The Jesus Mission by Steven Scott

In The Jesus Mission by Steven Scott, readers are faced with the fact that Jesus accomplished twenty-seven missions while on Earth, and He assigned four to his followers. Scott seeks to answer the question “How do I know what God wants from me?” The book is divided into three parts – intimacy with God, the way He wants it; the missions Christ has given to you; and what you never knew about Jesus that will change your life. The four missions Scott addresses are: 1) become more intimate with God, 2) accelerate your personal growth, 3) empower other believer to better follow Christ, and 4) impact the lives of nonbelievers. This was a challenging, well written book that looks at the common questions believers have regarding what to do with their life. While I would recommend this book to a friend, it's not an "all-time favorite" of mine.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

“When Work & Family Collide: Keeping Your Job from Cheating Your Family” by Andy Stanley

In this book, Andy Stanley challenges readers to re-evaluate their priorities and make tough decisions to ensure the well-being of the family unit. Acknowledging that we only have so many hours in a day, Stanley encourages readers to “cheat” their workplace in order to prioritize their family. It is important to note that cheating does not refer to any sort of illegal activity; rather, it is the idea of “choosing to give up one thing in hope of gaining something else of greater value” (p1). Stories, both Stanley’s and those of others, are included throughout the book and really exemplify the point he is trying to make. Additionally, the Biblical story of Daniel and its implications are discussed at great length. All in all, I found this to be an enjoyable, easy read. Now actually implementing the principles discussed is another story entirely!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review, but the opinions expressed in this post are mine.

Torn by Jud Wilhite

Torn: Trusting God When Life Leaves You in Pieces is an excellent read. We all face trials in life. This book encourages readers to persevere and to cling to God through it all. The book is divided into two parts: trusting God when torn and putting the pieces back together. If you’re struggling now, have struggled in the past, or expect to struggle in the future, this book is worth your read. It’s written in an easy to understand style that was easy to relate to.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Stumbling Into Grace by Lisa Harper

In this engaging book, Lisa Harper shares her heart, life, and insight with readers. The subtitle of the book, “Confessions of a Sometimes Spiritually Clumsy Woman” is so fitting. This book is written in a real, let’s sit down and chat sort of conversational style. Harper is real and has no problem sharing personal stories – even some less than flattering ones! Using stories as a way to introduce Biblical concepts, Harper writes in such a way that really pulls the reader in to what she is trying to say. The book is divided into three sections: real life, real gifts, and real growth. She ends the chapters with a prayer, questions for personal reflection and/or group discussion, and a journal entry prompt. Through this, it is apparent that Harper wants the reader to really engage and internalize what she is saying. This is more than just a book to read. It’s truth to sink in. To change. To transform. I thorough enjoyed reading this book and felt that I had left a good, funny conversation with Harper.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

A great read!

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Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado

In Cure for the Common Life, Lucado encourages readers to leave behind ordinary and pursue their sweet spot. Through analyzing your past, considering your S.T.O.R.Y., and making a big deal out of God, you can cure the common life. This book was interesting to read and causes the reader to challenge the status quo. A sweet spot discovery guide is included as well as helpful insights to decode your kid’s code. This book would be a good read for anyone who feels stuck in the day-to-day aspects of life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Life, In Spite of Me: Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice by Kristen Anderson

Life, In Spite of Me was a gripping story of Kristen Anderson’s journey through life, attempted suicide, and the restoration brought through the grace and work of God. Anderson grabs the reader with her story, actively drawing them in to her experiences. Through it all, God is exalted and His redemptive work is exemplified. This is a great book to read, but be aware it deals with a very serious topic – attempted suicide.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review, but the opinions expressed in this post are mine.