A Different Read On Tithing

This is a review of Douglas Leblanc’s book on Tithing. This book is part of Thomas Nelson’s Publishing Company’s Ancient Practices Series and was provided free of charge thru Booksneeze. Tithing was not presented as part of a biblically based study, but rather by thru a collection of stories about people whose lives were enhanced from tithing. The book was neither difficult to read nor poorly written. The scripture emphasized the most was Malachi 3:10, which addressed tithing. There were some useful principles and concepts presented; however, the chosen format made this a difficult task. I would not recommend this book to anyone seeking a biblically based study on tithing.

Review of The Ancient Practices Series: Fasting

This is a review of Scot McKnight's book on Fasting. This book is part of the Thomas Nelson Publishing Company's Ancient Practices series and was provided to me free of charge by Booksneeze. The topic of fasting was presented in a thought-provoking manner. The author introduced the topic by defining fasting as a whole-body natural, inevitable response of a person to a grievous sacred moment. This definition was really contrary to my understanding of the purpose or intent of fasting because it seemed that fasting simply occurred in response to some action of God that had the potential to negatively impact a person. The definition of fasting presented evoked an extremely negative response in me and I almost put the book down without finishing it. I am thankful that I continued to read the text because the author does a good job of supporting and explaining the basis of his chosen fasting definition. Although I am not in total agreement with the author on the definition of fasting, I do agree that fasting can result from a person’s desire and longing for the presence of God. The book is well written and uses many scriptural references. It is not a difficult read, but does promote thought. I would recommend this book to people throughout their spiritual journey.

Review of Max Lucado's book, Out Live Your Life

I received a copy of a book entitled, "Out Live Your Life" written by Max Lucado from BookSneeze. Here is a review of that book:

Max Lucado's book, Out Live Your Life, focused upon stories from the first twelve chapters of Acts as a model for change. The charge that Jesus gave the disciples to go and change the world serves as one of the main tenets of this text. Throughout this book, Mr. Lucado, emphasized that God calls regular people, like you and me, to do the extraordinary. This book was an easy read filled with words that promote change- a change in perspective; change in heart; change in attitude. It was truly a call to live and strive to bring the gift that God has put into our hearts into fruition. Anyone who reads this book would be hard-pressed to continue to "live and die and never ask why". This book was one of those works that leaves an overall sense of positive purpose resonating throughout your soul. I would highly recommend this book to others.

This is a review of a book written by Darrell Ankarlo entitled, "Illegals: The Unacceptable Cost of America's Failure To Control Its Borders". I received this book to review free of charge from BookSneeze.

This book is an eye-opening narrative about the impact that the lack of border security is having on the American economy. Darrell Ankarlo, a talk show host, pens his interesting journey into the daily occurrences at the US-Mexico border. The perspectives of US citizens, Mexican illegal immigrants, Mexican citizens, US Border Patrol agents, militia men and coyotes are presented. The sheer number of people attempting to cross the US-Mexico border on a daily basis was astounding to me. There are numerous pictures of items left behind by border crossers and the perils of the desert areas between the United States and Mexico are clearly presented. An effort is also made to present the differences in the standards of living afforded to most US versus Mexican citizens in each country. This was particularly interesting because in the US we have a wealth of opportunity and access to lifechanging resources. This book was a disturbing read, but one that everyone should take the time to read. Mr. Ankarlo should be commended for taking the time to investigate this problem.

Review of Lucille O'Neal book

I received a book entitled, "Walk Like You Have Somewhere To Go" written by Lucille O'Neal from BookSneeze and am posting a review. This is a review of the hardcover version of the book:

This book was filled with practical advice about life, family, love, motherhood, and the importance of a relationship with God. Lucille O'Neal provided a relatively unobstructed look at her life experiences and shared her wisdom acquired from the school of hardknocks. Her book is filled with practical, easy-to-understand advice that any person, but especially women, can apply to their own life situations. I found this book to be an easy read, that held my interest and seemingly made me want to know more about the writer. The emphasis on God's ever-present love and what clearly became her realization that education was the key to taking control of her life added a refreshing perspective. Additionally, the author consistently emphasized the importance of family and a firm foundation of love throughout the book. The title caught my attention right from the start because it seemed to imply that one's life should be approached with a sense of urgency. I enjoyed reading this book because it was generally well-written and provided an opportunity to see the essence of the soul of the author. Thank you, Lucille O'Neal, for sharing a portion of your life in words. I received this book free from BookSneeze to read and review.

This is truly a first for me. A new forum from which to "talk" about any and everything. So many topics...so many thoughts...which words to choose??