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Psalm Hymns
Volume Five, Psalms 107-150
L L Larkins
2024 Finalist
170 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Psalm Hymns: Volume Five, Psalms 107-150 by L. L. Larkins is a spiritual and musical treasure trove that concludes the Old Testament wisdom literature collection. In this volume, the author presents Psalms of celebration, an adaptation of the Psalms suitable for various occasions — personal prayer, praise, liturgical rites, Bible studies, and more. As a music lover, I was blown away by the beauty and variety of the hymns and Psalms within this volume that will appeal to Christians as well as poetry lovers. The book's arrangement is thoughtful and well-organized, making it easy to navigate and find the perfect song for any occasion.
One of my favorite aspects is how Larkins has adapted traditional hymns to fit the original Hebrew Psalms. The melodies are familiar yet fresh, and the lyrics are respectful and accessible. I particularly enjoyed "He Ransomed Me" (Psalm 107) and "My Jesus, I Love Thee" (Psalm 108), which were beautifully rendered in a way that felt both ancient and modern. This book transforms the Psalms into hymns that bring joy to the soul and offer an easy way to give praise to God. For example, Psalm 119 is an acrostic poem that explores the beauty of God's law and its role in our lives, and it is so intelligently rendered that readers can enjoy its musical cadence while absorbing its hidden importance. L. L. Larkins’ creativity and passion shine through Psalm Hymns: Volume Five, Psalms 107-150, a collection that is gorgeous and accessible. This book is a gift of faith and love.
Psalm Hymns: Volume Five, Psalms 107-150 by L. L. Larkins is a spiritual and musical treasure trove that concludes the Old Testament wisdom literature collection. In this volume, the author presents Psalms of celebration, an adaptation of the Psalms suitable for various occasions — personal prayer, praise, liturgical rites, Bible studies, and more. As a music lover, I was blown away by the beauty and variety of the hymns and Psalms within this volume that will appeal to Christians as well as poetry lovers. The book's arrangement is thoughtful and well-organized, making it easy to navigate and find the perfect song for any occasion.
One of my favorite aspects is how Larkins has adapted traditional hymns to fit the original Hebrew Psalms. The melodies are familiar yet fresh, and the lyrics are respectful and accessible. I particularly enjoyed "He Ransomed Me" (Psalm 107) and "My Jesus, I Love Thee" (Psalm 108), which were beautifully rendered in a way that felt both ancient and modern. This book transforms the Psalms into hymns that bring joy to the soul and offer an easy way to give praise to God. For example, Psalm 119 is an acrostic poem that explores the beauty of God's law and its role in our lives, and it is so intelligently rendered that readers can enjoy its musical cadence while absorbing its hidden importance. L. L. Larkins’ creativity and passion shine through Psalm Hymns: Volume Five, Psalms 107-150, a collection that is gorgeous and accessible. This book is a gift of faith and love.
Recommend this book:
God's Love Manual
A How-to Guide for Building Successful Relationships
John K Slater
2024 Honorable Mention
254 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Marriage and love manuals are a dime a dozen unless you are talking about a book like John K. Slater’s God’s Love Manual. This amazing book will give you all the information, skills, and understanding needed to build a poor marriage into a wonderful marriage and a wonderful marriage into a marriage beyond belief. Basing married love upon God’s instructions found in I Corinthians 13, John masterfully navigates what love is and how to use it to grow your marriage. He reminds readers that our differences strengthen and complement each other’s weaknesses, thus uniting us. He shares how to develop and implement boundaries, a key skill to improve relationships. Reading this book will equip you with the skills and knowledge to have a successful and long married life. If this book had been available, I would have made it required reading for every couple who came into my office for counseling. Care enough about your marriage to grow it by practicing the knowledge found in this wonderful book.
God's Love Manual: A How-to Guide for Building Successful Relationships by John K. Slater is one of the best-written books on marriage I have read in my forty-plus years as a pastoral marriage counselor. The style is easy to read and full of John’s life experiences. Each chapter is divided into seven parts: The Chapter Topic, From God’s Perspective, From Vice to Virtue, Final Thoughts, Strategy for Success, Related Scriptures, and Let God Fight the Battle. Today, my wife and I are celebrating forty-six years of married bliss, and the knowledge in this book contains what we used to make our marriage last. The keys to a great marriage presented here will also help in any relationship you have. To make this book even more valuable, John includes a multitude of scriptures, and, in reality, it is God Who will help you improve and keep a great marriage.
Marriage and love manuals are a dime a dozen unless you are talking about a book like John K. Slater’s God’s Love Manual. This amazing book will give you all the information, skills, and understanding needed to build a poor marriage into a wonderful marriage and a wonderful marriage into a marriage beyond belief. Basing married love upon God’s instructions found in I Corinthians 13, John masterfully navigates what love is and how to use it to grow your marriage. He reminds readers that our differences strengthen and complement each other’s weaknesses, thus uniting us. He shares how to develop and implement boundaries, a key skill to improve relationships. Reading this book will equip you with the skills and knowledge to have a successful and long married life. If this book had been available, I would have made it required reading for every couple who came into my office for counseling. Care enough about your marriage to grow it by practicing the knowledge found in this wonderful book.
God's Love Manual: A How-to Guide for Building Successful Relationships by John K. Slater is one of the best-written books on marriage I have read in my forty-plus years as a pastoral marriage counselor. The style is easy to read and full of John’s life experiences. Each chapter is divided into seven parts: The Chapter Topic, From God’s Perspective, From Vice to Virtue, Final Thoughts, Strategy for Success, Related Scriptures, and Let God Fight the Battle. Today, my wife and I are celebrating forty-six years of married bliss, and the knowledge in this book contains what we used to make our marriage last. The keys to a great marriage presented here will also help in any relationship you have. To make this book even more valuable, John includes a multitude of scriptures, and, in reality, it is God Who will help you improve and keep a great marriage.
Recommend this book:
Chain-Breaker
A Daily Devotion
Sarah Morgan
2024 Bronze Medal
44 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Chain-Breaker: A Daily Devotion by author Sarah Morgan is a work of non-fiction in the Christian devotion and study genres. This heartfelt devotional is designed to offer hope and encouragement to those struggling with addiction and incarceration. Through deeply personal letters written to a loved one facing these challenges, Morgan conveys a powerful message of Jesus's unconditional love and the possibility of transformation. Each daily entry includes a scripture passage from the New International Reader's Version, reflective insights, and a prayer, making it accessible to readers who find the Bible challenging. The book emphasizes God's ability to heal, redeem, and break the chains of past wounds and faults, offering a beacon of hope and renewal.
Author Sarah Morgan has created a profoundly touching and spiritually uplifting work that serves as a powerful reminder of the redemptive power of God's love. Morgan's approach of using personal letters filled with compassion and hope creates an intimate and relatable context for the spiritual messages. The author's writing style is warm and accessible, effectively bridging the gap between scripture and everyday life experiences. Morgan's ability to blend Bible passages with personal reflections demonstrates a deep understanding of both spiritual teachings and human struggles. The focus on breaking free from the chains of addiction and past mistakes is handled with sensitivity and hope, offering readers a sense of empowerment and possibility. Morgan's choice to use the New International Reader's Version of the Bible shows thoughtful consideration for readers who might find traditional translations challenging. The daily format of the devotional provides a structured approach to spiritual growth, making it a practical tool for those seeking guidance and encouragement. Overall, Chain-Breaker is a compassionate and inspiring work that not only offers spiritual guidance but also provides a heartfelt reminder of God's boundless grace and the potential for transformation, regardless of one's past.
Chain-Breaker: A Daily Devotion by author Sarah Morgan is a work of non-fiction in the Christian devotion and study genres. This heartfelt devotional is designed to offer hope and encouragement to those struggling with addiction and incarceration. Through deeply personal letters written to a loved one facing these challenges, Morgan conveys a powerful message of Jesus's unconditional love and the possibility of transformation. Each daily entry includes a scripture passage from the New International Reader's Version, reflective insights, and a prayer, making it accessible to readers who find the Bible challenging. The book emphasizes God's ability to heal, redeem, and break the chains of past wounds and faults, offering a beacon of hope and renewal.
Author Sarah Morgan has created a profoundly touching and spiritually uplifting work that serves as a powerful reminder of the redemptive power of God's love. Morgan's approach of using personal letters filled with compassion and hope creates an intimate and relatable context for the spiritual messages. The author's writing style is warm and accessible, effectively bridging the gap between scripture and everyday life experiences. Morgan's ability to blend Bible passages with personal reflections demonstrates a deep understanding of both spiritual teachings and human struggles. The focus on breaking free from the chains of addiction and past mistakes is handled with sensitivity and hope, offering readers a sense of empowerment and possibility. Morgan's choice to use the New International Reader's Version of the Bible shows thoughtful consideration for readers who might find traditional translations challenging. The daily format of the devotional provides a structured approach to spiritual growth, making it a practical tool for those seeking guidance and encouragement. Overall, Chain-Breaker is a compassionate and inspiring work that not only offers spiritual guidance but also provides a heartfelt reminder of God's boundless grace and the potential for transformation, regardless of one's past.
Recommend this book:
Whose Life Are You Living?
Finding and Living Your Unique Purpose in Christ
Curt P. Martin
2024 Silver Medal
402 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Whose Life Are You Living? Finding and Living Your Unique Purpose in Christ is a work of non-fiction in the religion, devotional writing, and life advice subgenres. It is suitable for the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Curt P. Martin. This dedicated work invites readers on a profound exploration of living a purposeful life in Christ. The book challenges the notion of an average Christian life and urges a deeper understanding of one's unique design in Christ. Martin's narrative unfolds as a biblical adventure, where Jesus beckons readers to discover their identity in His eyes and embrace the fullness of God's love. The author skillfully navigates away from presenting mere formulas or religious behaviors, opting for a personal journey with the Holy Spirit.
Author Curt P. Martin’s passionate narration of his subject matter offers a transformative experience for devout readers that’s sure to be enjoyed over and over again. Martin's approach is refreshing, emphasizing a genuine relationship with Christ over rigid doctrines, all penned in a friendly and confident style that exudes positivity. The narrative is a call to awaken to one's unique purpose and live a life aligned with God's will, penned in accessible language so that readers at all levels of spirituality can get something out of it. The emphasis on living Christ's life, free from the constraints of societal expectations, resonates powerfully as the book fosters introspection and a renewed perspective on the Christian journey. Overall, I would certainly recommend Whose Life Are You Living? as a heartfelt exploration that extends beyond religious norms, encouraging readers to embrace the transformative power of living in Christ.
Whose Life Are You Living? Finding and Living Your Unique Purpose in Christ is a work of non-fiction in the religion, devotional writing, and life advice subgenres. It is suitable for the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Curt P. Martin. This dedicated work invites readers on a profound exploration of living a purposeful life in Christ. The book challenges the notion of an average Christian life and urges a deeper understanding of one's unique design in Christ. Martin's narrative unfolds as a biblical adventure, where Jesus beckons readers to discover their identity in His eyes and embrace the fullness of God's love. The author skillfully navigates away from presenting mere formulas or religious behaviors, opting for a personal journey with the Holy Spirit.
Author Curt P. Martin’s passionate narration of his subject matter offers a transformative experience for devout readers that’s sure to be enjoyed over and over again. Martin's approach is refreshing, emphasizing a genuine relationship with Christ over rigid doctrines, all penned in a friendly and confident style that exudes positivity. The narrative is a call to awaken to one's unique purpose and live a life aligned with God's will, penned in accessible language so that readers at all levels of spirituality can get something out of it. The emphasis on living Christ's life, free from the constraints of societal expectations, resonates powerfully as the book fosters introspection and a renewed perspective on the Christian journey. Overall, I would certainly recommend Whose Life Are You Living? as a heartfelt exploration that extends beyond religious norms, encouraging readers to embrace the transformative power of living in Christ.
Recommend this book:
Cure the Cancer of Unforgiveness
Mark Arens
2024 Gold Medal
246 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Cure the Cancer of Unforgiveness by Mark Arens is a Christian theological study that looks into the concept of unforgiveness and its negative impact, likening it to a cancer that affects all areas of life. Arens states that unforgiveness often stems from experiences of betrayal or injury, leading to prolonged suffering and self-destructive behavior, which Satan exacerbates by promoting anger and resentment. He outlines three principles for forgiveness: recognizing Satan’s influence, understanding forgiveness as a release from debt rather than excusing or forgetting the offense, and learning to forgive despite emotional difficulty. He stresses the importance of prayer in seeking divine strength for forgiveness, illustrated by Jesus' example. Arens contrasts true freedom with the suffering caused by unforgiveness, telling readers that forgiveness is a deliberate choice that brings personal peace and liberation, aligning with Jesus' teachings and the process of spiritual growth.
Mark Arens' Cure the Cancer of Unforgiveness offers a worthy argument about the destructive nature of unforgiveness and the transformative power of true forgiveness. His writing is clear and engaging, and he does well in giving readers practical awareness of how unforgiveness can lead to prolonged suffering, self-destruction, and isolation. By outlining key principles, Arens provides a roadmap for readers seeking relief from their own grievances that are actionable, which helps readers in applying them. He also relies upon scripture and biblical examples to solidify what he says and back it up. This is the book's most important feature as a work grounded in the word of God. I liked Arens' emphasis on seeking divine strength and the contrast between forgiveness and reconciliation, which I found particularly noteworthy. Overall, Arens' approach combines theological depth with accessible guidance, making this a valuable read for all who want to overcome obstacles to forgiving and find their personal freedom.
Cure the Cancer of Unforgiveness by Mark Arens is a Christian theological study that looks into the concept of unforgiveness and its negative impact, likening it to a cancer that affects all areas of life. Arens states that unforgiveness often stems from experiences of betrayal or injury, leading to prolonged suffering and self-destructive behavior, which Satan exacerbates by promoting anger and resentment. He outlines three principles for forgiveness: recognizing Satan’s influence, understanding forgiveness as a release from debt rather than excusing or forgetting the offense, and learning to forgive despite emotional difficulty. He stresses the importance of prayer in seeking divine strength for forgiveness, illustrated by Jesus' example. Arens contrasts true freedom with the suffering caused by unforgiveness, telling readers that forgiveness is a deliberate choice that brings personal peace and liberation, aligning with Jesus' teachings and the process of spiritual growth.
Mark Arens' Cure the Cancer of Unforgiveness offers a worthy argument about the destructive nature of unforgiveness and the transformative power of true forgiveness. His writing is clear and engaging, and he does well in giving readers practical awareness of how unforgiveness can lead to prolonged suffering, self-destruction, and isolation. By outlining key principles, Arens provides a roadmap for readers seeking relief from their own grievances that are actionable, which helps readers in applying them. He also relies upon scripture and biblical examples to solidify what he says and back it up. This is the book's most important feature as a work grounded in the word of God. I liked Arens' emphasis on seeking divine strength and the contrast between forgiveness and reconciliation, which I found particularly noteworthy. Overall, Arens' approach combines theological depth with accessible guidance, making this a valuable read for all who want to overcome obstacles to forgiving and find their personal freedom.
Recommend this book:
Biblical Keys to Life
The Questions We Have and the Answers We Need
Latina Nichole Smith
2023 Bronze Medal
300 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Maryann Namayi for Readers' Favorite
Biblical Keys to Life: The Questions We Have and the Answers We Need by Latina Nichole Smith is a thought-provoking book that delves into religion's and philosophy's role in addressing societal dysfunction. Smith clarifies the role of God in our lives and offers insights into finding joy, happiness, purpose, fulfillment, and peace through spiritual guidance. She emphasizes that our relationship with God, not material possessions, provides true fulfillment. Smith asserts there is nothing wrong with being financially blessed, but money and earthly possessions should not be the primary sources of happiness and fulfillment. She emphasizes that only God can save us from the world and ourselves, no matter our situation. It provides a compelling exploration of the journey to acquiring everything God has in store for us.
Biblical Keys to Life explores the challenges of coping with life and offers a unique perspective on the importance of making wise choices. Latina argues that wisdom, as revealed through God’s Word, is the key to overcoming life’s obstacles. By relying on spiritual guidance and taking responsibility for our actions, we can become the best version of ourselves. Throughout the pages, Smith embodies wisdom as the critical solution to escaping the problems we face. She emphasizes the influence of God’s Word on our decisions and choices and highlights the consequences of poor decision-making. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of spirituality and its impact on our daily lives. Smith provides a fresh perspective on finding fulfillment and purpose through a relationship with God.
Biblical Keys to Life: The Questions We Have and the Answers We Need by Latina Nichole Smith is a thought-provoking book that delves into religion's and philosophy's role in addressing societal dysfunction. Smith clarifies the role of God in our lives and offers insights into finding joy, happiness, purpose, fulfillment, and peace through spiritual guidance. She emphasizes that our relationship with God, not material possessions, provides true fulfillment. Smith asserts there is nothing wrong with being financially blessed, but money and earthly possessions should not be the primary sources of happiness and fulfillment. She emphasizes that only God can save us from the world and ourselves, no matter our situation. It provides a compelling exploration of the journey to acquiring everything God has in store for us.
Biblical Keys to Life explores the challenges of coping with life and offers a unique perspective on the importance of making wise choices. Latina argues that wisdom, as revealed through God’s Word, is the key to overcoming life’s obstacles. By relying on spiritual guidance and taking responsibility for our actions, we can become the best version of ourselves. Throughout the pages, Smith embodies wisdom as the critical solution to escaping the problems we face. She emphasizes the influence of God’s Word on our decisions and choices and highlights the consequences of poor decision-making. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of spirituality and its impact on our daily lives. Smith provides a fresh perspective on finding fulfillment and purpose through a relationship with God.
Recommend this book:
The Last Relapse
Realize Your Potential, Reclaim Intimacy, and Resolve the Root Issues of Porn Addiction
Sathiya Sam
2022 Bronze Medal
272 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Last Relapse by Sathiya Sam is a Christian self-help guide for men who are willing to address an addiction to pornography to “Realize Your Potential, Reclaim Intimacy, and Resolve the Root Issues of Porn Addiction”. Sam begins by opening up about his 15-year struggle with pornography addiction and the proactive, Bible-based approach that finally broke the cycle. Broken down into four distinct and interconnecting sections with two to three chapters in each, Sam covers Taking Back Control Of Your Life with the fundamentals, Healing From Your Past to address pain, triggers, and moving forward, Regaining Your Confidence and its requirement to dig deep to answer uncomfortable questions, and Becoming A New Man in which Sam really brings in the spirituality aspects for long-term success.
Sathiya Sam presents a well-written, no-holds-barred book on accountability and healing in The Last Relapse. The narrative is relatable and incredibly intelligent and has the right amount of compassion to make a reader feel comfortable while addressing an addiction that is exceptionally uncomfortable. I was heartened by Sam's profound honesty and saddened by the losses he describes. I am also heartened by the hope and positive reinforcement provided and executed so deftly that there is no doubt that those two things have no meaning if a reader is not willing to put in the hard work. And it will be hard. Scripture is employed heavily as the backbone to Sam's coaching and the Bible-based model works to bring readers who are likely to feel unworthy back into God's embrace. It should be noted that this is a guide geared very specifically toward men, and while most of it can be applied toward addicted women with the mental flip of a pronoun, it might not have the same degree of impact. Overall, this is a fantastically written book that will certainly be a catalyst for change.
The Last Relapse by Sathiya Sam is a Christian self-help guide for men who are willing to address an addiction to pornography to “Realize Your Potential, Reclaim Intimacy, and Resolve the Root Issues of Porn Addiction”. Sam begins by opening up about his 15-year struggle with pornography addiction and the proactive, Bible-based approach that finally broke the cycle. Broken down into four distinct and interconnecting sections with two to three chapters in each, Sam covers Taking Back Control Of Your Life with the fundamentals, Healing From Your Past to address pain, triggers, and moving forward, Regaining Your Confidence and its requirement to dig deep to answer uncomfortable questions, and Becoming A New Man in which Sam really brings in the spirituality aspects for long-term success.
Sathiya Sam presents a well-written, no-holds-barred book on accountability and healing in The Last Relapse. The narrative is relatable and incredibly intelligent and has the right amount of compassion to make a reader feel comfortable while addressing an addiction that is exceptionally uncomfortable. I was heartened by Sam's profound honesty and saddened by the losses he describes. I am also heartened by the hope and positive reinforcement provided and executed so deftly that there is no doubt that those two things have no meaning if a reader is not willing to put in the hard work. And it will be hard. Scripture is employed heavily as the backbone to Sam's coaching and the Bible-based model works to bring readers who are likely to feel unworthy back into God's embrace. It should be noted that this is a guide geared very specifically toward men, and while most of it can be applied toward addicted women with the mental flip of a pronoun, it might not have the same degree of impact. Overall, this is a fantastically written book that will certainly be a catalyst for change.
Recommend this book:
Who Cares?
A Guided Self-Help & Devotional Journal for the Seasons of Life
Dr. Melita Murray-Carney
2022 Silver Medal
132 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Joe Wisinski for Readers' Favorite
Who Cares? A Guided Self-Help & Devotional Journal for the Seasons of Life is written to assist readers in journaling. Author Dr. Melita Murray-Carney suggests that writing down personal thoughts, goals, reactions, and more is a way to enhance our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual lives. The chapter titles, which Murray-Carney calls “seasons,” include “Personal Growth,” “Success,” “Change,” and others. The inspirational concepts that the author introduces are followed by personal applications to individuals, then a Bible verse, and then space for readers to write down their thoughts. The book is beautifully illustrated with photographs of the sea, sky, and landscapes. Murray-Carney begins her book by relating a difficult period she was going through in her own life and how journaling helped her overcome that tough time.
Who Cares? is a helpful resource. Although the book is meant for Christians, with the Bible quoted numerous times, all readers can benefit from it, no matter their faith or lack of faith. Although Dr. Melita Murray-Carney provides spaces for readers to write in, anyone who doesn’t want to write in the book itself could just as easily put their reflections on paper, using the book as a guide. The point, as Murray-Carney notes, is to put your thoughts down in writing. This book would be a thoughtful, appreciated gift for anyone. As Murray-Carney says, “Journaling worked for me, and it can work for you too!” Because Murray-Carney wrote her book while the world suffers through the COVID-19 pandemic, she provides additional help in the appendix for readers; a list of resources that can assist readers with navigating the journey through grief.
Who Cares? A Guided Self-Help & Devotional Journal for the Seasons of Life is written to assist readers in journaling. Author Dr. Melita Murray-Carney suggests that writing down personal thoughts, goals, reactions, and more is a way to enhance our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual lives. The chapter titles, which Murray-Carney calls “seasons,” include “Personal Growth,” “Success,” “Change,” and others. The inspirational concepts that the author introduces are followed by personal applications to individuals, then a Bible verse, and then space for readers to write down their thoughts. The book is beautifully illustrated with photographs of the sea, sky, and landscapes. Murray-Carney begins her book by relating a difficult period she was going through in her own life and how journaling helped her overcome that tough time.
Who Cares? is a helpful resource. Although the book is meant for Christians, with the Bible quoted numerous times, all readers can benefit from it, no matter their faith or lack of faith. Although Dr. Melita Murray-Carney provides spaces for readers to write in, anyone who doesn’t want to write in the book itself could just as easily put their reflections on paper, using the book as a guide. The point, as Murray-Carney notes, is to put your thoughts down in writing. This book would be a thoughtful, appreciated gift for anyone. As Murray-Carney says, “Journaling worked for me, and it can work for you too!” Because Murray-Carney wrote her book while the world suffers through the COVID-19 pandemic, she provides additional help in the appendix for readers; a list of resources that can assist readers with navigating the journey through grief.
Recommend this book:
Be A Giant Killer
Overcoming Your Everyday Goliaths
Ed Norwood
2022 Gold Medal
302 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Be A Giant Killer: Overcoming Your Everyday Goliaths by Ed Norwood is powerful counsel on how to face the adversities or the so-called giants that plague our lives. The book is inspired by a tragic event in the author’s life when, at the age of eight, twenty-seven of his relatives were massacred by cult leader Jim Jones in the Jonestown Guyana Tragedy. It is a shame that bears considerable weight until he comes to an epiphany and realizes how the past can influence the future. By using the biblical Goliath as a metaphorical device, the book walks us through the Seven Giants that are present in our lives and it gives spiritual insights on how to overcome them to achieve what God has planned for us. At the end, it helps us come to the realization that the voice of our giant can be silenced.
Be A Giant Killer may appear like a religious tome from the outside, but it has the potential to appeal even to those who consider themselves spiritual but non-religious, perhaps even to being philosophical nonbelievers. What Ed Norwood addresses is a universal concern: We all have giants in our lives. It can be a neighbor, a relative, or a co-worker from hell, it can be a debilitating disease, or it can be financial concerns. So what is your battle plan? Do you just pick up a stone, fire it from your slingshot, and hurl it at your giant? Easier said than done, right? But Norwood tells you that there is a giant killer inside you, and by equipping yourself with God’s spiritual guidance, you become better armed and prepared in facing your own leviathan. It’s an inspiring book, one that gives you the sense of confidence that your greatness is coming.
Be A Giant Killer: Overcoming Your Everyday Goliaths by Ed Norwood is powerful counsel on how to face the adversities or the so-called giants that plague our lives. The book is inspired by a tragic event in the author’s life when, at the age of eight, twenty-seven of his relatives were massacred by cult leader Jim Jones in the Jonestown Guyana Tragedy. It is a shame that bears considerable weight until he comes to an epiphany and realizes how the past can influence the future. By using the biblical Goliath as a metaphorical device, the book walks us through the Seven Giants that are present in our lives and it gives spiritual insights on how to overcome them to achieve what God has planned for us. At the end, it helps us come to the realization that the voice of our giant can be silenced.
Be A Giant Killer may appear like a religious tome from the outside, but it has the potential to appeal even to those who consider themselves spiritual but non-religious, perhaps even to being philosophical nonbelievers. What Ed Norwood addresses is a universal concern: We all have giants in our lives. It can be a neighbor, a relative, or a co-worker from hell, it can be a debilitating disease, or it can be financial concerns. So what is your battle plan? Do you just pick up a stone, fire it from your slingshot, and hurl it at your giant? Easier said than done, right? But Norwood tells you that there is a giant killer inside you, and by equipping yourself with God’s spiritual guidance, you become better armed and prepared in facing your own leviathan. It’s an inspiring book, one that gives you the sense of confidence that your greatness is coming.
Recommend this book:
A Gate Called Beautiful
How God Transforms Your Pain into Power
Brandon Sutton
2021 Finalist
206 Pages
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Christian - Biblical Counseling
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite
A Gate Called Beautiful: How God Transforms Your Pain into Power by Brandon Sutton is a Christian devotional study that could change your life or the life of someone you know. This one goes deep and is of a serious nature, but Sutton finds the light and shines it amidst the pain. Though this is a memoir-kind of story, it's also designed to be shared, with a "To" and "From" at the beginning, as if it's to be passed on after being read, or given as a gift. The structure of the outline is 44 days and begins with an introduction and testimony, and with photos to accentuate events as the author relays them. From the outset, you know this is going to be an honest book in which the author lays his soul as bare as he can, because he adds his mugshot, causing you to wonder, "What did he get himself into?" Point by point, Sutton explains what happened and leaves in the messy parts. The crux of his story is that God can take something bad in your life and turn it into something good if you only trust in Him and believe.
Sutton conveys his life and the points he wants to make in a personal, inspirational tone, one that is brutally frank, but uplifting. There is nothing more hurtful than being accused of something you didn't do or being punished for a crime you didn't commit. I like the way the author uses biblical passages and examples to illustrate his message, and this will be encouraging to readers who need to hear it. With clear details, Sutton explains how he was arrested for something he didn't do, and the ramifications that came with it. He was a teacher, a family man, and was innocent, and his world was torn inside out. But there is a bright side to the story, all pointing to God's plan, and Sutton is gifted in how he tells it and uses it to help others. A Gate Called Beautiful: How God Transforms Your Pain into Power by Brandon Sutton could be the key that unlocks the door to your new way of thinking--possibly your new life.
A Gate Called Beautiful: How God Transforms Your Pain into Power by Brandon Sutton is a Christian devotional study that could change your life or the life of someone you know. This one goes deep and is of a serious nature, but Sutton finds the light and shines it amidst the pain. Though this is a memoir-kind of story, it's also designed to be shared, with a "To" and "From" at the beginning, as if it's to be passed on after being read, or given as a gift. The structure of the outline is 44 days and begins with an introduction and testimony, and with photos to accentuate events as the author relays them. From the outset, you know this is going to be an honest book in which the author lays his soul as bare as he can, because he adds his mugshot, causing you to wonder, "What did he get himself into?" Point by point, Sutton explains what happened and leaves in the messy parts. The crux of his story is that God can take something bad in your life and turn it into something good if you only trust in Him and believe.
Sutton conveys his life and the points he wants to make in a personal, inspirational tone, one that is brutally frank, but uplifting. There is nothing more hurtful than being accused of something you didn't do or being punished for a crime you didn't commit. I like the way the author uses biblical passages and examples to illustrate his message, and this will be encouraging to readers who need to hear it. With clear details, Sutton explains how he was arrested for something he didn't do, and the ramifications that came with it. He was a teacher, a family man, and was innocent, and his world was torn inside out. But there is a bright side to the story, all pointing to God's plan, and Sutton is gifted in how he tells it and uses it to help others. A Gate Called Beautiful: How God Transforms Your Pain into Power by Brandon Sutton could be the key that unlocks the door to your new way of thinking--possibly your new life.
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