What's Your Worldview?

“What's Your Worldview? An Interactive Approach to Life's Big Questions”

by James N. Anderson

I've always enjoyed learning about different worldviews and how they compare to one another. James Anderson's little paperback, “What's Your Worldview? An Interactive Approach to Life's Big Questions” is going to be a handy resource for my (small-but-growing) library.

Written similarly to a “Choose Your Own Adventure” book, Anderson begins his worldview adventure answering a few questions: What is a worldview? Why does my worldview matter? What or who has shaped my worldview?

You need to know upfront that this is not a page by page, read-from-front-to-back kind of book. Because of the style the author has chosen (the “CYOA” way), the order in which you read each page depends on how you answer each yes or no question. For instance, Part 1 begins with “The Truth Question”: Is there any objective truth? He expounds a bit on the question, and then you're off to either page 22 or page 91, depending on your answer.

As you work your way through each question, your answers will eventually lead you to what is identified as your worldview, which is only briefly summarized (after all, this is only a hundred-page book!). Once at the end of your “adventure”, if you have any doubts about the end result, or want to reconsider any points along the way, (or reconsider your worldview!), he directs you back to specific questions and page numbers for you to ponder again.

As confusing as all this may sound, the book is structured in such a way which allows for easy accessibility for a time when all you want to do is flip through and simply read his summary on the five main worldviews and their sub-categories.

I have found this book to be very helpful when I want a quick review on, say, what pantheism is, or how Hinduism differ from Buddhisms. In fact, I would have loved to have had this book in my travel bag while engaged in a lively discussion on religions with a fellow passenger one five-hour flight.

I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for this review. These opinions are my own and I was not compelled to write a positive review.

"Confessions" Book Giveaway

*UPDATE*
Author Paula Hendricks is giving away a signed copy of her book on my other blog! Come check it out to enter the giveaway!  Below is my original book review posted a few weeks ago.

After meeting Paula Hendricks last summer, I eagerly anticipated reading her first book which was to be released only in a few weeks. “Confessions of a Boy-crazy Girl: On Her Journey From Neediness to Freedom” not only has the cutest cover I've ever seen, but it has great content as well. (So in this case, you can judge the book by its cover.)

Although I looked forward to reading it, I did not expect to learn much. After all, I'm not a boy-crazy girl and never have been, so what was in this for me? Simply a resource for me to share with the younger girls in my life, that is all.

Ha.

Listen up you gals like me: this book is about so much more than hopeless romantics or silly flirts. I don't know a single person out there who doesn't need to take their own journey from neediness to freedom! We all have idols in our lives, be it boys or security or money or dreams.

In her chapter called “Forcing a Fairy Tale”, Paula gives a few reasons why creating your own storybook romance doesn't work, and why it's not wise in the first place. Again, it may not be a boys' love you're in pursuit of, but these four truths are good reminder for that idol that may consume you:

1. You are already loved completely and unconditionally [by the Father].
2. You don't know what is best for you, but God does.
3. You're not actually waiting on a guy to pursue you—you're waiting on God.
4. God has nothing but good in store for those who wait on Him. (pg. 70)

One of the great things about this book is that the author doesn't claim to have it all together. You will not find a “five-steps-to-getting-over-boys-and-then-promptly-be-rewarded-with-marriage” story in this book. That's not to say the author got it wrong, but rather to prove the point that idol-crushing is an on-going battle. We must daily remind ourselves of our need for the One True God, and find our satisfaction only in Him. Because this short life on earth is only the beginning of something much greater. As she says at the end of her book,

“That's why I'm okay with leaving my here-and-now story hanging with a big, fat question mark. My story is not finished. Your story is not finished.

And King Jesus' story is still being written, too. Soon He will return to set up His kingdom and marry His bride (that's us!). And because our stories are wrapped up in His, regardless of the outcome here and now in the guy department, the best is most definitely yet to come.” (pg. 146)

So in the end, not only did I discover a few idols in my life, I discovered I gave myself too much credit in the boy-crazy department. Read this book and you might surprise yourself as well.

And a Child Shall Lead Them

This past weekend was the annual Arkansas Flower and Garden Show. Years ago, we had friends who nearly every year came in town and stayed with us for the weekend, and we'd all spend the day there (because all us kids were free!). I have such fun memories of those visits, and was always impressed with their knowledge of all the variety of plants on display! (I could identify a flower from a leaf. Woohoo!)

So after probably a ten-year hiatus, I returned to the flower and garden show! Somehow the garden displays weren't quite as massive and impressive as I remembered, but I suppose that's the difference of having a child's perspective.

But even though I'm "grown up" now, I didn't miss the opportunity of viewing everything through the eyes of a child. A friend of mine from Petit Jean was manning a booth and had her two boys with her, and as it was now in the middle of the afternoon, I figured they might be restless and in need of letting out some energy. So I asked if there possibly was anyone who knew the best displays to be sure and see. The boys jumped up and took me first to all the interactive displays, the ones you can walk through. The first one was like stepping out on someone's back deck. There was a table and chandelier, a fountain, and even music playing! (The younger one determinedly found the plant under which the speaker was hidden!)

They were also sure to show this music teacher the piano fountain:

I thought this was pretty creative, even if it did mean ruining a beautiful piano! Oh, and there were hidden speakers here as well under those, hey what d'ya know, real flowers! (Uh, did we forget we're at a flower and garden show, fellas? =) )

One of the next stops was a trailer set up like a designer home for outdoor living spaces. But that wasn't what attracted the boys. It was the popcorn inside. (I'm pretty sure I found the right tour guides.) And then we walked through "the Secret Garden", inspired from the book, and we just had to meet the Herb Lady from Mountain View, "because she's such an exciting person". (They were right!)

Of course, what's a tour from two, young country boys without checking out the tractors and four-wheelers and giveaway cars? The older one was pretty sure he would win the car if he entered. (I forget his age, but he can't be more than ten or eleven.) I asked him what he would do with it if he won it, and without any hesitation he said, "drive it!"

So it proved to be a fun afternoon, just like those good times from years past. But oh, I've forgotten the best part! Of all the beautiful flower arrangements, garden displays, and even free food samples, you know what the favorite thing was for the little guy? The escalator! Of course! (Something tells me these boys don't come down the mountain much.)

Good times, indeed.

Confessions of a Boy-Crazy Girl Book Review

I received a copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for this honest review. 

After meeting Paula Hendricks last summer, I eagerly anticipated reading her first book which was to be released only in a few weeks. “Confessions of a Boy-crazy Girl: On Her Journey From Neediness to Freedom” not only has the cutest cover I've ever seen, but it has great content as well. (So in this case, you can judge the book by its cover.)

Although I looked forward to reading it, I did not expect to learn much. After all, I'm not a boy-crazy girl and never have been, so what was in this for me? Simply a resource for me to share with the younger girls in my life, that is all.

Ha.

Listen up you gals like me: this book is about so much more than hopeless romantics or silly flirts. I don't know a single person out there who doesn't need to take their own journey from neediness to freedom! We all have idols in our lives, be it boys or security or money or dreams.

In her chapter called “Forcing a Fairy Tale”, Paula gives a few reasons why creating your own storybook romance doesn't work, and why it's not wise in the first place. Again, it may not be a boys' love you're in pursuit of, but these four truths are good reminder for that idol that may consume you:

1. You are already loved completely and unconditionally [by the Father].
2. You don't know what is best for you, but God does.
3. You're not actually waiting on a guy to pursue you—you're waiting on God.
4. God has nothing but good in store for those who wait on Him. (pg. 70)

One of the great things about this book is that the author doesn't claim to have it all together. You will not find a “five-steps-to-getting-over-boys-and-then-promptly-be-rewarded-with-marriage” story in this book. That's not to say the author got it wrong, but rather to prove the point that idol-crushing is an on-going battle. We must daily remind ourselves of our need for the One True God, and find our satisfaction only in Him. Because this short life on earth is only the beginning of something much greater. As she says at the end of her book,

“That's why I'm okay with leaving my here-and-now story hanging with a big, fat question mark. My story is not finished. Your story is not finished.

And King Jesus' story is still being written, too. Soon He will return to set up His kingdom and marry His bride (that's us!). And because our stories are wrapped up in His, regardless of the outcome here and now in the guy department, the best is most definitely yet to come.” (pg. 146)

So in the end, not only did I discover a few idols in my life, I discovered I gave myself too much credit in the boy-crazy department. Read this book and you might surprise yourself as well.

Resolved

 
For many, the first day of the year is a time to start fresh, wipe the slate clean, and act on their new year’s resolutions. I’ve made my fair share of resolutions, and have even used Jonathan Edwards as inspiration for a list. I’ve also simply turned the calendar over and spent the day like any other.

However one chooses to spend their first day of the year, motivation to do right is always a good thing. But here’s a newsflash: you are going to fail.

No matter how disciplined and determined you are, you are going to fail IF (and that’s a big ‘if’) you “in your own strength confide” (Martin Luther, A Mighty Fortress). Self-reliance is not a biblical virtue, and just as we can do nothing to save our souls from condemnation outside of Christ, we can do nothing to make our goals with perfection outside of Christ.

This is not supposed to be an anti-motivational speech. It’s a reminder that everything–everything–in, within, and about us, is because of Christ, through Christ, and for Christ.

“I need Thee every hour, stay Thou nearby; temptations lose their power when Thou art nigh” (Annie Hawks, I Need Thee Every Hour).

And that’s why January 1st doesn’t have to be the one day to start again, because for a child of God, every day is like New Year’s Day. Every day is fresh with our Lord. Every morning His mercies are new. Every moment of every year I’m still saved by the blood, still wiped clean, and still given grace to resolve to take up my cross and follow Him.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Glimpses of Grace book review

Author Gloria Furman probably had in mind other wives and moms like herself while writing this book, and as I am neither, you'd assume her book would do me no good. In fact, if Crossway had not sent me this book for free to write a review, I might not have ever have picked it up.

At the core of this book's message is the message that should be at the core of our lives. And that is the gospel. The subtitle, “Treasuring the Gospel in Your Home” captures that thought; the idea that everything around us--the joyous and the mundane--is about gospel, if we only will stop to see it.

Which is why “Glimpses of Grace” is a sweet, fresh reminder for any woman in any stage of life. All too often we feel our daily tasks are boring or unimportant, and we forget the grand scheme of things, and how we fit into God's plan.

Although one of the author's first points is that theology and doctrinal study shouldn't be left to pastors and scholars, she also is very practical about application, being very candid with her own life examples of struggles and lessons learned.

If I had to pick one chapter that stood out to me the most, it would be chapter twelve, “The Idol of a Picture-Perfect Home”. Never had I considered how even good things like organization and cleanliness could lead to idolatry. But it makes sense. If you obsess over having the perfect home, or the ideal family life, or any fill-in-the-blank scenario, to the point that you are consumed with it, you are dabbling with danger. Of course this does not mean everyone with an organized house is in sin. Your attitude and heart motives can be pure before the Lord regardless of the condition of your abode.

I love the synopsis on the back cover, so I'm going to share it here to motivate you to grab your own copy!

“Sometimes life feels a lot like a burden—day in and day out it's the same chores and tasks, challenges and discouragements, anxieties and responsibilities. Dust bunnies show up on the stairwell, social commitments clutter the calendar, and our families demand daily attention and care. At times, just catching our breath seems like an impossible feat.

So where is God in all of this? Does he care about the way we unload the dishwasher or balance the budget? Do the little things like changing diapers or cooking meals make a difference? And how can we use our spheres of influence for God's glory and our joy?

Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a working woman splitting time between the office and home, Gloria Furman—writer, pastor's wife, cross-cultural worker, and mom—encourages us to see the reality of God's grace in all of life, especially those areas that often appear to be boring and unimportant. Sing personal examples and insightful stories, her richly theological reflections help us experience the gospel's extraordinary power to transform our ordinary lives.”

That's the Spirit!

'Bout this time of year, we tend to hear a lot about "the spirit of Christmas". From the local radio station to department stores ads, the "the true meaning of Christmas" is no longer taboo but is freely talked about in both the evangelical and (most of) the secular world.

Of course, there are varying opinions on what the Christmas season actually represents:

"Sharing good times with people you care about--now that's what Christmas is all about."
"Nothing shows the Christmas spirit like the gift of giving."
"Christmas is about compassion; it's for the poor and weak of this world."
"It's not Christmas until the tree is up and your favorite Christmas album is playing."
"Christmas isn't Christmas without presents!"

According to Ask.com:

"If you ask 10 people what the Christmas spirit is, you'll probably get 7 to 8 different answers. Going beyond those different answers, there is something that makes people more selfless, more friendly, more kind, and generally much nicer people at Christmas.
Growing up in the 1950's and 60's, that something, I'll call it the Christmas spirit, was much more prevalent back then than it is today. Wow! Right after Thanksgiving, when people's thoughts began to focus on Christmas, it was like the whole world transformed! People were happier and had more hope. They were more helpful. People smiled and said hello to everyone when they met on the streets. Once Christmas Day was over, people went back to their old selves. The transformation was beyond anything that can be explained, except that there is a true Christmas spirit that is much bigger than anything people could bring about, that comes out at Christmas time.
Sadly, it seems that the Christmas spirit that brought about that transformation back then isn't as prevalent today. Perhaps commercialism and people becoming more self-oriented has made it so the invisible, but real, spirit that visited earth back in those days, just doesn't visit us in the way it used to." (emphasis mine)

Hmm, why do you think the "Christmas spirit" isn't as transformational as it was in the 50's and 60's, as this anonymous contributor suggests? Although it could be argued that society as a whole might have been more ethical a few decades ago, perhaps the answer behind the current lack of seasonal good cheer lies within their definition of the "spirit of Christmas".

Perhaps they're missing the most important thing about Christmas.

As one blogger has noted, "Every made-for-TV movie I watched between Thanksgiving and New Year’s preached the same gospel: “It’s not about presents.” But then, every Christmas morning, I was inundated with presents. It didn’t make sense. Someone was lying."

As long as the truth is muffled, there will be no joy in Christmas, and no good cheer, because there is no Jesus.

"As comfortable as it might be to parse out our celebrations and keep our holiday sentimentals in their own clearly labeled boxes, we cannot keep Bethlehem and Golgotha apart without losing what Christmas really is. There’s a place for focusing on the stable, the shepherds, and the wonder of the incarnation, but to appreciate the depth of what is happening here, we must keep Calvary’s hill on the horizon." (David Mathis, Let a Little Lent into Your Advent)

It may sound cliche, but Jesus really is the reason for the season. The Cross is the crux of Christmas.

I would assume that writing to this blog audience is like preaching to the choir, but this story never gets old. Use the Christmas season to be reminded of more than Santa, sweets, or songs. Dwell on Why Christ Came. Here's a few resources to help get you going:

Where the Story of Christmas Begins, by Albert Mohler
Four Accounts, One Savior, by Peter Nenadov, The Gospel Coalition
Better Than a Norman Rockwell Christmas, by Elyse Fitzpatrick, True Woman Blog
Five Habits For Holiday Happiness, by Nicole Whitacre, GirlTalk Blog
Let a Little Lent Into Your Advent, by David Mathis, Desiring God

Making a List.

Checking it twice. Yes, I've been busy making lists.

Grocery list.
Christmas list.
1,000 Gifts list.

Although I love cooking, and finding the perfect gift for someone is so rewarding, my favorite list of the list is the last. (Say that three times fast!)

1,000 Gifts.

I'd heard raving reviews of the book of the same title, and was thrilled when one day I actually won a blog giveaway and pulled out of the mail box a copy of Ann Voskamp's New York Times bestseller.

I will tell you right off that I'm not a fan of her writing style, and nearly quit after chapter one. But I'm oh so glad I didn't!

Thanksgiving season is a wonderful time to remember what the Lord has done and thank Him for it, but that shouldn't start and end with the month of November. 1,000 Gifts reminds us why we should look for the good in the everyday things of life.

Long before I picked up this book, I learned that contentment is a huge key to living life to the fullest. Because with contentment is peace, and joy, and strength. And the first step to finding contentment in Christ is to give thanks to Him. You're too busy to complain when you focus on your blessings.

So what better way to "set your mind on things above" and "be thankful", than to keep an ongoing list of blessings? Gifts from God--the little and the knock-your-socks-off-huge.

Some gifts from my list include: fall foliage, fuzzy socks, music, reuniting with an old friend, fresh roasted pecans.

You name it, it's a gift from God.

Try it for yourself. Keep a little notepad by your side and jot down the little things that God has given you, and see how easy it is to discover a thousand gifts right in front of your nose.

Not Your Ordinary Trip to Wal-Mart

So last weekend I took an excursion to Northwest Arkansas, and I'm back home and here to tell you about it.

I. Met. The. Pioneer. Woman.

My life is now complete. (Just kidding. I can't quit now--my birthday is next week!)

I was super excited, and the 3 1/2 hour wait didn't even faze me. That doesn't mean I'm not glad I wasn't at the end of the line. (I'm not sure, but I don't think that sentence had too many negatives, don't you think?)

Apparently I was not the only one who thought Ree was worth waiting for. (No, these are not random Wal-mart shoppers checking out men's socks.)

And no, my friend Katie and I were not here to try on ladies' undies. (Ahem)

As we slowly made our way down each and every aisle in the woman's section, with our mile-high stack of the latest Pioneer Woman cookbook, "A Year Of Holidays", we got wind that a certain someone had also come to this cook book signing. Once we emerged from the last sock aisle, finding ourselves in that final home stretch, we, too, saw something you don't see every day:

"Marlboro Man"! (A/k/a Ree's rancher husband)

Yes, we all got our picture with him right there in the jewelry department.

He was so nice. What fella puts up with a 5-hour-plus steady flow of crazed, hungry, fanatic women and is still smiling?

This is Jordan, Katie's friend. I didn't meet her in line, though there was plenty of time to make friends with those around us, trust me.

So at this point we're just a few steps away from meeting the best blogger, best cook, best photographer, best story-teller, best basset hound owner, best ranch wife and mom, and best Food Network show host ever all wrapped up in one.

(Drum roll please.......)


Tadaaaaa!!!

No, I'm not photoshopped in! (Though she would be the one to tell you how to do that, just like she's the best one to diagnose your camera problem when you're trying to get your picture made with her. Yep, that happened. She also complemented me on my dress. Just thought I'd throw that in there.)

We were just a wee bit happy to see her. And hey, she looks happy to see us! She's cool like that.


She was amazingly friendly and kind! If you've ever met her, you know what I'm talking about. You'd NEVER know she'd already been smiling and signing for four hours! Just so gracious and talkative to us like we were the first in line. Just confirms why I love her.


We were so pumped! We made it through that line and had a good time doing it!

I wouldn't stand in line that long for just anybody. The Pioneer Woman is just that kind of person.

Four-Book Series For Young Girls

I read this four-book series with the intention of using it as a tween girls Sunday School curriculum. In the end I did not decide to use it for my particular setting, but it would still be appropriate in a group setting.

I like the writing style of author Erin Davis. She's very engaging and relates well with young girls, all while not sacrificing truth or brushing over important topics.

The My Name Is Erin series titles include: One Girl's Journey to Discover Truth, One Girl's Journey to Discover Who She Is, One Girl's Mission to Make a Difference, and One Girl's Plan for Radical Faith.

Each book is about 75 pages and should be a relatively easy read for young girls. Although the recommended age was not listed (at least not that I could find), based on the issues covered I assume it is for young teen girls. Also the order of the books was confusing, as they were not numbered. It wasn't til in the last book I read, which incidentally is book four, that I found a listed order (see above order).

There was a lot I was able to glean from, even as an adult, based on the core principles addressed, even though her examples for young girls obviously did not directly relate to me. But that's because truth is always relevant, and God's Word stands the test of time.

Overall a great resource for young girls, moms of girls, or small group leaders.

 

I received a copy of this series from Moody Publishers in exchange for this honest review.

For Women Only

I always assumed this book might as well have been titled, “For Wives Only”. But boy was I wrong! There is so much in here for women to understand to help them relate to men in general—to dads, brothers, even friends. Knowing how a man's mind works can help know what to say when I want to encourage or support a brother or brother in Christ, and what not to say! And, as odd as it sounds, it also keeps me from doing, wearing, or saying things that would inadvertently attract a guy's attention, all because I had no clue how he thinks!

This revised and updated edition of the original “For Women Only”, includes an entire new chapter based on updated research by author Shaunti Feldhahn, and explains why the frustrating occurrence of men “checking out” of a conversation is not all what it seems.

Several of the topics Shaunti covers that differentiates men from women I was aware of, but not to the full extent. Yes, I'd heard it said that men's brains process like a waffle, and women like spaghetti, but I hadn't thought of how that explains misunderstandings and miscommunication in a relationship.

The back cover summarizes the book in this way: “The man in your life carries important feelings sod deep inside he barely knows they're there, much less how to talk about them. Yet your man genuinely wants you to “get him”--to understand his inner life, to know his fears and needs, to hear what he wishes he could tell you. In her landmark bestseller, For Women Only, Shaunti Feldhahn reveals what every woman—single or married—needs to know. Based on rigorous research with thousands of men, Shaunti delivers one eye-opening revelation after another, including:

-Why your respect means more to him than your love.
-How he feels deep inside about his role as provider.
-What it means for a man to be so visually “wired”...”

Shaunti does an excellent job explaining the inner workings of men based on surveys she took over time of thousands of men. She addresses some sensitive issues with tact, and emphasizes the important role wives have in influencing their man. In order for a marriage to glorify God, the couple must exemplify their roles as Christ & the Bride, and that begins with understanding one another and loving each other through their differences.

 

For more info on this book, check out:
Author's website

Publisher's info

Read chapter one

Author bio
You can rank my review on the publishing site by going here.

I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook-Multnomah's Blogging for Books program in exchange for this review. These opinions are my own and I was not pressed to write a positive review.

A Book Review of the Bible?

As I was about to pick up my Bible to read yesterday, an interesting thought occurred to me: What if I were as deliberate about reading Scripture and thinking through what I read as I am when I read a book that I know I will be writing a review for later?

Whenever I start a new book, I always am thinking about what I do and don't like about the book, certain points or paragraphs that catch my attention, and what I would say about it in a review. Sometimes I even keep notes as I go along, if it's a larger book, so it's easy to compile them into a review later.

So why not do that with the Bible?

Sad to say, there are certain portions of the Old Testament that I don't get quite as much out of as, say, the book of Philippians. I have caught myself reading just to read. I'll get my five chapters in, close the book, and go on my way, without taking away anything from it to get me through the day.
So I decided I'd try real hard to stay focused and glean something from the Weeping Prophet. The Lord was very gracious, because my five chapters for the day included chapters 31 and 32. Just listen (er, read) what encouraging reminders God gave me in the midst of a doom-and-gloom book:

"Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers...But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people. ...I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more." (31:31-33, 34b)

And then a beautiful prayer from Jeremiah, praising God for His goodness, His glory, and His greatness!

"Ah, Lord GOD! It is you who has made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you. You show steadfast love to thousands, but you repay the guilt of fathers to their children after them, O great and mighty God, whose name is the LORD of hosts, great in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the children of man, rewarding each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds." (32:17-19)

I think I'm going to better enjoy the rest of this book, and will be better prepared for "the sequel", a/k/a Lamentations.

That said, I give it a 5-star rating.

Humble Orthodoxy

 

I cannot begin to describe how good this book is. And it's not because it's thrilling, or uplifting, or easy to read. On the contrary, it is just the opposite, but that's what makes it good. It's a slow, rich, convicting bundle of TRUTH. Don't let the small size fool you; it may take you a while to get through this one.

 

Joshua Harris has taken his most-praised chapter from his book “Dug Down Deep”, expanded it and turned it into this gem of a book. The meaning behind the title, “Humble Orthodoxy”, is well explained in the first chapter. The subtitle, “Holding the Truth High Without Putting People Down”, is where it gets hard, because it implies the obvious need for application.

In just four chapters, Josh Harris spells out the problem (the arrogant, doctrinally-correct vs. the gracious, no-convictions pushovers), why it's a problem, the solution (you CAN speak the truth in love!), and where the solution should begin (in you).

Most often, new believers or seasoned Christians alike fall prey to pride. New-found knowledge usually leads to pride, and pride is obviously what keeps one from being humble. But if you look around, it seems nearly impossible to be both doctrinally accurate and humble. Are the only options humble heterodoxy, or arrogant orthodoxy? Harris says no. The balance of knowing the truths of Scripture while remaining humble is found in remembering your position in Christ, of staying within the shadow of the cross, of recalling the sacrifice that was made for your sin.

 

“We must care deeply about truth, and we must also defend and share this truth with compassion and humility.” (pg 13) If we always keep grace in the forefront, we will not be tempted to get puffed up, or pride ourselves on how much theology we know and understand.

“In other words, Christians are humble because their understanding of truth is not based on their own intelligence, their own research, their own acumen. Rather, it is 100% dependent on the grace of God. Christian knowledge is a dependent knowledge. And that leads to humility.” (pg 14, quoting Michael Kruger)

Harris recommends using application as a practical tool against pride. If you're more concerned with how well you live out what you know, rather than what you know, you will be less concerned with how you look or sound before others.

I think the last chapter was my favorite, where he gave a small glimpse of what heaven might be like: Of grace, and humility, and forgiveness, and thankfulness. Where all of truth will be revealed, and the mysteries and perplexities of this life are resolved and forgotten. Of loving hearts, joyful spirits, and pure humility when kneeling before the all-knowing God. Only there in Him will we find the perfect balance of truth and humility.

I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook-Multnomah publishers in exchange for this review. These opinions are my own and I was not compelled to write a favorable review.

Rank my review and read the first chapter of Joshua Harris' book for FREE by following this link.

Joni & Ken

Joni & Ken: An Untold Love Story

I have always wondered about Joni Eareckson Tada's personal life, the “behind the scenes” of a quadriplegic, so naturally I snatched up the opportunity to read this book. It tells of Joni & Ken's beautiful romance story, and the difficulties that they faced in marriage. And let me assure you, it is not your average story!
 

Any book, speech, or audio recording I've enjoyed of Joni Tada is always inspiring and God-glorifying, and this book was no exception. It is not written in first person this time, but in third person, as if someone else were telling their story.

The only complaint I had was that it is not told chronologically, but instead jumps around in time, putting different pieces of the puzzle together. Sometimes I found that rather confusing, never knowing which events happened at what time.

Other than that, I would give this book 5 stars and recommend it to couples or singles alike! This wasn't so much a book on marriage, as it was the story of their life together and God's work in their lives individually before meeting, and together after marriage.

I received a copy of this book from Booksneeze.com in exchange for this honest review.

Selfless: The New Taboo

I really shouldn't watch the news anymore. I never did until I started working evening hours for a lady who always has the TV on. It's less like news and more like pop culture drama, political drama, gay rights drama, and more drama! The other night it was be-yourself-love-yourself drama. And it made me sick to my stomach.

A reporter was interviewing a former stay-at-home mom named Talia who had left her husband, abandoned her three kids, and moved across the country, completely changing her lifestyle. Her reasons for doing so didn't sound justifiable, even in this culture, prompting the reporter to ask,


"Do you love your children?"

"Absolutely. More than anything."

"More than yourself?"

"Should a mother love her children more than herself?"


I. Was. Flabbergasted.

Should a mother love her children more than herself. Is she serious?? And yet, why should I be surprised by this selfish way of thinking, since this is exactly the reasoning thousands of moms have every day when they walk inside an abortion clinic.

The Bible gives us the opposite advice: "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." (Phil 2:3)

And Jesus instructed (and Himself lived out) the ultimate definition of love. Not one promoting self, protecting self, insuring self is #1, or making self happy. Rather, "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." (Jn. 15:13)

True love is self-less.

To answer Miss Talia's comeback question,

"Should a mother love her children more than herself?"

Yes. Or it's not really love.

Remembering the Cost

It used to be just like any other summer holiday, and like most Americans, we'd usually grill, maybe swim or take a bike ride, and enjoy our day off from work or school.

Originally called Decoration Day, a day to commemorate those lost in the Civil War, it was eventually changed to Memorial Day in 1967, to honor those lost in all of our wars.

It wasn't til 8 years ago that I really stopped to think what this "holiday" was really about. Only 11 days before the Memorial Day of that year, we learned that my cousin was shot and killed by a sniper in Iraq. He was standing atop his tank, tossing candy to some Iraqi children when the bullet hit him.

I was 15 and had never experienced a family loss, nor did I ever expect my extended family to be the ones to feel the effects of war firsthand. I caught a glimpse of what grieving families for centuries have endured when startled with the news that their soldier would never come home.

In the 237 years America has been a free country, it has cost us over 1,309,000 lives.

Let us not forget the lives, and the families, who sacrificed so we can live free.

"Unglued" Book Review

Lysa TerKeurst’s “Unglued Devotional” is great for busy moms who need a daily reminder of how to stay calm during chaos, and to praise the Lord instead of complaining to Him.

Although she does have a book out titled “Unglued: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Raw Emotions”, this is not a companion book, but a devotional that stands on its own. I have not read her book but still enjoyed the devotional.

There are “60 days of imperfect progress”, as the subtitle says, with each day being only two or three pages each, and since the book itself is only about 4x6, it doesn’t take much time to read, which I‘m sure is intentional.

Lysa seems very real and transparent, not ashamed to use her own life experiences and failures as the example of what not to do. I like that her focus is on Scripture, which she always turns to for wisdom. Personal advice or examples are nice, but without the gospel, every effort at doing the right thing or having the right attitude is just hypocritical. So she takes us to the Source of hope.

I would not consider this devotional theologically deep, or extremely thought-provoking, but I also realize I’m not a mother and so am not in the same season of life as the author is. However, I still enjoyed reading it each morning, and usually found a little gem to "take home" with me.

I received a copy of this book through Booksneeze.com in exchange for this honest review and was not compelled to give a positive review.

A Letter to the Editor

Reading the paper this morning made me mad.

I don't usually read the paper, and I usually am not that easily angered, so it was not the best start to my morning. The article I read was about the ACLU's lawsuit over the recent bill that passed in the Arkansas legislature which bans abortions after 12 weeks, the time when a heartbeat is first detected.

I don't understand people who lobby for death and murder and then call themselves advocates of "reproductive rights" and "family planning".

I don't understand people who go to great lengths to protect unborn wildlife, but go to even greater lengths to destroy unborn human life.

Most of the article was filled with quotes from the ACLU voice, with only a brief mention of the other view, that of protecting life. I was ready to whip out pen and paper and write a letter to the editor so he'd know this slanted report wasn't the only opinion out there.

Instead, I finished making my birds nest breakfast (a Pioneer Woman recipe--normally that'd be enough to perk me up!), and turned open my Bible to 2 Kings. It just so "happens" that chapter 19 was where I left off from yesterday, the story of Hezekiah seeking Isaiah's counsel about the Assyrian king's threats against Judah. I read to verse 14, looked at that article sitting across the table, then kept reading.

"Hezekiah received the letter from the hand of the messengers and read it; and Hezekiah went up to the house of the LORD and spread it before the LORD.
And Hezekiah prayed before the LORD and said: "O LORD, the God of Israel, enthroned above the cherubim, you are the God, you alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; you have made heaven and earth.
Incline your ear, O LORD, and hear; open your eyes, O LORD, and see; and hear the words of Sennacherib, which he has sent to mock the living God.
...So now, O LORD our God, save us, please, from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you, O LORD, are God alone."
Then Isaiah the son of Amoz sent to Hezekiah, saying, "Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: Your prayer to me about Sennacherib king of Assyria I have heard.
..."Whom have you mocked and reviled? Against whom have you raised your voice and lifted your eyes to the heights? Against the Holy One of Israel!" "

2 Kings 19:14-16, 19-20, 22

I was no longer angry. I was grieved, and reminded that prayer alone is the answer. A measly letter to the editor would do nothing. So I "spread my letter before the Lord" and lifted up my voice to the Author my faith.

"Incline your ear, O LORD...that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you, O LORD, are God alone."

Set-Apart Girl Conference

Hello, everybody! Spring is almost here (can I get a hallelujah!) and that means we're just a few short months away from the Set-Apart Girl conference!

My plan is to host another simulcast event so that young ladies all over central Arkansas can participate again this year. Our group last year had such a wonderful time and were encouraged both with Leslie Ludy's message, as well as the fellowship we enjoyed with one another! I hope you can join us this year if you're in the area!

Here's the tentative details, so save the date!

June 7th & 8th, Friday Night & Saturday
Redeemer Community Church
Little Rock, Arkansas

Conference theme:
Consecration: Made Strong to be Poured Out 

You can follow this link to check out more details on the session topics and speakers.

If you're not familiar with Set-Apart Girl, I encourage you to read their March/April Online Magazine to spark your interest!

Registration is now open. The cost is $10 per person, which will help cover simulcast fees, and includes conference notes and two meals. Click here to register.

If you have any questions feel free to leave me a comment!

From Bad Attitude to Gratitude

I've been reading "A Chance To Die", a biography of Amy Carmichael by Elisabeth Elliot, and in it is a story of a struggle Amy overcame by claiming the truth of John 21:22, "Jesus said to him, 'If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!' "

In my own little way, I had a similar experience with this verse this week.

- - -

I don't know about you, but I don't think I fully comprehend the implications of being solely focused on CHRIST. Alone. Period. No exceptions. Think of the Philippians 3 passage where Paul desires to truly KNOW Him, to "count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus [his] Lord".

Count everything as loss. For Christ.

That is a hard concept to grasp. I really don't think I get it. Because I have such a cushy, modernized, Americanized life, I see all the physical, material things that I have--and think I control--and then just add Jesus into that. Sadly, I have a feeling I'm not alone in this. How many are really singing these words if we're honest:

"My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and health insurance."

"Hallelujah! All I have is Christ--plus my bank account!"

"Glory I'm saved! Glory I'm saved! My credit card debts and my bills are all gone!"

- - -

Sunday morning this same passage from John 21 was preached by my pastor, and it was amazing how I needed to hear those words, yet again. I'd allowed myself to get worked up about something that week and had a rotten attitude, which quickly led to grumbling, and venting to a few poor souls I dragged into it. But when you turn your tongue loose, it doesn't stop with one offense. Pretty soon I found myself complaining about other situations and issues non-related to my original frustration. It was an all-out pity party, and I wanted everyone invited!

Everyone, that is, except Jesus.

But He came anyway. And thankfully my heart wasn't so hardened as to ignore His gentle prick. I knew I was sinning, but I wasn't ready to surrender. So I told God before church that even though I wasn't ready, I would try to come with an open heart and deal with this once and for all.

I think God let my pastor in on the secret pact, because his sermon hit home!

"What is that to you?"

You don't have to know everything. Forget about everybody else. Stop trying to manage everything, know everything, critique everything.

 "YOU. Follow. Me."

- - -

Once again, when confronted with God's Word, I realized what a petty thing I had turned into a massive ordeal. I had to let it go and I knew it. There is no point clinging to worthless idols.

Times like these make me think of a recorded message I once listened to of Elisabeth Elliot (we've come full circle with her!), and I can distinctly hear her voice saying, "Surrender your rights."

Surrender.

Just as I began to sink down in shame and think, "what must God think of me when He sees me like this?", the Pity-Party-Crasher said, "He sees Jesus! He sees a spotless Lamb, Perfect Righteousness!"

Thank you, Jesus!

The Conviction to Lead

 

So what am I doing reviewing a book about leadership by a seminary president? Well, when Bethany House publishers made this book available for review, I immediately thought of my church library, and how nice it would be for the men and pastors in my church to have access to this book. Not because they’re lacking in leadership skills, but because Albert Mohler is well-respected in my church, so his book would be appreciated.

Alright, so now for my review. Believe it or not, I actually enjoyed reading it. I think I value the work and responsibility that a leadership role bears more than ever before.

The book itself is well-written, recording a God-honoring way to excel in your field, whatever your role. As the title states, the main purpose of the book is understanding the importance of having a genuine, passionate purpose that you believe in in order to successfully lead. Without a message there’s no reason for a leader.
 

Chapter topics include:

Understanding worldviews
Becoming a thinker, teacher, communicator, reader, manager, speaker, writer
Importance of character and morals
Being a good steward
Leaving a legacy

At one point in the book, the author recommended never reading a book if it is just a waste of your time because it doesn’t apply to your needs…so I almost put the book down. But only almost.

Great book for leaders and aspiring leaders of any field!

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for this review.

Questions and Answers...and Awards

I'm not sure what the Liebster blog award is, but I've been nominated for it. Does anyone know what it is? Regardless, it involves answering and asking a series of questions, and because the rules are all about the number 11, I couldn't resist participating! I think I just decided what one of my questions will be...

Anyhow, thank you to my friend Lauren from her lovely blog Musings of a Flower Child for the nomination and list of questions.

The Rules:

1. Answer the 11 questions the blogger who nominated you asked you.

2. Give 11 random facts about yourself.

3. Nominate 11 bloggers with less than 200 followers.

4. Create 11 questions for the nominees to answers.

 

 

Lauren's Questions:

 

1. Have you ever been abroad?

Sadly, no. I have plans to, though. That is, if dreaming about it is considered planning.

 

2. What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Easy going (is that two words?)

 

3. Do you sew?

Tolerably. I do sew, but I'm not sure if "yes" is really the correct answer to your question. I enjoy it and learn something new each time I'm ripping out a seam. :)

 

4. What is one of your favorite pastimes?

 Reading a good book with a soundtrack playing and sipping hot tea! Or taking a walk on a sunny day.

 

5. What is a favorite summer activity or tradition?

My family usually climbs Pinnacle Mountain at some point during the spring/summer. We don't go camping as often as we used to, but I'd still call it a favorite summer activity. 

 

6. Skirts or pants?

Skirts, dahling!

 

7. What is your favorite color to wear?

My favorite color is purple, but some reason I tend to wear a lot of black. Oh the joys of being a musician.

 

8. Are you reading anything right now?

Oh am I? You want the whole list? I used to only read one book at a time, but currently I am reading at least 9 books, including "A Chance to Die" by Elisabeth Elliot, "Fierce Woman" by Kimberly Wagner, and "Wives and Daughters" by Elizabeth Gaskell. 

 

9. Tea or coffee?

Tea. I like hot tea straight or with cream if it's black, but ice tea must be sweet!

 

10. What is your favorite classic film?

Chariots of Fire. That's probably because it was the last one I watched.

 

11. Describe your favorite outfit!

I'm not much of a clothes/fashion person, but I love dresses from the 40s. 

 

 

11 Random Facts  

1. I love hats.

2. I have a favorite number, and it's eleven.

3. I'm not a tomboy, but I love sports. I'm sure it comes from having 3 brothers.

4. I've lived in the same town my whole life.

5. For a quiet introvert, I surprisingly have a wild, adventurous side that sneaks sometimes.

6. I prefer listening to instrumental music rather than vocalists.

7. I do not like snakes. Especially near my garden.

8. This is actually not my primary blog, but what I like to call my "public" blog.

9. I just upgraded to a smart phone, and I think it's making me dumb.

10. I still journal with pen and paper, because I love to write and I'm old-fashioned.

11. I have been an aunt for 2 1/2 months and it's the best thing in the world!! 

I tag: 

My followers, or anyone who wants to participate, or:

 

Valerie at Savories of Life

Lissy Lou at The World is Round...And Other Thoughts

Kiri Liz at Lianne Taimenlore

Lexi at The Daily Owl

McKenzie at Pecan Pastures

Amy at Yet Another Period Drama Blog

My Questions for You:

1. Do you have a favorite number, and if so which one?

2. Regarding fiction, do you prefer reading the book or watching the film?

3. What's the first thing you think of each morning?

4. Why did you start blogging?

5. What is a family tradition of yours?

6. Name one place you'd like to visit.

7. Name one celebrity/author/hero (current or from history) you'd like meet.

8. What color is your room painted?

9. Can you whistle?

10. How many siblings do you have, and where are you in the birth order?

11. What time zone do you live in?

Thanks for playing along! I'd love to see your answers if you decide to participate. Hope you realize the honor of being awarded the Liebster Award. I know I do, ;)