader.

A New Edition for a New Generation! 4 NEW FEATURES

• Video introductions by Rick Warren to chapters 1-40
• An audio Bible study at the end of each chapter, with over 30 additional hours of teaching by Rick Warren.
• Two new bonus chapters on the most common barriers to living a purpose driven life.
• Access to an online community where you can discuss your journey to purpose, get feedback, and receive support.

My Take on the Book
I had read the original version of this book and loved it, and this book takes the teaching of Rick Warren to the next level. Not only do you get the same message that was offered earlier, but it has been expanded and offers a ton of more resources that will open your mind to the possibilities of the Bible and how it can change your life. On top of this, the online community and resources that are now available make the text even more expanded and offer you an amazing opportunity to come closer to God in so many ways! I highly recommend this book to all!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Men of Sunday

About the Book
Step into the locker rooms and living rooms of NFL players and personnel to see how a close relationship with God guides football’s biggest stars.

Compiled from dozens of interviews, Men of Sunday marks the intersection of two Sunday traditions: faith and football. Inspired by the league's "systemic shift" toward embracing Christianity, Bloomberg writer Curtis Eichelberger shows how God is a source of comfort when facing the unique challenges of life in the NFL and the everyday challenges of maintaining strong families and building character. Hear in their own words how the NFL’s greatest rely on their faith to overcome drug abuse, family crises, injuries, and temptations resulting from fame and fortune.

Featured personalities include

• New York Jets running back LaDainian Tomlinson
• Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers
• Former Chicago Bears middle linebacker Mike Singletary
• Cincinnati Bengals coach Marvin Lewis
• Former Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy
• San Diego Chargers pastor Shawn Mitchell
• Danisha Rolle, wife of former Tennessee and Baltimore defensive back Samari Rolle
• And many more

Men of Sunday's readers—"normal folks . . . who go to church on Sunday, come home to root for their team, and who live a righteous life . . . most days"—will learn to tackle their own obstacles by trusting the Lord.

My Take on the Book
I have read this author's writing before on Bloomburg, so I was familiar with him, but I have to say that I did not know what to expect when it came to reading this as it was a different angle than I had seen him write in before. As I got into the book though I could see that the strong writing that  have seen form this author continues in this book and his passion for football and the players in the game is definitely shown throughout the book.

If you are a fan of football, you will definitely want to read this book. The author brings out the faith of many well known players and you get to see these players in a completely different light. They become more than just big names on the field, but real people dealing with challenges and tribulations just like the rest of us.

If you are a football fan, pick this book up, you will not be disappointed!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Anger Workbook

About the Book
Don't Let Anger Take Control!

Most people stereotype anger by assuming that it always results in shouting, slamming fists, or throwing things. However, anger is not that one-dimensional.

In fact, all of the statements below represent feelings of anger:

When I am displeased with someone I shut down any communication and withdraw.

• I get very tense inside as I tackle a demanding task.
• I feel frustrated when i see someone else having fewer struggles than I.
• There are times when my discouragement just makes me want to call it quits.
• I can be quite aggressive in my business pursuits or even when just playing a game.
• We all deal with anger in our lives, whether it be in a subtle or violent manner.
• Being angry can involve such emotional expressions as frustration, irritability, annoyance, aggravation, blowing off steam, or fretting.

The good news is anger can be managed. In The Anger Workbook Les Carter, Ph.D., and Frank Minirth, M.D., offer a unique 13-step interactive program that will help you:

• Identify the best ways to handle anger
• Understand how pride, fear, loneliness, and inferiority feed your anger
• Uncover and eliminate the myths that perpetuate anger-"Letting go of my anger means I am conceding defeat" or "No one understand my unique problems."
• Identify learned patterns or relating, thinking, and behaving in your life that influence your anger.

My Take on the Book
This was an interesting take on anger and how the bible and the teachings of the bible tie into anger management. So many of us deal with anger in so many different ways, but this book was so well written and for anyone that is spiritual you will appreciate how this is written and how it is helps all to identify and use the resources that you need to deal with the anger that you have. This book was so easy to read and I found so many great resources for myself and for the people around me (as I have already shared this with others). While I have never had a huge problem with anger, there have been times, and this book was a great addition to my own learning and development as a person and as a husband and father!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Wisdom Meets Passion: When Generations Collide and Collaborate

About the Book
Baby Boomers have relied on wisdom to pave the way to success. Education, knowledge, investing strategies, 401ks, real estate leverage and carefully contrived career paths were expected to lead to success in one's golden years. seeing the overall failure of that formulaic approach to life, younger generations today have relied on passion as the guiding principle for their version of success.

And yet both are necessary. Regardless of age, those using wisdom only to achieve their goals are likely to end up disappointed and unfulfilled-feeling as though they have been chasing empty rainbows. Those trusting passion alone may lose the power of wisdom and end up underachieving, falling short of their potential and unable to attain their worthy goals.

Wisdom without passion is a Ferrari with no gas in the tank. Passion without wisdom is a tricked out 57 Chevy with no steering wheel. In Wisdom Meets Passion, bestselling author Dan Miller and his entrepeneurial son Jared Angaza show how to blend the two-equipping you to accomplish your greatest goals, experience the thrill of fulfilling relationships, create meaningful work, and to complete your purpose and calling here on earth no matter which age group you represent.

My Take on the Book
This book makes you truly think about the goals and vision that you have for your life. The authors make some very salient points about what it takes to be successful and show that any good idea must have a combination of wisdom and passion behind it to make it successful! In this book you learn about how the traits that are unique to you can be combined with a true passion for what you are working on to make something extraordinary. The book was practical and timely and anyone in today's society will gather some very important lessons from reading this and sharing it with others! By the end of this book, if you are like me, you will be clamoring to read it again as there are so many great ideas shared that will help you in all aspects of your life!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Searchers: A Quest for Faith in the Valley of Doubt

About the Book 
Never before had they known such hope.

In a world drenched in violence and oppression, here was a man armed with a message of peace and freedom. Into lives nearly overwhelmed by grief and sorrow, he brought compassion and healing and the deepest joy. To people who felt like outcasts and aliens, he showed the way home. And then, in one devastating night, all their hopes collapsed.

This is where our story begins—in the valley of despair. It is a tale of two friends, a stranger, and a search for truth in a world gone mad with doubt.

Historian Joseph Loconte unlocks the meaning of their exchange, set in the chaotic days following the execution of Jesus of Nazareth. Drawing from literature, film, philosophy, history, and politics, Loconte shows how this biblical drama is an integral part of our own story.

Sooner or later, we will find ourselves among the searchers.

My Take on the Book
This book takes a multi-faceted look at faith through both a historical, philosophical and biblical point of view. The book makes you think deeply about the topics presented and I found myself being drawn further and further into the book. What I liked most about the book is that it does not hit you over the head with the beliefs of the author, but instead he lets you make your own decisions based on what he presents. I also liked the history lessons within the book. Whether you are a person who readily reads the bible and are a student of biblical history, you are still given a good basis for understanding the background of the points presented which to me made a lot of sense!

I enjoyed this book and will definitely be sharing this soon with others!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Building Family Ties with Faith, Love, and Laughter

About the Book
Creative ideas, real-life stories, and Scriptural guidance for being the family that loves being together.

Building Family Ties with Faith, Love, and Laughter is the second in the Faithful Family series where Dave applies his practical, conversational, and humorous approach to the challenge of building strong spiritual ties to each other as a family. Topics include: Contentment, Security, Loyalty, Gratitude, Spontaneity, Communication, and more.

Preaching is his gift, but Pastor Dave Stone's family is his life's blessing. And after raising three kids of his own, as well as shepherding the diverse families of his congregation, his heart and passion for building strong families rings louder than ever. He knows that raising faithful families is a key to the future of the church.

Parents can follow easy, practical suggestions that will transform their families such as:

• creating a family mission statement 
• practicing intentional spontaneity 
• pledging to enjoy family dinners together on a regular basis 

It’s never too soon, or too late, to begin applying the tried and true wisdom this veteran of building strong families has to share.

My Take on the Book
Any parent hopes for a family that runs smoothly without strife, anger, resentment or any other negative issues arising, but inevitably these issues do rear their heads every now and again , and in some families more than others. This book takes a look at how you can do your best to bring your family together and build memories that will last a lifetime. The book is completely practical and easy to read. You can easily get through the entire book in a very short amount of time, and when you are done you have so many resources and tricks that you have been given to try with your own family. What I loved best about the book were the stories that were shared. Most of the stories were very touching and even humorous, but more together, they showed families working, and these examples are ones that can help families that are struggling come back from the edge of crisis (if they are there) or more into an even keel. This was a great book that I would highly recommend!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Raising Your Kids to Love the Lord

About the Book
Practical life lessons, real-life stories, and Scriptural truths for being the family that glorifies God.

Preaching is his gift, but Pastor Dave Stone's family is his passion and his life's blessing. Dave and Beth have been married 27 years and have raised three children, as well as shepherd the diverse families of their congregation. Raising faithful families is a key to the future of the church. Raising Your Kids to Love the Lord is the first of three books in the Faithful Family series where Dave applies his practical, conversational, and humorous approach to the challenge of building a strong spiritual foundation for the family. Some of the topics include: Authenticity, Discipline, Modeling Godly Principles, Sharing the Load, and more.

It's never too soon, or too late, to begin applying the tried and true wisdom this veteran of building strong families has to share.

Brimming with warmth and humor, Stone gives parents creative examples of how to help kids develop their own faith with ideas such as:

• praying at significant times 
• encouraging kids to display Scripture in special places around the home 
• serving others alongside their parents.

My Take on the Book 
This is a book that any family should read, especially if you are having difficulty at hoe, but even if not, this is the type of book that will change the way in which you think about your family and your family dynamic. Recently we have been having a lot of issues at home with our oldest, and no matter what we say, or what we tell her about what God wants her to do, she tends to do the exact opposite (or so it seems). This book provides a practical approach to bringing your family back on an even keel and allows your family to move again in a positive new direction. This is definitely a book that will help you to instill the importance of God in your children's lives, and if you are like me you will find that a weight has been lifted once you read this book, and you will feel more prepared to start each day!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Empty Promises

About the Book
We all long for more of something in our lives. In our endless pursuit to feel worth and acceptance we find ourselves sacrificing everything for the promise to be a little more beautiful, a little richer, a little more powerful and successful, a little more loved.

How do we break free from these empty pursuits and start chasing the only Promise that will ever satisfy? How do we uncover the hidden idols that are driving us and turn our devotion toward the one true God?

Join Pastor and best-selling author Pete Wilson in discovering the joy and freedom that comes with seeking after God with your whole life. Learn how to replace, and not just relinquish, life's empty promises by turning your focus and worship toward Him. It is the only thing that will set you absolutely free from the endless pursuit of everything else.

My Take on the Book
The author makes you look at the idea of idolatry. He makes us re-examine our own beliefs in God as well as other idols that we may hold dear to ourselves either externally or within out heart of hearts. This is a powerful book that truly makes you think deeply about what really matters and how you should really only place God at the center of your life and how you can do this. I hold no assumptions that this process will be easy, but the author provides some great food for thought and I know that I will be revisiting this numerous times in the future as I work to try and live in the image that I know God would like me to live.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Thunder Dog

About the Book
A blind man and his guide dog show the power of trust and courage in the midst of devastating terror.
It was 12:30 a.m. on 9/11 and Roselle whimpered at Michael’s bedside. A thunderstorm was headed east, and she could sense the distant rumbles while her owners slept. As a trained guide dog, when she was “on the clock” nothing could faze her. But that morning, without her harness, she was free to be scared, and she nudged Michael’s hand with her wet nose as it draped over the bedside toward the floor. She needed him to wake up.

With a busy day of meetings and an important presentation ahead, Michael slumped out of bed, headed to his home office, and started chipping away at his daunting workload. Roselle, shivering, took her normal spot at his feet and rode out the storm while he typed. By all indications it was going to be a normal day. A busy day, but normal nonetheless. Until they went into the office.

In Thunder Dog, follow Michael and his guide dog, Roselle, as their lives are changed forever by two explosions and 1,463 stairs. When the first plane struck Tower One, an enormous boom, frightening sounds, and muffled voices swept through Michael’s office while shards of glass and burning scraps of paper fell outside the windows.

But in this harrowing story of trust and courage, discover how blindness and a bond between dog and man saved lives and brought hope during one of America’s darkest days.





My Take on the Book
This was an amazing book and a testament to the remarkable work that service animals do for the people that they are partnered with. I have seen families training dogs to do this type of work, but it is not until you read accounts like this that you are touched and see the importance of these animals and the amazing things that they do on a daily basis.

The book brings out the special relationship between the author and Roselle. While I do not own a dog, but instead two cats, I can definitely appreciate what Roselle did for her owner and can wish that cats could be trained similarly (but I have not heard of this happening, at least not yet).



This book will inspire and motivate you and will help you to gain a new found respect to all that train or have service animals. This is a read that will give you an unprecedented first-hand account of the events on September 11. You will leave reading this book changed for the better!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
 
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Book Review - Surviving the Serengeti

About the book


As a brutal business environment meets a soft economy, business leaders and managers are looking for sources of both inspiration and survival. This compelling new fable offers a riveting tale of life in Africa’s Serengeti and what lessons it holds for today’s beleaguered business people and struggling society.


The 1.5 million wildebeest rely on stubborn endurance and support from the herd to survive; the alligator is opportunistic; the cheetah ruthlessly effective; the giraffe embodies grace, the lion a master strategist, the mongoose is a risk-taker, the elephant is an excellent communicator.

So what animal are you?

What’s your survival strategy? 

The travelers in the safari see in the Serengeti the essence of life itself, and find a roadmap for mastering the difficulties and struggles we all experience every day.

Surviving Your Serengeti provides a larger-than-life metaphor for the problems and struggles humans and companies experience. The story reveals the primordial skills for overcoming adversity, conquering one’s fears and ultimately triumphing over all challenging conditions.


My Take on the Book

This book was full of interesting metaphors and comparisons for how your style is like different types of animals in the Serengeti. I find that for myself I am an elephant, but I plan to read through this yet again to gain a better understanding of all of the animal types and how they fit into the structure that is my own office.

The book was an easy read and I found myself just flying through the pages of this book and know that you will also. I have to say that much of the ease of this book was the rich description that was shared by the author itself. His detailed descriptions of the animals almost make you think (in your mind's eye) that you are there with the animals.

The book also is quite captivating and it allows you to gain so many insights into your own strengths and weaknesses. On top of this the book helps you identify the strengths in others and how you can best utilize these strengths to move forward in a positive direction.

I recommend this book to anyone looking to grow personally or professionally. The book will make you think and consider the possibilities that exist within your own work environment.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
 
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Book Review - The Seraph Seal

About the Book
An epic tale of good and evil based on the four horsemen of the Apocalypse found in Revelation.

Using the four horsemen of the Apocalypse to symbolize the four Gospels, four transcendentals, and four forces of the universe (air, water, earth, and fire), Sweet and Wagner weave a fast-paced, end-times tale of good vs. evil and the promise of a new dawn for humanity.

Set in 2048, when planet Earth is suffering from the damaging effects of years of misuse and abuse, cultural history professor Paul Binder receives a mysterious letter that leads him to examine a lost 2nd-century Diatessaron manuscript. Ancient prophecies, cryptic letters, and strange events set him on a course to uncover the missing clues that could lead humanity into a new age. Layered with forgotten symbolism from the ancient, Jewish, and Christian traditions, the novel is a type of engaged fiction in which the main character's lost journal serves as a guide to the reader in interpreting clues and understanding the novel's conclusion.


My Take on the Book
 This book has it all, history, art, suspense, and action all in one. This book reminds me some of The DaVinci Code, but revolves around end times which leads to much suspense and anticipation.

What I found interesting from this book was the connections it makes to so many different religious texts. I have read Revelation but have not read the other texts referenced in this book such as: the Kabbalah, and the Mayan calendar. I learned a lot, and though this was a fiction book, it had much connection to non-fiction works that I have read in the past.

The book makes you think and consider your own beliefs about the end of times and what you would do in such situations. The book is an amazing, fun read and though the book is 420 pages, you completely get engrossed as a reader and will breeze through the text without any problem!

I do recommend this book to anyone that loves adventure and mystery. There is connection to spirituality but it does not detract from the excitement you will find from reading this book!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews? Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader Questions?Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Doing Virtous Business

About the Book
Critics of Capitalism view big businesses as insatiable masters of the universe with little regard for the public, and label those who create wealth as greedy, malicious, and unscrupulous. In this insightful and original book, Theodore Roosevelt Malloch answers these charges head-on with the bold idea that the creation of wealth by virtuous means is the most important thing we can do for ourselves and for others.

Doing Virtuous Business explains the true purpose of business and illuminates the connection between a free economy and religious liberty. Drawing from the notion of "social capital" that has been developed by generations of scholars, Malloch adds the concept of "spiritual capital" as a foundation for social progress and also a necessity for responsible and successful enterprise. He details the virtues that sustain a business and a free market -- virtues that are critical to the emerging global economy.

Malloch reveals that a company's soul determines its "spiritual capital," an equally imperative foundation to success. From Wal-Mart to IBM, Malloch demonstrates how companies that operate on ethical models informed by spiritual traditions have outperformed their competitors. This book is a welcome moral defense of free enterprise and a sensible guide for achieving the ideal of virtuous business.

My Take on the Book
It was seem to be against the capitalist approach to use virtue in business affairs, but the author in this book shows the reader many great examples of companies that are doing just that. While the author does mention that being virtuous is not easy, it does lead to many amazing results and provides the businesses with new was to be successful in an ever-changing world.

What I liked about this book was that the author has done a great job at sharing virtue through stories and down-to-earth examples so that anyone can follow along. He also uses a wide array of people and professions to pull his information. This both strengthens and solidifies the importance of using this information in your own professional capacity.

This is the type of book that I would like to share with many of the students that I work with so that can see (in practical terms) the importance of holding true to a high ethical code and having strong virtues and morals. One of the lines that will definitely stick with me is when the author mentions that doing good is just good business, boy is he right!

The book is definitely applicable to so many people in pretty much any professional capacity. I would highly recommend all people, whether currently working or not to read this and share it wit others, you will not be disappointed.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
 
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Book Review - Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado

I recently read the another one of Max Lucado's books called OUT LIVE YOUR LIFE The title was intriguing and I was eager to begin reading. First of all the book was easy to read and understand. Max gave excellent examples of how we ordinary people can make a difference in the lives of others.In fact his words were "You were made to make a difference" Max challenges the reader to reconsider your role in the world.

To begin with, Max talks directly to those of us who are not wealthy, we may have no position in society, who may volunteer already in the community, you work or worked hard, pay your taxes, attend church, etc. He puts no minimum or maximum age on his challenge either. Now of course this does not discount those who are wealthy or who have a position in our society. But the challenge is there: Love those in need and when you do you are showing love for Jesus.

Jesus came to Earth to show us how we can make a difference in the lives of others. He provided many examples in his life and Max illustrates his examples by using The Bible. So how does that apply to our lives? Here are several examples from the book.

Some needs can be met without cost: encourage someone, listen to someone, offer to babysit for a single mom, read to children or help children to learn to read and that includes adults, cut someone's lawn for them, offer to drive them to doctor appointments or grocery shopping, stand up for what is right and remove your biases about how a person looks, his religion, his position in society or the world, serve food at a local soup kitchen, etc.

Here area few examples that would require some funding: invite someone who is alone for dinner or take them a meal, raise money ( as a nine year old boy did) to help a village in Africa dig wells so they would have clean water to drink, adopt a child overseas who needs an education and food to eat (you never know if this child we become a doctor in their own country, purchase a meal for a homeless person, gather clothing to take to a shelter, make blankets or purchase blankets for the babies of teenage mothers, women and their children in shelters, homeless people who may have a church or shelter at night, contribute money to the Heifer project so a family could purchase chickens , tools, whatever so they can make a living and raise out of the poverty they currently have in their lives, and more .

You could easily brainstorm ways to "out live your life" with family and friends. You can easily make a difference in someone's life.But remember that you cannot out live your life if you cannot get beyond you judgments about others. You biases must cease in order to do the work of Jesus on Earth.

Please before you involve yourself in service at any level, ask yourself why you are doing this. Are you doing it to be recognized by others? Will you be disappointed if you are not recognized? If you are performing works of service to have recognition, then you are doing it for the wrong reasons. Desire to serve God in any way you can. God will notice!

At the end of the book is a section of Discussion and Action, so the book can be used by groups. There are other resources available to enrich the experience and discussion also.

Will you take the challenge of "out living your life"? Would you be able to find a way to help another person in our community or in our world that would change their lives? Remember you were made to make difference in this world. You can begin today.


If you want this book as a part of your own library you can find it on Amazon!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Terms of Use for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Language of Love & Respect

If this book sounds like something that would interest you, it can be found on the Thomas Nelson website or at Amazon.com.


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Book Review - 5 Cities That Ruled The World

Are you interested in both history and theology? Are you the type of person that enjoys a quick read that doesn't let you down? If you said yes to both of these questions, then this book is the right one for you.

I was given the chance to review this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing and, as I always enjoy learning more about history, I was excited to read this book. The book itself examines, as the title implies, 5 cities that ruled the world: Jerusalem; Athens, Rome, London & New York.

While a true history could probably take volumes to write on each of these cities, the author, Douglas Wilson condenses the pertinent information down to a mere200 pages of jam-packed information on the cities themselves.

I was amazed at how deftly the author examined the main points in history so that the non-historian could get a picture of the world through both a theological and historical lens while keeping the material simple and easy to understand.

I learned a lot in this book, and now am looking for more titles form the same author! I would recommend this book to all!

If this book sounds like something that would interest you, you can read a few pages by clicking here. If you have decided that this book is a must have it can be found on the Thomas Nelson website or at Amazon.com.


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Book Review - Finding Purpose Beyong Our Pain

Within this book, Drs. Paul Meier and David Henderson work hard to bring the reader beyond the surface to examine God's hand in the struggles that all of us deal with on a daily basis. They even challenge us to move beyond the pain to see what the underlying meaning behind the pain may be and what God has in store for all of us.

In reading this book, I found that the book itself was an enjoyable read. While there are some areas that seemed to gloss over the meat that could lie within, overall, the book itself was thought provoking (like any good book should be) and made me think behind the pain that I or my friends and family have gone through and how I may be able to help others through these periods of trial.

While I can relate the idea that all of us who believe in a higher being have asked the question "Does God still love me? Is there a purpose for all this pain?" the book does  good job at helping us as readers to move toward acceptance of the life situation that effects us and moves us toward seeing the divine intervention that seems to have a place in all of the pain that we may encounter through our lives.

I would recommend this book for anyone who is going though times of struggle right now, or those that are friends or family members of those that are dealing with similar issues. While it does not go into depth on all of the areas within the book, the book does a good job at helping you to know your place in the scheme of things and helps you to do what you can do to move forward with your life.

You can find this book at Amazon or at the Thomas Nelson site. If the book sounds like something you think you might enjoy I encourage you to read a few pages and review for yourself whether you would benefit from the thoughts and perspectives of the authors.


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Book Review - Encyclopedia of Haunted Places, Revised Edition

Just in time for Halloween, you can head out to potentially see some real spirits (not just those looking for candy! I have always been interested to the idea of ghosts/spirits lingering in our world. This interest goes back to my childhood, where I read all that I could regarding other-realm corporal bodies.

This book is brought to us by Jeff Belanger who has been studying and writing about the supernatural for regional and national publications since 1997. He’s the founder of Ghostvillage.com, the largest supernatural community on the Web, and the author of more than 10 books, including The World’s Most Haunted Places, Our Haunted Lives, and The Ghost Files. Belanger lectures throughout the United States and has appeared on more than 100 radio and television programs worldwide, including The History Channel, The Travel Channel, Living TV (UK), The Maury Show, The CBS News Early Show, National Public Radio, The BBC, Australian Radio Network, Coast to Coast AM, and The ‘X’ Zone. He currently haunts Massachusetts with his wife, Megan, and daughter, Sophie. Needless to say he has truly thrown himself into his work and knows what he is talking about.

I enjoyed the flow of this publication and the ease at searching location in both the United States and in foreign countries. Living in Michigan, I was excited to see a few locations in my home State. I hope to have the opportunity to see these locations in the future to see if I am lucky enough to experience what the author has experiences in many different locations.

As the author states:

To truly understand a haunted location, you need to get local. What makes this book unique is that the entries are written by people who have done the haunted field work to back up each ghostly claim -- hearsay and urban legends weren’t enough. Each entry combines the history, the tragedies, and the eyewitness accounts of each haunted locale.

At only $19.99 this book is a great deal and is a great resource for those of you, who, like me, are interested in learning more about the spiritual world and the history around places that have been found to be haunted. The book is available at Barnes & Noble, Borders, Amazon.com, and many other booksellers.


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