045 - Saint Francis

It’s hard to write a bad biography over an incredible life. I spent the last couple days reading through Robert West’s biography on the life of Saint Francis. It was incredible. Actually I should say he was incredible. West does an excellent job of writing in a way that doesn’t distract from the main character, but merely highlights him even further. Saint Francis was an incredible man of God and West simply points out that fact time and again.

Normally I wouldn’t make such a big deal about it, but the way this book is bound and the texture of the cover was awesome. It’s smaller than a normal book, and has a rougher texture to the cover than normal books. I love it. I’m pretty picky about how a book looks and feels, but this one blew me away. Good work, Thomas Nelson.

Also, I’m supposed to let you know that I was given a free review copy of the book, but that has nothing to do with whether or not I liked it.

044 - Jungle Warefare

The book jungle warfare was a book I reluctantly agreed to read through. I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy it or even if it would be good. But since I was looking for something to read and it was available on Thomas Nelson’s website I requested it.

As I first opened it up I realized the book was designed to be read through as 22-day devotional (of sorts). The second part of the book is designed to be a Q&A with the author. I ignored the 22-day format and read straight through the book, however unlike many books I felt that this one read quite easily straight through. The book takes survival guide articles and applies them to Christians in the business world. I’m not in the business world, but I still thought the book was an excellent read and offered a great deal of insights for the Christian who finds himself in a sales position. If you’re a Christian individual who is having difficulty navigating the world of sales I would highly recommend picking this book up.

Also, I’m supposed to let you know that I was given a free review copy of the book, but that has nothing to do with whether or not I liked it.

043 - Fearless

What would life be like if you were able to live without fear? I don’t know about you, but my life would be drastically different. Max Lucado explores why Christians should be able to live without fear. His book covers several of the major fears people face. I actually used the book along with the small group study and it was excellent. The only problem I have with Lucado’s book is that it turns out like all of Lucado’s books. Same material different packaging. I really like Lucado’s writing, but wonder how hard it would be to come up with some new material. Perhaps he could write a book for people who are already walking with God and have a strong relationship with Him.

Also, I’m supposed to let you know that I was given a free review copy of the book, but that has nothing to do with whether or not I liked it.

042 - Same Kind of Different as Me

Homelessness is rampant. People without places to lay their heads are found each day. Sometimes it’s easy to simply ignore them and keep walking. This book is about what happens when a homeless man and a wealthy art dealer begin a friendship. The book tackles every issue from modern day slavery to racism to brotherly love to faith. Even though the men’s friendships take center stage the story also includes the faith of a woman named Miss Debbie.

All in all this book was a decent read. I would recommend it mostly because it will cause the reader to think differently about homelessness. Hopefully it will change the hearts and attitudes of those who read it to help them realize that the homeless are people too.

Also, I’m supposed to let you know that I was given a free review copy of the book, but that has nothing to do with whether or not I liked it.

041 - The Jesus You Can't Ignore

I’m a huge fan of John MacArthur. I’ve read several of his books and love his commentaries, so obviously I was super excited to get a chance to review one of his upcoming books. The Jesus You Can’t Ignore was an excellent read that included a ton of great material. The book walks the reader through several of Jesus’ bold confrontations and the social implications from that time period. Pharisees and Difficult teachings are the real emphasis of the book. MacArthur offers insights into what the various passages imply to the original readers.

I would recommend this book to anyone seeking insights into some of the tougher passages of the New Testament. Any pastor or teacher should also check this book out because of the insights for their teaching.

Also, I’m supposed to let you know that I was given a free review copy of the book, but that has nothing to do with whether or not I liked it.

040 - Jesus Calling

The year long devotional by Sarah Young was an interesting read. I normally don’t use a devotional, but understand the value of one to many people. I used this devotional for a week just to see what it would be like. It was very interesting and Sarah goes about her topic in a unique way. Each devotional is written from Jesus to the reader. Each day’s devotional could be read in 45 seconds or less, and takes very little time to read through the additional 2-4 Scripture verses at the end of the devotional.

I would probably recommend this book for someone just getting started in devotional reading. In just a couple minutes a day you can have a short quiet time with God. It’s a great place to start. The packaging of the book is also very nice. Leather bound with a ribbon bookmark for keeping track of your place is really nice. The book would make an excellent gift and includes a place in the front to write to whom the book is given and who is giving it.

Also, I’m supposed to let you know that I was given a free review copy of the book, but that has nothing to do with whether or not I liked it.