#abide: Win a FREE Abide DVD Leader Kit! ($69.95 Value)

Win a FREE Abide DVD Leader Kit! ($69.95 Value)

Reviews Coming Soon...

Stay Tuned for my Opinion...


From Nelson Publishers:
I've had a good chance to work through it, and it's a new edition of a resource I currently own.

From Tyndale Publishers: Girl's Life application Study Bible (It's the Glittery Butterfly Edition) I'll explain later...

"Cupidity" by Hayley and Michael DiMarco

Cupidity: 50 stupid things people do for love
by Hayley and Michael DiMarco

Snack of choice:
Anything but heart shaped candy and peeps (Yes, I know they’re for Easter)…

Story behind the story:
Tyndale Publishers provided me with a copy of this book. It was between this and “Daniel Fast.”

Story Line:
We’ve all done stupid things in the name of love. Right? That’s what I’ve been told. Here is a “short” list of 50 stupid things we do for love (and how to avoid them). It deals with how we relate to members of the opposite sex. From no relationship to marriage – this book (briefly) covers all our downfalls.

The Real Story:
The authors hit on a lot of great insights for both the married and single. Humorous at times… Repetitive at others. It’s intended to speak to an upcoming generation who has heard unceasing lies about what a relationship should look like. They provide a perspective for both men and women and about both men and women. A personal favorite of mine is “Interpreting ‘Man Silence’” (p 69). There are all sorts of reasons a man can be silent: from the end of day silence to the early morning silence – WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN!! I personally like to employ the argument silence and keep myself in check – it’s a very good thing everybody!

My only hesitations are these: Write a book directed to the dating singles or Write a book to married couples. The mixture of the two is both complicated and in constant need of clarification. Oh yeah, and the red color for ALL the words and bazillion fonts – we’re living in a new day for the printed page.    

Check out:

“When God Writes Your Love Story” by Eric and Lesley Ludy
and “Song of Solomon” as a married couples diary. 

Rating:

3 out of 5 stupid remarks that are bound to get me in trouble.

"Where is God?" by Dr. John Townsend

Where is God?
by Dr. John Townsend

Snack of choice:
Peanut Butter and Celery

Story behind the story:
This book is the second one I received from Thomas Nelson publishers blogging network, now known as booksneeze.com.

Story Line:
“Finding His presence, purpose, and power in difficult times” is the official mantra of the book. John Townsend, co-author of the bestseller “Boundaries,” brings his reader on his journey to Antarctica, a perfect picture of God’s wonder and yet an equally awe reaction to the complete desolation of the place. This journey is what moves us forward in relationship with God – moving from a place of fear to a relationship of hope.

The Real Story:
I’ve been looking for a book that I could point others to and feel confident in the material. This is that book. Solidly based in Scriptural principles (which weren’t just references, but texts), He allows for the big question, “Where is God?” While others might feel unspiritual asking this question, Dr. Townsend treads through it with confidence. He does this not because he doubts, but because he believes. He points others to relationship with God, not simply an outward display. He begins with our search for meaning in suffering and why it occurs. I love the way he writes about the three sources of suffering (excellent stuff!). He urges you to build relationship with others who are “safe” and trustworthy. This book is a great tool to work through in a practical way the troubles that we will all inevitably face – with HOPE in CHRIST!  

Check out:

“Disappointment with God” by Phillip Yancy
and “Job” as behind the scenes story of troubles. 

Rating:

6 out 5 hopeful, but troubled people

"Tax Guide for Churches and Religious Organizations" by the IRS

Tax Guide for Churches and Religious Organization
by Internal Revenue Service

Snack of choice: 
Cardboard Chips… taste like the real thing

Story behind the story:
My undergrad degree did not prepare me for this journey into the depths of the interaction between Church and State. Considering my position as an associate pastor with administrative responsibilities I figured it was about time to cross into the great unknown. It was free and can be downloaded at www.irs.gov

Story Line:
Please know this review is in no way an endorsement of any political campaign and is not reflective of the position or views of New Hope Community Church, its leadership or its membership. That being said, its title does accurately reflect what’s inside.

The Real Story:
Honestly, I was a little surprised. It wasn’t half bad. I was introduced to Church Z, Pastor M, and Candidate C, etc etc etc…etc, through examples that were practical yet stacked against the 501(c)(3) organization. We discover together the status that Religious Organizations can benefit from within the tax laws. The bulk of the pages that followed spoke of how those tax benefits can be revoked with too much political activity on the part of the Religious Organization.

I really did grow in my understanding of Religious Law, which is great, cause I’m trying to fill out more paperwork for tax exemption of real property! (I know, too much fun for one evening).

Check out:

IRS.GOV; "Zondervan 2009 Church and Nonprofit Tax and Financial Guide" by Dan Busby, CPA
and “Revelation” as additional reading in Apocalyptic literature. 

Rating:

4 out 5 suits with cases