Create in Me a Clean Heart by Matthew Boswell // Review

My Review: 

A thoughtful, concise and engaging exposition of Psalm 51 by Matthew Boswell, encouraging us to meditate on the deep truths of who God is. 

Written in an engaging conversational style that is also concise and to the point. I liked the background knowledge that Mr. Boswell brought to the book. It was easy to read, and does an excellent job of diving deep into the Scripture, and how David though he knew he had sinned grievously, still knew that God was unfailingly good, and was the only One who could bring him comfort and peace. We look at David's heart, and how this Psalm can inform our own Christian walk as believers. 

Highly recommend this engaging verse by verse exposition of one of the most stirring Psalms. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Taking Back Truth by Douglas Groothuis // Review

My Review: 

In our fast paced world full of podcasting, AI, and reletivism, truth can feel hard to find. In this book Mr. Groothuis takes us back to the source of all truth, encouraging us to think through the current issues critically and from a Christian worldview. 

Engaging and conversational, it is an easy to read book. And I liked how the authors starts by making sure we have a proper theology of who God is and who we are not. The author is very well read and he traces current issues to their historical roots. 

A quick read, that is encouraging for readers in this present age. It doesn't go super into depth on any of the single one issues, but it is a great knowledgeable introduction to a large swath of them.

Overall, a well written response to today's issues, pointing back to the timeless truth of Scripture. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Pursuit of Character by Matthew Arbo // Review

My Review: 

In this book, Mr. Arbo explores virtue and goodness through the 7 virtues prudence, temperance, justice, fortitude, faith, hope and love. 

A slim book that dives deep into the topic of virtue. He shows how they have long been revered as honored character traits in the mind of classical thought through thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates, but are brought together into wholeness in Christianity. As well as talking about how to cultivate these virtues in ourselves. 

A thoughtful read, that goes deep. It made me sit and think more about things that I had never given much specific thought to in the past. A well put together read, that is worth taking the time to read. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Ordinary Church by John MacArthur // Review

My Review: 

In this book the late John MacArthur shows through Scripture the definition of an ordinary and godly church body.

Concise and to the point, this book is a compelling and encouraging read that while mourns that many churches are not as close the Biblical model as would be hoped for, encourages readers to be the ones that stand firm and guide their churches with Biblical principles. I found it a very easy to read, and accessible read, straightforward yet not to formal, and cutting straight to the point. 

I liked that it had a balanced tone, that was encouraging, calling for wisdom in dealing with difficult problems and turning to Scriptures. He calls us to be faithful church members who take an active role in our church, serving, praying and committing. 

A great read, and wonderful reminder of the Biblical church model. Definitely recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Gospel Education by Nate Walker // Review

My Review: 

Mr. Walker shares his vision of a well-rounded classical Christian education in the form of a church private school. It is isn't a comprehensive how-to guide, but more of a vision of what it could look like and what it could mean for your child's education. 

He walks through the purpose and joys of a classical education, as well as how each of the disciplines revolves around a life of faith. I think this could be a good read for someone pondering their children's education, and could be encouraging for someone thinking about enrolling their child, starting a school, or homeschooling their child. A good introducation to a classical Christian education, without being overwhelming or overbearing, it does a good job of showing what it could look like. 

Overall, a conise and enlightening read. Good food for thought for parents, grandparents and teacher alike. I think that someone could definitely take parts of it and apply it to homeschooling as well. A thoughtful and knowledgeable read.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Joy of Heaven: Prayer of the Revivals edited by Robert Elmer // Review

My Review: 

Pray along with the heroes of the faith in this beautifully bound collection of powerful prayers oragnized by topic. 

A wonderful addition to daily devotions, it was so encouraging and inspiring to read through the prayers of great Christian leaders from the early 1700s through the 1900s, from times of revival. Among some of the authors are Jonathan Edwards, Andrew Murray, Charles and Susannah Spurgeon, George Whitefield, Amy Carmichael, and so many more. I felt like I have a lot to learn from those who have gone before about prayer, and I was most inspired by how boldly they prayed. 

Gorgeously bound in a goldenrod linen bound hardcover, with a ribbon placemarker it makes a great addition to your library or is a beautiful and lasting gift to give someone you love. Highly enjoyable and inspiring.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

How to Teach Kids Theology: Deep Truths for Growing Faith by Sam Luce and Hunter Williams // Review

My Review: 

Teaching theology can feel like a heavy responsibility, but this book encourages anyone in children's ministry to have confidence in sharing the simple yet deep truths of God and making the most of everyday moments. 

I loved the passion and relatability that the authors bring to this book, encouraging volunteers, parents, Sunday school teachers, and youth leaders, along the way. I especially liked how they stressed the importance of showing children an accurate picture of God and His attributes. We cannot teach children only about His love and neglect His holiness, goodness, mercy, justice, etc. 

Under 200 pages including the appendixes, this book is concise and cuts to the heart of the matter, with suggestions for resources as well. I think that my favorite part of this book was how it encourages parents, children's ministry workers and volunteers to not shy away from tough topics, but teach about who God is and give our kids a solid foundation to build their own theology on. 

Overall, a must-read for anyone working with children at church or at home. I found this book so encouraging, and before I was even finished I was recommending it to friends and talking over topics covered in the book. Now that I've finished it, I recommend it even more and want to read it again in the future!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author:

 Sam graduated from Portland Bible College in 1997 with a BA in Theology and has since dedicated over two decades to serving at Redeemer Church in Utica, New York. Beginning as a children's pastor, he has held various roles and currently serves as the Executive Pastor of Ministries. In 2021, Sam earned dual Master of Arts degrees from Knox Theological Seminary in Biblical and Theological Studies, as well as Christian and Classical Studies. An accomplished author and contributing editor to K! magazine, Sam has also chaired the INCM board and maintained a blog since 2007. He is a sought-after speaker at conferences and offers coaching, focusing on the transformative power of the Gospel and mentoring the next generation of disciple-makers. Sam and his wife celebrate 25 years of marriage and cherish their four children, aged 20, 17, 15, and 11. They currently reside in Upstate New York, where Sam enjoys reading, baseball, writing, and quality time with his family.

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The Christian Capitalist by Rich Sanders // Review + 2 Giveaways

The Christian Capitalist explores various scriptural references that support twin pillars of Christian belief: 1) working hard to make a productive benefit from talents and materials that God has provided all people; and 2) giving generously to share those benefits with our neighbors in the name of Jesus Christ. Through a discussion of Holy Scripture, it analyzes various passages that relate to these concepts  of productivity and generosity, along with two thousand years of history discussing  the good works of Christians as examples. Ultimately, this book develops a philosophy that is uniquely Christian and capitalist: the Gospel of Hard Work and Generous  Giving! 

“As a small business owner, my husband and I have experienced both  success and challenges. The Christian Capitalist reminded me that going to church  isn’t the only way to worship God. By working hard and giving to others, I share the  blessings God has given to me and my family with others.”  

- Elizabeth Cranston, Esq., Chief Executive Officer, Cana, LLC, Washington, DC. © 2024

   Order your copy of The Christian Capitalist today!

Rich Sanders is the founding pastor of Online Home Church in the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, which has met weekly online since the pandemic shutdown in March 2020. He earned his Master’s in Divinity from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in 2015. Rich follows a bi-vocational calling, so he serves in ministry and in business. As the retired President of Southern Health Lawyers, he practiced law for nearly thirty years. He has been named annually to The Best Lawyers in America- Healthcare since 2011, and he is a past president of the Georgia Academy of Healthcare Attorneys. Rich is the founder of the charitable organization St. Michael’s Mission, Inc., which is a ministry organized to assist and serve active duty and veterans of the armed services. He is a retired volunteer chaplain at the Interfaith Airport Chapel at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and served as its President of the Board of Directors from 2017 until 2023.

My Review: The Bible has a lot to say on the topic of money, giving, building wealth, and good stewardship. Money can be the root of all kinds of evil if we let it, but it can also be the means by which God can use us to bless others.

Bi-vocational ministry leader and businessman, Rich Sanders does an excellent job of taking readers through what the Bible says about money, and the place that it should take in the lives of Christians, the place of work and giving as well. I liked that the author uses multiple lengthy passages of Scripture in context throughout to give an accurate picture of what the Bible says on these topics. It was amazing to me how the Bible is actually pretty clear about how we should handle money as Christians. 

Engaging and well written, the author did great research and and I can see that he is passionate about living what he preaches. The only complaint I have is that the title could mislead some folks away from picking up this very well done, and helpful book that would be great for all Christians, not just the ones who identify as Capitalists!

#ChristianCapitalistMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to GoodWorks Mission, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this  review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Giveaway #1: 1 copy of The Christian Capitalist (Open to US residents only)

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Giveaway #2: Additionally, we’re also pooling all giveaway winners across the bloggers into a give away for $500 to the winners’ choice of Christian US-based ministry/organization.(US residents only). To Enter fill out this FORM .

The (Not-So-Secret) Secret to Reaching the Next Generation by Kevin DeYoung // Review

My Review: 

A concise and to the point read about engaging the next generation.

 And just as DeYoung promises, it's simple: The gospel. DeYoung lays out with five points why we should stop chasing after the younger generation with cringey gimmicks or trying to keep up with the newest ministry trends. Instead he puts forth a solid argument for faithfully preaching the gospel and living it out in our everyday lives as the surest way to win souls to Christ. 

A quick read that I found very encouraging, while not a new topic for me I thought that Mr. DeYoung did an excellent job, and would recommend to friends. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Single Today by Ryan Wekenman // Review

My Review: 

Finally a book for singles, written by an actual single person! 

As a pretty much chronically single person, reading this was such a breath of fresh air. I laughed and cried along with Ryan, because he gets it, possibly even more because he's a pastor. It was so nice to read a book about being single, and just relating to the unique situations that others don't understand, as well as just openly saying maybe you'll be single forever and not beating around the bush on that one. 

Honestly, reading this book was so affirming. It was great to have someone acknowledge that things are different for singles, we don't have the same support systems or pushers in our lives, and things can feel stagnant at times. As a fellow introvert, I probably related to this book more than some. 

But while the author acknowledges all of these things, he points to God and how our martial status doesn't stop us from living a life devoted to honoring God whatever it holds. This book doesn't tell you how to get in a relationship, and that's why I loved it. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/40Y0RVU *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Love Everybody Wants by Madison Prewett Troutt // Review

My Review: 

Written in conversational chapters in an upbeat tone and style that reminded me of Sadie Robertson Huff.

I'm probably a little older than the target demographic of this book. It felt aimed more at teens and early 20's, so that is the age group that I would recommend this book to. Though the books claims multiple times to not be a relationship book about dating and how to find a spouse, that's pretty much what it is. Not all that it is by means, but that definitely is a big focus of the book as it talks about healthy standards for human relationships from a Christian standard, as well as the importance of knowing that only God can ultimately meet our deepest needs.

 I liked that Madison told stories from her life and shared things that she had learned from her relationships with family or romantically. I liked that she talked honestly about some of her struggles, though at time it felt more like a motivational speaker and drifted into more of that territory, though I liked that she brought it back to faith in Christ as our primary relationship. 

Overall, this was a quick read and as a person who has read similar books in the past it wasn't anything new or groundbreaking personally, but I could see how this would definitely appeal to a younger audience and that next generation of young women who are familiar with Madison in the public eye.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Before You Meet Your Future Husband by Robin Jones Gunn and Tricia Goyer // Review

My Review: 

A lovely 30 day devotional from authors Tricia Goyer and Robin Jones Gunn, filled with encouragement and sound wisdom for young women. 

Heartfelt and encouraging this was a well written devotional, with sound advice and beautiful prayers, with space for reflection. Each chapter was concise but with room to ponder as well. I think that this book could be enjoyed by all ages, but was definitely more skewed towards teens and young women in their early twenties. As someone who is older, still single, and has seen most of my friends married with a handful of children, there were somethings that were really great and encouraging, and other things that were well intentioned, but just not quite one size fits all. 

Overall, a wonderful heartfelt read for young women, I liked that the authors shared personal stories from their own lives and how they met their husbands. A faith-filled read that is encouraging, but also inclusive to people who have had different past experiences. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Deeper Life by A. W. Tozer // Review

My Review: 

A concise yet hard hitting read, that in nine chapters exhorts its readers to not settle for shallow Christianity, but to strive to truly experience God as he invites us to in His word. 

Mr. Tozer does and excellent job of encouraging his readers to not settle, but to continue thirsting and seeking Christ through Scriptures, the Spirit, and by surrendering our will to His. A quick read, but one that takes some time to mull through. 

Encouraging readers to get past head knowledge to a deeper, more beautiful, personal relationship with Christ. You don't have to rely on sleazy prosperity gospel promises but on the words of God, He has given us everything that we need if we only seek Him with our whole hearts. I also really enjoyed Mr. Tozer's take on Spiritual gifts. 

Overall, another wonderfully compiled read from A.W. Tozer who is just as timely now as he was in the over 50 years ago when he wrote this book. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Redeeming Productivity by Reagan Rose // Review

My Review: 

Reagan Rose discusses godly productivity in this book, giving tips for organizing and executing better time management practices without becoming a slave to productivity. 

This was a quick read, written in an inviting manner. I liked how the author tackles the topic of being busy, while keeping everything in the proper perspective of an eternal mindset. He goes over reclaiming the vocabulary showing how God calls us to bear fruit for the glory of God and how that looks different than productivity as the world sees it. 

I found this book to be a great end of the year read, with helpful tips with flow charts and steps to take to get your priorities in order. 

An inspiring and practical read, from a Christian perspective that I appreciated. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Live Your Truth (and Other Lies) by Alisa Childers // Review

My Review: 

A timely book that explores the modern cultural lies that assault and deceive us with their seemingly feel-good or empowering sentiments. 

A quick read for me, written in a conversational, but knowledgeable style. I liked that she backs up her points with Scripture, showing the alternate worldviews at play. This one wasn't quite as compelling for me as her first book, but that might be due to me being a frequent listener to her podcast, so it wasn't the first time hearing a lot of the information, though still very valuable. 

The book does a great job picking apart the reason why these seemingly harmless memes don't sit right, and why we must stand on the truth of God's word. I think that the book builds as it goes along, and I liked what she had to say about modern feminism. 

Overall, an excellent read great for sharing with the women in your lives.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Glad You're Here by Walker Hayes and Craig Allen Cooper // Review

Review: 

A remarkable book about the extraordinary friendship and faith that inspired the hit song Craig.

Engaging and inspiring, Walker and Craig share chapters, switching narratives as they tell the amazing story of their unlikely friendship and how God has used them to encourage each other, even though they couldn't be more different. As someone who has heard the song Craig, and knew just a little bit about how it was based on a true story, I was intrigued. But the song is just the tip of the iceberg of how God brought these two families together. 

Walker shares of his struggles to provide for his growing family, as well as with his doubts about Christianity. While Craig Cooper was a man let go from ministry, but still passionate about  living and sharing his faith, even if not from a pulpit. I loved reading about how their families became a family, standing by each other through the hard chapters and the happy ones. 

Overall, this is an amazing and inspiring story that will blow you away with the remarkable way that God worked in the lives of these two families. Honest and approachable, this book was easy to read, great for anyone who likes to read uplifting and inspiring stories, and would be especially appreciated by fans of Walker Hayes as it gives great insight into the man behind the catchy songs. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Counterfeit Kingdom by Holly Pivec and R. Douglas Geivett // Review

Review: 

Right out of the gate this book did such a wonderful job of putting into words what I had been feeling about New Apostolic Reformation churches for a while, backing their critiques up with Scripture and lovingly speaking truth. 

I knew a little about NAR prior to reading this book, and already knew that it was something that I was uncomfortable with, but I struggled to put into words the reasons I had for being personally against such teachings. This book does an excellent job of breaking down erroneous teachings and contrasting it with the truth of Scripture, as well as explaining other more controversial teachings that can accompany NAR preaching, showing how it slips in through music, youth teachings, an missions. 

Overall, an excellent resource for parents, and Christians who have questions about this movement, or even people who might be involved with such teachings. Written in an easy to read style, the authors do an excellent job of presenting Biblical truths. A valuable and timely read, highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Discipleship by A.W. Tozer // Review

My Review: 

Tozer astutely discusses the importance of discipleship in the life of Christians. 

In 13 chapters he discusses what true discipleship should look like in our lives, reaching beyond the sorry and amen into bearing fruit and living holy lives. Tozer is passionate as ever about this topic, and his writings are no less relevant today as they were over 60 years ago. I feel that I can never walk away from a Tozer book un-convicted or without encouragement to nip my backsliding ways, and this book was no different. 

My favorite passages were where he talked about what discipleship should look like in our own lives, in that we should be holy  because God is holy.

Overall, a wonderful collection of writings by the late A.W. Tozer where he passionately talks in a down to earth way that is timeless and goes straight to the heart. Highly recommend.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Worship by A. W. Tozer // Review

My Review:

I am always amazed at how timely Tozer's writings are, and this book is no different. In this 11 chapter compilation on the subject of worship, including some never before published material. 

Tozer's passionate plea for the Christians to return to pure God centered worship shines with zeal and cutting conviction. Just as relevant today as when it was written over 50 years ago. A powerful read, Tozer takes a closer look at the reason for which we were created, our attitudes and how we can get back to a Christ centered worship. 

Tozer is concise, firm and cutting he doesn't pull back punches. He is well spoken and with excellent illustrations to get his points across. Truly a standout among Tozer's writings, a must read for Christians. Convicting and encouraging read that emphasizes the major role that worship should play in our walk with Christ. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

How Should a Christian Date? It's Not as Complicated as You Think by Eric Demeter // Review

Review:

A straightforward conversational common sense book about Christian dating. 

I'll be honest I've read a lot of these type of books as a single person just under thirty, and while this book wasn't any new or groundbreaking information, it still managed to be refreshing. I liked that the author gives his advice from his perspective as a single guy not-still-in-his-early-twenties, who wants to be married be it just hasn't happened for. I fully agreed with much of his advice, which is like I mentioned pretty common sense, and over the years I have come to similar conclusions. 

Eric does a great job of taking a casual but intentional tone, centered on seeking first the kingdom of God. I liked that he wasn't pushy or had an exact method that should be followed to a T. Instead he doesn't so much tell you what to do, but gives really good advice on what you shouldn't do, all with a Christian mindset of treating others respectfully and fairly, while being honest. 

Overall, I know that this doesn't sound like the most glowing rave review, mostly because there wasn't a lot that was new or a breakthrough moment for me personally. But really this book is top notch, he gets so much right and more singles should have this book in their library, there were so many times when I was reading and thinking, "Exactly! He get's it!" He manages to take the pressure off, and as a whole I left the book feeling encouraged. A well thought out and reasonable approach to Christian dating, definitely recommend. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.