Book Description

David, unlike any Bible character before him, had the charisma to inspire a great nation. Yet in other ways he was a most ordinary man—often gripped by destructive passion, rocked by personal tragedy, and motivated by political gain. Yet, he is the one character the Bible describes as a "man after God's own heart." In this first volume of the "Great Lives" series Charles Swindoll shows how David proved his love for God many times over in an extraordinary life that left an enduring legacy of faith.

Reviews (22)

Christian baby food
Chuck Swindoll, though an engaging speaker and a prolific and even sometimes insightful writer, has written here what I feel is a watered down version of the real lessons to be learned from the life of David. As Jack Miles said in his book God: A Biography, we have the advantage of knowing how things turn out when we read the Bible and this colors our interpretations of the Old Testament stories, in particular. Swindoll is very adept at bringing in later ideas, even New Testament ideas, into the story to make his points. Bottom line--the story of David the King of Israel is not a Christian story, it is a Hebrew story. Because of this, any "Christian" lessons taken from it are at least suspect, if not completely misguided. While we, as Christians, can learn lessons from the life of David, we must remember that the Hebrew people believed in a very different God than we do today. Yahweh was a warrior God that always went to bat for his people and stood up for the underdog. He did not, however, encourage the "little people" to have a personal relationship with him. In fact, only priests, kings, and prophets had any direct access to him at all. The God of the New Testament, on the other hand, is a nurturing God who wants each of us to know we are his children and that he will do anything to have a deep, personal relationship with him. The point of all of this is, if you read this book, please read it in the light in which it was written--as a book for beginning Christians who have not, as Paul said, given up the baby food.

Excellent Book About a Great and Flawed King!
Consistent with Swindoll's writing style, the reader sees the character as described by the Bible - both good and bad.

While David was Israel's greatest king, he also committed grevious sins that adversely impacted those around him. Even so, he was described as " a man after God's heart".

Some of the excellent points Swindoll covers in his book include:

1. God can use our talents and use them for His glory.
2. Do not fight battles in your own strength! Rely on the
Lord and His timing and methods.
3. How our bad decisions affect others.
4. God cares about the details of your life - the better you
know your standing with the Lord, the freer you are.
5. We must not abuse God's grace to sin and expect no
consequences.
6. When God says no to our dreams, it may be because of
redirection in our lives.
7. The importance of having a thick skin - if you want God
to use you, you need to shed your ultrasensitivity.
8. Important notes about true friendship.

All in all, an excellent read that can encourage us and sober us about the impact we have on other people!

The Human Side of Greateness
Mr. Swindoll gives you a complete account of David's life. Not only does he accurately depict the greatness of David, the anointing by Samuel, the victory over Goliath, and the courage of Daivd, but he also vividly portrays the human side of greatness. That is the fleshly side. For so long we have to come to highly esteem our Biblical brothers and sisters just for the good side and great accomplishments. Mr. Swindoll takes you into every aspect of David' s human side (David's sin and faults). He expounds on David's lack of discipline toward his children, his inability to provide a functional home, his quick temper with Nabal the husband of Abigail, his issues with Bathsheba that we all know about along with his murderous plot of Uriah, his pride in numbering the people of God, and the rashness (quick judgment) of his counsel as when he was instructed by the Prophet Nathan to build God a house. This was not God's will for David but he was instructed as so. I don't want to dwell on the negatives, I just want to commend Dr. Swindoll for covering the whole aspect of the life of David and not just the good. Every human being, even Bible great ones as David, have two sides. We ought to learn from both. Take the good side of the great ones and model it. Then take the faulty human side in order to learn how not to make the same mistakes. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Romans 15:4. I commend Dr. Swindoll for doing a wonderful job of covering every side of the life of David. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking to take the lives of the Bible Patriots as a modeling tool and as a studying tool. This book was recommended to me by a friend. and I do the same to any interested party

My Little Review
Chuck Swindoll has done us all a favor with this series on great lives from the scriptures. I think "David" is his best one from this series, and I highly reccomend. Thought-provoking, well-presented. Interesting and informative. Fun. Theologically well-grounded. Profound and insightful, too. I liked it! :)

David - Ancient Life Still Relevant For New Millenium Living
David, though a king, was an ordinary man like us - full of emotions and struggles, and passionate in life. Charles has taken the ancient pages of David's life and unfolded them in simple but powerfully relevant ways. I found the David in me rising up, and renewed passion aflame to meet the challenges facing me, as I studied this book chapter by chapter in my daily devotions. ... Read more

Book Description

Michael Servetus is one of those hidden figureheads of history who is remembered not for his name, but for the revolutionary deeds that stand in his place. Both a scientist and a freethinking theologian, Servetus is credited with the discovery of pulmonary circulation in the human body as well as the authorship of a polemical masterpiece that cost him his life. The Chrisitianismi Restituto, a heretical work of biblical scholarship, written in 1553, aimed to refute the orthodox Christianity that Servetus' old colleague, John Calvin, supported. After the book spread through the ranks of Protestant hierarchy, Servetus was tried and agonizingly burned at the stake, the last known copy of the Restitutio chained to his leg.

Servetus's execution is significant because it marked a turning point in the quest for freedom of expression, due largely to the development of the printing press and the proliferation of books in Renaissance Europe. Three copies of the Restitutio managed to survive the burning, despite every effort on the part of his enemies to destroy them. As a result, the book became almost a surrogate for its author, going into hiding and relying on covert distribution until it could be read freely, centuries later. Out of the Flames tracks the history of this special work, examining Servetus's life and times and the politics of the first information during the sixteenth century. Lawrence and Nancy Goldstone follow the clandestine journey of the three copies through the subsequent centuries and explore its author's legacy and influence over the thinkers that shared his spirit and genius, such as Leibniz, Voltaire, Rousseau, Jefferson, Clarence Dorrow, and William Osler.

Out of the Flames is an extraordinary story providing testament to the power of ideas, the enduring legacy of books, and the triumph of individual courage. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Out of the Flames
The Goldstones have written another wonderful book. The story of Michael Servetus and his books is masterfully told. The life, work and period of Servetus come alive. A great work on an obscure, but important figure in history. The twists and turns, deceit, treachery and conflict all play out in the life of Servetus who escaped the Inquisition only to be burned at the stake by Calvin along with all the copies of his last book. But, his last book survives not completely destroyed by Calvin. The story of the remaining copies of the rarest book in the world is as interesting as the life of Servetus himself. Servetus has also left lasting legacies, which make him an important figure in both religious and medical history.

Michael Servetus - Etched in my mind forever.....
What a fascinating book. It is superbly written and almost impossible to put down. Nonfiction history books that read like bestselling thrillers are hard to find indeed. But that is definitely the case here.

Throughout the ages, how many individuals have markedly changed the world we live in, yet are not found in most history books? The name Michael Servetus is one that should be known by any serious student of Western Civilization, yet sadly his story has been missed by so many historians.

Kudos to the authors for a job well done.

Truly a wonderful book
The story of Michael Servetus is one that every free-thinking human being should know--it is both inspiring and thought provoking. The narrow minded individuals that led to his demise have many present day counterparts. There are many lessons to be learned from this book.

The history of political correctness
Well well well, what a timely book is this! If you thought political correctness was something new, read this book to discover how the real pros operated before the introduction of science.

Mind you, the anti-liberal (in the proper use of this term, not the American usage) forces are hard at work today as well. In Britain, we no longer burn folks at the stake, we put them on the 'National Register' or accuse them of 'hate crime'. You don't need to physically kill people anymore, there are other ways to eliminate heresy.

If you think I'm just messing around, ask yourself this: how would you be punished today for voicing an unpopular opinion? Would you be ignored? Would someone debate with you and make you look foolish? Or would you be fired from your job, be attacked by hungry lawyers, have your windows smashed, or even go to prison?

Many books are banned in Europe today. In America, the 'Scopes Trial' is not that far in the past. Canada recently flirted with metaphorical crime (arguing that fictional rape was equivalent to real rape). France has banned 'controversial' items being sold on Yahoo. The UK has banned certain comic books. In America, to criticize Israel (the government of the nation-state) is frequently misunderstood as criticism of Judaism (the religion). A normal, regular couple in England almost went to prison for taking photos of their kids playing in the bath (they were spared because they were employed at a large media company that came to their rescue).

Okay, now go back to the 16th century and join the authors Goldstone in their remarkable tale of the last three surviving copies of a book by one Michael Servetus, doctor, philosopher, theologian, who was burned at the stake (with the help of one John Calvin - yes that Calvin, the father of Puritanism) because he dared to suggest that the ecclesiastical scholars of the day were perhaps not as well read as they should be.

Oh, but that was the 16th century. Today, of course, anyone can hold any opinion on the Holocaust (even deny it ever happened) or colonialism (even saying it was a wonderful idea) or the Confederate flag (even arguing that it is a symbol of liberty) without any fear of assault or punishment. That's because we have freedom of speech now, right? We use logic and words, not laws and bullyboy tactics, right? No one would dream of blowing up an abortion clinic.

As well as being very relevant, this book is a joy to read. The language is clear and modern, and it appears well researched. The bit on Calvin is sublime (yup, he really was a pain ...; Mike Bloomberg take note of Calvin's Geneva). Equally interesting is the history of books (printed books since 1455). If you think the internet is pretty cool, check out the printing press.

Most important of all, this book is refreshing in its originality and scope. With all the grunge that is published these days, it is a real thrill to read something as informative and cogent as this little gem. Hats off to the Goldstones, I wish them every success with future investigations and literary pursuits.

Excellent book
This is an excellent book, it gave us a compact and well written story about Miguel Servet and Calvino.
Miguel Servet was assasinated for his way of thinking, again we have another great thinker killed because of his written thoughts
It is fast paced and not only gave us the story but also a brief analysis of the political and religious situation of the era and the repercutions on the future
Well done Lawrence and Nancy Goldstone ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Wonderful medium-sized sample of Lake's messages.
First, let me say a big God bless you to Kenneth Copeland Ministries. They're the publishers of this book.

Basically there are three main collections of Lake's sermons out there, all three classics in their own right. First and foremost, there's Robers Liardons 1000+ page collection entitled "John G. Lake: The Complete Collection of His Life Teachings" (ISBN:1577780752). I strongly recommend that everyone get this collection! It's chock full of the most wonderfull messages you could ever want to read.

Then there's "John G. Lake Sermons on Dominion over Demons, Disease & Death" by Gordon Lindsay (ISBN:0899850286), a brief but well-done collection at under 100 pages.

And in the middle we have the Copelands' collection at about 250 pages. Again, very well done, but what I'm getting at is, if you're anything like me, you'll fall head over heals reading Lake's sermons. The Copelands' or Lindsay's books will only serve as appetizers for Liardon's collection.

Save money and time. Go straight for Liardon's. You'll be glad you did.

What an amazing man of faith!!!
This book is nothing short of amazing.Why?Because John G. Lake was such an amazing man of faith and action.I can't recommend this book enough.It has it all.Amazing powerful testimonies of faith for healing, boldness to stand up against unbelief, honesty to admit when wrong, a desire to walk in integrity, and sermons that encourage the reader to take bigger and bigger steps of faith. I could feel faith rising up within me. Page after page of the miraculous.It will challenge the reader to approach his faith in an entirely new way.This book has helped me redefine my approach to christianity.I'll truly never be the same.Never again will I allowmy unbelief to limit what God can do.Personally, this book is an answer to prayer.I am reading the Bible with an entirely new outlook and level of faith.What happened in the New Testament can happen today!!! I truly believe this book is annointed. Read it!! You'll never be the same.

BEST RELIGION BOOK OF THE LAST 100 YEARS
The life of John G. Lake shows that God is willing and able to reveal himself in every man through his tangible presence, love and peace. It also shows his ability to heal from every sickness. A BOOK THAT CAN CHANGE YOURLIFE FOREVER!

BEST RELIGION BOOK OF THE LAST 100 YEARS
The life of John G. Lake shows that God is willing and able to reveal himself in every man through his tangible presence, love and peace. It also shows his ability to heal from every sickness. A BOOK THAT CAN CHANGE YOURLIFE FOREVER!

AWESOME !will stir up the gift of GOD in you
No other publication, with the exception of God's Word has stirred,ministered,energized and challenged the faith of God in me, as this book has. Dr.Lake's walk with God through divine union with God unleashedwhat God purposed for every Christian...God in him and him in God. This ishow Jesus walked 2000 years ago. Dr Lake shows that JESUS IS THE SAMEYESTERDAY, TODAY AND FOREVER. A must read. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Life of Thomas More is Peter Ackroyd's biography--from baptism to beheading--of the lawyer who became a saint. More, a noted humanist whose friendship with Erasmus and authorship of Utopia earned him great fame in Europe, succeeded Cardinal Wolsey as Lord Chancellor of London at the time of the English Reformation. In 1535, More was martyred for his refusal to support Henry VIII's divorce and break with Rome. Ackroyd's biography is a masterpiece in several senses. Perhaps most importantly, he corrects the mistaken impression that Robert Bolt's A Man for All Seasons has given two generations of theater and film audiences: More was not, as Bolt's drama would have us believe, a civil disobedient who put his conscience above the law. Ackroyd explains that "conscience was not for More an individual matter." Instead, it was derived from "the laws of God and of reason." If the greatest justice in this book is analytic, however, its greatest joys are descriptive. Ackroyd brings 16th-century London to life for his readers--an exotic world where all of life is enveloped by the church: "As the young More made his way along the lanes and thoroughfares, there was the continual sound of bells." --Michael Joseph Gross ... Read more

Reviews (27)

An Amazing Tour of Another World
The world that Thomas More lived in, the ideas that motivated him, and the reasons he did the things that he did, are so different from the world we live in today that it may be hard for people living today to really understand them. Peter Ackroyd, however, does a superb job of placing us in that world, and inside More's head, thus giving us a portrait of a great man living on the cusp of a world-changing transformation, as the Renaissance gave way to the Enlightenment.

After reading Ackroyd's portrait, however, I find myself of two minds about Thomas More. I admire his devotion to the truth, and his refusal to bow to the demands of Henry VIII. As a Catholic, I admire his devotion to the Church and honor him as the martyr and saint that he is. At the same time, and as Ackroyd shows in this unvarnished biography, this is the same man who sent "heretics" to the stake, or to be beheaded, thus seeming to give sanction to the very methods that, in the hands of others, led to his own death. Read the book for yourself, though, and make up your own mind.

One of the most elegant biographies I've ever read!
As a voracious biography reader I have never come across a more loving, generous, and fascinating biography than this one by Peter Ackroyd. The book is resplendent with tales of life in the latter part of the middle ages. It is not only a biography but a cornucopia of interesting facts about this period of history. The author shows a remarkable ability to take you from the Christian baptism of Thomas More all the way to his death as a martyr under the brutish reign of King Henry the VIII. One of the most stunning, prolific, polished biographies I have ever read in my life! I highly recommend this one for anyone interested in history and in the life of Thomas More.

The best contempory text on the life of St. Thomas More!
Peter Ackroyd is a master of drawing the reader into the experience of Thomas More. He provides a well researched and eloquent work that justly portrays the man and saint. Even though Sir Thomas More was emersed in the difficulties of state politics, economics, and law, Peter Ackroyd never loses sight of More's deep Catholic faith: "[The Mass] was the single most important aspect of his life, and the source from which much of his earnestness and his irony, his gravity and his playfulness, springs" (112).

A Biography, Not A Character Study
"The Life Of Thomas More" introduces the reader, not only to his life story, but also to the world of the Upper Class Englishman of his day. A life long Londoner, More earned his way into a rarefied world of legends. Henry VIII was his patron turned persecutor, Erasmus was his friend and St. John Fisher was his co-martyr.

In his early life, More lived a life of sanctity, but displayed traits which would not suggest a saintly temperament. Working his way into high office in what was then Catholic England, More was confronted by the early infiltration of the Protestant movement. A strong supporter of the Church of Rome, More aggressively worked to suppress the rising heresy.

More's religious fervor, which initially put him in good stead, became a handicap when Henry VIII chose to divorce and remarry. His religious consistency then led his patrons to turn on him. His efforts to avoid taking a stand on the issues of the King's divorce and remarriage and papal supremacy ultimately failed to save his life. Recognizing his fate, More made his last testimonies at his trial and in prison to supplement his prior writings such as "Utopia".

Although this book does well at relating More's outstanding life and public career it fails to give the reader a feel for the man. Upon completion of the book, I felt that I knew about Thomas More, but did not feel that I knew him. I am glad that I read it, but I had hoped for more.

A Penetrating and Artful Book
This is a first-rate biography of the sainted Thomas More. Ackroyd's goals in this biography are to present a non-anachronistic depiction of More, and through his portrait of More, to give readers a sense of the late Medieval world destroyed by the Reformation and the emergence of nation-states. Ackroyd presents More as a man exemplifying the late Medieval ethos. Deeply religous, highly intelligent, and well educated, More existed with a profound sense of human fallibility and saw all aspects of his world as manifestations of a divine order. The world as the body of Christ, a metaphor to which Ackroyd returns repeatedly, is a recurring theme. The temporal world is transient and a necessary preparation for the eternal and in a crucial sense, less real than the eternal world of Christian teachings. This world is bound by custom and inherited legal and religous traditions, hierarchial and paternalistic in its structure of authority, and deeply enmeshed in rituals that mirror the structure of divine authority. More was not, however, a reactionary except when the radicalism of the Lutherans pushed him to stringent and violent acts needed to defend the integrity of his perception of the Christian world. A prominent member of the Northern European Humanist movement, More was dedicated to the recovery of a renovated faith based on a new reading of the Patristic fathers, attention to classical, particularly Greek neoplatonic authors, and disdain for complex scholastic theology. He and his fellow Humanists hoped for reformation of the Church without abandoning the unity of Christendom, the apparatus of ritual and hierarchy that defined so much of their lives, and the primacy of papal authority.

Ackroyd's efforts to present More and the late medieval ethos are very successful. Readers will be introduced to a foreign world, but one which is an ancestor of our contemporary society. Ackroyd's efforts at depicting the lost of world of More include not only the content but the structure of the book. Some prior reviewers commented adversely on Ackroyd's use of unmodified quotations from More's English writings. While interpreting these lines requires a little effort, that effort helps to appreciate More's style. As Ackroyd points out, for More and his contemporaries, style was not simply a matter of presentation but had a significant moral dimension. While chronologically arranged, this biography is not strictly a narrative of More's life. Each chapter is presented as an almost self contained vignette or episode from More's life. I believe this is a deliberate effort on Ackroyd's part to mimic aspects of medieval ritual and theater. This is another and I think successful effort on the part of Ackroyd to present the late Medieval world. Ackroyd argues that not only that More was dedicated to the importance of ritual and theater but that it formed a very important part of More's character and perhaps self-image. Ackroyd's construction of this book is then a doubly artful device to mirror both the world of late medieval England and More himself. ... Read more

Book Description

Ruth Irene Garrett was the fifth of seven children raised in Kalona, Iowa as a member of a strict Old Order Amish community. She was brought up with rigid rules and intense secrecy in a world where the dress, buggies, codes of conduct, and way of life differed from that of other Amish societies a mere one hundred miles away. Her community uncompromisingly avoided all interaction with "the English" -- everyone who lived on the outside. As a result, Ruth knew only one way of life, one way of doing things.

This compelling true tale offers a striking look inside a hidden community as a woman comes to terms with her discontent and ultimately leaves her family, faith, and the sheltered world of her childhood. She bravely crosses over to a new and unfamiliar reality in hopes of better understanding her emotional and spiritual desires. The result is a powerful and inspiring story -- a search for meaning and the extraordinary lessons learned along the way.

Reviews (18)

I could never tell all
I just recieved my copy of "Crossing Over" and what a wonderful book! There's no way I could or for that matter would, tell my life history for the world to read and see.People can be so harsh and so self rightous.Ruth Irene Garrett had the guts to tell her and Ottie's story of falling in love and her leaving the Old Order Amish for a man 20 plus years older and divorced.I believe if she was willing to tell her story then it must be true because she told her story from the heart.I felt every bit of pain she felt when those awful letters from her family arrived at her new home.She has to be a very strong person.I wish her all the luck in the world. I hope Hollywood does a great job telling her story. I'm glad I read the book before the TV movie comes out, because I'm sure they'll put their little twist to it and this way I know the story about Ruth Irene Garrett.

A Heart Full of Grace
Coming from Amish and Mennonite family background myself, and growing up interacting with cousins in Kalona, it was very interesting to read Irene's story. I have always known that there were inconsistencies within the Amish culture, however, I was surprised at the severity of her father's treatment of his family. I was impressed with her courage to leave, yet also with her ability to maintain a desire to stay in contact with her family. It is obvious that she has an understanding of the concept of unconditional love even though this was not consistently modeled for her.

I have had the pleasure of meeting Irene and Ottie and was impressed with their honesty, love and unconditional positive regard they held for one another. Their book, "My Amish Heritage" is evidence of the hope that Irene holds in staying connected with her early life even as she moves on, evolving into a beautiful modern-day woman. Her heart is full of grace.

Crossing Over: Into what?
A fascinating book, but kind of disturbing. You get this idea that Amish life is unbearable, when I really doubt it. For Irene, it was hard, because her father was so harsh, but I have met and known Amish and the men tend to be very gentle. Yes, it is patriarchal, but that does not make it automatically "bad".
I would be upset too is my daughter, unmarried, slept with a man over 20 years older, twice divorced, disabled, obese and virtually unemployed and then ran away from home to marry him.
I can see where they considered it adultery. I sympathized with Irene, and at the same time, I feel for her family. They are all between a rock and a hard place.

A good, sad read
As other reviewers have said, this is a somewhat short book and a quick read. Another interesting Amish book is 'Amish Society' by John A. Hostetler, which is an anthropological look at the Amish.

I'm not Amish, but the town in Ohio where I grew up had Mennonites / German Baptist (not sure of the exact sect) interspersed with non-Amish (the 'English') in the rural areas. The author of this book was in an old order Amish sect which shuns more technology (such as cars) than the Mennonites. It seems that non-Amish people view the Amish as cute and quaint, sort of like one of those old-time villages tourists go to to see blacksmiths and horses and buggies and glassblowing. The difference is that the Amish don't leave the old-time village after the tourists have left.

I'm surprised that I haven't read more about women's rights groups speaking out against the Amish sects since Amish women seem to be the ones most oppressed.

very interesting
As someone who finds the whole Amish existence to be fascinating, I was very interested in reading this book. The only thing wrong with it is that it was too short! It held my attention. This book provides insight into the true story of Ruth Irene Garrett. Born and raised Amish, she fell in love with an "Englisher". Wanting more out of life and searching for answers, she had to leave behind her family and was ultimately shunned by her family and the community. Her story is told with truth and Love. A real glimpse into what is certainly a society that most of us can only imagine. ... Read more

Book Description

There are keys that open doors to astounding perceptions and higher states of being…These keys have now been revealed!The Keys of Jeshua is not about religion. Nor was it written to solicit, reinforce, or change existing beliefs. These teachings are a gift to your heart for the fulfillment of your life.Discover the courage to be fully conscious. Unlock your creativity.Fulfill the desires of your heart.Learn how to enter the Sacred Heart and know your soul’s true purpose. Learn to release, forgive, and receive the ultimate blessing of true freedom. Gain enlightenment and practical techniques to bring this new understanding into reality. Find peace within yourself."The Keys of Jeshua" is the culminating presentation of the conversations between artist Glenda Green and Jesus Christ that took place in 1992 while she painted his portrait.He personally appeared to her. (He has appeared many times to others since the day of his resurrection.)Their visits were warm, personal and completely vivid to all the senses.She took extensive notes for her own future study, not realizing that he would eventually ask her to share them with the world.

"The Keys of Jeshua" presents the remaining notes from their original conversations, plus the continuing lessons of subsequent years.More than that, it stands alone as a perfected light of what his teachings have always been.These are the quintessential instructions of the Beloved Master now presented within the context of contemporary language and modern understanding. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Christ is Risen and within our hearts...
This is a beautiful, deeply spiritual guide for living WITH Jeshua, for He IS truly risen and within our hearts. An outstanding book for a study group...one that bears spiritual fruit. God works through us...and this is another example of God's message of love and healing being given to the world through Glenda Green. May He continue to bless her on her extraordinary journey, and in so doing, bless all those who read these messages. The Word of God continues to be written!

Keys Of Jeshua
Having just completed this book, The Keys Of Jeshua, I find even a closer connection with Jeshua. The intention of Glenda Green to share this information with us through the book, is done so in a very open and loving way. Sharing information allows for building and personal growth. I often find myself returning to the pages of "Jesus Speaks", her first book, and now with this "Keys" book as well. I used to feel confused by what appeared to be conflicting points made in the Bible. New clarity has come my way by learning what the old language of the Jeshua's day had to offer, and what was really meant. I now have a fresh understanding, which I can use in my daily life. It is important to share love and knowlege with each other, and this book, does just that in a beautiful way.
Thank you Jeshua, and Glenda for speaking to us.
Blessings

Astounding Book! A mind opener & the spirit filled my heart
Thank you Glenda for your integrity and care in presenting this modern revelation for all who would have an ear. These unique and divinely inspired concepts are presented in an easy to understand format, with practical daily applications.

The overwhelming outcome of this book supports and expands upon Christ's message: Matt: 37 ...Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

To the skeptical I say... Rev: 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Every chapter unfolds to reveal, and clarifies the very core of Christ's teachings. It also serves to unite many "religious" viewpoints, although the book is not about religion.

A must read! I wept as the spirit revealed to me what I was ready to hear.

Prayer answered
Throughout my life I've had trouble coming to terms with the various interpretations of the Bible. I questioned who was right. I wondered what it would be like to talk to someone who could answer all my questions. Someone I trusted, to explain it in everyday language I could understand, to guide me in understanding and integrating his teaching into my life. The Key of Jeshua is a profound answer to my prayers. Now I know how to sustain the joys of life, to deal with the set backs and sorrows, to find peace, to find true success, how to pray and how to love, all in his own words. And most of all, I can now accept his love and embrace myself as the beloved.

Stephen Eaton, Texas

I Didn't Want It To End!
I can't decide which one of Glenda Green's books I liked best. Either way, both are my favorite books. I loved the story that Glenda relayed of Jesus telling about the oyster and the pearl. I had an encounter with Jesus this past January and that is exactly the message I received. I love her prayers and meditations and at times felt as if Jesus were right beside me as I read. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone and will be giving this as well as Love Without End as gifts. Thank you, Glenda, for two beautiful and inspiring books. ... Read more

Book Description

No family today is more dysfunctional than Joseph's. No one faces greated temptation than Potiphar's wife offered Joseph. No faith is challenged more severely than was Joseph's on death row. Yet Joseph stood firm, exemplifying what is possible when ordinary people maintain their connections with God. Like an epic novel filled with intrigue, tension, and torrential emotions, Joseph's triumphiant story touches us all. This third volume in Charles Swindoll's"Great Lives" series presents a fresh look at one of the most intriguing characters in the Old Testament and focuses on the virtue of forgiveness in the face of deceit and betrayal.

Reviews (7)

"One of the two best on Joseph!"
Although my favorite Joseph book is 'With Joseph in the University of Adversity: the Mizraim Principles', by Dr. Parks, this one is a close second! If you want a pastor's heart in the telling of the story--this one is best! If you want sound principles for everyday life that you or a graduate can use, and really well-organized--go with Parks (if you can get your hands on a copy!). Swindoll does this as part of a series, and it's excellent! These are the best two Joseph books around.

Awesome Knowledge!
Once again, Charles Swindoll has brought a biblical character to life. I felt as if I was going "through" with Joseph! Mr. Swindoll makes it easy to relate what happen to Joseph with his family relations to today's family. If you're having difficulty relating to the trials and tribulations your family faces, read this book and get a revelation from God!

Entertaining and Enlightening
This is only the second book by Swindoll that I have read. The first was "Intimacy with the Almighty". I liked this one much better. Swindoll did a fantastic job with the life of Joseph. He included a lot of details and perspective on issues, Jacob's poor parenting, geographic locations, etc. that really put you in Joseph's shoes. The book was an engaging page-turner, which I devoured and greatly enjoyed. I am looking forward to reading some of the other books in the series. (Moses, Daniel, etc.)

Another Triumph for Swindoll
Much like with the first novel in this series, "David", this book is not only wonderfully written and explained, but inspires great strength in the reader. Also like "David", "Joseph" should be read with the intent of learning, of bettering one's self, not for strict entertainment value alone (although the book is highly entertaining). Another tool for the modern day Christian, and another wonderful book from Swindoll though the power of God.

THE COMPLETE and UNFORGETABLE story of Joseph's faith.
Never have I read with such diligence a story with such meaning, character and direction as: "Joseph: A Man of Absolute Integrity." From the first chapter to the conclusion, Joseph's story, as it is recounted and explained by Charles Swindoll, provides twentieth century explanation, definition and direction of historical records and writings for the reader. You will not want to put it down until your finished reading it!!! ... Read more

Book Description

The world learned the horrendous details of Martin and Gracia Burnham's yearlong captivity in Gracia's best-selling, Gold Medallion Award-winning book, In the Presence of My Enemies. In this follow-up, Gracia reflects on the lessons and spiritual truths she learned in the jungle and how they apply to anyone's life. Twenty-one brief, theme-based chapters squarely address the challenges each of us face as we pass through difficult times to take to the skies again. This book offers no pat answers or easy solutions, just the battle-tested wisdom of a woman who lived her greatest nightmare and came through it more convinced of God's grace than ever before. ... Read more

Book Description

This is the story of living saints and heroes-- those who abandoned affluent and middle-class lives to dedicate themselves to the poor. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Moving
In Dominique LaPierre's book, "The City of Joy" we learn of the struggles of every day families trying to survive in the abject poverty of Calcutta, India.

The streets of Calcutta come alive in "The City of Joy" as we read about the struggles of a rickshaw driver and his family and an American priest trying to become accepted into the culture of Calcutta. We learn of the efforts of people like Mother Teresa to help the poorest of the poor in Calcutta, the lepers.

I have not seen the movie based on this book, but if it is half as good as the book , I am sure it is great. "The City of Joy" is a book the explores the depths of the human spirit, the strength of human emotion and the desire of a few good people to help. In all of the glory of his other books, LaPierre scores another hit with "The City of Joy." I recommend this book, you will be a better person for having read it. Plus, a percentage of the profits from the book are donated to the ongoing effort to help the lepers in Calcutta.

This book is the best ever!
City of Joy captures the true life and love of the people in Calcutta. Never have I experienced such an incredible city or book. I felt like I was back in Calcutta as I read this masterpiece!

cardboard cut-out disease porn
There is no context or depth to the one-dimensional, facile and perverse moralizing in this book. I read it over a decade ago, before travelling and speakign with people around the world. For a suburban college student, it was a shocker. As an adult, I found it to have the exact lack of context, multi-dimensionality and context as pornography. Substitute graphic sex for graphic disease and you have City of Joy. A huge disappointment.

Typical westerner's view of India?
The theme of this book is really worth to read. A missionary comes to India to service poor people and live with them, participate in their joy and sorrow of them really makes you gel with the book. But I don't understand the view of the foreigner's about the sanitation condition of India(from Seinfeld to this authour). They always view that as an adventure(true it is disgusting in some places, including where I lived) and wanted to explain that ad nauseum, but my suggestion would be India is not a land of lacking sanitation and dirt as the media claims in the other side of the world. It has its true colors and history and people who dedicated their life like Mother Teresa. Please write about them. Another thing to mention about is referring Kama Sutra(like mentioning drug cartels in most of the south american books). Please note that in majority of Indian home, Kama Sutra book is viewed as Playboy or PlayGirl in a conservsative american home.

Apart from that, this book never wavered from the reality. About a peasant's life, how his life turns upside down when the city takes him in, how the missionary adapts the life in India and how the rich and poor view their life has been well documented. Definetly worth to read.

A formulaic piece of garbage
I just finished reading The City of Joy. Normally I would be embarrassed to admit that I had been stupid enough to actually finish such a terrible book, but it was required for school that I do so.
The premise of the book isn't so bad - a bunch of poor people on a farm lose their land and possessions, and go to live in the city of joy, Calcutta's famed slum. However, the book is written terribly and uninterestingly, by some French imbecile who couldn't write his way out of a medicine cabinet. In addition to that, the plot that he decided on was formulaic and uninteresting (they faced hardship and perservered, wow!! so original and so interesting!!), thus meriting a 1-star rating.
In conclusion, don't read this horribly formulaic, boring, poorly-written, and ultimately overrated, piece of garbage. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Pope John Paul II hasn't always been the most popular man in the world--even many Catholics have disregarded his opinions on crucial matters of morality. Award-winning investigative reporter Jonathan Kwitny draws a detailed portrait of the Pope that reveals a man of momentous significance, warts and all.

Through unrelenting research, Kwitny shows how John Paul's dynamic pastoralism and action-centered philosophy influenced and guided the intellectuals and workers in Eastern Europe who eventually dismantled the Iron Curtain. It was for one of John Paul's books that the underground presses in Poland began functioning. Czech intellectuals risked their lives to hear his ideas, and because they heeded his advice, Solidarity's workers held out against the Communists. Pulling the pieces all together, Kwitny makes a strong case for John Paul truly being the man of the century. He quotes Gorbachev, saying, "Everything that happened in Eastern Europe during these past few years would have been impossible without the pope."

When light breaks through the prism of this pope, no simple image appears; so that we can make up our own minds, Kwitny gives us the full spectrum. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Multi-dimensional view of an astounding man
Kwitny has written an absorbing biography that is neither hyperventilatingly in awe nor blindly critical of Karol Wojty³a and his pontificate. It's a very human picture we get of an impressive man who has his own blindness (though "shortsightedness" would be a better description).

One thing that stands out is Wojty³a's desire for peace that sometimes leads to interesting contradictions. For example, his interfaith meetings and his desire to heal both the Orthodox/Catholic and the Anglican/Catholic rifts meet real trouble when people realize the Catholic church's stated goal is to convert everyone to Catholicism - "And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation" (Mark 16.15).

It also becomes clear that Wojty³a is an intellectual and sometimes has problems getting his ideas across so that simpletons (read: Reagan and Bush) can understand what he's driving at (i.e., that he's only advocating some portions of capitalism and not the brutal, unchecked Republican capitalism).

Lastly, as the book progresses it becomes increasingly obvious that Wojty³a is one of the rare types that, instead of becoming more and more liberal and tolerant as he grows older, becomes more and more stodgy and conservative.

A Classic Study of a Great Man
Pope John Paul caught the world's attention with his work to end communism in Central Europe. I am not a Catholic, but I have the utmost regard for what this man has accomplished. The title of this book gives away the author's regard for him also. The Americans give credit for the fall of communism to former Presidents Reagan and Gorbachev, especially in the video series 'Biography of the Millennium' done by A&E, but without the Pope's knowledge of the Central Europeans it would have just been a dream of theirs. I read this book with a great deal of relief that it had been published during the Pope's lifetime. He would probably regard the historical oversight of his work with less frustration than many of his supporters.

A Flawed, Yet Good Read
This is, for anybody Catholic or non-Catholic who is interested in the Pope, a good read. But the book is flawed by a full jar of political intrigue. I would buy it, but for the story of the man, not the story of the CIA files on him.

A good read, with much food for thought!
This book, which uses the subject's life as a framework for reviewing events and political philosophies leading up to the millenium, has much to recommend it to the general reader..... One need not be intimidated by its size and scope; it's extremely readable and consistently fascinating. As a non-Catholic, I was surprised to learn how very complex and interesting this man Wojtyla is, and, like the movie "Titanic", the inside story of Poland's liberation is exciting, even though one pretty much already knows how it's going to turn out!.... I was also intrigued by the material in the book detailing the origins of the Pope's unpopular views on women and sex, and by the author's discussion of methods used by John Paul II in his struggle against Soviet tyranny as contrasted to those employed by our own government..... While I don't know whether I believe Kwitny's conclusions about the irresistible force of high moral courage -- will the Pope's methods work for the Dalai Lama against the Red Chinese without Star Wars waiting in the wings?? -- I certainly want to believe them, and the evidence marshalled in Man of the Century is both convincing and inspiring.

A journalist helps set the record straight about the pope.
I first got interested in reading Man of the Century when I heard a National Public Radio interview featuring the author and Fr. Richard McBrien. The question arose about who has teaching authority in the Church. Kwitny cited Vatican II documents which affirm that supreme jurisdiction regarding faith and morals belongs to the pope. Rather than offer an opposing text, McBrien appealed to authority--his own. "I have been teaching theology for thirty-five years..." He went on to characterize Kwitny's statement as "fundamentalism." Of course, it would not have done Kwitny any good to make a further appeal to the actual texts since that is exactly what you expect fundamentalists to do. (They can't stand ambiguity so they look for security in black and white answers--in case you haven't heard.)

Later in the NPR interview Ray Suarez asked about the upcoming papal trip to Cuba. Kwitny attempted to place it in context of the pope's position vis-a-vis both communism and capitalism. McBrien said he would be looking at something else: what it showed about the state of the pontiff's health. Kwitny pointed out the Holy Father had just finished a grueling visit to France for World Youth Day and had another taxing trip scheduled for Brasil in the fall.

These exchanges made me think that Kwitny might have a good ability to "set the record straight." I was not disappointed. For example on the question of whether pope is going against Vatican II, he makes it clear he is not. He describes his involvement in the council as a young bishop and the consistency of his teaching with it. It is sometimes said the Holy Father has backed away from the Vatican II teaching on "collegiality." Kwitny shows in effect there was no particular teaching to back away from--if it is understood as a kind of primus inter pares (first among equals) sharing of authority. But collegiality in the sense of talking to a broad range of people before making a decision was something he practiced as bishop of Krakow. And as pope he was willing to take counsel and turn from his first impulse--for example, on the question of recognizing Israel.

On a myriad of other questions this is a book which can help to set the record straight: the pope's relationship to "Liberation Theology," his supposed bias against women, his disciplining of theological dissenters, etc. The real story is both more complex and more fascinating than the standard assumptions. One little example: the pope's remark about "husbands not lusting even after their own wives" is put into context and shown to have a meaning well beyond the jokes. A bigger example: what the actual procedure was in calling Fr. Hans Kung (and other dissenting theologians) to some accountability. And a question of justice relating not to John Paul II, but his predecessor. David Yallop wrote a book called In God's Name arguing that Pope John Paul I had been assassinated and accusing six people of having the motive and means to have done it. The book was a sensational best seller. Kwitny exposes some of its shabby research, citing a much more reliable account Thief in the Night by John Cornwell.

But the biggest question on which the author hopes to set matters straight is the pope's responsibility for the fall of communism in Eastern Europe. He rather effectively demolishes the view there was a conspiracy between the Vatican and the Reagan administration which brought totalitarianism down. Instead he advances the position that beginning in the late forties, Fr. Karol Wojtyla was laying the intellectual groundwork for its eventual fall. It was then he began inspiring young Polish leaders with a view of the supreme dignity of each human person. When he became bishop in 1958, he played key role in organizing an effective national church. Twenty years later, at the age of 58, he became pope. Kwitny argues that he steered a policy between the Ostpolitik of Pope Paul VI and rigidity of President Reagan. Moreover it was John Paul II who carried the day. The bulk of the book is dedicated to showing that his approach worked. The downfall of communism was not brought about by military or even ultimately economic considerations--but because of ideas and spirituality. The thesis makes considerable sense to me, but then I am convinced that what finally concerns man is not economics, but meaning.

Kwitny gives tantalizing glimpses into the pope's own spirituality. On one level it is highly intellectual--and he seems to have an almost super-human personal discipline. But on another level his religiosity seems embarassingly external. As a boy he would kneel before statues to pray. As an adult he sometimes prostrated himself in a chapel. He was attracted to the controversial mystic, Padre Pio. While he was studying in Rome, he went to San Giovanni Rotondo and spent hours waiting in line to go to confession to him--and was evidently told "you will attain the highest position in the church." He thought the prophecy was fulfilled when he was made cardinal of Krakow. He not only sought out Padre Pio for confession, but for a miraculous healing. When a doctor friend of his fell sick with a terminal illness, bishop Wojtyla sent a letter to Padre Pio asking for his prayers. She recovered and attributes her healing to the prayers of the mystic.

What impressed me most in Man of the Century was his pastoral zeal. His indefatigability as pope is well known, but the level of his commitment shined through most clearly in his early assignments--one to a small country parish, the other to the university. Neither were ones he sought or felt himself particularly suited for, but he threw himself into them with an incredible devotion. I have to say I was simply amazed by what Kwitny recounts of his relationship as a priest to university students. The intimacy they acheived through Masses, confessions, outings, discussions was marvelous. And during it all, the young priest was thinking and putting into writing a philosphy and spirituality which would reshape his country and the eventually the entire world.

Man of the Century is worth reading. It is not the definitive work on Pope John Paul II (I am personally waiting for George Weigel's promised biography). And by way of contrast he makes some strong criticisms of Pope Pius XI and Pius XII. Some of them seem undeserved. And hindsight is always 20/20. (We can all imagine how we would have responded to Nazism if we lived back in the 30's, but we are less sure exactly how to respond for example to abortion in our own day.) Nor does Pope John Paul II escape criticism. I am fully prepared to accept that he has his blind spots and has made his blunders--for example in some financial matters. Evangelical poverty seemed to have come almost "naturally" to him, but along with it a casualness about financial matters in general. Still this was another area where cirmcunstances forced the pope to learn and he did so rather quickly.

Of particular interest to Catholics from Seattle are the pages Kwitney devotes to the "Hunthausen affair." Once again the overall context the author provides can help set the record straight. My own sense is that we are not quite ready for that. The investigation was taken as a personal attack, especially by us priests, and we reacted with predictable defensiveness. The emotions are probably still to raw to take a more serious look at what was involved. Nevertheless, for those willing to do so Man of the Century can help. It brings matters together in a way I have not yet seen. Hardly a definitive treatment, it does however state the issues succintly and separate out what does not really pertain.

This is scarcely a book for those who, like the priest referred to initially, have pre-judged the present pope. "Conservatives" may like it even less than "liberals" but it will tend to help set the record straight. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Beth Moore is always excellent
I really can't explain how helpful Beth Moore's workbook studies have been in my life. They've helped me to find a discipline with God that I never had before. I've learned so much about the Bible, and more specifically, about the real, true, loving God who cares so much for me and for you. If you're at all considering this study, please try it. I think you'll like it. Beth Moore seems to really try hard to keep her studies accurate, relevant, meaningful, and NOT shallow. They're as deep as you want to go with them. They're not fluffy stuff, they're studies that honor God and the women who love Him by assuming that you have a brain, that you love God, and that you want to be closer to Him, and frankly, that you're human with human weaknesses. Beth understands women, because she doesn't seem to be afraid to really be a real woman after God's own heart.

Awesome study of Paul's life journey to Live in Christ
What an awesome, in-depth look at the life of Paul! Beth Moore has obviously studied scripture with a prayerful heart to allow God to reveal this study through her. I have been challenged and enlightened through her words. Be ready to have your heart changed and experience a greater love of the Lord. ... Read more

Book Description

Many people list this as the most unusual book they have ever read. Millions say it changed their lives and introduced them to the solution to their problems. This is not a book about a prison with bars, but about a prison of circumstances-and how to be set free! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW
Years ago I read this book and decided to pick it up and read it again, I am glad that I did. Many times in our Christian walk we
need to remember that we serve a God who loves us. This book helped me to remember that.
The Word of God says, " Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you!" (1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18).
That my friend can be a hard pill to swallow, but the author helps you to understand what God is actually saying to you in this Scripture and many others.
We are here to learn, to love and to show others through ourselves a God that loves them. Adverse situations come to us all, that is part of our training, but how well we handle it and how well we use the weapons that are in God's Word depends on us.
Praise is a force that can move mountains and bring great peace and victory to Christians. This book will help you understand just how important praise is to a Christian. If you have an opportunity, pick up a copy and put into practice what you will learn reading it. Remember, God inhabits the praises of His people...........you are never alone!
Shirley Johnson/Reviewer

In everthing give thanks for THIS is the will of God
The key suggestion from the book is:
We should praise Lord always;
for even the bad situation in which we are put.
Generally we are trained to pray for solution for the problems,
and if the prayers are answered
we praise the Lord for thankfully.
He shows the other way:
if yor are sick, instead for praying for healing,
Praise the Lord for the sickness, because it is will of Lord.
He gives an auto-biographical essay how Lord leads him to this discovery starting from a earlier life phase in prison.

There are a lot of interesting examples where such Praise giving
led to peace, power, joy , healing and solutions of problems, in his life and lives of others.

He also points out this is superior form of spiritual commuion with Lord.
He draws attention to the fact that baptism by Holy Spirit may be needed for such effective Praise giving.

Read:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

everyone should read it once
This book helped me through a crisis time in my life. It came just in time. It is a faith builder. When i first read it absolutely couldn't put it down. I couldn't believe that thanking God could be so powerful. I just couldn't accept that this little book's stories were true and this guy was for real. But I put it into practice and it does work. I have preached the message and the fire spreads. But I cannot stress enough to keep on thanking God throughout your life. If you stop you can definetly tell the difference. It is worth your time.

Uplifting and Faith Affirming
As someone who has drifted away from religion and was facing a difficult situation in which my child has some intense special needs, this book was given to me to read. It truly reaches to your soul and spirit and helps put you back in touch with God. Simply by thanking and praising God for everything. This book is a blessing. Overnight, I feel calmer and more content in my life, simply by saying "thank you" to God.

The truth is in this book!
This is quite possibly the best book (aside from the Bible) that the believer (or nonbeliever for that matter) could ever read! If you are stuck in a spiritual rut, or just want to get closer to God, Prison to Praise will help you jump-start your faith. I was so amazed how close I got to God so quickly simply by praising Him! You just have to see for yourself. It is impossible to be skeptical of this book after reading it-- I guarentee it will change the life of anyone who reads it and puts praise to work! ... Read more

Book Description

During his life, Rich Mullins challenged the sensibilities of what it means to follow Jesus in today's world, and now in his death, he challenges all to build upon his legacy of joy, compassion, brokenness, unblinking honesty, and wonder of an Awesome God.

Author James Bryan Smith describes this book as a "devotional biography," giving readers an insight into Rich's life, but more importantly, allowing the readers to learn what was most important to Rich?urging people to draw near to God.

Now available in paperback, this new edition features new packaging and two never before published spiritual writings of Rich Mullins, including a poem written two days before his untimely death. ... Read more

Reviews (43)

An Inspiring Look at an Amazing Man
There is no book that I can think of that strikes me harder than An Arrow Pointing to Heaven. I do not read through this book; I cry through it. Granted not every chapter struck me terribly hard, but the majority did. I long to live life with the same passion and intensity as this man. I long to be free to love as he did and experience "the reckless raging fury they call the love of God" as he did.

Smith accurately calls it a devotional biography. It is indeed an explanation of Rich Mullins' life, but it seems almost as if it were written not quite for that purpose primarily. Instead, Smith takes 10 aspects of Rich's life and music that were impacting and powerful and made Rich who he was and displays how those points of truth, beauty, and love played out in the man's life, calling each reader to live with the same vibrancy and desire for God and others. Don't misunderstand; you'll still find a good overview of Rich's life as well as a number of beautiful details, but that almost feels secondary to the drive to urge us to make Rich's life our own.

Which is exactly what Rich would have wanted, I imagine. He wanted people to know the love of God as he had and even more. He was, by his own admission, a ragamuffin, and his desire was to point to his savior, not himself. And that just made his soul that much more beautiful.

A gateway to God.
I have been a Christian for a little over a year now. During this past year, I was introduced to Rich Mullins through his incomparable music. It spoke to my heart, which I thought couldn't be touched. Over time I learned more about his extraordinary life, most especially through this book. The more I learned, the more at-peace with my myself I became. Rich Mullins did something with my soul that no one else could. He helped me to appreciate what's really important in life. He taught me that worldly things come and go, but God's love is not only eternal, but unconditional as well. He taught me to see the beauty of God's creation, and to reject the glamour of wealth and power. Rich loved God more than anyone else on this earth, so it's understandable that God would want him a little bit closer to home. This book isn't just a biography, it's a devotional, an instrument to help find peace, and a gateway to God. A must-have for anyone seeking peace.

Amazing Man, Amazing Biography
Wayne "Rich" Mullins lived a radical, outspoken, imperfect, brutally honest, faith-filled life in which he marveled at the Creator's love, beheld nature's beauty down at Johnson's Creek, let everything that could be shaken be shaken, sang unmatched praise to an awesome God -- and touched hundreds of thousands of hearts with his musical and lyrical poignancy. When his life drew to a sudden, tragic close, Rich was beginning to grasp more deeply than ever what Manning calls "the relentless tenderness of Jesus," as expressed in Rich's posthumously released "The Jesus Record." Smith's biography captures the life behind the music, exploring in full, satisfying measure the paradoxical facets of Rich's character and personality: his childlike trust and his leaf-shaking frailty, his wildness and wonder, his quiet spiritual insights and not-so-quiet political barbs. This book is an absolute treasure and a fitting memorial. (Note: The CD included with the hardcover edition is an excellent introduction to Mullins' music for those who haven't yet had the pleasure of hearing him.)

Saved by Grace!
Presenting us with a revealing look into the life of Rich Mullins, the Rev. Smith's real contribution is not that he celebrates the life of an extraordinary individual, but that he does so without lapsing into hero worship. The author shows us that Mullins was an ordinary man who struggled with ordinary temptations. Mullins strength lay not in his ability to overcome temptations, but in his willingness to rely upon God's grace.

For all of us who struggle to live meaningful, Christian lives, this book is an inspiration! Apparently, even in our time, and in our confused and unfaithful world, it is possible to live the faith.

An inspiring book about an inspiring individual
Not long after I was introduced to Rich Mullin's music the artist behind that wonderful music became my hero. There are few individuals who embody Christ's heart quite the way that Rich did. He was humble even when he had every reason not to be. He was poor even though the had the ability to be rich. He lived in a trailer when he could have chosen to own numerous homes. He was a ragamuffin at heart and his life is probably more impacting that his music.

This book is filled with great stories about Rich that show you the heart that he had for God and others. Reading this inspired me to be more like Christ in my everyday life and to live out what I believe in every way that I can. Though Rich's music is amazing, this book illistrates the amazing life behind that music.

For fans of Rich Mullins this is the a must. And, for those of you that aren't fans, this is still a great book because it will greatly encourage you in your walk with the Lord. ... Read more

Book Description

For over fifteen hundred years St. Benedict's Rule has been a source of guidance, support, inspiration, challenge, comfort and discomfort for men and women. It has helped both those living under monastic vows and those living outside the cloister in all the mess and muddle of ordinary, busy lives in the world. Esther de Waal's Seeking God serves as an introduction to this life-giving way and encourages people to discover for themselves the gift that St. Benedict can bring to individuals, to the Church, and to the world, now and in the years to come.

Through this definitive classic Esther de Waal has become known as an authority for the lay person on the Rule of St. Benedict. Her ability to communicate clearly the principal values of the Rule when applied to lay people is the ultimate strength of this book. She follows each chapter with a page or two of thoughts and prayers, contributing to its meditative quality. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Elegant!
Seeking God is an elegant, insightful, and extremely valuable treatment of the spirituality inherent in St. Benedict's Rule. The further into the book I read, the better I realized it was. Again and again I was impressed with the wisdom and psychological astuteness of the Rule as deWaal explained it. Benedict's way of moderation, humility, and balance, as interpreted by deWaal, seems one of the wisest and healthiest examples of Christian thinking that I have encountered. It is an excellent antidote to the regrettable tendency of some to want to separate body from soul and the material world from the spiritual world; Benedictine spirituality instead balances and integrates them!

Seeking God at Home
"Seeking God" helped bring "The Rule of St. Benedict" into focus for me, enabling me to see clearly the wisdom of Benedict's vision for our day. For two other books that explore Benedictine wisdom for parents, look for "The Family Cloister: Benedictine Wisdom for the Home" and "The Christian Family Toolbox: 52 Benedictine Activities for the Home", both by David Robinson (New York: Crossroad,2000 and 2001). Benedict still speaks relevantly and prophetically in our day!

Excellent in terms of spirituality and guidance.
The author was recommended to me both by my spiritual director and by a monastic. I see why. It is written simply and directly. It does not drip religiousity nor is it so esoteric that one becomes stalled in frustration. Instead, de Waal relates the Rule of St. Benedict to life in the world today. She does not compromise the Rule nor interpose her own "doctrine"- she draws from a great knowledge of writers of the Benedictine tradition from the past to the present, couples that with her experience as a wife and mother, presenting a straight forward discussion of the Rule, how it is of help to the Christian of today, and how it may be applied in the life of the individual who is seeking a rule for his or her own life. Her tradition is Anglican but one does not sense an intrusiveness- rather a calm, rational, feet on the floor contemplative guide which opens the door to further spiritual growth.

A practical way of applying the Rule to daily living
Esther de Waal has written a beautiful little book about finding God in the commonplace. My copy is highlighted with notes in the margins like "wow&qu