Blog Archives
One Day at a Time-A Daily Journey with Jesus
Jesus remains one of the most polarizing and influential figures in history, revered by billions and central to countless historical and religious texts. To practicing Christians, he is the ultimate source of light, mystery, and blessing, a guiding presence whose teachings shape their daily lives. Yet, in the chaos of modern life, it’s all too easy to lose sight of his teachings. One Day at a Time: A Daily Journey with Jesus by Lillie Dunbar offers a thoughtful and practical reminder of what it means to live intentionally with Christ at the center of one’s heart and mind.
Dunbar’s book is designed for practicing Christians who seek to deepen their faith and live out the core principles of their belief. For believers, this book serves as both a guide and a call to action, urging them to align their daily lives with the values and teachings of Jesus.
The structure of the book is simple yet profound. Dunbar encourages readers to embark on a 31-day journey of reflection, devotion, and mindful living. Each day serves as an opportunity to examine Jesus’ teachings and consider how to apply them practically. The goal is not just personal growth but a ripple effect of positivity, where living according to Christ’s example influences and uplifts others as well.
This is no small task. In an age where many profess Christianity while neglecting its foundational principles, Dunbar’s invitation is both timely and ambitious. The writing itself is clean, introspective, and meditative qualities that lend the book a tone reminiscent of devotional literature or even a modern spiritual guide.
Dunbar’s clarity of thought and depth of conviction shine through on every page. She writes with sincerity and purpose, offering readers a glimpse into her own connection with Jesus and inviting them to foster a similar relationship. For those seeking to grow closer to Christ and to live with intention and faith, this book is an excellent companion.
One Day at a Time is more than a guidebook; it’s a gentle yet firm nudge toward living a life of purpose rooted in the teachings of Jesus and infused with grace. Dunbar’s work is a heartfelt offering to those willing to listen and act.
Pages: 105 | ASIN : B0DPL3MP2P
It’s Time To Go Up!
Nico Smit’s It’s Time to Go Up! is a passionate, personal, and deeply convicting book about pursuing a life of revival and intimacy with God. Smit makes it clear from the beginning that this isn’t just a book; it’s a call to action. Through personal stories, biblical reflections, and a relentless emphasis on worship, prayer, and obedience, he urges readers to leave behind complacency and step into a life of spiritual awakening. The book focuses on the idea that revival starts with the individual, not just churches or large gatherings. It’s about saying “yes” to God’s invitation to go deeper, higher, and closer in faith.
One thing I really appreciated was the intensity and urgency of Smit’s writing. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. At times, I found myself nodding along, convicted by his words, especially when he talks about the difference between visiting God’s presence and living in it. He compares many Christians to people who only check in with God when they’re in trouble, rather than abiding in Him every moment. It made me pause and reflect.
Another thing that stood out was Smit’s emphasis on prayer. He doesn’t treat it as a religious obligation but as the heartbeat of a real relationship with God. He describes prayer as the gateway to transformation, not just a routine or a checklist item. I loved how he linked prayer with going “higher,” not physically but spiritually. He makes a strong case that prayer lifts us out of earthly distractions and into a heavenly mindset. His writing on this topic isn’t just informative; it’s inspiring. You can tell he’s not just talking about theory; this is how he actually lives.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Chapter 9: Revival Starts with You. Smit challenges the idea that revival is some massive event that just happens. Instead, he insists that revival is deeply personal; it starts in the heart before it ever reaches a community. I loved his analogy of revival being like a seed planted in the soil of our personal lives. It grows in secret, in those quiet moments with God, long before anyone sees its impact. That idea stuck with me. It’s easy to want change in the world, in churches, in society but Smit reminds us that real change begins when we get serious about our own faith first.
It’s Time to Go Up! is the perfect read for anyone who feels stuck, dry, or just going through the motions in their faith. This book will challenge you, push you, and maybe even make you a little uncomfortable, but in the best way. It’s not a passive read. Smit writes with fire, and you can feel his passion on every page. If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to pursue a deeper, more committed relationship with God, this is the book.
Pages: 106 | ASIN : B0DTQ68FNK
An Ancient Worship Movement
Greg Gordon’s An Ancient Worship Movement thoughtfully explores Christian theology, delving deeply into the multifaceted nature of worship. From actions and evangelism to prayer and communion, the book illuminates how worship was understood and practiced in the early church.
Gordon’s intent is evident from the outset: to guide readers toward emulating the authentic roots of the Christian faith. The opening prayer in the introduction immediately sets the tone, drawing attention to Christ rather than the author. This framing underscores his desire to prioritize spiritual reflection over personal interpretation. Throughout the book, Gordon critiques how the modern church has drifted from its original focus, yet his approach remains analytical and constructive rather than harsh or judgmental. This balanced critique enriches the reading experience and invites thoughtful engagement.
One standout section of the book examines worship through communion. Gordon provides fascinating insights into what a church service might have looked like over 2,000 years ago, highlighting the centrality of communion in early Christian gatherings. He also explores how the early church approached this sacred practice, challenging readers to reflect on their own perspectives and practices regarding the holy sacrament.
The section on prayer, however, left the strongest impression. Gordon emphasizes the critical role of prayer in the early church and offers practical guidance for readers looking to deepen their spiritual lives. This portion of the book includes a selection of prayers, which readers can incorporate into their daily routines, adding a hands-on element to the theological discussions.
An Ancient Worship Movement strikes a compelling balance between depth and accessibility. The writing avoids over-explaining, maintaining a pace that keeps the reader engaged. For anyone interested in Christian theology or eager to learn about the early church’s practices, this book is a valuable and inspiring resource.
Pages: 183 | ASIN : B0CXYQ5241
The Overcomer: God’s Answers To Overcoming Life’s Greatest Challenges
The Overcomer by James Collins is a heartfelt, scripture-filled guide on how to rise above life’s toughest challenges through faith. Each chapter tackles a different struggle, from stress and fear to temptation and loss, all with the common thread of biblical wisdom and personal anecdotes from Collins’ own experiences as a chaplain. The central message is simple yet powerful: trust in God, even when life feels overwhelmingly bleak, because His strength will carry you through. If you’re looking for spiritual encouragement and practical biblical applications, this book is like a faith-based toolbox.
James Collins writes in a warm, conversational style that’s easy to connect with. He opens each section with relatable stories, often laced with humor, like the tale of a misinterpreted letter about a campground’s “BC” facilities, which stands out in the chapter on overcoming lies. It’s a memorable way to remind readers not to mistake man-made maxims for God’s truth. What I appreciated most were the personal anecdotes that brought authenticity to his teachings. Collins recounts gut-wrenching experiences, like witnessing the horrors of war or comforting grieving families, to illustrate that God’s strength is essential when we’re at our lowest. This vulnerability makes his advice more impactful because you see a man who has walked through fire and come out faithful, albeit scarred. Collins tends to repeat ideas, especially when emphasizing the importance of humility and reliance on God. While these are crucial themes, the reiteration sometimes slows the book’s momentum. This scripture-heavy approach will be a goldmine for those who seek solid biblical grounding in every piece of advice. Still, I craved a bit more balance between scripture and actionable steps in some chapters.
The Overcomer is a deeply moving and spiritually rich read, perfect for believers needing a boost of hope. It’s geared toward those facing hardship and who seek strength from a faith-based perspective. If you’re struggling with loss, stress, or just the day-to-day grind, this book will remind you that no burden is too heavy when shared with God.
Pages: 116 | ASIN : B0DGDMC6BZ
The Last Bridge Across Mostar
The Last Bridge Across Mostar, by Jeana Kendrick, is a gripping tale set amidst the horrors of the Bosnian War. The story follows Katrina Winslow, a courageous woman caught in the chaos of a war-torn Bosnia, where she faces everything from espionage accusations to the heart-wrenching task of saving war orphans. Amidst these challenges, she crosses paths with Captain Lucien Brezac. As they work together to prevent a Serbian attack on the city of Mostar, a romantic connection blossoms between them, adding an emotional depth to the high-stakes mission Katrina undertakes to protect the children and the city.
Kendrick’s novel stands out as a prime example of historical fiction done right. Set during the brutal conflict between Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia in 1992, The Last Bridge Across Mostar weaves fact with fiction, creating a story that is both educational and entertaining. Kendrick’s style is bold, with an intense and almost bewildering tone that perfectly mirrors the chaos of war. Her attention to detail and vivid, graphic descriptions pull readers into the setting, making the horrors and beauty of the besieged landscape feel real. Despite the action occurring across different regions, Kendrick manages to keep the narrative coherent and compelling, maintaining a strong sense of place and urgency.
The characters are another standout feature of the novel. Katrina and Lucien are dynamic and inspiring, particularly in the way they remain driven and resilient despite overwhelming odds. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each contributing to the richness of the narrative and helping to propel the plot forward. Whether it’s through their direct involvement in the action or their quieter moments of reflection, these characters add layers to the story, making it not only about war but about the people affected by it.
As for the plot, Kendrick delivers a masterclass in storytelling. The narrative is complex and layered, with a carefully constructed sequence of events that avoids plot holes. The pacing is precise, moving from one dramatic moment to the next without losing the emotional core of the story. While there’s no shortage of action, from battle scenes to daring escapes, Kendrick ensures that everything serves a purpose, tying it all back to the central mission of preventing the attack on Mostar.
Despite the chaos and action, The Last Bridge Across Mostar never feels overwhelming. Kendrick’s sharp storytelling and well-developed characters ground the plot, ensuring that even the most frantic moments are clear and meaningful. This book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction who appreciate a well-researched, emotionally charged story that captures both the intensity of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
Pages: 360 | ASIN : B0DBBFCTKD
It’s TIME TO GROW: How Focusing On Spiritual Growth Can Transform Your Life and Relationships
Freddie Floyd Jr.’s It’s Time to Grow is a thought-provoking guide on spiritual and emotional growth, anchored in Christian principles. The book invites readers to strengthen their connection with God and enhance their relationships through practical, biblically rooted advice. Each chapter tackles essential themes like self-reflection, commitment, reciprocity, and the art of listening, offering a straightforward path for personal and relational growth. Floyd combines spiritual insights with actionable steps, creating a clear roadmap for overcoming challenges.
One of the most powerful elements in Floyd’s writing is his focus on the mind’s influence. In the first chapter, Floyd dives into the necessity of transforming our thoughts. He emphasizes the need for mental renewal, pulling from Romans 7:25. His exploration of the internal struggle between good and evil hits home. It serves as a sharp reminder: personal battles often begin in the mind. Real spiritual growth? It starts by mastering what we think. Another standout concept that appears is reciprocity. Floyd’s vivid analogy makes it clear: we must nurture what sustains us, especially in relationships. He highlights the principle of reaping what we sow, referencing Galatians 6:7. Are we giving back to those who support us? This chapter provokes serious reflection. Floyd’s examples are simple yet profound, urging us to evaluate our contributions in relationships. The chapter that struck me the most is The Disappointment of Unrealistic Expectations. Floyd dives straight into the issue of setting unrealistic expectations in relationships. His advice is refreshingly simple: accept people as they are, not as you wish they would be. This message is liberating. It challenges a common mistake—expecting others to meet our needs without first handling our own mindset. Floyd’s approach is practical, urging us to release unrealistic expectations and embrace reality.
It’s Time to Grow is a must-read for those seeking a blend of spiritual guidance and practical life advice. Floyd writes with clarity and depth, making spiritual concepts both accessible and applicable. This book is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their faith, improve their relationships, or embark on a journey of personal growth. Whether you’re starting your spiritual journey or are well along the way, this book provides insights that can spark meaningful change.
Pages: 87 | ISBN : 9798893095074
God Is Your Direct Source
Dear New Believer, Love God shares with readers your personal insights and provides practical advice on how to develop a personal relationship with God while explaining complex spiritual concepts in a way new believers can understand. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Developing a personal relationship with God is what Christianity is all about. Although I don’t discourage anyone from doing so, going to church, reading the Bible, tithing, and any other legalistic rituals are not a must in order for you to develop a personal relationship with God. My book advocates for reliance directly on God rather than church and other Christians.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were starting out on your spiritual journey?
I wish someone would have told me that I am able to develop a personal one-on-one relationship with God and that I can reach out directly to Him for the help I so desperately needed. I became reliant on the churches I attended and the fellow Christians I met for the help that only God could provide. Furthermore, I wish someone would have taught me more about the devil. I was so spiritually immature, not only God’s ways, but to the devil’s tactics, and it led me to become fully taken over by him. I was in bondage for years before I learned (directly from God), to call out for His help and to stop looking to the church and others for help.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your book?
Going to church, reading the Bible, tithing, and any other legalistic expectations are not necessary in order to develop a personal one-on-one relationship with God. He is your direct source for everything you need. Furthermore, the enemy is very real and can be very dangerous if you are unfamiliar with how he operates. God can teach you all you need to know.
Author Links: Facebook
anyone seeking answers, for anyone battling spiritual warfare, and for anyone
who has fallen into Satan’s trap and can’t find a way out. If you’re struggling
to learn who God really is and if you’re seeking help by following the usual traditional
teachings of the church, Dear New Believer, Love God is the book for you!
This book offers understanding guidance on developing a relationship with God
without becoming dependent on the church and fellow Christians.Author
Leigh Trupin wrote this book as a struggling new believer who became entangled
in Satan’s trap herself. It is the book she was desperate to read as she sought
answers and sought to understand who God is by following the teachings of the
Church. In the end, Leigh found freedom from Satan and answers to her questions
only when God Himself revealed them to her. For Leigh, the answers were not
found in church, they were not found by giving tithings and offerings, and they
were not found by regular reading of the Bible. They were found when God showed
her what the church never did – that having a personal one-on-one relationship
with God transcends any religious and legalistic expectations. A relationship
with God is where it all begins!
Dear New Believer, Love God
Dear New Believer, Love God is a heartfelt guide for those new to Christianity. It offers personal insights and practical advice on developing a personal relationship with God. Through vivid anecdotes and candid reflections, the author shares her journey from spiritual confusion to clarity, emphasizing the importance of a direct connection with God over traditional religious practices.
One of the book’s most compelling aspects is its relatability. Author Leigh Trupin’s writing is down-to-earth and engaging, making complex spiritual concepts easily understood by anyone. For instance, in the first chapter, she recounts an intense experience in Walmart where she felt a divine urge to check on her dog, Cha-Chi. This story sets the stage for the book’s central message: God communicates with us in personal and sometimes unexpected ways. This relatable narrative style makes it easy to connect with the author’s experiences and understand her spiritual insights.
Another strength of the book is its emphasis on the pitfalls of relying too heavily on religious institutions or practices to define one’s faith. Trupin discusses her struggles with understanding God through conventional means, like church and theological books, which she found too advanced and impersonal. Her journey underscores the idea that personal experiences with God are crucial. I think this perspective is refreshing and comforting, especially for new believers who may feel overwhelmed by traditional religious expectations.
While I found the book compelling and enjoyed the depth to which the author explores personal stories and spiritual experiences, I feel that some sections tend to be a bit lengthy. I believe mixing in more practical advice or reflections would make the book even more engaging and these sections easier to follow.
Dear New Believer, Love God is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a personal and practical approach to Christianity. Leigh Trupin’s honest and relatable writing style makes the book an easy and engaging read. It is particularly well-suited for new believers who feel lost in traditional religious settings and are looking for a more personal connection with God. If you’re someone who has struggled to find your place within conventional religious practices or simply want to deepen your personal relationship with God, this book offers a compassionate and insightful guide.
Pages: 58 | ASIN : B0D5NVC7FV
LITERARY TITAN 