Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 21

Book: Morning By Morning.

Author: Charles Spurgeon

Info: Copyright 2000: Nashville:  Thomas Nelson Inc.

Where acquired: Thrift store find.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # #

What it's about:  Written in the 1860's, Spurgeon, a Baptist minister, shares daily devotions and meditations on scripture. 

Favorite Quotes: 

"A part of the host will this year tarry on earth, to do service for their Lord. If this should fall to our lot, there is no reason why the New Year’s text should not still be true. "We who have believed do enter into rest." The Holy Spirit is the earnest of our inheritance; he gives us "glory begun below." In heaven they are secure, and so are we preserved in Christ Jesus;  there they triumph over their enemies, and we have victories too. Celestial spirits enjoy communion with their Lord, and this is not denied to us; they rest in his love, and we have perfect peace in him: they hymn his praise, and it is our privilege to bless him too. We will this year gather celestial fruits on earthly ground, where faith and hope have made the desert like the garden of the Lord. Man did eat angels’ food of old, and why not now? O for grace to feed on Jesus, and so to eat of the fruit of the land of Canaan this year!" pp. 1-2

"Tell me where you lost the company of Christ, and I will tell you the most likely place to find him. Have you lost Christ in the closet by restraining prayer? Then it is there you must seek and find him. Did you lose Christ by sin? You will find Christ in no other way but by the giving up of the sin, and seeking by the Holy Spirit to mortify the member in which the lust doth dwell. Did you lose Christ by neglecting the Scriptures? You must find Christ in the Scriptures. It is a true proverb, "Look for a thing where you dropped it, it is there." So look for Christ where you lost him, for he has not gone away." p. 17

"Bad nursing in their spiritual infancy often causes converts to fall into a despondency from which they never recover and sin in other cases brings broken bones." - pp. 138-139

"Earth should be a temple filled with the songs of grateful saints and every day should be a censor smoking with the sweet incense of thanksgiving."  p. 300.

What I Liked:

• Spurgeon's wording is poetic at times, rebuking at other times, and the section on Song of Solomon where he describes the relationship between Christ and His church were downright sexy.  Sexy?  Yes.  Not sexy as in dirty, but sexy as in the purest form of intimacy between a beautiful unsullied bride, and the groom who is crazy and tenderly in love with her.
• These reflections were full of faith.  They made me hungry for the Word.
• It was hard to read just one entry per day, yet they were so full that I couldn't absorb their entire message in a 24 hour period.

What I didn’t like: 

• There are quoted passages with no references. 
• The scripture passages quoted at the beginning of each entry is in a scripted font that makes the chapter and verse numbers hard to read.

To sum up:  I'd heard quotes from Spurgeon, but I'd never read any of his books.  Morning by Morning was an absolute delight to read.  I've already ordered the companion book Evening by Evening for next year's devotional time.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 20

Book: Good News of Great Joy.

Author: John Piper

Info: Copyright 2013.  Minneapolis: Desiring God.

Where acquired: Free download from author.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # #

What it's about:  Piper carries the reader through the Advent season by giving fresh perspective on the familiar Christmas story.

Favorite Quotes:  Note:  Page numbers refer to the PDF version of the book.  The MOBI (Kindle) version only had location numbers.

“The key that unlocks the treasure chest of God’s peace is faith in the promises of God. So Paul prays, ‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing’ (Romans 15:13). And when we do trust the promises of God and have joy and peace and love, then God is glorified.” - p. 12

“I feel so strongly that among those of us who have grown up in church and who can recite the great doctrines of our faith in our sleep and who yawn through the Apostles Creed—that among us something must be done to help us once more feel the awe, the fear, the astonishment, the wonder of the Son of God, begotten by the Father from all eternity, reflecting all the glory of  God, being the very image of his person, through whom all things were created, upholding the universe by the word of his power.” - p. 45

“Christ will really help us in our fight. He really will help you. He is on your side. He didn’t come to destroy sin because sin is fun. He came to destroy sin because it is fatal. It is a deceptive work if the devil and will destroy us if we don’t fight it. He came to help us, not hurt us.” - p. 53

What I Liked:

• The author challenges the reader.  It's not simply, "God is love.  Love is God.  Let's color a picture about it."  The reader is given solid biblical evidence of the first advent of Christ and is challenged to be ready for the second advent of the Messiah.
• The readings were short, but meditative.

What I didn’t like: 

• Unlike most Bible based books, this volume does not include a notation of which Bible version is used.
• Some of the selections tended to be a little repetitive and could have been combined into one entry while some of the additional information could have been included as a daily reading. 

To sum up:  This devotional was very helpful to me since I know next to nothing about Advent.  I plan to use this devotional again to celebrate next year's holiday season.  I would recommend it to a new Christian or a seasoned veteran of the faith.

If you are interested in this book, it is available for free download at www.DesiringGod.org 

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 19

Book: My Utmost for His Highest.

Author: Oswald Chambers

Info: Copyright 1935.  Grand Rapids: Discovery House Publishers.

Where acquired: Borrowed from a friend.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # 1/2

What it's about:  This is a year's worth of daily devotionals.  Each daily entry features a scripture passage and the author's expounding on the passage.  This volume has been deemed a classic that all Christians should read.  Well, I'm a Christian, so I guess I'm supposed to read it. I made my first attempt more than 20 years ago, but became very frustrated after about 60 days and gave up.  This year, I finished it.

Favorite Quotes: 

"If we imagine we have to put on our Sunday moods before we come near to God, we will never come near Him. We must come as we are." - p. 136

"At your Bethel you will find yourself at your wits’ end and at the beginning of God’s wisdom. When you get to your wits’ end and feel inclined to succumb to panic, don’t; stand true to God and He will bring His truth out in a way that will make your life a sacrament. Put into practice what you learned with your Elijah, use his cloak and pray. Determine to trust in God and do not look for Elijah any more." - p.  164

"God nowhere holds a man responsible for having the heredity of sin. The condemnation is not that I am born with a heredity of sin, but if when I realize Jesus Christ came to deliver me from it, I refuse to let Him do so, from that moment I begin to get the seal of damnation. “And this is the judgment” (the critical moment) 'that the light is come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light.'" - p. 206

"Never be sympathetic with the soul whose case makes you come to the conclusion that God is hard. God is more tender than we can conceive, and every now and again He gives us the chance of being the rugged one that He may be the tender One." - p. 263

What I Liked:

• Chambers writing style is very intellectual.  In other words, he uses more complex language than other such reading material and one must actually ponder over what was said.  It's is quite understandable, but not an easy read. 
• The readings were short.

What I didn’t like: 

• The author is an absolute killjoy and I wonder if he was suffering from manic depression when he wrote it.  Anything that seems the most enjoyable, including our walk with Christ, he scoffs at.  It seems Chambers had forgotten I Timothy 6:17 - "Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy."  Apparently Nehemiah 1:8 - "...for the joy of the Lord is your strength." wasn't in his Bible.  He's also forgotten his own words, "wherever the joy of God is not present, the death sentence is at work." (December 8th reading) By these writings, if he'd had his way, Chambers would prefer all Christians ball in the fetal position in a corner and cry, rather than show any joy.  This book could make you hate God, yourself, and others.
• Chambers often uses the phrase "give up our rights to ourselves."  What does that even mean?  Plus, he makes God out to be a bully, ready to shame and humiliate His children into obedience. 
• Many of the scripture passages are taken WAY out of context.  I had many experiences of asking myself, "What did I just read?"  Chambers explanations didn't make them any clearer.
• There are quoted passages with no reference cited, so we have no way to know where the quote came from.  There are also reference abbreviations that are explained nowhere in the text.

To sum up:  I honestly don't see what all the hype is about this devotional.  That was a year where I could have been reading something more productive, more encouraging, and more faith strengthening (like the other devotional I will finish at the end of this year.  Instead, I spent too much time suffering through most of the entries.  I finally hurried through the last two weeks worth of reflections so I could be done with this mess. 

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 18

Book: The Weight Loss Mindset. (Kindle Edition)

Author: Sarah Patterson

Info: Copyright 2013.  TCK Publishing

Where acquired: Free Kindle Download.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # #

What it's about:  Patterson asserts that there are 10 common thoughts those who are overweight struggle with.  She discusses how those thoughts keep people overweight, or at least makes the struggle for health harder than it should be.

Favorite Quotes: 

"The truth is, nature and nurture may nudge you towards an unhealthy weight, but being overweight doesn’t have to be your fate. There are examples all around you that counter the beliefs you’ve accepted without scrutiny."  Location 114

"Dave Ramsey is famous for saying, “If you’ll live like nobody else now, you can live like nobody else later.” Meaning, live within your means now and you’ll have what you need and want later. It’s the same thing with food. It’s as if there’s a food budget you can work with. If you eat everything now, you will not have the health you need to be able to enjoy food later."  Location 153

"Give some thought to your attitudes about food. In reality, it is fuel. It is not an emotional crutch, a prize, a validation of your worth . It is to be enjoyed, but not gamed."  Location 234

"Not to be gross, but is food just something that you’re going to stuff into one hole and eliminate through another? Your perspective on food is a huge factor in whether you will be able to release the excess weight that you are carrying."  Location 367

"If you cannot support your health and your body by proper eating and exercise, all these other things that you think you’re so busy doing, will cease to be a problem for you because you’re going to end up sick or dead." Location 371-376

"Are you going to look at life as if it’s never going to go your way, that it’s a constant battle, that it’s hard? Or are you going to look at it as a joyful experience that’s full of opportunities? Can you see that you are fully equipped to face any challenge that comes your way? To enjoy the wonderful life you have every moment you’re here?" Location 422

What I Liked:

• Many of the mindsets she dealt with were right on point for me. 
• The writing style was conversational.
• The author deals with why these thoughts derail ones efforts to gain health.  She doesn't simply say, "These thoughts are bad.  Stop thinking that."
• This is not a "think yourself thin" book of psychobabble.  The author doesn't leave out the need for diet and exercise changes; she simply says that to do these things but still think negatively will stall one's efforts.

What I didn’t like: 

• At 51 pages, the book was too short.  It contained some good starters, but it needed more practical solutions to change the damaging thoughts she describes.  Yes, she does deal with the what and why, but the book is lacking in the "how" department.
• There was nothing of the author in the book.  She doesn't describe how she (or anyone else for that matter) defeated these thoughts, lost the weight, and kept it off.  Is it merely theory with her, or is she a fellow struggler?
• This electronic edition had no real page numbers.
• There were typographical and grammatical errors that any decent editor should have caught and corrected.

To sum up:  This book gave me incentive to tackle some of these damaging mindsets.  Since the author doesn't really offer any, I will have to seek out solutions to changing the thought pattern.  I would recommend this book to anyone who struggles with weight issues.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 17

Book: The Calling of Emily Evans.

Author: Janette Oke

Info: Copyright 1990:  Bloomington MN:  Bethany House Publishers.

Where acquired: Free Kindle Book.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # 

What it's about:  Set in Calgary, Alberta in the early 1900's, Bible school student Emily Evans feels a call to the ministry.  Enduring many hardships, the Deaconess is sent to start a small parish in the community of Wesson's Creek.

Favorite Quotes: 

"When I marry--if I marry, Emily reminder herself, it must be to someone who shares my commitment, not robs me of it."  - Location 2793

What I Liked:

• Though fiction, this book was based on the actual Missionary Church of the Canadian West.  This missionary workers endured many of the same hardships as the fictional character.
• Emily's commitment to God was very encouraging.
• This is only the second Kindle book I've read.  The first was on my laptop; this one was on my phone.  This one was much easier to handle. This was my 'waiting room" read that helped take my mind off things.

What I didn’t like: 

• The book had real page numbers for a while.  I got about halfway through the book and instead of page numbers, I got position numbers.  When I went back to see if I could get them back, I couldn't.  Weird.
• Typical for this author, but a little bit of unbelief always has to be thrown in.  I knew it was coming, but it's still annoying when it does.
• SPOILER ALERT - I also found it annoying that the author just HAD to marry off the females in the story.  Are there any good Christian fiction novels that have strong single female characters that don't have to be married off to make the books "Christian Correct"?

To sum up:  The Calling of Emily Evans is a very interesting read.  The spiritual nature of her journey, plus the historical context makes for a pretty good book.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 16

Book: They Tore Out My Heart and Stomped That Sucker Flat.

Author: Lewis Grizzard

Info: Copyright 1982: Atlanta:  Peachtree Publishers Limited

Where acquired: Thrift store find.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # # 

What it's about:  The early 80's found Lewis Grizzard in need of heart surgery to correct a faulty aortic valve.  The news sent him to his typewriter for not only a humorous account of the procedure and hospital stay, but a nostalgic look back at his childhood in Moreland, Georgia.

This is the book that introduced me to Grizzard's writings.  My 8th grade English teacher, Mr. Godsdin gave us the choice between this book and Lake Wobegon Days by Garrison Keillor.  Having never heard of either author, I chose Grizzard's tome solely based on the title.

Wait, you read this already.  Does it count as a read then?  Yes, it does. The last time I read this book was 30 years ago, which means I was 13 and didn't get nearly as much of the humor as I did this time.

Favorite Quotes: 

"Here are some other phrases to be careful of the next time you go to the doctor or spend any time in the hospital....'This might pull a little.' They used to say the very same thing to enemies of the state just before they put them on the rack.  If a doctor says, 'This might pull a little,' prepare for your kidneys to be yanked up to your throat.  I'm no expert on the anatomy, but your kidneys have no business in your throat." - p. 30

"The Forth of July barbeque drew people from as far away as Newnan, LaGrange, and Hogansville.  One year, a man from North Carolina was passing through and stopped in to partake.  He asked for cole slaw.  'What for?' somebody asked, 'There's plenty of stew and light bread.'  'I want to put it on my barbecue,' the man from South Carolina said.  I learned my first rule about barbeque that day.  You don't put cole slaw on it.  I think that's in Deuteronomy somewhere.  Somebody pulled a knife on the man and he got back in his car and went back to North Carolina." - p. 46

"Nobody drinks just one beer.  That's why they come in six packs." - p. 73

What I Liked:

• The humor, of course.
• Grizzard goes into just enough detail of his surgery without being morbid or too technical.
• Chapter 4 was a serious chapter about his parents.  The story about his mother's teaching career was very touching.

What I didn’t like:  Can't really think of anything.

To sum up:  The fact that this book held my interest at a time when I didn't enjoy reading and has gotten better with time makes it a great read.  Thank you Terry Godsdin, wherever you are.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 15

Book: The Interceding Christian.

Author: Kenneth E. Hagin

Info: Copyright 1971, 1983, 1991: Tulsa, OK:  Rhema Bible Church

Where acquired: Part of correspondence course curriculum.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # 

What it's about:  Did you know that First Timothy 2:1-4 gives an order of how we should pray?  This book was first published in the early 70's, yet believers still don't understand the importance of praying for those in both civil and spiritual leadership.  Hagin offers a brief discourse on the subject.

Favorite Quotes: 

"People usually think that all praying is spiritual, but it isn't." - p. 45

"Some people are waiting for the Holy Spirit to make them do something.  They are waiting for something to overpower them.  However, we don't need to wait for some special feeling." - p. 72

What I Liked:

• The examples he gave about Charles Finney intrigued me.  Now I want to read more about the man.
• The book was a quick read.
• After reading this, I'm more committed to praying for my leadership rather than complaining about it.

What I didn’t like: 

• The author tended to ramble a bit, especially in chapter three.
• Hagin starts out strong on the subject of interceding for the nation and its leaders, veers off into something completely different, and never gets back to the original subject. 
• Part of what he veers of into is "travailing" in prayer.  Yes, it is a scriptural concept--Hagin cites many Bible passages--however, his wording gives the assumption that one must "work up" a travail in order to receive answers to prayer.  I see no biblical evidence of this.  Yes, we must pray, but any travail or groanings must come from the Spirit of God (Romans 8:26), not showboating or working something up in the flesh. 
• I was disappointed that there weren't more scriptural and practical examples of the type of intercession he was originally dealing with.

To sum up:  The Interceding Christian is an OK read, but Hagin's book The Art of Prayer was better.  I'd recommend that one over this offering.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 14

Book: I am a Church Member.

Author: Thom Rainer

Info: Copyright 2013: Nashville TN:  B&H Publishing Group.

Where acquired: Thrift store purchase.

Why:  My Pastor not only recommended this book, but he and the leadership taught a sermon series on it.  However, at the time I couldn't see spending $13.00 on a book that was less than 100 pages, so it's a good thing I found it at the thrift store.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # #
  
What it's about:  

Reiner takes on the culture of entitlement that has pervaded the church.  His book is a strong rebuke to members who see the church as a country club that serves them, rather than a community of God's servants.  He cites examples and issues pledges to combat the ridiculous petty nature of immature church behavior.

Favorite Quotes: 

"We who are church members are supposed to function in the church.  The concept of an inactive  church member is an oxymoron.  Biblically, no such church member exists." - p. 16

"That's right, membership in the body of Christ, the church, is a gift from God.  It's not a legalistic obligation.  It's not country club perks.  It's not a license for entitlements.  It's a gift.  A gift from God.  A gift that we should treasure with great joy and anticipation." - p. 71

What I Liked:

• Reiner doesn't sugarcoat anything.  He states the issues, shows the ridiculousness of them, and offers a scriptural solution.
• The chapters on praying for my Pastor and leaders was eye opening.
• I like the addition of study questions at the end of each chapter.

What I didn’t like: 

• The book was too short and one-sided.  The author should have addressed the other side of the issue.  No, we Christians shouldn't act like a bunch of spoiled brats with our shorts in a bunch, and we should walk in forgiveness.  However, the behavior of church leadership should have been addressed also.  Rainer makes no mention of and has no grace for those who have been harmed by leaders displaying the very behavior he condemns.  I understand that he writes from the perspective of a former Pastor, but surely he understands the pain that members go through.  This book needs a sequel, I Am a Church Leader, that gives some of the same "take this pledge and get over it" advice.
• Are seven pages of accolades for the book (plus the back cover) really necessary?  If the book is that good, let the diverse readers find out and say so, rather than a whole whack of people who agree with you.

To sum up:  I read this book from the perspective of both a church member and a leader, so I understand both sides of the issue.  The author's premise is sound, however, insisting that a church member blindly follows without a whimper is dangerous, and unscriptural.  I Corinthians 11:1 says, "Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ." 

Though a good book, it was out of balance.  I would recommend this book to those who can tolerate a hard message which, truthfully, we all need.  But, I caution those whose feelings are still raw from harm done to them in the church; this book will make you angry.  My suggestion is to read it, do your part by walking in love and forgiveness, and pray for those who've harmed or offended you. 

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 13

Book: Secrets of Becoming a Late Bloomer.

Author: Connie Goldman and Richard Mahler

Info: Copyright 1995: Walpole NH:  Stillpoint Publishing

Where acquired: Purchased at library book sale.

Why:  As one who is well aware that this earthly life is not forever, I want to finish strong and be a viable member of society when my time to depart comes.  Unlike most of the "misery loves company" literature that's out there for the older set, upon cursory glance, this book appears to go against the grain of the morbid views of aging.  Like Lewis Grizzard says (and I paraphrase), I like to study and hang around with old people; I want to be one of them someday.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # 1/2
  
What it's about:  

The authors paint a glowing, yet realistic picture of aging gracefully.  They discuss how practicing such activities as maintaining a healthy body, cultivating intimate interrelationships, gardening, humor, and spirituality produce a productive human being rather than the typical image of the "rocking chair jockey."

Favorite Quotes: 

"...youth seldom encompasses the wisdom and vision earned over a lifetime of experience.  As we grow older, we tend to discount the opinions of others and pay more attention to our inner needs and desires." - p. 130

On physical health:  "Let's be clear from the outset that this isn't a chapter on how to plan your daily exercise schedule or menu.  We won't outline specific techniques for staying healthy; plenty of excellent books, videotapes, and other materials can help you with that."  - p. 178 (That was refreshing.)

"During his eight-year tenure as the United States Surgeon General, Dr. C. Everett Koop pointed out that 'disease is not a part of aging.  In the older body, most all natural functions continue, but even if there is a decline in the system output, it is still enough to support the body in a disease-free condition.'"- p. 191

"I don't think of myself as a young man or an old man.....You don't look at the changes that take place in a plant in those terms.  You don't say, 'This is a middle-aged flower.'  No, a flower is born, it lives, and it dies;  the process is all one.  And people are really no different." - John Houston, p. 193-194

"Without laughter," [Norman Cousins] says, "we are often cut off from a whole range of life-affirming feelings, including faith, love, determination, and creativity." A lot of us, it seems, are starved for joy. - p. 205

"Humor is tragedy plus time." - Carol Burnett. - p. 206

On gardening:  "Losing contact with nature is like throwing gold into the sea and losing it." - Eddie Albert - p. 251

What I Liked:

• It let me know I was already doing a lot of things right.  Many of the suggested elements of the successful late bloomer, I already practice.
• Although they danced around the subject in the spirituality chapter, the authors did mention Christianity among their examples of spiritual pursuits.  I wasn't expecting that.
• Examples of successful late bloomers weren't specific to socioeconomic standing or gender and race wasn't even mentioned.  In other words, their stories easily relate to anyone.

What I didn’t like: 

• The authors advocate "shacking up" as a viable solution to meet the need for intimate companionship.  That goes against my greater sensibilities and common sense.
• The book did get repetitive and a little long winded in places.

To sum up:  If you want to be a successful productive late bloomer instead of a curmudgeonly old fart, this book's for you.  :)

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 12

Book: The New Testament in Modern English.

Author: J. B. Phillips

Info: Copyright 1958: New York:  The Macmillan Company

Where acquired: Thrift store find.

Why:  I'm an avid user of the King James Version of the Bible.  Even after years of reading and studying it, I still get bogged down in some of the Elizabethan English and phraseology.  I've seen many good quotes from the Phillips Translation, found it online at biblegateway.com, but hadn't seen any physical paper copies on the shelves of the bookstore.  When I saw this one at the thrift store I immediately purchased it.  My intention was to read this over Lent.  As you can see, it took a little longer than that.  :)

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # #
  
What it's about:  

Phillips, who was a British minister and Bible Scholar, translated the New Testament into more modern English because his Bible students had difficulty understanding the King James Version.  The translation was completed during the World War II era and published in the late 1950's.  (Info from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bertram_Phillips)

Favorite Quotes:  There are way more than this, but I will keep it to a minimum

Colossians 3:14 - And, above everything else, be truly loving, for love is the golden chain of all the virtues.

I Thessalonians 1:2-3 - We are always thankful as we pray for you all, for we never forget that your faith has meant solid achievement, your love has meant hard work, and the hope that you have in our Lord Jesus Christ means sheer dogged endurance in the life that you live before God, the Father of us all.

I Thessalonians 3:10a - How can we thank our God enough for all the joy you give us as we serve him...?

Hebrews 13:4 - Both honourable marriage and chastity should be respected by all of you.

I John 3:8 - Now the Son of God came to earth with the express purpose of liquidating the devil’s activities.

What I Liked:

• This Bible version is very scholarly even while trying to be an easier read for the masses.
• Phillips merely translated from the original Greek texts (info from Wikipedia); he didn't throw in his own commentary or interpretations as some other versions, such as the Good News Translation, have done. 
• Though the "modern" English is from 1940's Britain, it had a conversational flow to it.
• This is going to sound weird, but having an original hardback copy of the 1958 publication thrilled me.  Although the previous owner wrote in it (I hate that and I couldn't erase it all), this worn volume felt like I was touching a bit of history and spirituality at the same time.

What I didn’t like: 

• No true verse numbers.  I know with this type of translation it's difficult, but still.  It's easier to read through but not easy to accurately quote or locate individual passages.
• No references for Old Testament quotes, plus they were quoted in King James.

To sum up:  This translation is excellent for those who can't (or won't) wade through King James English, those who want to spice up their Bible reading with something less familiar, or simply to have another view on scripture.  It doesn't deviate from the message or history of the New Testament.  It simply restates it.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 11

Book: Get Out of That Pit.

Author: Beth Moore

Info: Copyright 2007: Nashville TN:  Integrity Publishers

Where acquired: Thrift store find.

Why:  Years ago, I started reading this book but felt like I needed to give it to someone.  I'd planned to purchase another copy and happened to find one in good condition at the thrift store. 

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # #
  
What it's about:  We all have (or have had) pits in our lives.  Whether shallow or deep, God's deliverance is the only escape.  Moore takes the reader through a journey from the mire of the pit, to standing firm on the rock of freedom.

Favorite Quotes: 

"I believe strongly in support groups, but a support group alone will never get us out of a pit.  Somebody in the group better be on the upside looking in.  Preferably way up.  Otherwise we're liable to keep cheering back and forth, 'That was so good!' when in reality, none of us is doing well.  If we keep patting each other on our broken backs, how will they ever mend?" - p. 103

"Never confuse getting bruised at church with getting better at church." p. 116

"Nobody gets the right to keep you in a pit or to shame you for bailing.  Not even your mama." - p. 176

What I Liked:

• The fact that Moore freely admits that she's not experienced instant deliverance from issues.  That brings me great comfort.  Like her, I don't recall a time when deliverance was instant.  It doesn't mean it didn't come; it just means it came in God's timing.  This is important because it takes away the discouragement factor.  Some people get the idea that if the answers don't come immediately that either God is holding out on them, or that their faith wasn't up to par.  Quite possibly neither scenario is true.
• Moore's vivid imagery of the pit life drew me from beginning to end.  In other words, she gets it said with just enough finesse so the book doesn't bog down.
• There are questions to ponder and confessions included in the book. It would be excellent for a group study.

What I didn’t like: 

• I really couldn't find anything to dislike about the book.  No aside boxes, no platitudes, no thesaurus-worthy rambling.  A very solid work.

To sum up:  Beth Moore has not published an easy-go-lucky approach to receiving deliverance and walking in freedom.  She has made it very clear that this is a process.  However, she encourages the reader that they are worth that process.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 10

Book: The Grizzard Sampler.

Author: Lewis Grizzard

Info: Copyright 1994: Atlanta GA:  Peachtree Publishers

Where acquired: Checked out of public library.

Why:  I'm a fan of Grizzard's writings and this happens to be the only one of his books at Jacksonville Public Library.  Tsk, tsk, tsk.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # # 
  
What it's about:  After Grizzard's death in 1994, Peachtree Publishers put together a compilation of entries from the series of books published under their name.  These entries take on subjects all over the road.  From politics to blue jeans, dogs to beer joins, Grizzard covers it all.

Favorite Quotes: 

On T-ball:  "A grown man who would argue with an umpire at a baseball game involving toddlers is a sick man." - p. 16

On church fans:  "But there were other uses for church fans besides fanning away the Devil and the dog-day heat.  You could swat away noisy children and flies with church fans." - p. 68

"The first cheerleader to catch my eye during my freshman year of high school was a dazzling fourteen-year-old redhead from a well-to-do Newnan family.  She whirled with the best of them, and she did seem to show some spark of interest when I hit her with my classic opening line, 'Do you think professional wrestling is fake?'" - p. 157

"My grandmother was a snuff user.  She used to send me to the store to buy her 'medicine,' as she called it.  Then she would sit for hours with her Bible in her lap and a dip behind her lip.  I knew it wasn't medicine.  If it had been, no one would have kept it in their mouth that long." - p. 204

"I don't like pampered children, and I don't like papered dogs. I want a dog with character and personality; one who had to turn over a trash can once in a while just to keep food in his stomach.  And I like a dog who knows enough about where puppies come from that he can choose his own mate and take care of business without waiting for some high-hatted human to 'arrange' a canine tete-a-tete for him." p. 208


What I Liked:

• The humor, of course.  Like The Rick and Bubba Show, Grizzard's humor is akin to sitting on the porch with family telling stories. The humor is down home Southern, and I like it.  I found myself frequently laughing out loud.
• This "best of" format gives a good sampling from some of Grizzard's best work.

What I didn’t like: 

• Some of the material did not include the points of reference included in the complete work drawn from, so some passages made no sense.
• Of course, I do not agree with some of the author's opinions, but as I've said before, the day I start agreeing with everything someone says, I'm in trouble because I've stopped thinking for myself.

To sum up:  For someone who's never read Grizzard's work, this sampler is a good place to start.  For the avid fan, this book is a reminder of what kindled the fandom.  I read most of the works sampled in this collection almost 20 years ago.  Now, I'm ready to reread them and belly laugh all over again.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 09



Book: Lose Your Quit

Author: Danny Cahill

Info: Copyright 2012: Tulsa OK:  Harrison House Publishers

Where acquired: Gift from the author.

Why:  I'm a fan of The Biggest Loser, but my access to the show is hit or miss, so I'd not heard of Danny Cahill (winner of season 8) or his story until my friend, Carla, told me about him and his involvement in the Journey Training.  I went back and watched season 8 of The Biggest Loser and heard small pieces of his story when I attended Threshold at the Journey Training.  He generously gave me a signed copy of this book.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # 
  
What it's about:  Cahill, a budding musician in his youth, gave up on his dreams, and eventually on life itself.  Addictions, massive debt, and other dangerous life choices sent his life into a downward spiral and his weight to a deadly upward spiral to over 400 pounds.  After years of mere existence, Cahill "lost his quit" and was chosen for The Biggest Loser, which he won by losing a staggering 239 pounds.  The book gives examples and encouragement to help others to break the cycle of mediocre survival.

Favorite Quotes: 

"I have talent and I feel like I've settled for making a living instead of making my dreams come true." - p. 5

"No you are not too old, too fat, too weak, or too far gone.  No, you are not too stupid, too lazy, or too tired.  You just have to wake your heart up and get yourself back in the race!  That dream is there, and it is up to you to make it happen." p. 8

"...the physical manifestation of anything happens long after the mental decision not to quit!" - p. 23

"You need to renew your motivation every single day of your life." - p. 24

"If there were anyone I'd want as my bodyguard in a bar fight, it would be Jillian (Michaels)." - p. 36

"External motivation is great, but if that's all you have, it won't take you far.  Without a clearly defined why, it will be too easy to lean on the same excuses that have kept you where you've been for far too long.  Zig Ziglar once said, 'People often say motivation doesn't last.  Well, neither does bathing--that's why we recommend it daily.'" - p. 66

"Do a little more than yesterday.  Repeat the process tomorrow." - p. 78

What I Liked:

• Cahill writes in a flowing conversational style that makes the book hard to put down.
• This, like many books I've read, seems to get right into my head.  I easily identify with Cahill's story:  we're both musicians (he's a "Brother in bass" also), both battle weight (he's winning, me? not so much), and both think a lot alike (scary).
• The four core principles of the text are deceptively simple on paper, but they are complex in execution:  Lose your quit, lose your regrets, lose the lies, find your "why."

What I didn’t like: 

• At less than 100 pages, this book was too short.  It had gaps in the story and left unanswered questions. I would have liked a little more instruction--a little more "how."  Note:  I realize Cahill wrote a second book that may (or may not) fill in some of the gaps, but I haven't read it yet so I have to go with what I have.
• From a technical standpoint, some of the sentence structure was confusing.  For example, on page 23 he says, "I needed to learn that one step at a time added to the faith that your work is making a difference is the key."  Yeah, I'm not sure what he meant either.
• I know I belabor this point, but I wish publishers would stop using what I call the "aside."  It's a box or a piece of enlarged bold type that repeats what the author has already said.  First, it breaks the flow and continuity of a piece.  Second, it emphasizes something that the reader may not feel is that relevant.  In other words, other parts of the book may speak to me more than what is emphasized; publishers shouldn't try to force relevance.  Yes, I know a lot of books use this, so it's going to be a constant complaint.  From now on, I'll just type the phrase "aside box" in my reviews and leave it at that.  You'll understand why.
• Some of the pictures covered up the text.

To sum up:  Lose Your Quit has opened me up to new possibilities and offered a much needed burst of encouragement.  It's not necessarily a "how to" book; it's a "Get 'er done" book.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 08



Book: The Blessing of the Lord.

Author: Kenneth Copeland

Info: Copyright 2011: Kenneth Copeland Publications, Fort Worth, TX.

Where acquired: Gift from the author.

Why:  The prosperity message; is it from God, or is it some get-rich-quick scheme invented by preachers?  Are people just putting a few random Bible passages to make poor people feel better?  Why is it that the people who say they believe in Biblical prosperity are often poor, while those who don't give it a second thought seem to be well off?  Something's missing, or the message has gotten bogged down somehow. 

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # # #
  
What it's about:  God's blessing to Adam and Eve to "be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it" in Genesis chapter one; did it end when sin entered the world, or does mankind still have that mandate?   What does God's blessing mean to our post-garden society? 

Copeland takes a romp from Genesis to Revelation to reveal God's true plan for prosperity.  He states very clearly that prosperity isn't using the Lord's name for a selfish pursuit of "stuff."  God's prosperity is for the financing of the Gospel, aiding the poor, and bringing pockets of the Garden of Eden to a lost world.  The author uses solid scriptural examples and stories from his own life to demonstrate the application of the principles of prosperity.

Favorite Quotes: 

"We must see that what we have learned is not a campground.  It's a building base.  We must understand that if we want to go on and grow up, as the Bible says, into "the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:13). - p. 14

"The Light God spoke forth on the first of Creation wasn't just visible illumination.  It wasn't a kind of night light that lit up the darkness so God could see what He was doing." - p. 39

"To expect fallen humanity to live like Jesus did by following His good example would be like expecting a stubby-legged, sway-backed donkey to win the Kentucky Derby by following the good example of a race horse." - p. 165.

"I like to paraphrase it (John 15:9-12) this way: 'Now boys, let Me make it easy for you.  I know there are a lot of commandments but I'm going to give you just one.  You walk in love and THE BLESSING will work.'" - p. 300

"Unlike the world, we aren't BLESSED because we're rich; we are rich because we're BLESSED." - p. 348

What I Liked:

• Copeland stresses Scripture as evidence.  His own experiences and opinions are illustrations, not the proof he's standing on.  He does not consider his book to be the definitive work on the subject; he encourages the reader to research and study for himself.
• I really enjoyed the mix of scholarly and down-to-earth writing styles.  It was like a cross between Charles Spurgeon and Lewis Grizzard.
• The author's use of footnotes and the avoidance of the "aside box" is refreshing. 
• Many of Copeland's Old Testament commentary referenced The Chumash, which is a Rabbinic commentary on the Torah.  That piqued my interest, so I'd really like to get a copy of this commentary and study it in detail. 

What I didn’t like: 

• This book did get slightly long winded in places. 
• One particular passage confused me.  On pages 345-346, Copeland  compares the "Babylonian" financial system to the Biblical Financial system.  I understood that part, but the origins of the "Babylonian" system puzzled me.  I understood anything Babylonian referred to the decadent, depraved culture of ancient Babylon; the dictionary even defines it as such.  However, he stated the origins as referring to the city of Babel in the Book of Genesis.  Both cultures did essential the same thing; tried to meet there own needs without God.  However, wouldn't Copeland's example be the "Babel-onian" system?  It wasn't a deal breaker for the book, but it did leave me scratching my head thinking Do what?
• I understand that the capitalization of the words BLESSED and BLESSING throughout the text was something the author felt was a directive from God, however, it was a little distracting. 

To sum up:  I'd been given this book more than a year ago, but didn't really feel ready to read it until now.  I'm glad I did.   The Blessing of the Lord stirred my faith.  I'm encouraged to not give up on my God given dreams to help and bless others.  I would absolutely recommend it to others.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 07

Book: The Christmas Quilt.

Author: Jennifer Chiaverini

Info: Copyright 2005, Simon and Schuster:  New York

Where acquired: Check out of public library.

Why:  On my many treks to the library last year, I saw the Elm Creek Quilts series of novels.  I'm very interested in quilting and I like a good story, so I put these on my "to read" list.  My fondness for Christmas stories drew me to start with this one.  Plus, I needed a little escape novel from all the heavy reading I've been doing.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags): # # 
  
What it's about:  Sylvia, an elderly widow and Sarah, a young new bride, are co-owners of a quilting retreat.  The Christmas season has brought out Sarah's joyous enthusiasm, but stirred Sylvia's Ebenezer Scrooge side.  In the midst is Sylvia's family Christmas quilt; unfinished. Sarah's decision to complete the quilt cause Sylvia to deal with the dark memories that have haunted her for fifty years.

What I Liked:

• It was very well written and not a cheesy, predictable story.
• The novel was a quick read.

What I didn’t like: 

• This was one of the most angry Christmas stories I've ever read.  Everyone arguing and ticked off until the last few pages of the book; it was very painful to read.  It makes me wonder if the rest of the series is going to be this way.  If so, no thanks. 

To sum up:  The Christmas Quilt does teach a good lesson on regret and the need for those in conflict to attempt reconciliation (if possible) before it's too late. 

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 06 (Revisited 2026)

Book: Made to Crave.

Author: Lysa TerKeurst

Info: Copyright 2010 Zondervan: Grand Rapids, MI.

Where acquired: Gift from a friend.

Why:  This book was one of those "everybody's reading it" offerings from a few years ago.  I figured the hype was over by now, so I could safely get into the book.

UPDATE:  Additional Category:  Glorious rereads. 

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 stars): ✮✮✮1/2
 
What it's about:  Is the battle for health and fitness merely a numbers game, or is there something deeper going on?  Lysa TerKeurst brings to light the deeply spiritual consequences for a poor relationship with food.  She  believes that gluttony is a direct result of using food to fill an emptiness only the Spirit of God can fill.  She uses scripture and her own struggles to convince the reader to take a deeper look into both his spiritual life and nutritional choices.

Favorite Quotes: 

"We crave what we eat." - p. 19

"God never intended for us to want anything more than we want Him." p. 29

"Incomplete people are desperate for others to notice their diet progress, but quickly realize compliments don't ensure connection or intimacy.  They are not more liked or accepted or welcomed in.  And even if they are being liked based on a smaller jeans size, what an awfully shallow place to be." - p. 123

"Whether we are talking about food, wine, sex, shopping, or anything else with which we try to fill ourselves, nothing in this world can ever fill us like God's portion.  Nothing else can truly satisfy." - p. 134

"Putting all of our hope in religious adherence to a human-designed diet can create a false sense of prideful self-effort, harsh treatment of the body and, in the end, usually failure."  - p. 161

"It is good for God's people to be put in a place of longing so they feel a slight desperation.  Only then can we be empty enough and open enough to discover the holiness we were made for.  When we are stuffed full of other things and never allow ourselves to be in a place of longing, we don't recognize the deeper spiritual battle going on."  - p. 168

"I suffered afflictions physically, emotionally, and spiritually because of my refusal to admit that food is meant to be consumed by me for my benefit.  Food is not meant to consume me to my detriment." - p. 188

What I Liked:

• TerKeurst writes in a conversational style reminiscent of Beth Moore's writings. 
• Quiet frankly, this book was everything Women, Food, and God should have been...especially the God part. 
• The author includes discussion questions at the end of each chapter for deeper reflection or for group study. UPDATE:  The first time I read this, I didn't take the time to dive into the discussion questions.  This time around, I slowly absorbed the content by reading one chapter a day and answering the discussion/reflection questions.
• She uses humor to make her points.  It's not "LOL" humor, but "been there, done that" humor.
• While there are elements of the book that I don't like, or agree with, TerKeurst's offering gives hope and insight into dealing with the spiritual aspect of overeating.
• There is no eating and exercise instruction; no meal plans or exercise regimens.  We've got enough books, videos, DVD's, and YouTube channels for that.  She is delving into the area that is most neglected in the health battle:  the spirit.

What I didn’t like: 

• When the author announced in the introduction "I started this journey weighing 167 pounds," I almost threw the book across the room.  Do you know how wondrous 167 pounds sounds to me?  Do you know how fast I could run at 167 pounds?  Don't you understand that 167 pounds is only 17 pounds away from my goal weight?  My lands!  I thought that this chick was some twisted anorexic, religious acerbic, Saint Catherine of Sienna wannabe.  When she later outlined her own highly restrictive eating plan (which she does NOT say that anyone else has to follow), I thought, see there?  She's off her rocker!  UPDATE:  Yes, I know better now.  The specific number doesn't matter; compulsive overeating can be a problem for anyone at any size.  Some binge and purge, some binge and excessively exercise, some simply binge.  TerKeurst wasn't yet at the point where her weight was negatively affecting her health.  However, had she not dealt with the mental and spiritual issues contributing to her overconsumption of food, he weight would have become a danger to her health, or she could have possibly engaged in dangerous behaviors to try to maintain a facade of self-control.  So, good for her for dealing with it before it became a major health issue.
• TerKeurst continually mentions healthy food in a negative way as if the only way to win at health is to eat things that don't taste good.  This isn't true, nor scriptural.  Hebrews 5:14 says - "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."  In other words, just as the author states, you crave what you eat.  Your tastes will change.
• UPDATE:  I understand that TerKeurst is the president of Proverbs 31 ministries--an organization targeted specifically for women.  However, why is this book directed only at women?  Men also struggle with this issue.  I'm sure a man could gain some useful insights if he reads this book, but all the references to "sisters" and "God's girls" may turn him off or make him feel excluded.

To sum up:  Others who have reviewed this book complain because they feel that bringing one's spiritual life into their eating habits is taking things too far.  I would ask why.  Is this an area you don't want God to get into, or do you believe it's an area God doesn't care about?  If you believe the former, this book is exactly what you need.  If you believe the latter, this book is still exactly what you need.  I, like many who struggle with overeating, binge eating, anorexia,  or obesity, know the pain of missing out on God's plan because we can't exercise the spiritual fruit of self-control in this area.  If it's that important, it deserves focused attention and confrontation.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 05

Book: Women, Food, and God.

Author: Geneen Roth

Info: Copyright 2010 Scribner; New York

Where acquired: Thrift store find.

Why:  Like The Daniel Plan, I though this book would be another helpful tool in my arsenal against food addiction. 

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags):  #

What it's about:  The author asserts that one's eating habits are a direct reflection of his spiritual life.  She asserts that her techniques will negate the negative effects of this connection.

Favorite Quotes: 

"No matter what we weigh, those of us who are compulsive eaters have anorexia of the soul.  We refuse to take in what sustains us.  We live lives of deprivation.  And when we can't stand it any longer, we binge.  The way we are able to accomplish all of this is by the simple act of  bolting--of leaving ourselves--hundreds of times a day." - p. 37

"At some point, it becomes about the weight.  When you can't live the rest of your life with ease, the weight itself needs to be addressed.  Not so that you can become super-model thin.  Not so that you can look like an image in your mind that has nothing to do with your body, your age, your life.  You need to address the weight because without addressing it, you don't actually live.  You schlep yourself from place to place, out of breath.  Sitting is painful.  Flying is torturous.  Going to the movies is challenging.  You become so burdened with the problem you've created that your life become small and your focus becomes narrow.  Life become about your limitations.  What you can and cannot do.  How much you can hide.  How ashamed you are of yourself.  You close down your senses, you leave the world of sounds, of color, of laughter in favor of a reality you've created yourself.  If you keep using food as a drug, if your life becomes about your weight, you miss everything that is not related to your weight problem.  You die without ever having lived."  pp. 59-60

"...the associations we have with feelings are in the past....It's that we perceive a present-day feeling through historical eyes.  Through the eyes of a child."  p. 103

What I Liked:

The one epiphany I gleaned from this volume is this.  I have grown weary with my present emotional connection with food being based on past emotions.  I'm tired of navel gazing and reliving childhood hurts over and over in the name of "recovery."  Could we please move on and learn to live in the now?  To eat in the now?

What I didn’t like: 

• The author's reference to God is a misnomer.   Roth admits at the very beginning that she doesn't believe in the God of the Bible.  Her belief is in more of a higher power--basically, a supreme being she can make out of what she wants--and sometimes that higher power is her.  Had I known this, I most likely would not have purchased the book.  It was in the Christian book section of the thrift store.  Whoever stocked the shelves may have just seen "God" in the title and assumed--just like I did. 
• It's a quick read, but it still takes her a long time to even remotely get to the point.  Although Roth makes it a point to tell the reader what's wrong with diets and deprivation, she leaves the reader quite spiritually and mentally empty with a lot of flowery maxims, but no real substance to hang onto. 
• Her "eat what you want when you're hungry and feel your feelings when you are not" approach looks good on paper, but in reality reads of resigning oneself to poor mental and physical health.  This, she calls the Guidelines, goes into a multi chapter monologue where she describes what eating her way should accomplish, but not how to go about doing it until the very last page of the book.  Apparently, Roth forgot that eating what one wants and listening to one's body is what causes excessive bodily weight gain.  Her assumptions about mental health asserts that "no one is broken," however, her method of dealing with feelings, called the Inquiry (which is never fully described), dives into that brokenness.  Her technique, plus her sentence structure shows that she is confused and wants others to be confused also.  Sorry, this has "Guru trying to sell a book but doesn't have a clue" written all over it. 
• If you're sensitive to language, you won't like this one.
• Since when is this only a female problem?

To sum up: 

Although this book has a few good points, it's not a volume I would read again.  I also wouldn't recommend it to anyone.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 04

Book: Dream Thieves.

Author: Rick Renner

Info: Copyright 1992 Pillar Books;  Tulsa, OK

Where acquired: Thrift store find.

Why:  Finding this book comes at a pivotal time in my existence.  Dreams and goals for my life that I believe came from God seem to go unfulfilled.  I keep wondering what I'm doing wrong, and on occasion, wondering if I even heard from God.  I needed a balanced, Biblical perspective from which to draw instruction and encouragement.

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags):  # # # #

What it's about:  As someone who has battled the dream thieves, Rick Renner offers first hand advice on defeating both the inside and outside elements that derail one from fulfilling his purpose. 

Favorite Quotes: 

"To let go of your dream and to let the fire in your heart go out would be the greatest tragedy you could ever experience.  It is the equivalent of letting go of your uniqueness, your specialness, your individuality, your calling, and your gifting." -  pp. 1-2

"The closer you get to seeing your dream realized, and the closer you get to seeing the Word of God fulfilled in your life, the greater potential for pain and change." - p. 86.

"You see, patience is not passive....Patience is to aggressively choose to believe that God is faithful." p. 98

What I Liked:

• The author doesn't employ pie in the sky, pipe dream thinking.  Nowhere in this book does he ever say, "Well if it's of God it will work out no matter what."  He says to have some sense, plan, think, work, ponder questions.  This is totally 180 degrees of what I'd dealt with in my walk with Christ.  I'd been taught that to question meant you weren't walking in faith and to plan and work were a means to steal God's glory and try to play God.  Renner gives a more Biblically accurate picture of the balance between faith, patience and work.
• Mr. Renner is a Greek scholar and I like that he breaks down many of the scriptures to their exact meaning.  This gives a better picture of what is being said.

What I didn’t like: 

• The book ends rather abruptly.  I felt like there was more that needed to be said or that I'd missed something.
• Renner doesn't give help on how to know for sure that one's dream is from the Almighty.  It's written from the perspective of someone who knows for sure that it is.

To sum up: 

This book was a wonderful encouragement to me and I would recommend it to anyone who's struggling with finding or fulfilling their purpose in God.

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 03

Book: The Daniel Plan.

Author: Rick Warren, et al

Info: Copyright 2013 by Zondervan

Where acquired: Gift from a friend.

Why:  Several years ago when Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California (also home to the Celebrate Recovery Program) introduced the Daniel Plan, I gathered with a group to take the video course.  Unfortunately, the course left me a little high and dry.  It gave a lot of dos and don'ts, but not many how tos.  Once the course was over, not many stuck with it--OK no one I know of stuck with it and the leaders of the course didn't follow through.  When a friend of mine excitedly gave me the book, I thought Why not?  My hope was that the book had more meat to it than the video course and reveal the secrets of lasting change. 

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags):  # # # 1/2

What it's about:  Warren and company presents five keys to total fitness (faith, food, fitness, focus, and friends) and expounds on each one and how they work in concert.

Favorite Quotes: 

"What you do with your body sets the tone for everything else." - p. 17

"Health comes from recognizing and using God's power in your life and treating your body and mind with the care that He intended.  - p. 33

"When I run, I feel God's pleasure." - Eric Liddel - p. 42

"Being overweight or unhappy is as much a ' thinking disorder' as it is an eating or mental disorder." - p. 202

"Trying to change everything at once almost inevitably invites disappointment.  Don't try to change dozens of unhealthy habits at once.  Start with a few vital behaviors--the ones that will have the biggest immediate impact--and go from there."  - p. 252

What I Liked:

• A majority of the ideas are practical--there was no "one size fits all" approach.  As long as one sticks to the 5 basic essentials, methods of achieving the desired result can differ.  In other words, if you hate running and gag on broccoli, it doesn't ruin the entire program for you.  There are lots of choices.
• The examples of success weren't sensationalized and all the participants weren't cookie cutter examples. 
• Scriptural encouragement and examples were cited much more than in other supposed Christian based literature and programs I've dealt with.
• I liked that their use of the "aside box" contained useful information, rather than simply repeating what was already said in the main text.  HOWEVER...

What I didn’t like: 

• Whoever decided to put light grey/green lettering on top of a light lime green text box wasn't thinking about the reader.  Squint city.
• I never knew who was speaking.  Chapter one is listed as being written by Rick Warren.  The other chapters do not identify the author(s). This made some chapters bog down with awkward sentence structure.  In other words, having pronouns running around without knowing to whom they refer confuses the daylights out of the reader.  Hello, Sybil!
• Too much "voo-doo science."  Yes, we all need to eat cleaner and exercise more.  However, there were a few unnecessary pieces of tripe hype thrown in.  Things like implying that getting healthy prevents global warming (James Spann would be cussing right now), and trying to invoke shame by saying "humans are the only species who drink milk after weaning."  So?  We're the only species that can cook and put on pants too, but I'm not going to stop doing those things just because the rest of the species aren't doing it.  There's enough bad information out there without ruining an otherwise good book with more of it.

To sum up: 

The Daniel Plan is a great jumping off point for establishing healthy routines for spirit, soul, and body.  I've already been working on my health for a while, so this is not a new "diet" I'm trying.  This is another piece of arsenal in my recovery process.

I would recommend the book to anyone interested.  I would, however, caution the reader to take some of the information with a grain of salt (the "voo-doo science" I mentioned earlier).  I would also caution not to throw out the entire program because of something you can't or don't want to do.  Take it a piece at a time.

So, how is everyone's "Full Shelf Challenge" going?

Auntie's Full Shelf Challenge 02

Book: The Art of Prayer.

Author: Kenneth E. Hagin

Info: Copyright 1992 by RHEMA Bible Church

Where acquired: Part of correspondence course curriculum.

Why:  Although this is part of a curriculum, any books that help improve my prayer life are much appreciated. 

Rating (on a scale of 1-4 hashtags):  # # # 

What it's about:  Hagin looks at the various types of prayer and the rules that govern them. 

Favorite Quotes: 

"It seems God is limited by our prayer life–that He can do nothing for humanity unless someone asks Him." - John Westley - p. 1

"...all they taught in  Pentecostal circles in those days was how to get saved and baptized with the Holy Ghost.  Then they turned you loose.  We just had to stumble upon anything beyond that." - p. 120

"When we take our places in prayer for each other, we are helping the entire body come into maturity." - p. 136

"When people are babies spiritually, somebody has to carry them.  Somebody has to feed them.  Somebody has to care for them.  This is one place where prayer comes in.  Older believers need to hold them up in prayer as they are learning to walk." - p. 140

What I Liked:

• This book was a pretty good introduction into various types of biblical prayer.  It didn't answer all of my questions, but made me want to know more.
• It is always enjoyable to read an author who personally experiences the lessons he is teaching rather than mere theorizing.  It's not enough to just tell me it works; let me see it.
• The book had short chapters that were easy to read.
• Hagin was very encouraging; the book made me want to pray even more.

What I didn’t like: 

• Some of the chapters, though short, were very disjointed.  I had a few "do what?" moments reading this.  Some passages seemed to be headed right to the heart of the teaching, then either abruptly ended or took a rabbit trail unrelated to the lesson without ever getting back on the path.
• The author occasionally assumes his experiences to be law--the way everyone should do it.  Scripture doesn't always back up his claims.  He's not being false, but a tad bit presumptuous at times.
• Some of the scriptural passages presented as examples of the lesson made absolutely no sense.  This may be an editor's error, not necessarily the author.  There are also typographical errors.

To sum up: 

Prayer does not change God; He is always the same.  Prayer changes people and circumstances.  We need only to ask.