Book Review and Giveaway: Jesus Daily: 365 Interactive Devotions by Aaron Tabor #JesusDailyBook

This is a wonderful devotional that includes the opportunity to connect and share with others. 
Jesus Daily: 365 Interactive Devotions
by Aaron Tabor

• Hardcover: 400 pages
• Publisher: FaithWords (October 7, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-1455577231

Genre: Christian, Spiritual
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: October 7, 2014
Based on the major themes found on the most active Facebook page in history,
JESUS DAILY is a 365-day interactive devotional that goes beyond even the fan page to create a deeper experience and cultural movement that celebrates your redemption in Christ. JESUS DAILY presents a devotional thought but also challenges you to respond to each daily reflection using a variety of social media tools.

Review/Highlight:

I have not read the entire book yet so this review is my observations thus far. This beautiful devotional is set out so that each month has a distinct high-quality picture and scripture to focus each month. December features a nativity silhouette and the scripture: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests. Luke 2:14.” (See the image to the right.)

Each day has three sections: a scripture; a few short paragraphs of clear devotional thought; and a “Connect” activity. The “connect” feature is a unique element of the Devotional. Readers are encouraged (and sometimes challenged) to take action that applies to daily living and to share with other Christians at the Facebook page.

The book is palm-sized so could be carried easily or kept in a small space beside your favorite reading spot. The book pages are glossy and provide a feel-good texture to touch along with the feel good text to our hearts. The scripture for December 12 happens to be the one in the image I posted in the upper left of my blog this past week: Isaiah 9:6. The devotional discusses the names for God as well as his triune nature. The title and focus summary is: “God Is Mighty.”

This devotional book would make a wonderful gift to help oneself or loved ones to start their day with a focus on truths from God’s word. Then it goes a step further with the connection to like-minded Christians. I look forward to savoring for the next year.

I received this from FaithWords (Hachette) for an honest review as part of tour highlighting.

Retailers include Barnes & Noble, ChristianBook.com, and Walmart.

GIVEAWAY

Faith Words is sponsoring a giveaway of the JESUS DAILY DEVOTIONAL plus a T-Shirt!

One Winner, US Only.

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

visit THE FACEBOOK page and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open US Only for Print Book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) December 20, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after December 20, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review of Paper Angels by Billy Coffey

I encourage you to read this treasure!

Paper Angels

by Billy Coffey

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: FaithWords; 1 edition (November 9, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446568236
• ISBN-13: 978-0446568234

     Genre:  Inspirational
     My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Series: A Novel | Publication Date: November 9, 2011
Andy Sommerville seems no different than others in his rural Virginia community, but what sets him apart is that his best friend is an angel. The angel is God's answer to a childhood prayer Andy offered to a twinkling star that his deceased mother once called "the door to heaven." The first angelic proclamation instructs Andy to find the wooden keepsake box in his grandparents' attic. Over the years, he directs Andy to fill it with apparently meaningless objects from twelve people with who Andy randomly crosses paths.

Andy's world is turned upside down when a brutal attack leaves Andy burned and the boy he loved as a son dead. At this crucial juncture, the angel abandons him to loneliness and pain. All that remains is the wooden box Andy has always kept safe, and a new angel, who will use its contents to reveal truth to him as a result, he discovers the defining truth of his life, new hope in the community he loves, and greater trust in the God who sustains him.

The story is told from Andy's hospital bed, where he awakes feeling God has abandoned him. Without being preachy or saccharine, the author brings the small town to life and reveals a spiritual secret--the presence of angels--that helps a wounded man discover the defining truth of his life, place new hope in the community he loves, and trust totally in the God who sustains him. (2011)

Review:  This is a thought provoking story - not a quick or light read.
Andy Somerville is a man in his 50s who has lived alone for many years.  His parents died when he was a boy and he moved in with his grandparents. He prayed for help and an angel became his confident and friend who has been there for him through the years. Although he is blessed to have the angel, it has kept him from forming any truly close relationships so he wouldn’t have to explain his private friend.

Andy is in the hospital after he is burned during a brutal attack at his old fashioned gas station.  He is depressed at the death of a friend killed in the attack and he feels that God and his angel abandoned them at the most crucial time.  Andy is visited by a lovely ‘counselor’, Elizabeth, who is there to help him get over his grief and anger.

Andy has a special box of mementos that his angel told him to keep over the years. During the long night Elizabeth sits cutting paper. She cajoles and bullies Andy into sharing the story of the people and circumstances surrounding each item in the box. There is an important life lesson revealed with each memory. 

There are profound tidbits of wisdom throughout this wonderful book.

We’re all children. From the moment we’re born until the moment we die. We might learn how to talk, but we never quite learn what to say. And we learn how to walk, but we never stop stumbling. (Page 39, chapter 5.)

There are pine needles to remind him of one Christmas when he met a German man who hid a pickle in the town Christmas tree. The reason involves the magic and miracle of possibilities that abound at Christmas.

There is a letter that Andy wrote to a young man after he witnessed his girl friend breaking up with him. At the time Andy had no words to share. Later he wrote the letter to give encouragement, including the thought: “You don’t fall in love through the eyes, Alex. You fall in love through the heart.”

Andy has to overcome his anger to help another young man along in life. The endline message for Andy, and all of us, is that “You have all you need, and you need all you have.”

The writing has an easy flow but it doesn’t move quickly because you want to think about the messages. This story is a true gem. The story gives comfort for pain and loss, encouragement to help others and shows purpose even in an “ordinary” life - like mine. I plan to share this with my reading group friends but this book is a Keeper that I may want to peek at every so often. I encourage everyone to get this book for yourself or as a gift. Then I encourage you to not rush through it, but savor the wisdom.

I am very glad that I received this book for review from Faith Words, a division of Hachette.

Book Review: I Never Thought I'd See the Day! by Dr. David Jeremiah

Have you sometimes been shocked at what you see and hear around us in the world today? Here is a book that addresses some of the shocking changes that have occurred in our culture in our lifetimes.

I NeverThought I'd See the Day!: Culture at The Crossroads.

by David Jeremiah

• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: FaithWords (October 4, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446565954
• ISBN-13: 978-0446565950

      Genre: Nonfiction
      My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: October 4, 2011
Is Western civilization in an accelerating decline? And if it continues will it eventually weaken and cause us to come to the end of cultured civilization as we now know it? "Yes," says David Jeremiah, and in his book, I NEVER THOUGHT I'D SEE THE DAY! he details numerous signs of this cultural decay including:

    America held hostage by Iran
    Marriage becoming obsolete
    Creeping socialism
    The invisibility of culture's enemies
    Increase in "spiritual warfare"
    America turning its back on Israel
    Atheist attack on religion

Can this downward spiral be reversed? Yes, but only if one person at a time returns to God with our heart, our manner of life, our dedication to genuine worship of God, in serving God by helping others, in our giving, and in prayer.

Review: This may not be an easy or simple read - there are hard thoughts and issues to ponder - but it is quite interesting and worthwhile.

Dr. David Jeremiah presents details on historical, political and social changes that have occurred primarily during his own lifetime.  He raises the question whether the Church has lost its right to be heard.  I appreciate how he compares the Christian momentum to Admiral Perry traveling against the ice flow - while he thought he was gaining ground forward, he was really moving backward because the ice flow was moving him faster in the opposite direction.

I made notes on the chapter topics as I read but there is just too much to put it all in my review. I liked how there are historical facts and statistics supporting many of the discussions.  I particularly liked Chapter 2, When Christians Wouldn’t Know They Were In a War.  The author describes the true enemy, Satan, and the many techniques used to keep Christians ineffective.  If Christians do not recognize these basics it is easy for them not to see the war going on in the spiritual realm and they will be unprepared in the battle.

There are three chapters discussing how Jesus, The Bible and the Church have been profaned, ridiculed and diminished to a point where they are deemed irrelevant by many.  I was fascinated by Dr. Jeremiah’s insightful comments on two master pieces painted by Vincent Van Gogh, Starry Night and The Church at Auvers.  Apparently Van Gogh had been rejected by the church with a startling negative impact. In the paintings the church is portrayed with closed windows, no lights, no doors, and the pathway in front splits to by-pass the church altogether. If that is how the church is seen then no wonder people do not seek refuge there.

The Church shouldn’t be closed to those in need but it also must be careful that it doesn’t become so “politically correct” and intent on entertaining people that it loses it’s message and effectiveness.  These chapters, as well as others on marriage and morality, reveal that Christians are too often blending with society rather than standing out and standing up for what is right in God’s word.

In the final chapter, When Changing Your Mind Could Save Your Life, the author exhorts the reader to recognize the importance of salvation, turning one’s life over to God and obeying and relying on His assurances of salvation and a better life in the future. Dr. Jeremiah is an optimist and still sees hope for all people although he does not see hope for the return of America to the high days of prosperity. He notes that this is supported by Biblical teachings that things will get worse before they get better which will only happen upon Christ’s return.

As a strong fundamentalist Christian I really appreciated the history, details and scripture references presented. I did have to wonder how a non believer might respond as parts of the book are loaded with Biblical quotes.  I think anyone could benefit from the wisdom and material, although I think Christians, and particularly pastors, would appreciate it more. I will be passing my copy on to my Pastor to enjoy.

Thank you to Faith Words division of Hachette for this book to review.

Book Review and Copy Giveaway: Kiss of Night by Debbie Viguie

I liked this and will want the next book since this ends with mysteries still to be revealed! (Including the Q in the product blurb.)

Kiss of Night

by Debbie Viguié

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: FaithWords; 1 Original edition (October 7, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446570869
• ISBN-13: 978-0446570862

Genre: Fantasy
My Rating:  4.25 of 5.0

Product Description:
Centuries ago, Raphael was a blasphemous knight who fought in the Crusades purely for his own mercenary benefit, and to satisfy his taste for killing. Now, condemned for his evil passions and hypocrisy, he wanders the earth a vampire, cursed with first-hand knowledge of the supernatural world he once denied existed. The powerful relic he still possesses from his days as a Crusader has been stolen by a rival vampire who has recruited an army of soulless underlings to aid him in spreading evil. At the time he learns this, Raphael has been hunting this vampire for nearly a century, and it seems the final battle is destined to take place in Prague.

For help in this quest, Raphael must enlist the aid of two humans, David and Susan, who suddenly find themselves immersed in a world they never imagined, entangled with supernatural forces they can’t control. Susan, in particular, finds herself conflicted as she struggles with her inexplicable attraction to Raphael. In the end, both Susan and Raphael will be called upon to exercise courage and faith, and in the process, the question What would happen if a vampire truly accepted God? is answered.

Review: I was very anxious to review this book and I wasn't disappointed...at least not till the end. Now I have to wait till 2012 for the next book in the series.

Susan is just a young woman who is in Prague for the funeral of her beloved grandmother who raised her.  She seeks solace and sanctuary in church before the funeral and thinks she hears whispers and gets a glimpse of a dark figure.

That night Susan gets dragged out by her cousin, Wendy, to go dancing. It seems Wendy has met a guy but Susan finds him creepy. Suddenly Wendy takes off and another dark man warns Susan that Wendy is in trouble. Susan discovers just how creepy and dark these guys are as she becomes the focal player in a battle of good vampires versus bad vampires. She is frightened by Raphael but also strangely drawn to him.

Raphael knows that Susan is to help him in the battle against the truly evil vampires. Not that all vampires weren’t evil and monsters when they were created. But some vampires have learned to seek redemption after years of seeing the consequences of their misdeeds.  Raphael is on the side of good although he hasn’t quite gotten to the point of seeking salvation. His monk/vampire friend, Paul, holds out great hope.

Another stranger, David, hears the commotion in the next hotel room and tries to rescue Wendy from what appears to be an attacking vampire.  David seems to have a natural resistance to Vampire mesmerism and is quickly caught up to be trained as a warrior for the impending fight.

I liked the protagonists and the good vampires who are interesting characters. Wendy and David are likeable and make a nice cozy couple too.  David becomes an unlikely but brave and valiant warrior.  I felt there were some flaws and unrealistic circumstances in the tale, including some simplistic writing. Still I liked the overall story which kept my attention with its intensity and mystery.  It is very fast paced and full of action. I read it in two days and was really unhappy only because it ended — at a crucial stage of events! Ack!

Thank you to Faith Words for providing this book for review.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the book copy:
1. Visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you found there. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3.  For two entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* Open to the US & Canada only.

* No PO boxes, please.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on October 28, 2011.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on October 29. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Blog Tour: The Wounded Heart: An Amish Quilt Novel by Adina Senft

Hachette Center Street Blog Tour for The Wounded Heart: An Amish Quilt Novel by Adina Senft

September 26

http://www.bibliophilesretreat.com

http://uselesscrafts.blogspot.com

http://rannthisthat.blogspot.com

http://overweight-bookshelf.blogspot.com/

http://www.kittycrochettwo.blogspot.com

http://mybookaddictionandmore.wordpress.com

September 27

http://www.moms-pace.com

http://books-movies-chinesefood.blogspot.com

http://ashleysbookshelf.blogspot.com

http://reviewsfromtheheart.blogspot.com

http://a-long-the-way.blogspot.com

http://www.melanieski.blogspot.com

http://www.amusingreviews.blogspot.com

September 28

http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com/

http://shoopettesbookreviews.blogspot.com/

http://libslibrary.blogspot.com

http://sugarpeach.wordpress.com/

http://www.frommipov.blogspot.com

http://southernsassythings.blogspot.com

http://detweilermom.blogspot.com

http://marthasbookshelf.blogspot.com/

http://camys-loft.blogspot.com

Be sure to visit  on September 28 for a visit with the author, my review and a chance to win a copy of this lovely book!

Giveaway - Up to Three Copies of Green Like God

Title: Green Like God: Unlocking the Divine Plan for Our Planet
Author: Jonathan Merritt

• Hardcover: 208 pages
• Publisher: FaithWords (April 6, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446557250

    Publisher's Description

 Green Like God: Unlocking the Divine Plan for Our PlanetIn GREEN LIKE GOD, Jonathan Merritt gently and insightfully observes that the bible has a lot to say about environmental problems like unclean water, material waste, over consumption, air pollution, and global warming. In fact, Jonathan writes that "in the book of Genesis, God went green and never looked back." Relying heavily on scripture, Jonathan gives the case for green living, but not because it's trendy and hip. Rather, it's part of living rightly as a believer. It's an act of obedience to our Creator-God.

GREEN LIKE GOD is at once practical, prescriptive, and conversational in tone. The author looks at a number of trends with tips to help the reader wade into the world of creation care living. An appendix includes suggestions of things we can do. In addition, the book includes interviews with everyday Christians to tell the story of the journey to environmental stewardship among people of faith.

This is the book that Christians are longing for and need today. Written for a new generation of Christians who are struggling with how to deal with the important issue of creation-care and green living, GREEN LIKE GOD is both highly relevant and theologically sound. It will have a profound impact on how Christians live and interact with the world today.

REVIEW:  This book is gently powerful.  Mr. Merritt presents the "green" issues of caring for our planet not as a fad, a trend or as a politically correct position to endorse for a season.  Rather, the author presents the environment issues as a committed lifestyle awareness; choosing to recognize God's special creation and man's responsibility to care for it.  Mr. Merritt's arguments are consistently and well supported with Biblical references - the Creator's instruction manual.  In addition to quoting numerous and applicable Biblical passages, the author quotes poetry like this verse on page 34:

"As the English poet, John Drinkwater wrote:
When you defile the pleasant streams,
And the wild bird's abiding place,
You massacre a million dreams
And cast your spittle in God's face."

Near the end the author includes a chapter of Guidelines for a Greener Life which sets out some simple suggestions for even small lifestyle changes that can make a difference.  Then in The Big, Bad Climate Question he recommends always seeking honesty, integrity, justice (including compassion to the less fortunate who will struggle more with less resources) and prudence.

Living green is not always a favorable topic for people. Viewing it from a Biblical perspective will be less favorable for some. But if you are at all interested in environmental issues and are willing to view our earth as God's special creation, I think you will really be stirred this this book.

THANKS ONCE AGAIN TO HACHETTE AND VALERIE for the opportunity to give away this book.
This giveaway will provide one book for each 5 different people entries.  So for 5 people entered there will be one book, for 10 entered there will be two books and for 15 or more people there will be three books given away.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the Book:

1. For your main entry tell me any recycling you do or make a comment on one of the three links a) -c).  Make sure you leave your e-mail address!
a) Check out the Author's Website and tell me something you found interesting there.OR
b) You can browse the book here and comment on what you see OR
c) Listen to the Blog Talk Radio Live Interview and tell me something you learned.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

4. For one more extra entry click on The Rainforest Site to give - it's free! Tell me that you did so I can give you that bonus entry.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)  MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

UP TO THREE WINNERS!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons
* This contest will close Midnight (Central) on May 28, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Giveaway - 3 Copies - HEARING FROM GOD EACH MORNING by Joyce Meyer

Title: HEARING FROM GOD EACH MORNING

Author: Joyce Meyer

Category: RELIGION

Format: HARDCOVER BOOK

Edition: Adapted

Publish Date: 1/8/2010

Price: $15.99/$19.99

ISBN: 9780446557856

Pages: 384

Size: 5" x 7"

Product Description

In the hustle and bustle of today's busy world, sometimes it's hard enough to hear yourself think, much less take a minute to stop and listen for the voice of God. But learning to recognize God's voice and the many ways in which He speaks is vital for following His plan. This devotional; drawing from How to Hear From God, Knowing God Intimately, and The Power Of  Simple Prayer shows the reader through a daily reminder, how God speaks through their own thoughts and feelings, their dreams, and the words of other people. Joyce Meyer reveals the ways in which God delivers His word and the benefits of asking God for the sensitivity to hear His voice. Joyce asks the question, "Are you listening?" and shares how to do just that...on a daily basis.

Mini- Review:
I'm not doing a full review of the book because it is a daily devotional and I didn't want to read it all in one sitting.  This is a very lovely hardback little book that goes perfectly on a nightstand. I love the one page per day presentation!  Here is a way to get a bit of Bible reading each day - at least a verse a day!  If you visit the Open Book browser you can see the format and get a feel for the book. Each page is titled for the subject followed by a Bible verse.  Then there are a couple of paragraphs by Ms. Meyer relating that verse to our daily lifes. At the bottom of the page is a summary recap as God's word for you today. And although it is dated for each day it can be read in any order if you wanted and can be re-read from year to year!  Or it would make a great gift to pass on after you have read it for a  year then you could share the wisdom with another friend!

For example: January 10 is titled:  Friendship Makes us Bold.  The verse is: Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need.  Hebrews 4:16 KKJV.
Ms. Meyer discusses how our prayers will be more spirit-led when we recognize our friendship and see ourselves as friends with God.  We will be more bold and persistent in approaching Him as we "grow and progress in our friendship with God."  The word for the day is: "Remember to pray with the same passion and intimacy that you reserve for your closest friends"

Now isn't that a great thought to start a day?!  It only takes a brief time to read, reflect and get a start with God!  Maybe I can extend the time to more reading after the devotional as per my resolutions!

Many thanks to Hachette and to Valerie for this giveaway! 

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

1. Okay guess I'll make you work a little by taking a look at the Open Book browser and telling me a date and the verse reference that you find there!
Please include your email address, so I can contact you if you win.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

(Three total entries possible -once I post the review.)

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!
* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada. Winners will receive their prizes directly from Hachette Book Group. Book information was provided by the publisher.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* This contest will close Midnight (Central) on January 30, 2010. I normally like to run the giveaways for three weeks but since this is one that needs to get out to the winners sooner than later, the ending is only two weeks away! The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.