Reviews (5)

Great short resource for students
I give this four stars only because many of the days don't include anything beyond the scripture passage and a quote. The days that do, however, provide excellent devotional thoughts. Along with this, the entire framework of the Bible is covered in only minutes a day. What more can be expected of one book (outside of the Bible itself?).

The best way to use this resource is to study it in a group with the curriculum written by the author available at simplyyouthministry.com. Use this with your class and the impact will be much greater.

Great way to get to know God's Word...
I got this book when I started to deepen my faith and found it as a great way to learn the Bible. Every day, there is a story from the Bible that includes scriptures to look up that apply to the story and a fun thing such a verse to memorize or a profile on a person in the Bible. I have since passed it down to my sister and she reads it every day. A great book with great intentions.

1 minute Bible 4 students
I am in my early forties and just found a type of Bible that I really enjoy reading. It is not easy to read just one study a day since you want to continue reading. Would recommend to those who want to start reading the Bible.

Best devotional I have ever read
I am a middle schooler and I read it every day. my church friends read it every day and like it. This is a very good way to learn the bible in 1 year and be able to read it year after year. my youth paster gave this to me because he thinks its a good way to read the bible. this book only does the main points of the bible but at the bottem of each scripture it show verse that are realated to that scripture.

A Must buy!!!
I am a youth pastor and have used the one-minute Bible with my teenagers. They love it! For those of them that struggle with reading the Bible on a daily basis, this is a great tool to start a lifelong habit of doing so! Doug Fields is concerned about teenagers having Scripture in their lives, and so am I! Don't miss out on this great tool! ... Read more

Book Description

Today's teenagers are learning to pray, and this tool is for them! The impact of The Prayer of Jabez has been phenomenal -- with reports of changed lives, expanded ministries, and massive spiritual breakthroughs among believers everywhere. Now teens can also receive extravagant blessing as they discover, in peer-based stories, supporting scriptures, and interactive questions, how to pray the remarkable prayer of the obscure Bible hero in I Chronicles 4:10. Teens seeking God's best for their lives will respond to the challenge of asking for blessing -- and being "blessable" before the Lord. Students, youth groups, and future church leaders will welcome The Prayer of Jabez for Teens. Includes group study leader's guide! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Gentle Encouragement for Teens to Be Closer to God
Teenagers often feel left out, like a nobody with no future. For that reason, the story of Jabez (whose mother named him "pain") should be relevant and appealing. From this unpleasant beginning, Jabez came to receive many blessings from God. In this book, Dr. Wilkinson makes the case that if God is there for unpopular nobodies like Jabez, He must be there for all of us!

Dr. Wilkinson has a nice manner for speaking to teenagers. He recalls his own thoughts and hopes during the teenage years. He also relates stories of how teenagers have made an enormous difference for God in assisting adults and other teens. Suddenly, you will feel like someone is talking to you who cares about you, as God does.

"This little book starts with everything we put in the original, bestselling The Prayer of Jabez . . . ." " . . . [T]hen we ask the question: If God wanted to change the world with a teenager like you, how would He want you to pray?"

The challenge also goes out in this form: "Are you ready to do one thing that could change the rest of your life?"

As much as the Bible teaches me, I find that I learn even more by hearing about the interpretations that others make of the Bible. Those interpretations are most beneficial when they include witnessing one's own experiences. Dr. Wilkinson has provided us with many soulful insights from 30 years of reciting a little-noticed Old Testament prayer in this inspiring book.

One reason that it is nice to hear what others say about the Bible is that some of them read Hebrew, which I do not. Knowing what the original text said should provide more clues to its precise meaning. Dr. Wilkinson has provided insights from the Hebrew texts to help us understand what the translations mean.

The Prayer of Jabez is found in 1 Chronicles 4:10 following a brief introduction of Jabez in 1 Chronicles 4:9. This text is in the middle of a long list of about 500 Hebrew names beginning with Adam in providing a geneology. The casual Bible reader might never notice this material.

Since there is so little text, the plain meaning of what is found here can certainly be confusing. "Jabez" means "pain" in Hebrew. Jabez was named this by his mother "Because I bore him in pain." Since almost all babies bring pain to their mothers, it is hard to know exactly what was different about Jabez, if anything.

In this book, there is a nice emphasis on the special problems a teenager would have if his name was Pain.

Jabez is remembered for having his prayer answered. The prayer was: "Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!"

Dr. Wilkinson provides several perspectives on this prayer that added much to my understanding of the Scripture. First, Mr. Wilkinson interprets this as meaning that the person praying is asking to play a bigger role in achieving God's purposes. That was a new thought for me. I tend to feel that each of us is kept pretty busy trying to do God's will in whatever roles we already have. How can we do more? Obviously, only with God's help. By taking on even larger roles, we probably move closer to a state of humility by knowing that we cannot possibly succeed without Divine guidance and assistance. So what seems like a prideful thing actually turns out to be the opposite. What is your reaction to that?

Second, I was startled a few years ago to hear a group of rabbis and ministers talk about how the traditional concept of the moral life was to never be tempted. I feel tempted all of the time, and overcome temptations only after sincere struggles. Dr. Wilkinson points out that the best way to avoid evil is not to be tempted in the first place. "Without temptation, we will not sin." So this text encouraged me to ask even more for being kept away from evil. Naturally, the Lord's Prayer does that, but this important point had been partially lost on me until I read this book.

Beyond those Biblical insights, I also learned from Mr. Wilkinson's experiences. He takes on big tasks, uses the Jabez prayer, and keeps track of how things work out. I, too, believe in the power of prayer. It had never occurred to me to keep a journal about my experiences with prayer. I am sure that there is much to be learned.

My own interpretation of the book and the prayer is that it is just another example of God's listening to and answering our prayers. So I felt encouraged to pray, rather than to use only this specific prayer. I did find myself revising some prayers that I am fond of to incorporate elements of the Jabez prayer.

There is a good section that points out that today we can also call on Jesus and the Holy Spirit, which were not available to Jabez.

Dr. Wilkinson also sets a good example that I intend to follow. He walks up to strangers and says, "How can I help you?" Now, I do that with people who call me on the telephone and people I work with. It had never occurred to me to do so with strangers, but it is probably more helpful with strangers. I look forward to the experiences I will have as a result.

If you are like me, it will be hard to tell where Biblical interpretation ends and witnessing begins in this book. I'm not sure it's all that important to draw a line between them. The key thing is to feel closer to God and God's wisdom and love. I certainly did after reading The Prayer of Jabez for Teens.

The book ends with a fine study guide that contains the big ideas of each chapter and some questions for bringing the lessons home to each reader.

I pray that you and your family will too! What else can you pray for that may serve God's purposes in more ways that you have not considered before?

*Prayer of a teen-age girl*
The Prayer of Jebez for Teens (from The Breakthrough Series, by Bruce Wilkinson) is a definite compliment to its predecessor, The Prayer of Jebez. Through this small, 116-page book, Dr. Wilkinson goes into great detail on the prayer a man from the Old Testament of the Bible made. Also mentioned in this entertaining, enlightening book is how making this man's (Jebez) prayer your own will impact your life and how it influenced other's lives as well. Finally, during this review, I will mention how the author was blessed by praying Jebez's prayer and how I believe it has helped me.
The account of Jebez is found in I Chronicles 4:9-10, amid the numerous genealogies that can make even the strongest of Believers want to skip the book entirely. It is important to note that Jebez never had been (and never was again) mentioned at all in the Word of God. Yet, he and his prayer are noteworthy. His time as "man of the hour" is recorded, as follows: "Jebez was more honorable than his bothers, and his mother named him Jebez saying,
'Because I bore him with pain.'
Now Jebez called on the God of Israel, saying,
'Oh, that You would bless me indeed and enlarge my border, and that Your hand might be with me, and that You would keep me from
harm, that it may not pain me!'
And God granted him what he requested."
One way we can see that Jebez was blessed is that he was 1) spoken of in God's Word, and 2) in the family line of Jesus Christ. The author bases his writing of The Prayer of Jebez for Teens around I Chronicles 4:10.
Before and after publishing his beliefs on this portion of Scripture, Bruce Wilkinson spoke at numerous colleges and seminars encouraging teens and adults to pray this prayer themselves. Many wrote to him explaining the amazing miracles God had been doing in their lives. One was from a lady named Sara who states, "...you have no idea how shy I am, but let me tell you what's happening on my campus since I began to ask God for a larger life..." She then continues her testimony reporting her leading to the Lord two of her friends and her belief that another, who had spoken to Sara about some things that had been on her mind, was going to be the next for salvation. One important entity to observe is the fact that the author records his own experiences relating to praying the Jebez prayer. Dr. Bruce Wilkinson is a talented writer who "practices what he preaches," if you will. He gave the statistical testimony that he began his ministry with 25 conferences a year and it has grown to 50 conferences each weekend. The Lord has blessed him and others in many ways that you must read to learn of. In my own life, I have prayed a similar prayer: "God, please bless me most definitely! And give me more opportunities to tell everyone about You, and please be with me every day of my life. Keep me from harm and temptation so that I won't get hurt/embarrassed and neither will anyone else." Since I read the original The Prayer of Jebez and The Prayer of Jebez for Teens I've told one person about Christ, several about this book, and many people of the churches I attend and their ministries. I hope and pray that God can and will use both my strengths and my weaknesses to glorify him that my life might give even a glimmer of a reflection of His glorious radiance. Please meet with God about His will for your life and enjoy finding it with a little help from Bruce Wilkinson's book, The Prayer of Jebez for Teens.

An Amazing Experience!
I read this book only 2 days ago. I can ALREADY start to see changes in my life.
You can too!
If you want to grow closer with God, and experience more miracles, read this book!
5 simple words: This book is awesome!

A New Old Prayer
This book is much like the original but written for younger folks and has different examples. It is the story of a very old prayer that has the same roots as the Lord's Prayer but it is nice to get a new prayer now and then!

Great Book
I Really Like This Book It Is Good For Teens And Adults.
And Very Inspriational. ... Read more

Book Description

Samuel and Rebecca Rainey, preteens themselves not many years ago, add their perspective as young adults who vividly recall their own successes and failures as teenagers. Covering such topics as friends, peer pressure, boundaries, dating, and sex, the Raineys address the most common traps of adolescence and teach young people how to avoid making poor choices. Short, concise chapters are filled with engaging illustrations and practical applications. This book is essential reading for preteens. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Great for Teenagers and their Parents
I wasn't expecting a whole lot when I picked this book up. Perhaps a tongue and cheek take on the dating scene. However I found a lot of depth and insight that is Christian based but not a glaring fire and brimstone, you will go to hell sermon.

It's well written, funny, and has some good examples. However, the book is aimed toward the high school crowd. If you're a teenager, check it out. If you're a parent of a teenager, definitely get it, read it, and use it as a basis to start talking to your kids about sex and dangers therein. If you're none of the above, and did all the bad things in high school the book warns you against go ahead and look into it. Then if you're a guy get John Eldredge's, Wild at Heart.

And if you are not part of the sex crazed teenage population and have been offended by the portrayl of men and women's feelings and attitudes expressed by the authors, I'm sure they're sorry. You have fought the good fight and have my utmost respect. However, with the way divorce and teenage pregnancy rates are going, the views conveyed in this book have merit.

GREAT
This book is a must read for teens as well as adults. It opens both girls and boys up to each others minds, and lets you see the reality. It tells the whole truth- ugly and good, but everything the book is about is something that every girl and guy should know. Justin and Hayley have done just an awesome job with this book, and everyone should read it. It's amazing!

Honest, Funny, Enlightening
I liked this book because it really doesn't sugar coat that much. It honestly tells it how it is. They tell you the truth about how each of the sexes act, and tips on how you should act accordingly. This book shows that in playing the dating game, how some things will end up, or how to know when to say no.

Gender roles perpetuated
Why is everything in this book about the male being dominant and the female submissive? Allow me to insert some excerpts. At one point, the author states that "this whole women's lib thing has less to do with women getting rights and more to do with men becoming pansies." Skewed, homophobic logic drives sentiments like this. The girl is "strong" so the boy must be gay. Most of the second half of this book is about outdated, stereotypical roles of boys and girls. The boy should pay ("going dutch" on the relationship quiz bumps you very close to the "Wake up!" category, which states that "This relationship is definitely destined for failure. Get out while the getting is good.")
"If you dress like a piece of meat, you're gonna get thrown on the BBQ." I'm appalled. While I do believe there are certain limits on reasonable attire for anyone, I refuse to believe that women who are confident and comfortable with their bodies should be pestered because some random man walking down the street sees her and can't control his raging hormones enough to suppress the totally unnecessary whistle that follows. So maybe when boys run around with their shirts off, girls watch. But others don't call them a whore for it.
To me, the "What's Your Type" quiz is totally ridiculous. The instructions say "Mark the space by the things you prefer in your man." Some traits are denoted by flowers, others by skull and crossbone symbols next to them. Hmm, now which am I supposed to choose? Furthermore, what ARE some of these good qualities? "Goofy, no girlfriends, calls all the time, no piercings, gives lots of compliments, you're his life, intelligent, barely touches you, popular, needs you." In comparison, the bad qualities include traits such as "tattoos, quiet, piercings, HAS HIS OWN LIFE, artistic, mysterious, loner, can get along without you." Why is it that a relationship should be two unpierced, booksmart but not creative, excessively social people who need eachother and refuse to do anything without one another? Relationships are like Venn diagrams, they intersect in some places, but there are differences too. What's the point of dating someone who can't get along without you, who has no life of their own, etc? Why not just date yourself, at least you'd never stand yourself up.

Repeatedly encouraging males to "be a man" and not "a pansy" while also enforcing the idea that men control relationships basically just reaffirms the old stereotypes of provider vs child-bearer, as well as telling men that it's okay to hate women and gay people. I mean, no one wants to be a pansy, right? And making an attack on someone's masculinity by calling them a girl (...) only shows that the people who talk like this don't see any potential for equality between men and women.

A MUST Read for anyone of dating years
A fantastic book about the realities of dating. A must read for any and all teenagers (not bad for a dating adult either). Sound advice written in an very enjoyable easy to read format. Give it to every teenager in your life. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A changed teen
this devotional book is amazing! my youth group is currently working through this book. i can already see the amazing things God is doing. Being part of a youth group with out a youth pastor or youth leader is hard. When a young adult stepped up with this book i was hestitant, but i can see God working through this and in us.

Life Changing
This is one of the best devotinal books I ever read. It helped me to see what God wanted for me in my life. It really turned my life around.
I was so glad I bought it at my youth camp. That's where I met Stuart Hall himself (awesome goddly man to meet). He mentioned this book at the camp for those who wanted to learn more about what he talked about. (I surly did!)
This book covers everthing from the Basics to Moral Boundries, Friends, and Choices.
God really worked on me through this Book and his very own word.
I hope any and all who read this book will be abel to see God more clearly as I did.

A Volunteer Youth Sponsor looks at "The Seven Checkpoints"
I am a volunteer youth sponsor for our small church and youth group. Recently, and coincidentally, our full-time youth pastor and our only other youth resource person resigned. Without full time leadership we sponsors were feeling mighty inadequate. I heard Andy Stanley on a radio talk show doing a promotion for his new book. I bought the book and found it to be not only an easy read but clearly delineated and organized for even those of us in part-time volunteer ministry. Stanley and Hall offer some unorthodox but very sensible approaches to planning and maintaining a youth group over a long period of time with a specific goal in mind. The book is so easy to follow, we have decided to adapt our curriculum to their philosophy of these seven pivotal checkpoints. I recommend this book for any struggling youth volunteers like me and for any of those in full-time ministry.

A wise choice
Kids face so many difficult challenges in today's chaotic culture. Andy Stanley talks practically and from the heart to help teens to live victoriously in the middle of this generation. One especially helpful checkpoint is encouraging teens to make wise choices and showing them how. Rather than telling kids that they're making wrong choices, they can consider making the wisest choice in any situation. This builds them up rather than cutting them down. It nourishes the spirit rather than stifling them. ... Read more

Book Description

Teens have a lot of questions about God and faith, such as, Is God really there? Does He really care about my life? How should I pray? How can I know if God is listening or if He has anything to say to me? How do I know what plans He has for my life? This interactive journal is designed to help teens answer those questions and connect with our heavenly Father every day to gain a deeper understanding of what His Word says to them.

12 Months of Faith will teach teens these truths and more:

• How God's grace and promises apply to their lives 24/7
• How to make God-directed decisions
• How to recognize sin and its deception in their lives
• The power of repentance and forgiveness
• How to bring God into their relationships
• Why we must sometimes experience sorrow and suffering
• How to make a godly impact on the world

Based on twelve principles examined in each month of the year, 12 Months of Faith will guide teens through their own writing, daily prayer and scripture reflection, to a deeper relationship with God and discovery of who they really are.

Book Description

Graduates are looking for a challenge. Filled with superb stories that are inspiring, funny, even sad, this passionate book issues such a challenge. Master-communicator Tony Campolo wants every young Christian to know, “You Can Make a Difference.” In four hard-hitting, humorous presentations he galvanizes high school and college students to live lives of total commitment to Christ, to move beyond warm fuzzies and good intentions, and to set a course for a lifetime of spiritual adventure. The perfect gift for any Christian who is finishing school. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This book made a difference!
I am 13, and my father gave me this book, and asked me to read it. At first glance, I wasn't interested; it looked boaring, something for adults. I put it off for a couple of weeks, and then one day decided to give it a try. Starting on the first page, Tony Campolo, author of this book, put humor in. I loved it. I couldn't stop reading the book! I have now finished it, and definately recommend you reading it! It may look boaring, but just read the first few pages, and you will change your mind. On top of being funny, he also gets his point about dating, loving christ, and more. This is an A+++++++

Joel Holland ... Read more

Reviews (4)

"Young Woman" a Great Book, But Slightly Dissapointing
This is a great book for any Christian teen girl to work throgh. It is divided up into different sections that focus on purity, serving, etc. Each gives real life examples and discusses how teens can make a difference at school, home and church with their faith. George provides lots of information and helps teens to easily apply these concepts to their life. A lot of girls would benefit from this book! I have learned more from this devotional from any other I've read.
However, some of the "work" in this book seemed like school. Readers look up a lot of scriptures and write a lot, and it's a bit irritating. I'm also surprised that George is writing a book for teen girls when she is much older. Sometimes I felt like she had unreasonable standards, was a bit old fashioned and was talking down to readers. (EX: She was telling readers to keept their rooms clean.) This is a better devotional for girls than most others out there, but still has its down points. Overall, though, girls will benefit from George's insights.

Great Lessons, but we're teenagers
This was a great book except Elizabeth George talks to you as if you're in kindergarten. It bothered me when she would say things like "precious one", "dear friend", etc. But other than this I learned a lot from the book and have grown closer to God. I disagreed with some things she said, but it made think and figure out my beliefs.

Every young woman should read this!!!!
I think every young woman should read this. Great readability-you get the feeling the author is speaking right to you-on subjects any young woman could use input on. Any parent would want their daughter to know about, and take to heart, the contents of this book.

A Young Woman After God's Own Heart
This book is brilliant with loads of insight to help teens develop their own personal walk with God.
George writes in a warm engaging manner encouraging the reader to be proactive in their pursuit of a heart that marches to the beat of Gods drum!
Each chapter is filled with helpful suggestions rounded off with with a challenging heart response, a practical "to Do List" to help motivate & a short bible study.
I am presently working through this book with my 11 year old daughter & it's providing her with the tools to move on in her christian walk without me being there. ... Read more

Book Description

Checklist for Life is the ultimate handbook for living a successful, joy-filled life. This follow-up title, Checklist for Life for Teens, offers insight into topics and issues that are specific to teens’ interests. In addition to a brief narrative, each interactive chapter of the handbook contains:

• An “I Will” checklist of heart and attitude reinforcements.
• A “Things to Do” checklist of action points.
• A “Things to Remember” section of Scripture verses and applicable quotes from famous and not-so-famous people.

Reviews (1)

Great for Teens and their Parents!
Having the opportunity to teach the "after school Bible study" for pre-teens, some of which have had no interaction with the Bible, I searched and found this 'Ultimate Handbook'. I showed it to several of the parents of the children involved, and the parents are picking out which lessons I should teach next with great excitment!

This book shows these pre-teens how the Bible relates to their lives, wheather it is "over-reacting" (teens don't do that!), "self acceptance", or dealing with rumors, cliques or gossip. These topics can all be found in the Bible, but the Bible is a big book, and this handbook not only covers it, but shows kids where in the Bible to find the answers.

In addition, it talks to the kids using the "proper lingo". Some of the chapter titles are "Dissed" (dealing with respect), "Let's get Real" (dealing with honesty), and "Totally Awesome" (Maintaining a Sense of Wonder).

There are also chapters that are more suited for the high school students such as "Weight of the Wait" (Sex and Intimacy), "The Ex-Files" (Handling breakups), and "Endless Possibilities" (Planning for the Future).

The basketball coaches are so excited about the values and life-coping lessons in this book - those that they are unable to teach at the public school, that they are cancelling basketball practice (one day a week) so the children can attend the study!

My turnout for the study has been about 98% of the 5th thru 8th graders in the whole school................... What else can I say.............. if the kids come to listen, it must be worthwhile! ... Read more

Book Description

Written teen to teen as a first-person narrative, this is not a book about the Columbine shootings - instead, it's a story of faith, told in Rachel's own words.The book includes first person narratives, journal entries, drawings from Rachel's diary, and notes from her parents and friends at Columbine High School.Additionally, "me pages" (what makes me angry, what I'm aftraid of) encourage teens to explore issues central to their lives and faith.Highlighting Rachel's faith journey from the time she became a Christian, through her joys and doubts, her hopes and dreams, this story is a triumphant testimony that teens will treasure.

Reviews (11)

Wish It Had Come From Rachel
I thought the book was beautiful and moving but I was really dissapointed that it wasn't Rachel's actual journal, instead it was written by a woman who looked through all of Rachel's writings and then wrote "from Rachel's point of view" plus her own vision. I think it would have been a lot more hard hitting and real if the book really was a reprint of Rachel's real journals, that way we could hear from and learn about this amazing girl from her own words. No offense to the writer who did a good job but I think Rachel has touched so many people that we want to learn all we can about her and read her thoughts for ourselves without someone else's impression of them mixed in. I hope Rachel's parents print her real journals in the future.

A Unique story about a unique young lady
Certainly everyone has been impacted by the Columbine shootings in some way. As for me I watched in stunned disbelief as the story unfolded on TV the same day I was celebrating my birthday. The tragedy left many a broken heart across the country and world. This book is the fictionalized story of one of the Columbine victims as told by the author who plays the role of Rachel Scott. Klingsporn does her best to reach into the mind of this young lady using entries from her journals and interviews with her family and friends as the foundation. Of course no one can truly capture the essence of Rachel but the author seems to do a good job of recreating Rachel's final years of life based on what information she had.

The book is written in an easy to read way mainly for younger teens and paints a story of a very typical yet very unique person. Rachel experienced the same life challenges as most teens, sometimes succeeding, sometimes failing. Her faith in God played a crucial role in her life and was the focus of her goals which seemed to lead her to a more stable yet no less dramatic path in her final year of life. It was this same faith though that led to rejection and ridicule by some. While I can see why they may have seen her as being somewhat of an "oddity" with her upfront, no nonsense approach to God being that I'm not a Christian myself I nevertheless see though same qualities as the key to unlocking the hearts of people everywhere of all walks of life, religious or not and I can't help but ask myself if I would like to live in the kind of world that Rachel would create. The answer is easily yes and I dare say even Rachel's killers would have preferred her world too because the world Eric and Dylan created for themselves only led them to their own destruction.

I wish I could give more stars for this book
Before I read this book I was haveing a spiritual down fall after reading it I was complete reformed.Rachel became my role model and should be the role model for any christian of any age. The author uses Rachel's poems, writtings, stories, quotes, ect to teach other's through Rachel's life. I am happy they didn't say much about her death because she isn't dead, she is living forever in heaven. If more people would read this book and take it to heart and tell others to read it our world would be a better place. Full of love, kindness, gentelness, out reaching, and hopefully more people living their lives for our Lord Jesus Christ. When I tell others about this book I am speechless...God helped me grow through this book and He will work through it to you.

Oh look - a false martyr!!
Does it even matter that after polic reports and countless eye-witness accounts that it has been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that Rachel Scott was not killed for her belief in god? Well it should. Burn this book, it's a sham.
Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris are not hateful anti-god monsters, but if it makes it easier for her mother and others to accept the tragedy - go ahead, let them indulge in their lies.
In search of better reading try 'No Easy Answers: the Truth Behind Death at Columbine' or the police report available through investigating police department

Very Good Book
This is a very intresting book that gives you glimpses into what Rachel Scott was thinking and feeling and how she delt with them by her faith in God.

However, it does bother me that this book is an adaptation of Rachel's journals and that the reader may not be getting the whole picture(and this only adds to my personal skepticism of some things surrounding her death and why she died) and this is why I gave the book 4 stars.

Overall, this is a very good book and I recommend it to anyone who wants to know what Rachel Scott was thinking and feeling. ... Read more

Book Description

“Darling, did you know that I dream about you . . .”

Everyone longs to be loved deeply by someone, and Rebecca St. James is no different, as demonstrated by her hit song “Wait for Me.” But while Rebecca shares the same desires as other young people, her resolve to remain sexually pure until marriage is not as common in our society.

Using Scripture, pop culture, and her own experience as a point of reference, Rebecca paints a relevant and appealing picture of the value of waiting. But Rebecca also reaches out with compassion to those who have already made mistakes and reveals the mercy and healing that God brings.

Reviews (9)

A good book without being preachy...
In this book, Rebecca St. James talks about sexual purity in a world where sex before marriage is almost normal.

Yes, it is possible to wait, she says, through God's Word, her experiences, and the experiences of others.

She doesn't just say it either. She also writes practical stuff for people who want to take waiting seriously.

But she doesn't leave out people who may not technically be virgins in this book. There is always forgiveness, and people can always start anew, because --- let's face it --- people are really good at making mistakes.

All in all, an interesting book written simply that was not boring in any way.

Wow!
I was given this book for a graduation present, and it came at just the right time. I had previously read a book called "Dating vs. Courting" in which the author proceeded to shove legalistic viewpoints down my throat. Rebecca St. James has successfully managed to talk about purity in a non-legalistic, realistic manner that challenges teens and young adults in a loving way. What she said is almost identical to the standards I have set in my dating/romantic life. It is definitely 5 stars and a book any person can learn from. You don't have to completely agree with her to find this book excellent.

bethringsmuth needs a reality check
bethringsmuth started their review with a comment on being Catholic, then when on to rant "this means no french kissing, folks". Don't take these words to indicate anything about what the Catholic church teaches about human sexuality.

Second, being pure before marriage will likely include a no french kissing rule. Any touching or physical expression that results in sexual arousal should be avoided before marriage. This is what the Church has always taught, and Rebecca St. James message fit's in fine.

bethringsmuth ought to read "The Good News about Sex & Marriage" and come to grips with authentic Christian sexuality before bashing someone as prudish.

wonderful
This is a wonderful little book. I got it yesterday and finished it within a couple of hours. I think its obvious that human beings are sexual, & growing up in a culture that says "do it", its very hard to wait until marriage.

But its possible, Rebecca reminded me the importance of waiting. What an encouraging book. It'll encourage you to wait until your married. Its perfect whether your in your teens, 20s or older. I'm glad that I got it. I'd like to recommend another book that's just as good "All It's Meant to Be by Bryan Clark."

Sexuality and Spirituality
I came to this book as a young woman, a young Catholic, and a human being very much in love. The problems I have with this book (and others like it, for instance Josh Harris's books) do not lie in the call for abstinence. I think it's fine for people to choose abstinence or a single life if that's how they want to live, and I think it's a very personal choice that humans have, which God gave us.

My real ideological and spiritual problem is that this book denies sexuality as a part of life, and only accepts that humans are sexual and sensual after they are married. Sensuality--letting our God-given senses really work to see, feel, smell, hear, and taste this fascinating planet--should be a part of every day of our lives, from small child to mature adult. Much of falling in love, as studies have shown, lies in brain chemicals. Our pupils dilate as we gaze at our beloved, our skin's sensitivity is heightened when we feel our loved one's touch, and our brain chemistry is altered as hormones are released. Pheromones are no myth. Backing up this natural progression of chemistry, there should be trust, open communication, and shared dreams. Successfully falling in love, and staying that way, involves physicality.

Rebecca's main advice, aside from all the preaching on why "purity" is best, is frighteningly prudish--we are not supposed to let any part of our body enter anybody else's body! This means no french kissing, folks. Maybe this advice is good for the very young (12-13 year olds) or very immature, sensually repressed people, as it truly denies the sensuality in love; or maybe it's good because parents want to feed their children this myth of "purity"; or maybe this is comforting for those people who are unprepared and ill-equipped for sexual, loving relationships.

But growing a true bond with another human being must involve some level of physicality, and must not deny sexuality or the innate sensuality of love until the wedding night. Where is the trust in that? Where is the open communication?

Maybe Rebecca shouldn't be giving advice on sex and marriage, since she's apparently never been married, never been in love, and never even been truly kissed. ... Read more

Book Description

In this one-of-a-kind workbook, author and youth speaker Justin Lookadoo walks with teens through the experience of radical faith. He challenges youth to actually live out what they believe through practical steps like giving up their TV, Internet, PlayStation2 and magazines for 30 days.

The unique four-color design is eye-catching and appeals to any postmodern teen. The non-linear style is inviting and unassuming, so teens will feel that they can approach this study with confidence.

Formerly sold as “Step Off: The Hardest 30 Days of Your Life,” this book has garnered tremendous positive feedback from actual teens who have survived the life-changing experience. It will be the hardest and best book a teen or youth group has ever studied together.

Reviews (2)

It teaches you so much about God!
Step off is a really cool book. It pushes your faith to the limit. I loved how it was written like a magazine. Not a lot of words to bore you to death. But it really made my relationship with God stronger. I highly recommend it, but do it with a friend, it will really help.

really is hard
This book was awesome. As I worked through it I learned so much about myself, and the things that influence me. Especially during the 21 day media fast. It was really hard. I would encourage anyone to get this book if they're daring enough to want to learn more about themselves. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great Book!
I loved this book! It discusses everything a girl my age worries about! After every chapter they have a little study guide that you can fill out. This book really helped me in my Christian Walk and I highly reccomend it!

Super Duper
This is a great book! I am trying to start doing a quiet time with God every day, but it's hard. This book, though, is making it become much easier for me. It gives really good advice and helps with problems I'm having right now! Thanks, Point of Grace!!!

Okay
This Christian book is great reading when your questioning. Whenever just flip through and you will find some helpful stuff to get you through the day. Get it if your are Christian girl. It will be your friend! Lol!

Girls of Grace
"Girls of Grace" is a devotional and bible study workbook by the Christian music sensations 'Point of Grace'. There are four main sections to this book. Faith, Family, Friends and Boys. "Girls of Grace" is a devotional book that focuses on the problems and issues that teenage girls face everyday. You are going to love "Girls of grace"! I guarantee that you will want to grab a copy for every teenage girl you know.
Each chapter is written by a member of 'Point of Grace'. For example Shelley wrote the chapter on Family. Some of the issues dealt with in this chapter are: Honor Thy Father and Mother, the study guide for this section of the chapter is entitled 'Parents: God's Design?'
I really enjoyed reading this book. Within each study guide there are Bible texts to really bring the point home, as well as relevant illustrations covering each topic.
I recommend parents and youth leaders by this book for their teenage girls, it will help them with their spiritual growth, and well as personal development. ... Read more

Book Description

There have been a proliferation of books on the market for young woman extolling virtue and purity and the value of the Christian lifestyle. But are young girls reading books on virtue and spiritual growth? Or are they reading the teen counterparts to what they perceive as the sophisticated popular adult magazines that promise to reveal (at least the latest) secrets to beauty, fashion, thinness, love, and happiness?

Vicki Courtney knows teen girls. Her message is exactly what they need to hear to counter the culture’s lies and distortions about who they are and what they should become.TeenVirtue will give them the information they need in a format they will read. Laid out like a sophisticated magazine, your teen girl will be able to use this book and share it with her friends. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Looks like a magazine; offers great advice
Looks like the best of teen magazines but carries real-world advice with a Christian perspective.I really liked this book!It had good, but not judgemental advice on everything from clothes, pierced belly buttons, tatoos and friends to boyfriends, sex and beauty.It doesn't go into explicit details... but it offers solid advice for teen girls growing up in tough times.I think maybe the best section is quotes from teen guys talking about what they wished teen girls knew!I plan to give this magazine/book as a gift. ... Read more

Book Description

“My Dear Young Friends,” a collection of fifty-two weekly reflections on living in the Spirit, invites young people to read and act on Pope John Paul II’s inspiring addresses to young people gathered at annual World Youth Day celebrations. Each of the fifty-two weekly reflections in “My Dear Young Friends” contains the following sections:
*a Scripture passage related to the theme for the week
*a message from the pope
*“Think About That,” asking the reader to ponder the pope’s message
*“Take Action,” inviting the reader to act on the pope’s message
*“Say a Prayer,” inspiring the reader to keep the pope’s words fresh in his or her heart and mind
*“Did You Know?” a fact about the pope’s life

Young people around the world adore Pope John Paul II. He has won their hearts and minds because he genuinely believes in their ability to change the world for the better. He cares about them. He respects them. Most important, he challenges them to a deep and profound love for Christ through his church. In a rapidly changing world, the pope’s unwavering message of life, love, and courage inspires and enlivens in their hearts a burning fire for the Good News of Jesus Christ! ... Read more

Book Description

You can’t be friends with God if the God you believe in doesn’t really exist.
You can’t depend on God if your God is a figment of your imagination.
In a world full of gods, how do you know Jesus is real?

You have probably heard things like:

• All religions lead to the same God.
• All faiths teach the same things.

It doesn’t matter what you believe—just that you believe sincerely. But Jesus said that:

• He alone is the way to God.
• He alone shows us the truth of who God is.
• He alone gives us life close to God.

In this youth edition of Jesus Among Other Gods, Ravi Zacharias gives solid evidence as to why we should choose Jesus Christ as THE God among all other gods. Zacharias contrasts the truth of Jesus with the founders of Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, providing strong descriptions of each faith and solid defenses for the cause of Christ. In addition to the religion comparisons, the book answers questions such as: "What about all the hypocrites at church?" "How scientific is science?" "How can you best share what you believe?" and "Does the Bible teach reincarnation?" You can never be too young to learn how to defend your faith . . . and this book will tell you exactly how to do just that!

Reviews (47)

Solid overview of the foundation of Jesus
Jesus is Someone who is referenced somehow by every religion in the world. From Hindus to Muslims and the cults based in America, there is no doubt that having Jesus as part of one's theology is vital. In this book Ravi Zacharias explains whether or not there is any valid claim to truth and Christ in any other religion but Christianity. Ravi has good stories to tell, writing like an expository preacher with clear, easy-to-understand points. His illustrations are vivid. I guess my only complaint is that he could have tackled the "absolute claims of the Christian message" via a more systematic breakdown with each particular religion. He was continually referring to the Buddhist, Hindu, and others (especially with pantheist ideas), but unless you had previous knowledge of these religions and what they taught, it would seem that the typical layperson would have had trouble keeping up. Still, while it does not get too deep, there is plenty of meat here, and I think the book is very much worth a read. Ravi is a clear evangelical voice in the wilderness, and I appreciate his logic and stand for truth.

Not quite what I expected, but still quite good.
I just finished this book, and I would have to say that for an intro level text to the Christian faith, Zacharias did an excellect job. I particularly appreciated his familiarization with both Christian authors (e.g., Kreeft, Lewis, Dostoevsky, and Chesterton) and secular authors (e.g., Sartre, Camus, Dawkins, and Hawking). By far, the stand-out chapter is number five, "Is God the Source of My Suffering?" I was truly surprised at how well he handled probably the hardest question for skeptics (and Christians)...the so-called "problem of evil." I was tempted to give this book 5 stars just for this chapter. Of course, if you're an undergrad or grad student in theology, you might want to check-out Richard Swinburne's Providence and the Problem of Evil for a fuller, scholarly treatment on theodicy.

My only problem with the book (and why I deducted a star) is that he doesn't really get into other religions. Once in a while, he'll bring-up, for instance, Buddha or Sri Ramakrishna (a Hindu "saint") while giving a much-too simplified version of the religious tradition (though it is a fairly accurate simplification). I happen to be a Religious Studies major, so I'm more apt to be picky on such things. Altogether, this is certainly not an adequate treatment in comparative religious studies. If that's what you are looking for, I'd look elsewhere.

His main focus is to show you the "uniqueness of Christianity" (a la C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity or G.K. Chesterton's Orthodoxy). In that respect, he does a good job; though, he's certainly not a Lewis or Chesterton.

For those interested in this book, I'd recommend checking out Peter Kreeft (a philosophy professor at Boston College). He's written numerous books (over fifty) dealing with Christianity. He writes for both the layman and the scholar (not an easy task) and does an excellent job. His website http://peterkreeft.com/ has several articles worth reading and audio files of some of his speeches.

Excellent!
I was not let down by this incredible piece of writing. Not philosophical or even deeply theological, instead Zacharias gets to the point quickly: There is only One True God, and Jesus is not only equal to, but one and the same with this Deity. The compare/contrast to other religions' deified leaders was enlightening.

Someone mentioned that Zacharias did not explain in depth other religions, and that was dissapointing to them. However, that was not the purpose of this book. It is not an exposition of religious views and how Christianity compares. For that I would suggest reading "So What's the Difference?" by Fritz Ridenauer. This was instead a book about Jesus, as God, and how He compares and usurps all other gods and heads of other false religious systems. Remarkable and highly recommended!

Christian gives it the thumbs down...
If you're not a Christian, don't read it. If you are a Christian, strongly consider not reading it. I read it for a class and came away with nothing but a bad taste in my mouth.

Wandering Truth
Jesus among other Gods - the absolute claims of the Christian message. The thesis of the book is to show the claims of Jesus are unique. To show Jesus claimed to be God and is God. The stated intention of the author is to compare Christianity to three major World views: Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. Statement of the claims is clear and argued thoroughly. Comparison is often brief; Often less then a page is given to comparing the other World views. The author does not deal with misconceptions these view points have about Christ nor those in Christendom. The book deals more with atheism then with the other three world views.

The author describes Buddhism as a nontheistic faith if not atheistic. Dr. Zacharias describes Hinduism as a religion with a multifaceted belief system which vehemently attacks the exclusivity of any religion. Jesus claimed that we can personally know God and the absolute nature of His truth. This agnostics would deny. Islam denies man's ability to "personally" know God. The agnostic denies man's ability to know God at all. the author begs his reader make a determination what world view has a monopoly of the truth.

The first question put to Jesus is where He lived? Jesus answered Nathaniel by saying come and see. The response to Nathaniel is a claim to a nonearthly home but of Heaven. It is a piece of the puzzle in Jesus claiming deity. The author calls this positioned by transcendence:

If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? (John 3:12 RSV)

Jesus point of Reality is Heaven. The Disciples and all mankind's point of reality is earth.

Jesus had no starting point, no beginning. His human birth explains this, the word became flesh. Conception without Consummation, born of a woman, but no seed of man. Jesus was not of this World but was born in it. Being of Heaven Jesus did not sin.

Second question: The Jews then said to him, "What sign have you to show us for doing this?" (John 2:18 RSV)

Answer Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." (John 2:19 RSV)


But he spoke of the temple of his body. When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this;and they believed the scripture and the word which Jesus had spoken.
(John 2:21-22 RSV)

The response is to those who do not want to know Jesus as the Messiah or as God. In this chapter is an argument against religious relativeness. it is not a matter what works for you, but what is the truth. The author titled this chapter the Anatomy of Faith Quest for Reason. Scripture does not demand blind Faith, but a well reasoned faith based on the truth. Faith is a confidence in the person Jesus and His power. Even when the power does not serve the believers end. Faith is based on who Jesus claimed to be and the Truth of His statements.

Question Three: Unless you drink my blood eat My body you will have no part of me? Jesus is the Bread of Life. No one can have eternal life without repenting and accepting Jesus as proprietion for one's sins. Proprietion came through Jesus dying on the cross and His resurrection from the dead. In this all believers are partakers of the body and blood of Jesus. The Lord's Supper is a reminder to the believer of this fact. I should think of my God being tortured, humiliated by sinners, treated as a sinner, and dying on the Cross. The bread and "wine" are not the actual substance of Christ, but I must acknowledge my need of them to be saved. I am damned without Him dying on the Cross. I am the source of my God suffering. The author spends to much time on saying the bread and wine are not the actual physical body and blood of Christ.

Question Four: Is God the source of my suffering? The author does not discuss much about man's implication in suffering. Pain came into the world because of Adam's sin. I deserve to suffer because I sin. It is through God's grace I do not suffer more. The author does point to the whole chapter John nine and the man blinded since birth. Which is good. He does compare other world views about suffering. The author argues many theorize that Man's subjectivity determines evil. In this course there is no objective definition of evil. The Christian believes God communicates to us what is evil through scripture. Evil is contrary to God's goodness. Dr. Zacharias argues the Christian view is the most thorough its arguments why man suffers.

Question Five: Pilate entered the praetorium again and called Jesus, and said to him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" (John 18:33 RSV)

Jesus answered, "My kingship is not of this world; if my kingship were of this world, my servants would fight, that I might not be handed over to the Jews; but my kingship is not from the world." Pilate said to him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth. Every one who is of the truth hears my voice." (John 18:35b-37 RSV)

The Kingdom is establish through death and resurrection. God calls believers to proclaim the truth through ordinary speech.

Question Six: Where is the Gardener

The author discusses that the world was created by design and not by chance. That God is the ultimate Gardener. The designer of all creation. The earth and all the Universe do not exist through chance. God is sovergn. ... Read more

Book Description

A brutally frank and totally sympathetic look at sex—written for Christian girls and guys who may or may not be practicing abstinence. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

I give this 100 stars from a parent's viewpoint.
Simply outstanding in format and layout. Your teen will read this. It's packed with straightforward, no-nonsense information. Even with its small size it is worth it weight in gold. This book could save your teen's life &/or their fertility. (The editorial error mentioned above is not in my copy.) If you or your teen get a chance to hear Pam Stenzel speak, don't miss it! She has web site if you want to learn more about her.

Worth the Cost
In the course of my ministry to teenagers, I have read many books on sexual abstinence, God's design for sex, and the terrible consequences of sex outside of marriage. Some are great and others not. Some are candid while others seem afraid to approach the subject head on. Sex Has a Price Tag is a well-written and honest look at the biggest battle teenagers face.

Today's students grow up in world where more absolutes are not an accepted reality by many people. As such, any discussions about sexual morality that are based only upon the standard set by the Bible are automatically dismissed by a vast number of people, leaving them to buy into the "if it feels good to me it's ok" lie. In this book students will be confronted with the unambiguous, unequivocal standards of sexual purity found in the Bible, but at the same time the author seeks to reach out to an audience who wants to ignore those truths. The costs of sexual activity before marriage and the reasons it should be avoided are broken into three categories: 1) your beliefs (what you choose to accept about God's design), 2) the wise counsel of others (what other students who did not choose abstinence say), and 3) medical facts (statistical evidence about STD's, teen pregnancy, and the "safe sex" deception. Simply telling students to abstain because of the medical reasons and advice from other people is only telling them half of the story. We shouldn't be surprised the personal experiences of others and medical evidence support the same perspective found in the Bible. An open look at the empirical evidence leaves you at the same standard set by the moral absolute. By combining what they won't refute (medical facts and the relative opinions of others) with what they want to discount (God's Word), the author successfully invites students into the discussion and gives them the opportunity to find the real power to overcome these struggles: God's power.

You or your teenager may have no desire to know or serve God. This book won't make you a Christian. But Christians and non-Christians alike will benefit from the practical and understandable discussions and illustrations in this book. In the final sections you'll find some great common sense advice and some relevant truths from Scripture to help in this battle. Please, let this book help you count the cost of sex before marriage so that you can make a wise decision and not pay a terrible price.

There is a glaring editorial error at the very beginning of the book. In the introduction, two-and-a-half paragraphs from page seven are repeated on page eight. Don't worry...the rest of the book is fine...go ahead and finish it. ... Read more