The Girls' Guide to Conquering Life

How to Ace an Interview, Change a Tire, Talk to a Guy, & 97 Other Skills You Need to Thrive

Published May 15th 2018

 by Fleming H. Revell Company

Everything you need to know to be prepared, confident, and successful
As you grow up and make your mark on the world, you're going to run into plenty of situations that require you to be confident and capable. But it's hard to be either when you don't know what you're doing! If you want to have it all together, The Girls' Guide to Conquering Life is your go-to resource. With great illustrations and step-by-step instructions for almost everything a young woman needs to know, this book shows you how to

· introduce yourself
· change a flat tire
· respectfully break up with a guy
· leave a tip
· apply for a job
· ask for a promotion
· behave during a traffic stop
· create a personal budget
· wash your face
· clear a clogged drain
· iron a shirt
· wear a scarf
· shoot a basketball
· and much more

The world needs women of character who don't wait for others to do what needs to be done. With The Girls' Guide to Conquering Life, you'll be well on your way to impressing everyone around you with your skill, confidence, and grace under pressure.

Available for Purchase:

AMAZON  BARNES & NOBLE  CHRISTIANBOOK

BOOKS-A-MILLION  BAKER BOOK HOUSE

Meet the Authors:

Erica Catherman has spent more than twenty years mentoring young women as a coach to middle school, high school, and college students. Committed to raising up the next generation to be kind, confident, and capable, Erica has served as a youth group leader, community volunteer, and advocate for gender equality in sports. She is a certified Yoga Alliance and Group Fitness instructor.

Jonathan Catherman is the author of the bestselling The Manual to Manhood and The Manual to Middle School. An award-winning cultural strategist and a leading education trainer specializing in the character and leadership development of youth, Jonathan speaks worldwide about the principles and strengths that empower greatness in children, teens, and young adults. Jonathan and his wife, Erica, live in North Carolina, where they work together to raise their family, which includes teenagers and a couple of big dogs. Learn more at www.jonathancatherman.com.

My Thoughts:

Wow!  I loved this book.  

When I saw the book my first thought was I've got to get this book.  My daughter just recently graduated from college and as I was sitting in the auditorium the thought that hit me was, "This is it! She's grown."  Then the panic set in.  Yes, major panic.  I began thinking of all the things I had possible forgot to teach her or even talk to her about.  Honestly this may sound ridiculous to some, but others know exactly what I'm talking about.

There are "life" lessons we start teaching our children from day one and continue this process as they grow.  Occasionally we forget one or maybe it hasn't come up in conversation, so this was what was going through my mind on her graduation day.  When my book arrived, which was after her graduation, I saw so many things listed that I had forgotten (how to clear a clogged drain, how to change a tire, how to iron a shirt, how to create a budget, etc.).  As you can imagine, yes my daughter is the new owner of this book and she loved it.  There are areas we've covered, but there are some we've not so it's perfect for her.  

Let me begin by saying this book is perfect for girls from middle school to adults.  It is divided into 10 chapters:

-Guys & Dating

-Social Skills & Manners

-Work & Ethics

-Wealth & Money Management

-Health & Beauty

-Clothes & Fashion

-Sports & Recreation

-Cars & Driving

-Food & Cooking

Tools & Fix-It

Each chapter is well written and easy to understand with a "Did You Know" box included at the end of each section.  This is a book that will build confidence when you know what is the expected, the proper way to do things and just basic knowledge to navigate areas in your life.  

This is a book I would recommend to anyone.  It's perfect as a gift or even to keep for yourself.  I must admit I wish this book had of been around when my daughter was much younger.  

**I received this book from the publisher as part of their book bloggers program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

The Assignment

The ASSIGNMENT is a book that was inspired by constant questions from people who simply wanted to know, what life is all about? The desire to find purpose and significance is a staggering need for the modern church of today. People who find it truly know peace. Those who do not, can search a lifetime and never know that the answer is right in front of them. Inside these pages are unique perspectives that are expected to trigger those “ah ha!” moments for every reader. Truly, this could be the “GAME CHANGER” that effects you for the rest of your life!

Meet the Author:

Dr. Devon Blanton is a pastor conducting a full-time ministry along with a very busy Christian Counseling practice. He holds an earned Doctorate in Religious Education, specializing in Counseling. He is certified in Family and Marriage, Grief and Drug Abuse and Health and Nutrition. He is also a Certified Health Coach. His post-doctoral pursuits include an earned diploma in Psychiatric Studies. He also completed brief studies in Cardiology and Resuscitation from Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. He further expanded His studies in nutrition from Texas A&M, Vanderbilt University and Stanford University. This all coincides with his four-pillar philosophy on Counseling. These focus on the Physical, Spiritual, Emotional and Financial parts of who we are. He is also the Founder of Cross Anchors Solutions, a high-level training program out of Durham, N.C. providing training in Leadership Development, Biblical Counseling I, II, Advanced Biblical Counseling and Health & Nutrition. He has authored several books including, The ASSIGNMENT, Holes in the Soul, Shake the Heavens-Move the Earth and the two brand new projects now underway, Health is the Best Medicine and Raising God. 

My Thoughts:

I have heard so many people in life talk about finding themselves and I think did you think your lost? Well, I think what most people are searching for is what is their purpose in life, not really searching for themselves.  We all look for a reason for anything that happens whether is be a positive or a negative.  In this book the author discusses not only the meaning of life, but also the purpose of life or our journey through life.  

The book is divided into 13 chapters which are about 4 to 5 pages in length.  At the end of each chapter Key Words are reviewed and defined as used in the chapter.  The next area is Workbook Activities which includes several questions that the reader can answer.  Each one is designed for the reader to dig deep within themselves and find answers or thoughts abut the chapter.  

This is a well written book that is easy to comprehend. The author uses both scripture and logic in his explanations.  The layout of the book is perfect for a small group study or even an individual. I would recommend it to anyone looking for answers as to why we are here.  Even though this book is small it is filled with a vast amount of knowledge that would benefit anyone in their journey of life.  

*I received this book from the publisher.  I was not required to write a review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

Begin Again

The Brave Practice of Releasing Hurt & Receiving Rest

Published April 3rd 2018 

by Fleming H. Revell Company

"Always we begin again."--St. Benedict

What do we do when we feel stuck, restless, cornered in our own lives? 
We can shut down. Or we can begin again.

To begin again is to open the window, even an inch, to let the breeze of grace come in. It is a call to open our hands when all we want to do is clench our fists.

Join Leeana Tankersley as she shares a journey of beginning again--in her relationships, in her faith practices, and with herself. Her small, daily shifts dramatically influenced her larger ways of doing and being, allowing her to trade trying for trust, striving for surrender. If you've been feeling stuck, Leeana's life-giving words will show you how to forgive yourself, develop new and healthier patterns of living, and do away with resentment and regret. 

Available for Purchase:

AMAZON  BARNES & NOBLE  CHRISTIANBOOK

BAKER BOOK HOUSE

My Thoughts:

As the New Year approached I made plans for things I would like to do, projects I wanted to accomplish, and goals I wanted to reach.  As the clock turns everything feels fresh and new, but as the day brightens my routine is the same.  I often wonder why I never get anything accomplished or so it seems.  I do think I'm alone in my thoughts and feelings, but unfortunately I'm not.  

When I saw the cover for this book my first thought was the flowers reminded me of spring and the beautiful colors coming.  When I read the excerpt I thought this is a book I would enjoy reading and I did.  It was sort of like opening a window into my heart.  It reminded me from the first page that wherever you are in your life, you can begin again, whether it's a new day, month, season, year or even hour.  The author opens her heart and shares her story of the valleys she's fought and the mountains she has climbed during her life.  She's very open about her struggles.  

This is a well written book that is easy to navigate through and understand.  Leeana Tankersley reminds us that no matter what struggles you are facing today there is another chapter in you story.   The pages are full of both inspiration and faith.  

This is a book that would be great for anyone.  

*I received this book from the publisher as part of their book bloggers program.  I was not expected to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Why I Hate Green Beans

When Revell offered this book for review I immediately felt that it was one I would like so I applied.  It arrived with several other fiction books I had been looking forward to reading, so needless to say it was placed on my TBR stack by my bed.  Had I of known then what I know now I would have opened it immediately.  Let me introduce to you debut author Lincee Ray's book:

Published February 6th 2018

 by Revell

If there is one thing Lincee Ray has learned over the years, it's that the majority of women on the planet struggle with insecurities. Our skinny jeans mock us. Our just-trying-to-help mothers are just driving us crazy. Our social media feeds taunt us with everyone else's picture-perfect lives. It's enough to send you on a gummy-bear bender while binge-watching Friendsreruns and not showering for a week. Lincee knows. She's been there. Right there, in fact. Gummy bears and all.

For every woman who's ever wondered if she's unlovable, uninteresting, or unattractive, Lincee offers her particular brand of hilarious (and hard-hitting) self-reflection. Like a true friend, she shows us that the fastest way to happiness is to embrace ourselves in all our imperfection, trust that God knew what he was doing when he made us, and maybe go buy a new tube of mascara. Walk alongside Lincee as she discovers that her identity is not found in her job, her relationship status, her bank account, or her social circle. It's found in Christ. 

Available for Purchase:

AMAZON  BARNES & NOBLE  CHRISTIANBOOK

BOOKS-A-MILLION  BAKER BOOK HOUSE

Meet the Author:

I began blogging accidentally when I wrote a recap for the beloved show everyone loves to hate — The Bachelor. What began as a place for closeted fans to commune and discuss the wonder that is Our Host Chris Harrison slowly morphed into a place where I share stories about everyday life.

One day, my Bachelor recap landed on the desk of an editor at Entertainment Weekly. That sweet woman quickly deduced that I am a pop culture weirdo who probably watches all of the teenybopper shows on The CW. She was right. When I’m not watching TV for a living, you can probably find me speaking to various groups of women, including business and church groups. If all else fails, look for me in a darkened movie theater or at a live music venue.

I taught myself to say the ABCs backwards as a child. It kills at parties. I really do hate green beans and am a little too enthusiastic about Netflix, mix tapes and holiday-themed Oreos. I also believe that it’s important to tell your story—even the ones that make you seem a little crazy.

Thanks for hanging out in my little corner of the World Wide Web. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, concerns or just want to say hello. Please note that if you’re emailing to tell me how incredible your grandma’s green bean casserole is, I appreciate the gesture, but I’ve tried an array of recipes and I can confirm that they all smell like feet. I appreciate you for offering, but I’m going to have to pass.

My Thoughts:

I loved this book.  The author opens up and tells her story.  This story will bring both a smile to your face and you might shed a tear while reading it.  It brought forth so many emotions for me.  Lincee is much younger than me, but when she opened up about her memories from school I was right there going through my own memories, insecurities, mistakes and successes.  I was hooked right then and there.   As she opens up about her life up until this point I read both raw and real emotions.  She encourages other women by saying none of us are perfect, far from it, but when we depend on God all things are possible.  While reading this book I kept thinking I wish I would tell Lincee that I understood what she was going through and that I would love to be her friend.  Yes, this is a book that you can relate to.   

This is a book I would recommend to anyone.  I received this book from the publisher as part of their book bloggers program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

Exalting Jesus in 1&2 Samuel

Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel is part of the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary series. This series affirms that the Bible is a Christ-centered book, containing a unified story of redemptive history of which Jesus is the hero. It’s presented as sermons, divided into chapters that conclude with a “Reflect & Discuss” section, making this series ideal for small group study, personal devotion, and even sermon preparation. It’s not academic but rather presents an easy-reading, practical and friendly commentary. 

Published November 1st 2016

 by Holman Reference

Available for Purchase:

AMAZON  BARNES & NOBLE  CHRISTIANBOOK

LIFEWAY

My Thoughts:

This is a well written study of 1 & 2 Samuel.  It digs deep into a Christ-Centers concept which is that the Bible is a Christ-Centered book.  

I will describe the book a little.  

It's 381 pages long and measures 8.25 X 5.5 X .875 (inches).  I include this to let you know that it's a perfect size to hold in your hand to read.  I will say that this book was not what I expected, but was pleased none the less.  The major characters that are discussed is Hannah, Samuel, Saul and David.  I have to admit it opened my eyes to Hannah's plight and the fact that a nation was praying for a savior while Hannah, in her bareness, was praying for a child.  This was a concept that just hadn't occurred to me.  It next goes into Samuel as a point of leadership and choosing Saul even though he was rebellious against the God. It weaves it's way to David, the second King of Israel, the king God choose and one after his own heart.  This book has 24 different sections with a set of reflect and discuss section at the end of each.  I used this as a weekly study, a section a week with reflection at the end of the week. 

While this is a great book it is more designed for a person in a leadership role such as a pastor or the leader of a small study group which it was designed for. I would definitely recommend it for anyone in one of these roles.  For me it was a little too difficult to use as a individual study.  It is well written and brings out many important issues and gave me a different perception on these written characters and events.  

I received this book from B&H Publishing.  I was not required to post a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

HCSB The Illustrator's Notetaking Bible

 

Published July 1st 2016

 by Holman Bible Publishers


Description:

The Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible combines two hot trends: Bible journaling and adult coloring. Each two-page Bible spread contains a line-drawn illustration that you can fill in with whatever colors you choose. It includes three varieties of illustrations: (1) filigree, (2) Scripture quotes, and (3) drawings that illustrate the topic of the corresponding Bible text. It's ideal for Bible study, homeschool moms, coloring book enthusiasts, and the scrapbooking community.

Features

• One-column interior design allowing your notes to be next to the applicable Scripture
• Over 600 beautifully integrated illustrations facilitating your creative side, yet ample white space to create your own as well
• 2-inch ruled margins ideal for recording observations, lessons, reflections, prayers or notes
• Exceptional way to express yourself and your spiritual journey right alongside the Bible passages you read and study
• It's a perfect gift and lifelong keepsake
• Durable LeatherTouch hardcover binding will travel well and keep for years
• Eight pages of full-color maps
• Ribbon marker
• Gold page edges
• Presentation page
• 7-point text size
• 8.75" x 6.75"

My Thoughts:

This is a beautiful bible.  
I have been fascinated by the new note taking bibles.  In fact, my daughter requested one last year for Christmas.  During my shopping I searched several different bibles trying to find one just for her.  My research was lead me to many bibles so I saw what was available.
 The first thing I noticed about this bible was the cover.  It's a hard backing cover with soft leather which I really like. It's soft, but when in church taking notes it give a sturdy support while taking notes.  Also the cover appears very durable.  There is a handy ribbon marker where you can mark your page and be able to come right back to where you left off.  
As you open the cover the inside page has wonderful illustrations where you can begin to color as you choose.  Next comes the presentation page if you want to present this bible to someone.  Holman does a terrific job including a contents page, a page that describes God's plan for salvation, introduction and also commonly used abbreviations.  At the end of the bible is a place for bullet notes, a daily reading plan,  a concordance, and  8 beautifully colored maps.
There are over 600 images, filigree and text designs for coloring.  Each illustration is in a light grey color for easy coloring.  Illustrations were done by Kristi Smith.  She is an award-winning illustrator at Juicebox Designs from Nashville, Tennessee.  Each illustration to me was very inviting to pick up colored pencils.  
A the very first of the Old Testament is a wonderful lined page that can be used to add notes to.  Starting with Genesis there's easy to read print with lined margins that can be used for note taking or your own illustrations. The print text is 7-point, which for me was easy to read, not too small and clear.   Of course everything repeats itself  with the New Testament.  
This bible is perfect for everyday use when doing daily reading, using it with devotional reading to highlight areas to remember or jotting down a quick note to remember, or taking it to church to use.  Basically it can work for any occasion.  Using the illustrations for coloring can be very relaxing and help you focus on God's word, or at least for me it did.  
I would recommend this bible to any adult or older teen or even as a gift. My daughter now wishes she had waited for this one because it offers so much more than the one I gave her, so I guess everyone now knows one gift I am buying her for Christmas. :)

*I received this book from BHP/Lifeway Publishing Group as part of their book bloggers program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.    

 

 

Faithful Friday

 

Published November 1st 2015

 by B&H Books 


Synopsis:
 
Thirty years in the making, Audacious is a deep dive into the message that has compelled Beth Moore to serve women around the globe. Glancing over the years of ministry behind her and strengthening her resolve to the call before her, she came to the realization that her vision for women was incomplete. It lacked something they were aching for. Something Jesus was longing for. Beth identifies that missing link by digging through Scripture, unearthing life experiences, and spotlighting a turning point with the capacity to infuse any life with holy passion and purpose. What was missing? Well, let's just say, it's audacious and it's for all of us. And it's the path to the life you were born to live. 

Meet the Author:



Beth founded Living Proof Ministries in 1994 with the purpose of teaching women how to love and live on God’s Word. She has written numerous books and Bible studies, including Breaking Free, Believing God, and When Godly People Do Ungodly Things, that have been read by women of all ages, races, and denominations. Through the years, American missionaries and expatriates have taken the Bible studies overseas, resulting in Beth Moore Bible study groups popping up all over the world. Beth’s Living Proof Live conferences have taken her to thirty-nine states since 1994 and have been attended by more than 421,000 women. God has graciously given her the opportunity to speak to the body of Christ in many different countries, including Ireland, England, Singapore, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and India. With great joy, she began a radio ministry in 2004 called Living Proof with Beth Moore.
Ever the storyteller, Beth is known to pepper her teaching with stories and poems written from the perspective of pertinent characters. She communicates with great energy, passion, humor, warmth, and grace. 
Beth attends Houston’s First Baptist Church, where she hosts an interdenominational Tuesday-night Bible study for women in her city. Because of her burden for unity in the body of Christ, Beth counts serving women of all denominations as one of her greatest privileges in life. 
Beth and Keith praise God for 28 years of marriage. They enjoy traveling, hiking, drinking coffee on the back porch, eating Mexican food, making each other laugh, walking their dogs, Beanie and Sunny, and being grandparents. Amanda and her husband, Curtis, serve at a church in the Dallas area and have a one-year-old son named Jackson. Melissa, who shares her mother’s appreciation for the Greek language, is completing her Master’s degree in Biblical exegesis.  


My Thoughts:

Beth Moore has written several powerful books, but this is my first one.  When the opportunity came available to review this book I jumped at the chance.    Up until this year I had not read many nonfiction books about faith, but I must admit this is one I truly enjoyed, but I did not agree with everything she presented. 
 The book is written in a very easy to read style, almost like sitting and having a conversation. The first few pages were hard to get through, but necessary. She shares stories that will keep the reader not only entertained, but drawn into her insights. She has set the book up strategically that each chapter pulls the reader deeper in.  The first chapter gives background for writing of the book and chapter four actually examines the word "audacious".  Chapter 7 is where she takes a look at the personal journey an individual takes when following Christ.  This chapter touched me deeply.  She gives powerful quotes and great insight into walking in a closer relationship with Christ. 
This may have been the first book from Beth Moore that I have read, but it will not be the last.  I do recommend this book to any woman who want to enrich their lives and walk closer with Christ.  
**I received this book from BH Lifeway free for a honest review without bias or outside influence.  I was not required to write a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  
 

Faithful Friday

 

Published May 17th 2016

 by Zondervan

Book Description:

 

As an on-the-go teen, you’re moving fast. God is moving faster! The New King James Version Teen Study Bible will help you keep in step with all he has done, is doing, and will do in the world and in your life. This Bible will help you discover the eternal truths of God’s Word and apply them to the issues you face today.

Features include: • We Believe: Unpacks the Apostles Creed to reveal the biblical foundation of faith • Panorama: Keeps the big picture of each book of the Bible in view • Key Indexes: Help with in-depth Bible study • To the Point: Reveals what the Bible says about pressing issues • Dear Jordan: Offers biblical advice for teens • Instant Access: Tells what God says to you personally • Q&A: Tests your knowledge of Bible trivia • Bible Promises: Highlights Bible verses worth remembering • Book Introductions: Provides an overview for each book of the Bible • Complete New King James Version (NKJV) Bible Text.

My Thoughts:

I have been looking for a bible for my son who is now 15 and has advanced from his first bible.  As you know there are lots of bibles on the market, but for me it was important to find one that would fit with his age.  When given the opportunity to review this bible I was very excited to see if it was one that would be a good fit for him and fortunately it was.  

Let me tell you a little about this bible:

•  Hardcover
• 1632 pages
• 8.50 X 5.40 X 1.75 (inches)
• 8 point font in black letter text

 

Features include:

• We Believe: Unpacks the Apostles Creed to reveal the biblical foundation of faith
• Panorama: Keeps the big picture of each book of the Bible in view
• Key Indexes: Help with in-depth Bible study
• To the Point: Reveals what the Bible says about pressing issues
• Dear Jordan: Offers biblical advice for teens
• Instant Access: Tells what God says to you personally
• Q & A: Tests your knowledge of Bible trivia
• Bible Promises: Highlights Bible verses worth remembering
• Book Introductions: Provides an overview for each book of the Bible
• Complete New King James Version (NKJV) Bible Text

 This is a wonderful bible and resource for any teen.  It will help them in their study of God's word and their understanding of all he has done and will do in their lives.  I really liked the Dear Jordan sections which are questions/concerns a lot of teens have.  I also liked the Q&A section.  I do believe this is a great bible for the target audience (ages 13-16) and do believe this bible could last through all the teen years.  

I would recommend this for any child in their teens.  

*I received this book from the publisher through BookLook Bloggers book review program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255. 

Hunting Hope Review and Giveaway-Litfuse Book Tour

Dig Through the Darkness to Find the Light

 

Published April 19th 2016

 by Worthy Inspired 

Synopsis:

Hope is not an accident. Sometimes it has to be hunted, and hunting it takes courage.

Hope hunters know how to excavate hope from hardship. There is dirt underneath their fingernails and sweat on their shirts. They rake through the rubble of an unwanted situation, digging into difficult circumstances because they have come to expect that adversity will produce good. They believe that light always triumphs over darkness. They have learned to walk through winter with their eyes on spring.

Nika Maples became a hope hunter after suffering a massive brainstem stroke that left her quadriplegic in her twenties. Doctors warned that she had as little as 48 hours to live, and-if she lived at all-she would never walk or talk again. There was no hope on the horizon. So Nika started to hunt for it. Today, she not only walks, but she speaks to audiences everywhere about the power of hunting hope when a situation appears hopeless. She says hope remains camouflaged in the daily mundane. If we are not looking for it, we will miss it, though it is right before our eyes.

Whether you or someone you know is going through a situation that feels hopeless, you will find encouragement in Hunting Hope. Whether you are experiencing a medical trauma, a financial hardship, or a relational crisis, you will find empowerment in Hunting Hope. As you read, you will cling to 20 truths about God’s character and practice 5 daily disciplines that will develop your own character in crisis.

You will become a hope hunter.

Maybe it doesn’t matter what causes suffering in our lives as much as it matters what suffering causes in our lives. Maybe we were all meant to be hope hunters.

 Meet the Author:



When I was 20 years old, my plans for my life, career, family, and future fell apart. One day I was an active sophomore in college, the next I was quadriplegic in the Intensive Care Unit, having suffered a massive brainstem stroke. I could not speak, swallow, or blink. Because I could hear, I listened as doctors warned my family that I had as little as 48 hours to live. There was nothing for us to do but pray. My faith sustained me in ways I can hardly explain, and a year later I walked back onto my college campus on my own two feet.
Eventually, I earned a B.S. in mass communication from Texas Wesleyan University, along with a Texas teaching certificate in English in 2002. Then in 2010, I earned an M.A. in English education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Currently, I am pursuing an M.Div. at the King's University in Southlake, Texas.
I taught public high school and intermediate grade English for ten years. In 2007, the Texas Education Agency awarded me the distinguished honor of Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. Currently, I write and speak full time, sharing messages of hope and endurance with education, business, and church groups across the country. Almost everyone walks away with a renewed sense of purpose.
I write and speak on hope and endurance because if there is one thing I know, it is how to keep going.
All of my communication -- books, posts, keynotes, and trainings -- centers on practicing hope and endurance. I have learned that even when a situation seems impossible, it is never too late. But in order for someone to keep going, they need a steady supply of encouragement. 

Connect Online:

WEBSITE 

FACEBOOK 

TWITTER 

PINTEREST 

INSTAGRAM 

Nika Maples’ Hunting Hope Giveaway

Celebrate the release of Hunting Hope with a $200 Getaway Giveaway (details below) and a live webcast with Nika on May 26!
 

 


One grand prize winner will receive:

• One copy of Hunting Hope

• A $200 Hilton gift card to give a hope hunter the chance to rest

 
My Thoughts:

Nika Maples, at a young age, suffered a stroke which left her unable to talk or walk and during these darkest days she struggled to find hope.  It's very hard when we're experiencing a storm in our life to find the hope to go forward and face another day.  Nika took the lessons she had learned and penned them in hopes that it would help someone else suffering a storm to find their hope.  She uses both real life examples and biblical insight to bring her message.  

But hope that is seen is no hope at all. 

Who hopes for what they already have?

   ~Romans 8:24

 

This book is divided into 2 parts and consists of 20 chapaters and approximately 240 pages long.  As I opened this beautiful book I found myself drawn to the journey this young woman endured and I'm not talking about the physical journey, but rather the spiritual journey.  This book shows how she not only moved forward, but didn't let her storm define her.  That says a lot right there.  This is a book that will help you praise God during the storm.  We all have hardships, whether they are physical, emotional, financial or spiritual, and we need to learn to trust God to guide our steps and direct our path.  This is a book I would recommend to anyone and everyone. 

**I received this book free from Litfuse Group as part of their blogger book tour.  I was not required to write a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.   

 

Faithful Friday

The Longing in Me:

How Everything You Crave 

Leads to the Heart of God

 

 

 

Published April 5th 2016 

 by Thomas Nelson  

Do your desires have you going around in circles? You may be looking for fulfillment in all the wrong places.

You vowed you d never repeat the same mistakes yet you find yourself right where you started. What is it that keeps drawing you back into the same old traps? The fact is, your longings are built from the blueprint of your needs: for protection, for love, for God. And those needs aren't going anywhere.

Sheila speaks candidly about the trials in her life, including the heartache of her first marriage, and intertwines her story with the biblical saga of King David. As both Sheila s and David s stories make clear, some cravings are misguided, but they all stem from the same hunger and they will haunt you until that hunger gets satisfied properly.

If you keep reaching out to the wrong people at the wrong times in your own life, The Longing in Me will help you understand that your cravings are not the problem. It s where they lead you that makes all the difference."

 Available for Purchase:

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOKS-A-MILLION | CHRISTIANBOOK 

Meet the Author:

 

Sheila Walsh is a powerful Bible teacher and bestselling author from Scotland with nearly 5 million books sold, including the popular Gigi: God’s Little Princess children’s line as well as trade books such as The Longing in Me, The Storm Inside, and Loved Back to Life. She was a keynote speaker with Women of Faith for twenty years, focused on transforming women’s lives through the power of God’s Word. Sheila describes her recent book, 5 Minutes with Jesus: Making Today Matter, as being a passion of hers for the rest of her life—till the Lord takes her home or He returns. 

 

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My Thoughts:

I was privileged to not only receive an ARC of this book, but to also be a part of Sheila's influencer team for the book.  When I received this book from Sheila I was so excited and dove right in reading, but something happened in the first chapter I suddenly felt like Sheila was having coffee with me while I was reading the book and we were just having a conversation.  This book touched me heart and soul.  

So I started the book from the beginning again, but this time I started a journal also.  The pages were suddenly filling up.  I could not contain my thoughts or feelings. 

The first thing she explained is that longings are a part of life, not inherently good or evil.  We are born with primal longings such as to to be held, to sleep, to be fed and to be be clean and dry. (Anyone who has been around a baby knows these are true.) As adults we have longings to be seen, to be chosen, to be loved and to know that we matter. (Again, as adults if we admit it to ourselves these are true.)

 

This book is divided into 10 chapters:

-The Longing to be Chosen

-The Longing to be Protected

-The Longing For What Used To Be

-The Longing For Control 

-The Longing For Your Rights

-The Longing For That One Thing You Think You Need To Be Happy

-The Longing to Make Everything Right

-The Longing For What Would Glorify God

 

-The Longing to Share The Grace and Mercy We've Received From God

-The Longing For God Alone 

This is a wonderful study and personal growth book. The author opens up and shares a very personal time in her life and the lessons she has learned from Christ.  She shares the story of King David, the one God chose to be king of Israel, and how longings have been rooted in man from the beginning of time.

As we delved into the life of David it opened my eyes to both his life and struggles. I learned things that either I had never thought of or didn't know. He suddenly was no longer a biblical reference, but a flesh and blood human just like you and me.  He was just a man who made some bad choices and the cost was high, but he turned from his sins and continued seeking the heart of God.  

  Peace is the one thing we all seek, but how do we find it? Shelia Walsh takes the reader through a journey of enlightenment of how to not only identify our longings, but how to put them on the right path that will draw us closer to God. The book is a little over 200 pages in length and in easy to read language. I could have sat down and finished it in one day, but instead tried to read a chapter a day to give myself time to not only reflect, but also to journal about my thoughts. 

 

  

This is a book that I not only recommend everyone to buy, but I urge you to read and study it.  This is a book that arms you with tools needed when times not only get hard, but also as you are trying to come to terms with a past mistake or wrong decision.   This would make a wonderful group study.

**I received this book from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influence.  I was not required to write a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

Also Available:

There is a 144 page study guide and a 6-session DVD available.  They can be purchased either separate or as a combination.  

 

In The Longing in Me, Sheila Walsh draws on the story of King David to show how the longings we all share can bring us closer to God and help us understand his incredible love for us. Some of our cravings are misguided, but they all stem from our hunger for God's love and protection. Learn how to get that longing satisfied - the right way. The 6-session DVD and Study Guide are designed to be used in conjunction with one another.