BOOK REVIEW
This is a very readable, easy to understand and helpful book on prayer. You will find it encouraging and inspiring. The author doesn't insist that everyone follow the same pattern or method and reminds us that prayer is simply talking and listening to God. It should be a very natural part of our lives. We are individuals and our prayer lives should reflect this. We don't need to copy someone else's prayer life, we need to ask the Lord to teach us how to pray in our own personal way. The author reminds us that prayer is a privilege, and is simple yet powerful. The book goes into types of prayer, keys to powerful prayer and hindrances to answered prayer. I certainly can't describe every nugget of wisdom found in this book, so I strongly recommend you read it for yourself.
Fiction
Non Fiction
Amazing Grace by Eric Metaxas
Amazing Grace by Eric Metaxas
is the story of William Wilberforce, the man who led the fight against the slave trade in Britian during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Wilberforce, a small man with a big heart, was a member of the House of Commons, and a devoted servant of the Lord. As a Methodist influenced in his walk with the Lord by John Newton, the famous writer of Amazing Grace, (the hymn) Wilberforce felt it was his duty to rid Britain of the abomination of the slave trade within its colonies, and also to reform the manners, or morals, of British society. This book describes Wilberforce's life, faith, political dealings, and his friendships and alliances with other important and influential political and social characters of the day such as Prime Minister William Pitt Jr., the Wesley brothers, and Charles Fox. At times, Amazing Grace reads like a textbook and can become tedious, but is worth every minute. This story will touch your heart and inspire your faith in the same gracious God whose calling on his life Wilberforce spent his every waking moment in pursuit of.
Basic Training for the Prophetic Ministry by Kris Vallotton
The title describes the content. This easy to read study guide helps you to understand the purpose and the basics of the prophetic ministry. Each chapter includes questions to ponder, questions for group discussion and a life application.. The final chapter gives you suggestions for practicing prophecy. There are pages in the back to record dreams and visions and prophetic words. It is not a lengthy book, but it should whet your appetite to learn more.
Before I Wake ...Listening to God in Your Dreams by Abraham Schmitt
You may have trouble getting a hold of this book since it was written in 1984. But it was interesting, so I'll write a quick review anyway. The author views dreams as a way to hear from God and believes that a message from a dream should be interpreted in harmony with the Bible. Once the message is received the dream is no longer necessary and will not recur. The author feels that dreams have very personal meanings, meant to be understood and helpful at that moment in time. He finds it sad that so many people fail to utilize this potential for growth. In this book, Dr. Schmitt gives 10 steps to help you better understand your dreams and shares fascinating case studies.
Beginners Guide to Hearing God by James W. Goll
God created us to have fellowship with Him. To have an intimate relationship with God, we must have constant 2-way communication with Him. The author encourages us to "put our ears on" and learn from our tutor -The Holy Spirit. We are reminded that God speaks to us in many ways, and we need to allow Him to speak in any way He chooses. We should expect Him to speak because He desires that we hear Him. The author gives us biblical principles for listening to God, and provides some real-life illustrations for inspiration.
Claim Your Victory Today by Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
There
are books you borrow, read, and return. And there are books you buy.
This is the latter type, a must have. It doesn't just tell you to
meditate on the Word, it tells you how. It's a challenging book. "There
is no lazy way into the deep things of God. Far too many Christians
today have developed a welfare mentality where spiritual things are
concerned. They want everything cooked in the microwave and served on a
platter!"
Here's another challenging quote. "Still only a handful of Christians ever muster the energy to pay the price for such abundant life. Instead, all too many go begging God for success or healing or whatever it is they need. All the while, the key to the storehouse of heaven - their Bible - is in their hands."
Each chapter ends with 3 sections - think about it, reflect on it, and do it.
Developing a Supernatural Lifestyle by Kris Vallotton
Subtitle: A Practical Guide to a life of signs, wonders, and miracles.
This book will make you realize how superficial and how powerless the "normal" Christian life is. The author uses both scripture and his own experiences to show you what it can and should be. Developing a Supernatural Lifestyle will leave you thirsting for a more intimate relationship with God, and hungering for more of His gifts to use to bring His kingdom to a hurting world. I highly recommend this book.
Dream Language by James W. and Michal Ann Goll
God has always used dreams and visions as a way of communicating with us. The church is rediscovering this realm of revelation. Based on scripture and personal experiences, the authors teach how to receive and interpret dreams, recognize the difference between Holy Spirit, natural and demonic dreams, and eliminate obstacles that keep us from receiving God's revelations. They give advice on journaling, sharing our dreams, and what to do when God is silent. I highly recommend this book.
Dreaming with God by Bill Johnson
Read this book. You will never look at life, ministry, church or anything else the same. We are co-laborers with God, called to transform this world. To enable us to do this, God offers us unlimited resources. The same creative power that brought the universe into being is available to us. "The believer's inheritance is beyond human comprehension. To put the richness of that gift into the eternal future is to sell short the power of the Cross in the present. He gave us a gift beyond comprehension because we have an assignment beyond reason. Jesus gave us all things because we would need all things to fulfill our call. He intends to fill the earth with His glory, and His glorious Bride will play a role."
Expecting Miracles by Heidi and Rolland Baker
Subtitle:True stories of God?s Supernatural Power and HowYou Can Experience It
A collection of entries by Heidi, Rolland and others highlighting the revival in Mozambique where they minister. This book is full of true stories of healing, provision, and even raising the dead. The authors' passion for Jesus, and their compassion for the sick, lost and poor are evident throughout. You will see God reaching those who many would write off as unreachable. This book will make you jealous for a more dynamic, authentic Christian lifestyle. You may or may not like the journal format, but the content makes this a must-read.
Face to Face with God by Bill Johnson
Read this book. Chew is slowly and digest it thoroughly. It is that good. It made me excited to be a Christian living in these times and eager to pursue the face of God. The author challenges us to "step boldly into the thick darkness where God is. There is nothing worth more on this earth than encountering His manifest presence and responding to the invitation to know and be known by Him. It is what we were made for, what we were saved for, and the only thing that will satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts." This is a perpective changing book. You will look at things differently than before. There is so much I would love to quote, but I will end this entry with this one, "..it dishonors the Lord to disregard His work in order to justify our difficulty to believe for the impossible. It is time to own up to the nature of the gospel and preach it for what it is. It is the answer for every dilemma, conflict, and affliction on the planet. Declare it with boldness, and watch Him invade Earth once again."
The God Chasers by Tommy Tenney
Subtitle: My Soul Follows Hard After Thee"
Throughout history there have been God chasers - those who, according to the author, are not interested in camping out on some dusty truth known to everyone, but who are after the fresh presence of the Almighty. Tenney invites us to become God chasers too, seeking intimacy with God. He feels that most Christians are just looking to date God - to get what we can from Him without real committment. Tenney believes that people are hungry for God, they are just not interested in the stale bread and crumbs the church usually offers. I highly recommend this challenging book. It will change the way you look at your Christianity.
God Encounters by James W. and Michal Ann Goll
Subtitle: The Prophetic Power of the Supernatural to Change Your Life
If you hunger for a more intimate,dynamic and supernatural relationship with God, read this book. The authors share their own exciting encounters (some of them will blow your mind) and provide solid biblically based teaching. Every chapter ends with a prayer. This book will leave you thirsting for your own God Encounters.
The Power of Simple Prayer by Joyce Meyer
Here's another challenging quote. "Still only a handful of Christians ever muster the energy to pay the price for such abundant life. Instead, all too many go begging God for success or healing or whatever it is they need. All the while, the key to the storehouse of heaven - their Bible - is in their hands."
Each chapter ends with 3 sections - think about it, reflect on it, and do it.
Developing a Supernatural Lifestyle by Kris Vallotton
Subtitle: A Practical Guide to a life of signs, wonders, and miracles.
This book will make you realize how superficial and how powerless the "normal" Christian life is. The author uses both scripture and his own experiences to show you what it can and should be. Developing a Supernatural Lifestyle will leave you thirsting for a more intimate relationship with God, and hungering for more of His gifts to use to bring His kingdom to a hurting world. I highly recommend this book.
Dream Language by James W. and Michal Ann Goll
God has always used dreams and visions as a way of communicating with us. The church is rediscovering this realm of revelation. Based on scripture and personal experiences, the authors teach how to receive and interpret dreams, recognize the difference between Holy Spirit, natural and demonic dreams, and eliminate obstacles that keep us from receiving God's revelations. They give advice on journaling, sharing our dreams, and what to do when God is silent. I highly recommend this book.
Dreaming with God by Bill Johnson
Read this book. You will never look at life, ministry, church or anything else the same. We are co-laborers with God, called to transform this world. To enable us to do this, God offers us unlimited resources. The same creative power that brought the universe into being is available to us. "The believer's inheritance is beyond human comprehension. To put the richness of that gift into the eternal future is to sell short the power of the Cross in the present. He gave us a gift beyond comprehension because we have an assignment beyond reason. Jesus gave us all things because we would need all things to fulfill our call. He intends to fill the earth with His glory, and His glorious Bride will play a role."
Expecting Miracles by Heidi and Rolland Baker
Subtitle:True stories of God?s Supernatural Power and HowYou Can Experience It
A collection of entries by Heidi, Rolland and others highlighting the revival in Mozambique where they minister. This book is full of true stories of healing, provision, and even raising the dead. The authors' passion for Jesus, and their compassion for the sick, lost and poor are evident throughout. You will see God reaching those who many would write off as unreachable. This book will make you jealous for a more dynamic, authentic Christian lifestyle. You may or may not like the journal format, but the content makes this a must-read.
Face to Face with God by Bill Johnson
Read this book. Chew is slowly and digest it thoroughly. It is that good. It made me excited to be a Christian living in these times and eager to pursue the face of God. The author challenges us to "step boldly into the thick darkness where God is. There is nothing worth more on this earth than encountering His manifest presence and responding to the invitation to know and be known by Him. It is what we were made for, what we were saved for, and the only thing that will satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts." This is a perpective changing book. You will look at things differently than before. There is so much I would love to quote, but I will end this entry with this one, "..it dishonors the Lord to disregard His work in order to justify our difficulty to believe for the impossible. It is time to own up to the nature of the gospel and preach it for what it is. It is the answer for every dilemma, conflict, and affliction on the planet. Declare it with boldness, and watch Him invade Earth once again."
The God Chasers by Tommy Tenney
Subtitle: My Soul Follows Hard After Thee"
Throughout history there have been God chasers - those who, according to the author, are not interested in camping out on some dusty truth known to everyone, but who are after the fresh presence of the Almighty. Tenney invites us to become God chasers too, seeking intimacy with God. He feels that most Christians are just looking to date God - to get what we can from Him without real committment. Tenney believes that people are hungry for God, they are just not interested in the stale bread and crumbs the church usually offers. I highly recommend this challenging book. It will change the way you look at your Christianity.
God Encounters by James W. and Michal Ann Goll
Subtitle: The Prophetic Power of the Supernatural to Change Your Life
If you hunger for a more intimate,dynamic and supernatural relationship with God, read this book. The authors share their own exciting encounters (some of them will blow your mind) and provide solid biblically based teaching. Every chapter ends with a prayer. This book will leave you thirsting for your own God Encounters.
The Power of Simple Prayer by Joyce Meyer
This is a very readable, easy to understand and helpful book on prayer. You will find it encouraging and inspiring. The author doesn't insist that everyone follow the same pattern or method and reminds us that prayer is simply talking and listening to God. It should be a very natural part of our lives. We are individuals and our prayer lives should reflect this. We don't need to copy someone else's prayer life, we need to ask the Lord to teach us how to pray in our own personal way. The author reminds us that prayer is a privilege, and is simple yet powerful. The book goes into types of prayer, keys to powerful prayer and hindrances to answered prayer. I certainly can't describe every nugget of wisdom found in this book, so I strongly recommend you read it for yourself.
8 Steps to Create the Life You Want by Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
Don't let the title turn you off. This book is neither shallow nor simplistic. It does not promise shortcuts to success. Rather, it emphasizes the need to meditate on the Word of God, and develop godly character in order to achieve true success. As in Claim Your Victory Today, each chapter ends with practical applications.
The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind by Bill Johnson
If you are tired of reading and talking about a gospel of power, but not seeing it in action, this book is a must read. Miracles should be a normal part of Christianity. To return to the orginal mission, to do what Jesus did, we must radically change our thinking. We must renew our minds. Bill Johnson does a great job of showing us what happens when we allow God's supernatural power to work through us, and also how we can bring this kingdom reality into our lives.
When Heaven Invades Earth by Bill Johnson
Subtitle: A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles
This is another great book that exhorts us to live in kingdom reality and challenges us to make a difference in the world, not by our works, but by His power which enables us to perform signs and wonders in order to bring His kingdom to earth. Just as we can't earn our salvation, we do not earn the gifts of the Spirit - they are gifts- available to all believers. Quoting the author - " Is it possible the reason there are so few miracles in North America is because too many before us thought they had to become better Christians before God could use them? Yes! That single lie has kept us in perpetual immaturity because it protects us from the power-encounter that transforms us." Space does not allow me to mention all the good things in this book. Read it for yourself.
Don't let the title turn you off. This book is neither shallow nor simplistic. It does not promise shortcuts to success. Rather, it emphasizes the need to meditate on the Word of God, and develop godly character in order to achieve true success. As in Claim Your Victory Today, each chapter ends with practical applications.
The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind by Bill Johnson
If you are tired of reading and talking about a gospel of power, but not seeing it in action, this book is a must read. Miracles should be a normal part of Christianity. To return to the orginal mission, to do what Jesus did, we must radically change our thinking. We must renew our minds. Bill Johnson does a great job of showing us what happens when we allow God's supernatural power to work through us, and also how we can bring this kingdom reality into our lives.
When Heaven Invades Earth by Bill Johnson
Subtitle: A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles
This is another great book that exhorts us to live in kingdom reality and challenges us to make a difference in the world, not by our works, but by His power which enables us to perform signs and wonders in order to bring His kingdom to earth. Just as we can't earn our salvation, we do not earn the gifts of the Spirit - they are gifts- available to all believers. Quoting the author - " Is it possible the reason there are so few miracles in North America is because too many before us thought they had to become better Christians before God could use them? Yes! That single lie has kept us in perpetual immaturity because it protects us from the power-encounter that transforms us." Space does not allow me to mention all the good things in this book. Read it for yourself.
Fiction
Quaker Summer by Lisa Samson
Heather seems to have it all - a mansion on a lake, a heart-surgeon husband, a loving son. But she is low on self-esteem, riddled with guilt, and overspends for therapy. Her definition of Christian living is completely overhauled after spending several weeks with 2 elderly sisters (one is a Quaker), and then volunteering at a homeless shelter. Although the reading was a little tedious in the beginning, this was an excellent book that will make you question your own definition of the normal Christian life.
The Shack by William P. Young
This is a touching story that deals with a difficult question - how can a loving God allow pain and tragedy. Mack's youngest daughter is abducted during a family vacation, and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in a shack in the wilderness. Several years later he receives a strange note -seemingly from God - inviting Mack back to the shack. What he finds there transforms him. This is a book to ponder, to make you think, and re-think. I think many will be blessed by this book, but a few may be offended. The reader should remember that this is a fictional book and not a doctrinal textbook.
The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner
College student Lauren Durough takes a part-time job with an elderly retired librarian. Her job is to transcribe the journal entries of her employer's ancestor,Mercy Hayworth, a victim of the Salem witch trials. She is really drawn to the young girl who lived and died over 400 years ago. Lauren learns a lot about life, love and mercy. The author goes back and forth between the past and present weaving a compelling story of both girls. You will not want to put this book down.
Summer of the Midnight Sun by Tracie Peterson
The setting for this historical novel is the Alaskan wilderness in 1915. Leah and her brother Jacob have grown to love this harsh land and its people. When Jayce, the man who broke her heart 10 years earlier, returns, Leah must deal with strong but conflicting emotions. Their lives are all further complicated by adventure, mystery and danger in a variety of forms. The themes of forgiveness, mercy, and justice are recurring. If you enjoy this book, be prepared to read the sequels - Under the Northern Lights, and Whispers of Winter. Otherwise, you'll be left hanging with unresolved issues.
The Shack by William P. Young
This is a touching story that deals with a difficult question - how can a loving God allow pain and tragedy. Mack's youngest daughter is abducted during a family vacation, and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in a shack in the wilderness. Several years later he receives a strange note -seemingly from God - inviting Mack back to the shack. What he finds there transforms him. This is a book to ponder, to make you think, and re-think. I think many will be blessed by this book, but a few may be offended. The reader should remember that this is a fictional book and not a doctrinal textbook.
The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner
College student Lauren Durough takes a part-time job with an elderly retired librarian. Her job is to transcribe the journal entries of her employer's ancestor,Mercy Hayworth, a victim of the Salem witch trials. She is really drawn to the young girl who lived and died over 400 years ago. Lauren learns a lot about life, love and mercy. The author goes back and forth between the past and present weaving a compelling story of both girls. You will not want to put this book down.
Summer of the Midnight Sun by Tracie Peterson
The setting for this historical novel is the Alaskan wilderness in 1915. Leah and her brother Jacob have grown to love this harsh land and its people. When Jayce, the man who broke her heart 10 years earlier, returns, Leah must deal with strong but conflicting emotions. Their lives are all further complicated by adventure, mystery and danger in a variety of forms. The themes of forgiveness, mercy, and justice are recurring. If you enjoy this book, be prepared to read the sequels - Under the Northern Lights, and Whispers of Winter. Otherwise, you'll be left hanging with unresolved issues.
The Trophy Wives Club by Kristin Billerbeck
After being cast aside by her producer husband, Haley Cutler feels worthless, bitter, and somewhat helpless. Her husband's lawyer suggests she attend the "Trophy Wives Club" an unpublicized support group at his church for woman who have been dealt a raw deal. She takes his advice but only because she is looking for some pointers on taking revenge. Although the cast of characters live in a world most of us are not a part of, you will identify with Haley as she goes through different stages of emotion and learns about real friendship, forgiveness, love and more.
Walk by Faith by Rosanne Bittner
Hurt and shamed by her husbands desertion, Clarissa Graham joins a wagon train headed for Montana to provide a better life for her young daughter Sophie. This book is recommended for fans of historical romance fiction.
After being cast aside by her producer husband, Haley Cutler feels worthless, bitter, and somewhat helpless. Her husband's lawyer suggests she attend the "Trophy Wives Club" an unpublicized support group at his church for woman who have been dealt a raw deal. She takes his advice but only because she is looking for some pointers on taking revenge. Although the cast of characters live in a world most of us are not a part of, you will identify with Haley as she goes through different stages of emotion and learns about real friendship, forgiveness, love and more.
Walk by Faith by Rosanne Bittner
Hurt and shamed by her husbands desertion, Clarissa Graham joins a wagon train headed for Montana to provide a better life for her young daughter Sophie. This book is recommended for fans of historical romance fiction.
What a Girl Wants by Kristin Billerbeck
This book is a fun, if somewhat shallow, glimpse of life as a Christian single in Silicon Valley. Ashley Stockingdale is an overworked, successful patent attorney who fears the opportunity for love and marriage may have passed her by. This is the first book in the series. It is followed by She's Out of Control and With This Ring I'm Confused. These Christian "chick-lit" books aren't deep, but they are an enjoyable read when you don't want to think too hard. Singles and those not too far removed from singledom will identify with at least some of the angst. Those who are married will appreciate their own in-laws more after meeting Ashley's future in-laws. A great quote - Jumping off the cliff is how you feel the hand of God underneath you.
This book is a fun, if somewhat shallow, glimpse of life as a Christian single in Silicon Valley. Ashley Stockingdale is an overworked, successful patent attorney who fears the opportunity for love and marriage may have passed her by. This is the first book in the series. It is followed by She's Out of Control and With This Ring I'm Confused. These Christian "chick-lit" books aren't deep, but they are an enjoyable read when you don't want to think too hard. Singles and those not too far removed from singledom will identify with at least some of the angst. Those who are married will appreciate their own in-laws more after meeting Ashley's future in-laws. A great quote - Jumping off the cliff is how you feel the hand of God underneath you.
Yada Yada Prayer Group Series by Neta Jackson
A diverse group of women meet at a convention when they are put together in a prayer group. In spite of their very different backgrounds and personalities, they decide to continue as a prayer group when the convention is over. They and their families become involved in each others lives and support each other through some very difficult trials as they learn to live their faith. Although fictional, these books will inspire you to mature in your own Christian walk and prayer life. If you're not familiar with the concept of praying Scripture, you will be after reading these books.
A diverse group of women meet at a convention when they are put together in a prayer group. In spite of their very different backgrounds and personalities, they decide to continue as a prayer group when the convention is over. They and their families become involved in each others lives and support each other through some very difficult trials as they learn to live their faith. Although fictional, these books will inspire you to mature in your own Christian walk and prayer life. If you're not familiar with the concept of praying Scripture, you will be after reading these books.