Rumors of God by Darren Whitehead & Jon Tyson

A well thought out book on how Christianity should be. The United States is rapidly becoming nonreligious. Can we change that? This book addresses a myriad of issues that plaque the Church and Christians. If only we all read an implemented the ideals from this insightful book. In today's age, the authors' accurately note that Christians are thought of as judgemental. Is Christianity supposed to be judgemental? No. What happened to grace, and even more, what is grace? What is forgiveness? These concepts and much more is addressed and explored.

Through real life examples and Scripture, the authors present a picture of what Church and community should really be like. Unfortunately, it seems to only be "rumors" here in the United States. This book has the potential to change that and I certainly hope this book becomes a national best seller.

I like the book because it offers great insight and hope for a better United States that can be easily recognized as Christian. Recognized for what God wants us to be. It also includes a study guide that covers each of the chapters. I highly recommend this book to everyone. Churches should utilize the book and study guide in their congregations.

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.”

Why God Won't Go Away by Alister McGrath

The subtitle to this book is more descriptive of what it is about: "Is the New Atheism Running on Empty?" I had never heard of the New Atheism. The author does an excellent job explaining what the New Atheism is and even compares it to atheism. The author analyzes New Atheism and reveals its flaws. This is not a book that debates Christianity versus New Atheism, but it does provide a Christian with solid foundation to confront New Atheism.

Yet, the author also explores the rise and what appears to be the pending fall of New Atheism. It appears that it will be a short lived movement that, in my opinion, simply spews hate at all religions. As the book reveals, New Atheism is an embarrassment to atheism and simply ridicules religion and is also mean spirited. New Atheism seems to base it's reasoning simply on insults. New Atheism will most likely come to an end in the near future. The author has thoroughly researched New Atheism and has notes to original sources to back up quotes and conclusions.

Even so, this book can also create a foundation to refute atheism, too. It's a valuable source for Christians who confront atheists. The author covers arguments that form the basis of atheism, such as scientific proof. I hadn't put a lot of thought into scientific proof before I read this book, but the author is right on point as to how much science has really proved. (Not a lot - mostly relying on theories.) I recommend this book to anyone who confronts atheism, especially those who confront the New Athiesm. The author included an incident that really shows that God is involved and can use everything for His purpose. A person who had read a book on New Atheism was so appalled that he felt compelled to explore Chrisitianity. The person said he never would have considered Christianity if it wasn't for the book because the book was so one-sided. The result? He became a Christian.

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.”

Love At Last Sight by Kerry & Chris Shook

This is an incredibly valuable book to strengthen and deepen all relationships in your life. Whether it's your spouse, family or friends - this book has the answers to creating long lasting and meaningful relationships. The second title, "30 days to grow and deepen your closet relationships" is right on target. I wish everyone would read this book and apply the principles the authors teach. The world would be a much better place.

This book is organized into four categories, corresponding with four weeks in a month. I suggest not rushing through it and taking the full thirty days to absorb the valuable information that can make all of your relationships so much more meaningful and fulfilling.

Week 1 is titled, "The Art of Being All There"
Daily readings discuss how to be all there: in the moment; on a deeper level; during conflict; no matter what; in tough times; and, before it's too late.

Week 2 is titled, "The Art of Acting Intentionally"
Daily readings discuss how to act intentionally: thinking ahead; stepping out; creating space; going beyond surface issues; getting unstuck; and, giving encouragement.

Week 3 is titled, "The Art of Risking Awkwardnesss"
Daily readings discuss how to risking awkwardness: of asking; of revealing your heart; of putting actions before feelings; of expressing anger; of making changes; and, of unity.

Week 4 is titled, "The Art of Letting Go"
Daily readings discuss how to let go: of hurt; of insecurity; of pride; of guilt; of selfishness; of unrealistic expectations; and, of shadows.

From real life examples and examples taken from the Bible, the authors clearly illustrate all of these principles. This is a must read for EVERYONE. I sincerely believe the world would be much better place - not to mention so much improvement in everyones' life, if everyone would read this book. Easy to read and understand, this is the book of the year!

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. This in no way influenced my review.

Jesus, My Father, The CIA and Me A memoir of sorts by Ian Morgan Cron

How I can relate to the author's experience of his early church memories and his father. The author recounts his life from early childhood to adulthood, married with children of his own. Very open and honest, the author describes deep feelings of not belonging and wanting to fit in with his peers. The stunts he pulled to try to accomplish this. Moreover, the author details his relationship with his father as he grew up. It was not a good relationship and the author is brutally honest. I won't spoil it, but anyone who grew up in an alcoholic home can easily relate. I won't even hint at where the CIA comes in - you must read this passionate book.

The author doesn't pull any punches, either, as he describes the self-destructive ways he used to try to cope with his heartbreaking relationship with his father. The author honestly reveals his journey from childhood to adulthood and includes the good and the bad. More imoortantly, the author demonstrates how he regained his lost belief in Jesus.

I highly recommend this book to anyone, especially anyone who grew up in alcoholism. It's truly a great read. The author uses a lot of humor, which compelled my interest.

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.”

Third Day Make Your Move Concert

I attended the May 5, 2011 Louisville, KY concert. Opening act, Tenth Avenue, was very good. I was impressed as they performed very well. No comparison, however, to the Third Day concert. Yes, I am a bit biased, being a huge Third Day fan - even a Gomer! Third Day sung a great selection of songs while focusing on their current release, "Move". I recommend a Third Day concert for everyone - it's simply the best! I also believe it would be a great opportunity to take non-Christian friends to witness and have a great time! I've seen Third Day five or six times and I have never been disappointed. Third Day truly puts on an outstanding concert! Love Mac Powell's moments of prayer - really feel even more connected to God! Out of five stars, Third Day Concerts rate ten stars!

Check out Thirdday.com for free live concert streaming! Still it doesn't quite compare to the experience of actually being at a Third Day concert!

Growing Up Amish, A memoir, by Ira Wagler

Have you ever wondered what Amish life is like? Have you ever wondered if Amish teenagers ever rebel? Can an Amish person leave the Amish life, and if so, what are the consequences? All of this and more is answered as Ira Wagler recounts his life story - growing up Amish.

Wagler's story is moving as he starts from early childhood and continues into his teenage years as he struggled, rebelled and left the Amish only to return a number of times. It's story of finding one's place in the world and the assurance of salvation in Jesus Christ. Wagler details his stuggles being torn between the world and the Amish belief that you must be Amish or you will be condemned to eternal hell.

It took Wagler ten years to find the peace he was so desperately searching for, while feeling "Confused. Half-scared. Trapped. Resigned. And, deep down desperately lost." Wagler recounts his decision to become a member of the Amish church; his regret; his excommunication; and his decision to return to the Amish church and have his excommunication lifted. Wagler discusses how his actions affected his family as well as the hardships he faced the times he left his family and the Amish. Yet, would Wagler remain Amish? You must read this book and find out. It is a great read and I highly recommend it. Every young person struggles with what road to take and their future. This memoir emphasizes such struggles in a unique way as Wagler struggles with being Amish. I highly recommend this book to everyone, especially young people.

Tyndale House Publishers sent me a complimentary copy of this book for me to review. This in no way influenced my review.

Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell

This is a nonfiction book that helps the reader identify and realize his/her dreams. The secondary title is more descriptive: 10 Questions to Help You See It and Seize it. All of us have dreams, but how many of us are able to achieve our dreams or even goals? This book is a highly valuable tool with excellent advice for achieving your dreams. All aspects are covered, such as whose dream is it? Is it really your dream or your parents', for example.

The book is broken into ten chapters, each very enlightening. Chapter 1 - The Ownership Question (Is my dream really my dream?); Chapter 2 - The Clarity Question (Do I clearly see my dream?); Chapter 3 - The Reality Question (Am I depending on factors within my control to achieve my dream?); Chapter 4 - The Passion Question (Does my dream compel me to follow it?); Chapter 5 - The Pathway Question (Do I have a strategy to reach my dream?); Chapter 6 - The People Question (Have I included the people I need to realize my dream?); Chapter 7 - The Cost Question (Am I willing to pay the price for my dream?); Chapter 8 - The Tenacity Question (Am I moving closer to my dream?); Chapter 9 - The Fulfillment Question (Does working toward my dream bring satisfaction?); and, Chapter 10 - The Significance Question (Does my dream benefit others?). This book also includes a companion guide: My Dream Map.

You cannot go wrong reading this book - in fact, you will most likely gain so much insight in your hopes and dreams. This book is very thorough and well thought out. I highly recommend this book to all high school and college students. Though, anyone with a dream will certainly benefit from it.

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.”