Showing posts with label Christian devotional. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian devotional. Show all posts

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Book Review: My Father's Voice by Janice Elizabeth Duval

My Father's Voice by Janice Elizabeth Duval is a well-written and engaging devotional that will encourage you to nurture your relationship with God. 

For many years I've used devotionals to help me explore quality time with God. Though I read my Bible regularly, I truly appreciate the stories of others struggling with their Christian journey or seek the words of someone whose faith inspires me. I enjoy new perspectives on well-known verses and the reminders of how much God cares for me each day.

Duval shares many stories from her life that I can relate to. I loved "Whose Bumper Car Are You In?" and "Bumper Cars and More." The devotional titled "Who Missed Your Bat?" brings the reader back to the days of their childhood. My favorites were the ones that talked about spiritual warfare, like "Hawk in the Trees." 

The subtitle of this devotional is "Learning to Recognize My Heavenly Father's Voice." Through Duval's stories, we witness how God speaks to His children. We learn of His gifts (even those that might not seem like gifts at the time). We learn to listen to the Holy Spirit and are encouraged to let the Holy Spirit work in our lives. 

Perhaps one of the most insightful things Duval said is this, "The Good News is supposed to make us deliriously joyful and happy... but we sometimes make being Christian a chore." I know I found that to be true in my own life at times. 

I will cherish and read more than once My Father's Voice. If you are a woman seeking for ways to begin or to nurture your relationship with your Heavenly Father, this is an excellent devotional to get you started.

Highly recommended!
 

Publisher: Higgins Publishing
Pages: 222
Genre: Devotional
Paperback/Harcover/E-Pub

I received a digital copy of this book from the author through Pump Up Your Book. This review contains my honest opinions, which I have not been compensated for in any way.



Tuesday, May 26, 2020

E-Book Sale: Truth Unchanging by Becky Thompson


Motherhood is often noisy and rarely silent. Learn to hear God speaking above all the noise in these daily devotions that can be completed in five minutes or less.

As moms know, even when there isn't noise around us, there is usually noise within us. The constant to-do lists that spin in our minds, the worry and wonder if we are doing a good job, and the need to stay two steps ahead of our families when we feel two steps behind keeps our minds routinely restless. So when quiet time with God isn't so quiet, and alone time is nearly nonexistent, how does a modern-day momma tune in the voice of the Lord?

With Truth Unchanging, you don't have to wait until you're alone to talk with Jesus. Designed to be read in five minutes or less, each powerful, hope-filled devotion will:

* refocus your heart on the Word of God
* refresh your mind with God's Truth for your life
* revive your spirit as you realize God is speaking to you personally

Truth Unchanging is not just a devotional. It's an opportunity to begin daily conversations with Jesus, the One who has everything we need to take on the days ahead, the One who wants to speak to you right now. Tune in to His voice today.

Purchase for only $1.99 at:

Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Books-A-Million

Monday, August 19, 2019

Mailbox Monday - Aug 19




Mailbox Monday is a meme started by Marcia of To Be Continued. Mailbox Monday is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came in their mailbox during the last week. It now has a permanent home at the Mailbox Monday blog.

We arrived home from the Outer Banks on Saturday, but the post office appears to be holding my mail hostage. I don't think I am expecting any books, but who knows.

Right before we left, this book I had on pre-order arrived. I'm so excited. Can't wait to read it.


What was in your mailbox?

Saturday, December 29, 2018

Book Review: Prayers for the Battlefield by Heidi St. John

We might not always think of ourselves as warriors, but the battle is real and moms need to stay steadfast in protecting their faith and their families.

Prayers for the Battlefield by Heidi St. John is a book you're going to want to have on your nightstand to help you through the battles--the big ones and the little ones--that come to moms everywhere. Filled with scripture, prayers, and meaningful reflections, this devotional will meet you where you are in the daily world moms find themselves. Broken down into six sections, Prayers for the Battlefield will take you from the battlefield and beyond, with inspiration, compassion, and empowerment. So many of these reflections touched my heart, it would be impossible for me to choose a favorite. This beautiful hardcover with black, white, and gold text is the perfect gift.

Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: Tyndale Momentum (September 18, 2018)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 149641277X
ISBN-13: 978-1496412775

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review contains my honest opinions, which I have not been compensated for in any way.

Monday, September 24, 2018

Mailbox Monday - Sep 24



Mailbox Monday is a meme started by Marcia of To Be Continued. Mailbox Monday is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came in their mailbox during the last week. It now has a permanent home at the Mailbox Monday blog.

Happy Monday! Hope you had a great weekend. I took some time off to attend a soccer game at the Lil' Princess' new school and we had this lovely potluck supper at church. Other than that it was work, work, work.

The weather has been nice, but looks like we are heading into a wet week. Hope it's not too bad. We are supposed to take the girls to The Big E on Wednesday.

Not a ton of reading going on right now, but I did receive a couple of great books. The first is due for review in November.


I also received this devotional as a gift from a dear friend. I think I'll save it to start on January 1.



What did you receive? Hope you had a lot of nice books in your mailbox.

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Book Review: Becoming Unconsumed by Lynne Britton

In this touching and insightful devotional for women, author Lynne Britton inspires those of us who have become all consumed with this world to step back, trust in the Lord, and spend time in the Word to build a better relationship with "ourselves, each other and, ultimately, God."

Becoming Unconsumed: A devotional for every woman struggling in today's all-consuming world, will refocus your attention on what really matters: family, friends, faith, and the Word of God. It helps you realize that living in this fallen world, we easily allow our attention to drift away as we get consumed with being everything to everyone.  It makes you stop and think about the messages you are listening to and what you're giving your life to each day.

The book designer, Meghan Mason Design, did a superb job of creating a beautiful and calming cover, complemented by a few carefully chosen fonts inside and out that work well together to create a meaningful reading experience; something I feel is truly important in a devotional. Each day starts off with a Bible verse, then a short reflection by Britton, followed by a prayer. At the end of each day is a page dedicated to any personal notes the reader would like to add.

Perhaps my favorite part of the book is that it grows with you. The first twenty days follow the format above, with the reflections deepening as you go along. On the twenty-first day, Britton invites the reader to reflect on her own. A Bible verse starts the day, and then there are blank lines for the reader to write out her own reflection and response. There are forty days to this devotional, just like the forty days and forty nights Jesus spent in the wilderness where He was tempted by the devil. The symbolism of our wandering in the wilderness here in Satan's world being tempted daily was not lost on this reader. But just like Jesus' journey was not over after those forty days, the reader's journey is not over either. Britton encourages the reader to continue the habits this devotional has inspired, offering another twenty days where she can choose her own Scripture, reflect and respond, because "In Messages, Prayers And Connection, We Thrive." This is Britton's lasting message to her readers, and it is a powerful way to end a devotional that can truly impact your life in many ways.

Becoming Unconsumed by Lynne Britton has already made an impact on my life. I pray it will bless many women around the world and they, in turn, will grow in their relationship with the Lord. I highly recommend it for women from all walks of life.

Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Grace & Impact (April 24, 2018)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0692089365
ISBN-13: 978-0692089361

I received a copy of this book from the author. This review contains my honest opinions, which I have not been compensated for in any way.

Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Bookish (and not so Bookish) Thoughts - May 9



Bookish (and not so Bookish) Thoughts is hosted by Bookishly Boisterous. This is a chance for book bloggers to dabble in areas besides books (but those are welcome too). Share your plans for the weekend, a rant on people not using their turn signals in parking lots, or your love of Sunday morning mimosas.

Started a new devotional and I love it. It is long overdue. Even the first few pages made me feel better and refocused.


I am so tired of working all the time. Thought I might get the weekend off and then realized there is no way I can take Saturday off. I hope Sunday will be dedicated to my garden, but it's not looking likely.

Do you ever wonder why bullies exist? Well, we know they exist because we live in a fallen world and Lucifer is the master bully. But other than that, don't you just wonder how kids can be so mean to other kids and how it's possible some people are always pushing others around? Why can't we all play nice?

Missed writing group this week. I'm bummed. I'll plan to go next month if I can.

Have you ever taken a bet for what age your kid will be before she starts listening to you?


Monday, April 2, 2018

Mailbox Monday - April 2


Mailbox Monday is a meme started by Marcia of To Be Continued. Mailbox Monday is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came in their mailbox during the last week. It now has a permanent home at the Mailbox Monday blog.

Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles, and humongous wish lists.

For the record, I should have been in bed an hour ago. It's late Sunday night and I am gearing up for the Amos Faces His Bully virtual book tour. You can check out the schedule here if you want to follow along.

I have a week off of doctor appointments for my father-in-law, so I am hoping I'll be able to catch up on some housework. Honestly, I don't feel like doing any housework, but the place is a mess and the family is coming for Greek Easter on Sunday. Maybe by the following week I can get my exercise back on the schedule too, but spring market is gearing up to be crazy so we will have to see what life brings.

My mailbox held some great gifts this past week. I ordered the first two and the last one is from a friend who wrote a lovely devotional. I'm part of her launch team.


What You Don't See Might Hurt You

Every year, residents of the small Amish community in Monte Vista, Colorado, look forward to the Ski Hi Stampede, the state's oldest professional rodeo. The rodeo is always good, clean entertainment for the hardworking farmers of the San Luis Valley. But this year, the Stampede turns deadly for one Amish man. Did rodeo fans see an unfortunate accident? Or something more sinister?

Amish bishop Henry Lapp is known far and wide for his uncanny ability to draw and remember the smallest details of anything he's seen, skills that have served him well in past investigations. He was at the rodeo that day. The problem? He didn't see Jason Scott's death.

With a murderer on the loose and members of his community being threatened, Henry must act fast. But can he solve a crime he didn't see? This time around, Henry will have to rely on his keen sense of human character and observation, skills he's honed in his role as bishop, if he hopes to crack the case.

What the Bishop Knows is a story of accepting our talents, putting one another first, and trusting that God will care for His children.


A visionary new master class in cooking that distills decades of professional experience into just four simple elements, from the woman declared “America’s next great cooking teacher” by Alice Waters.

In the tradition of The Joy of Cooking and How to Cook Everything comes Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, an ambitious new approach to cooking by a major new culinary voice. Chef and writer Samin Nosrat has taught everyone from professional chefs to middle school kids to author Michael Pollan to cook using her revolutionary, yet simple, philosophy. Master the use of just four elements—Salt, which enhances flavor; Fat, which delivers flavor and generates texture; Acid, which balances flavor; and Heat, which ultimately determines the texture of food—and anything you cook will be delicious. By explaining the hows and whys of good cooking, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat will teach and inspire a new generation of cooks how to confidently make better decisions in the kitchen and cook delicious meals with any ingredients, anywhere, at any time.

Echoing Samin’s own journey from culinary novice to award-winning chef, Salt, Fat Acid, Heat immediately bridges the gap between home and professional kitchens. With charming narrative, illustrated walkthroughs, and a lighthearted approach to kitchen science, Samin demystifies the four elements of good cooking for everyone. Refer to the canon of 100 essential recipes—and dozens of variations—to put the lessons into practice and make bright, balanced vinaigrettes, perfectly caramelized roast vegetables, tender braised meats, and light, flaky pastry doughs.

Featuring 150 illustrations and infographics that reveal an atlas to the world of flavor by renowned illustrator Wendy MacNaughton, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat will be your compass in the kitchen. Destined to be a classic, it just might be the last cookbook you’ll ever need.


Perhaps the journey in the waiting is the goal, rather than the actual finish line.

Sometimes while waiting for situations to change, we discover that perhaps what God is waiting on is us. That’s exactly what Lynne set out to discover when she was in a journey of waiting, during a wilderness season of her own. She discovered that perhaps she needed to unbecome everything she had framed her life around because in the process of building a life in this world, we often become consumed with everything other than The Word.

Becoming Unconsumed is an invitation to open the door to the possibilities that exist for us as women when we let go of what the world thinks and build a better relationship with ourselves, each other and, ultimately, God. This book is written for all women. Women who might not know God at all, women who have known Him all their lives, and women who aren’t sure what to think. Organized through reflection and response, Lynne invites us to consider the relevancy of the Word in 2018 and beyond as our faith is energized and confidence is strengthened. It is possible for you to make space for your daily Grace and your daily relationship with God. Lynne is the first to admit she is just a regular woman who decided to listen to God and make it happen.

What was in your mailbox? Hope you have a blessed week.

Monday, July 3, 2017

Book Review: Finding Bethlehem in the Midst of Bedlam by James W. Moore

In this moving Advent devotional, readers will find Scripture, daily devotionals, personal stories, prayers, discussion questions and exercises that are perfect for a single person or group study.

The book has a great format: one reading for each Sunday of Advent followed by questions for reflection and discussion. Then there is a prayer, a "Focus for the Week," and "Daily Devotion" section which is followed by six days of daily devotions that are also followed by questions.

I ordered this book because it often feels more like bedlam than Bethlehem around here. While I didn't get a chance to read it during Advent, I did take it with me on vacation and instantly dove in. James W. Moore's book encourages the reader to not only look for Bethlehem during Christmas, but throughout the year. I could see myself reading it numerous times a year to stay focused on God's Word during my hectic life. I would highly recommend Finding Bethlehem in the Midst of Bedlam to busy people everywhere looking to reconnect and refresh their relationship with their Lord and Savior. It's a book that will touch your heart.


Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Abingdon Press; Reprint edition (September 15, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1501804286
ISBN-13: 978-1501804281

I received a copy of this book through the Amazon VINE program. This review contains my honest opinions, which I was not compensated for in any way.

Monday, January 6, 2014

Mailbox Monday - January 6


Mailbox Monday is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came in their mailbox during the last week.

Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists.

Here is what I received this week:


James Study Guide

Deepening Life Together video Bible studies guide small groups into a deeper understanding of the Bible, and a deeper relationship with God and others. Each DVD features inspirational teaching by trusted scholars and pastors edited with engaging graphics and footage from the Jesus film. The study guides are based on the Five Biblical Purposes and enhance fellowship, discipleship, ministry, evangelism, and worship.

Each guide includes leader notes, discussion questions, daily reflections, and personal assessments to chart and track spiritual growth. Deepening Life Together is a great church resource and includes built-in leader training. With leader notes and video coaching for each session, the curriculum is perfect for new or experienced leaders. Lifetogether has sold more than 2.5 million copies of its award-winning studies for small groups, taking groups deeper into the Bible and providing proven techniques to start and sustain a small group.

 Kindle freebies 


Practical, insightful and relatable 250 page in depth devotional study with great personal stories. Each day is short enough to be able to read and have time to process the personal application questions. It can be used in conjunction with the discussion guide (at www.TheBookofJudges.com) or as a stand alone devotional.


This comic romance is a tasty morsel for the holidays to make even the truest cynic believe in love again.

Christmas is a time of togetherness, celebrations, family and love. But for Heather it is a time for second guessing and false hope. Fearing for her still young marriage and feeling abandoned in a time of great emotional need, she has pinned all her hopes on a Christmas present--a small gesture with great meaning--to renew her faltering relationship.

As her husband, Derek, an intern, spends long hours and late nights in the emergency room saving lives, Heather diligently and lovingly teaches her kindergarten class and wonders if her marriage is slowly, imperceptibly, slipping away. As Christmas approaches, she remembers the joy and the closeness she and her husband shared in holidays past, and grapples with her options for reigniting the spark they once shared. But did she get it all wrong when she decided that a mere sweet pastry from the hottest bakery in town was the answer to all her woes? Could it be that simple?

And how could a poodle skirt, a princess and bouncer help?

When all is said and done, Derek and Heather will come to know the regenerative power of love and Christmas, as the very best Christmas present ever touches both their lives and leaves their lives forever changed.



Point Pleasant. Virginia. 1859

A slave revolt is spreading across across the land.

Amid fears of terrible bloodshed, the gentleman farmer Mr Underwood is promoted to the position of Supervisor.

After a tense confrontation, the town is kept safe.

But on the ride home, an escaped slave lands Mr Underwood in a whole lot of trouble.

And suddenly he is embroiled in a bitter and bloody feud between the North and South, the Confederates and the Unionists.

As the two sides battle over Virginia, Mr Underwood is caught up in a dangerous struggle for control of the State.

And when he meets a beautiful widow, it is not just the State that is divided - it is Underwood's heart that is at stake as well as must choose between the beguiling Ariadne and his shrewish wife.

The Secessionist is a fast-paced, brilliantly researched historical novel that is sure to have you on edge of your seat from the first to the last page.

It is a must-read for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Charles Frazier.

"A wonderful book combining detailed research and fast-moving story-telling." - Tom Kasey, best-selling author of Trade Off.


In spite of having to recover from serious injuries from her fall down a cliff with O'nan, Josiah Reynolds is back to sleuthing. This time her friend, Irene Meckler, asks Josiah to investigate the death of her nephew which was ruled accidental. Irene has her doubts.

Along with her best friend Matt, and Jake Dosh, a physician assistant hired by Josiah's daughter, Josiah again makes the rounds of quirky characters that can only be found in the mysterious world of antebellum homes, bourbon and horse racing of Kentucky's Bluegrass region.

Monday, December 23, 2013

Book Review: Closet Words by Kim Hilton

Closet Words by Kim Hilton is a moving devotional for serious Christians.

After growing up in an environment that included abuse, violence, and hunger, Kim Hilton, along with some of her siblings, was adopted. Though she had prayed to God many times throughout her life, in August of 2002 she heard God speaking to her. Taken word for word as she heard from God, Closet Words is a collection of what she wrote down in her journal in the privacy of her prayer closet.

What I feel makes this book so powerful is the recurring themes. The encouragement that God has heard her prayers. The comfort in knowing God is with her every step of the way. The talk of training for battle.

As I mentioned in my preview of Closet Words, the book is so unique because it includes images of Hilton's handwritten journal pages alongside the typeset pages.

Closet Words is broken down into three sections. The first includes the journal entries. The second holds some of the personal prayers Kim has written. The final section is a Reflections and Study Guide to deepen your walk with Christ. Meant to be followed privately or as part of a study group, each portion includes a Scripture reading, discussion questions, and assignment.

This is a beautiful book that I feel will touch believers in a special way.


Paperback: 174 pages
Publisher: WestBowPress (December 10, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1449774539
ISBN-13: 978-1449774530


I received a copy of this book through the author's publicist. I was paid a fee to promote this book with a virtual book tour through Pump Up Your Book. That fee did not cover any type of review. This review contains my honest opinions, which I have not been compensated for in any way.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Book Spotlight and Giveaway: Closet Words by Kim Hilton


Title: Closet Words
Genre: Christian inspirational
Author: Kim Hilton
Publisher: WestBow Press
Pages: 174
Language: English
ISBN: 978-1449774530

Taken word for word as heard from God, Closet Words is a collection of powerful and penetrating words written down in the stillness of a prayer closet. Hearing from God for several years, Kim Hilton began writing down what she heard. Encouraging, uplifting, and challenging words with a clear message to His servants, Closet Words gives a renewal and refreshing word to the Christian believer.

Excerpt:

Closet Words is a collection of words from God. What began as an earnest journey to seek God in prayer became a journey of God answering and speaking to me. Through a simple pen, God has spoken to me many times. Although it happened one time before, I consider an August morning in 2002, after I prayed the following prayer, to be when God began speaking to me.
My written prayer to God on the second day of a fast:
Do I have the courage to seek you, God? Do I have the strength the prophets of old had? Do I have the wisdom of the kings of old? Do I have the power to rebuke like the apostles? I seek this courage, I seek this strength, I seek this power, I seek this wisdom! Fill this vessel, oh God, to overflowing. I desire you and only you. Help me to be blameless, to keep myself from sin. Help my heart to be full of love for others. Help my hands to serve others. Help my lips to teach of you. Help my mind to be filled with your wisdom. May I find every ounce of strength, every beat of my heart, every word of my mouth, every step of my walk…all come from you and only you.
After that August prayer I began regularly hearing from God while in my closet praying. I have kept a prayer journal for many years, and as the words flowed to me from God, I began writing them in my journal. Many were given to me while on my knees in the dark of my closet. Most were scribbled quickly to grasp each word and phrase. I’ve also been awakened in the night and reached for the pen beside my bed to scribble down words as God was speaking to me.
I have been seeking a deeper walk with God for many years. Like any Christian, I have journeyed with simple issues and I’ve struggled through tough problems. I have overcome, and I have failed. Throughout my walk as a Christian I have searched to get to the deepest level possible with God. This journal, these closet words from God, did not come easily. They are the product of years of yearning and earnestly seeking God through hours of fasting, tears, and prayer.
I have also given words from God to people. I’ve been asked, “Can you give me words from God?” and after praying, he has given me words that have impacted people’s lives. Many times I have been asked how I hear these words. I can only say, “When I hear God, I write. When he stops, I stop.”
The following words are written word for word as they were given to me. My earnest prayer is that these Closet Words can be a comfort to you.




Kim Hilton, MCC, PCC, has a master’s degree in Christian counseling. Founder of Closet Words Ministries Foundation, Kim is a teacher on prayer and listening to God. An avid writer of several books, Closet Words was chosen as the first book to be published with the proceeds going to Closet Words Ministries Foundation. A sought-after speaker and Bible Study leader, Kim has spoken at both national and local events. She resides with her husband on a farm and enjoys spending time with their six grown children and grandchildren. For more information on Kim Hilton or her work, please visit: www.KimHilton.org.

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Closet Words by Kim Hilton. Use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

Terms and Conditions: Winner must be 18 years of age or older and reside in the United States. Winner will be notified by email and have 72 hours to claim the prize. Prize will be shipped directly to the winner by the author or her representative. This blog is not responsible for items lost or damaged in shipment. Void where prohibited.




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Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Interview: Joseph Schneller, Author of Your Average Joe Unplugged


Joining us today is Joseph Schneller, author of Your Average Joe Unplugged. Joe served as a captain in the U.S. Marine Corps and holds a Psychology degree from Whitworth. He is an alumnus of the Christian Writers Guild. His publishing credits include Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family, Clubhouse, and Focus on the Family; LifeWay’s Stand Firm; and Walk Thru the Bible’s Indeed. He writes nonfiction and humor for adults, and fiction for children, youth, and adults. He and his wife, Kippi, live in Colorado with their two young boys.

Welcome to my blog, Joe. It's wonderful to have you with us. When did you begin writing?



In the third grade, I wrote a series of short stories on “Super Pickle,” a superhero vegetable who (I’m assuming now) went around doing heroic things in the plant kingdom. The class loved it when I read new installments to them—at least that’s how I remember it. Our teacher, Mrs. Baseman, was very encouraging about my writing. I think I’ll break out those old stories some day and see if there are any publishable concepts, maybe a Vlasic-meets-VeggieTales theme. Oh, I got it: VlasicTales.

Sometime in elementary school, I also wrote a story entitled “Dead Men Don’t Eat Quiche.” So you can see that most of my early writing centered around food.


What is this book about?


Your Average Joe: Unplugged is a Christian devotional and humor book. It takes a gritty, honest approach to issues such as employment, unemployment, trial, fear, and the Word of God. It also includes Dave Barry/Erma Bombeck-style humor articles about married life.

The Christian life is no easy gig, but for some harebrained reason Christians can think that we’re supposed to have it all together, that life should be smooth and prosperous. That’s unbiblical nonsense. This book takes a what-the-Bible-says-even-if-I-don’t-like-it approach, including transparent renderings of my personal experience. I hope readers find it liberating.

Early reader feedback includes accolades for tear-jerking honesty, an easy and “conversational” writing style, and laugh-out-loud humor. I’ve been hearing the “lovin’ it” phrase, which of course makes me think of McDonald’s. But there I go about food again.


What inspired you to write it?


I spent 9 ½ months unemployed/underemployed, and this with a wife and toddler at home and a second child on the way. To a minor extent, I felt like the Biblical character Job (pronounced “Jobe”), who lost nearly everything he had and spent much time grappling with loss and with his faith in God. Like I said, the faith walk is no cake walk.

I knew that this life is but a womb for the next, that God uses it to prepare us for service here and for life in heaven. But, in the midst of my desert—a most difficult time in my marriage, a most difficult time for me personally—I asked God if it’s really worth it. Is Kingdom-work on earth and preparation for heaven really worth all this heartache, all this headache, all this loss?

During most of that time, I ran a website and posted articles about my pilgrimage. At one point I read an email about the impact the website had on a woman. It struck her to the core, and was one of the things that helped her return to the Lord. As I finished reading that email, instinctively I said aloud, “This makes it all worth it.”

So, my deep hope is that God would use this book to draw people closer to Him. And yeah, if I’m able to help someone because of the low places I’ve seen, then it’s all worth it.


Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?


The book can be purchased from the publisher (http://www.nordskogpublishing.com/), from Amazon, or (if you want an autograph and possibly some leftover pickle) directly from me (http://www.josephschneller.com/). Because I’m a first-time book author, it may take a little while to get on the bookstore shelves. But I think you may be able to order it through your local bookstore as well.


What is up next for you?


First off, I need to take a shower. I smell like a yak. Secondly, I have a completed young adult novel which I’m pitching to publishers. I’m also interested in further nonfiction for adults, and have a couple more novels rumbling around in my head. I’m also considering the children’s market. Of course, there are always the magazine articles (I’ve written for Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family, Clubhouse and Focus on the Family magazine; LifeWay’s Stand Firm; Walk Thru the Bible’s Indeed, Wesleyan Publishing House’s Vista; etc.). So, I’m currently in the cool place of having more potential opportunities than I have time.


Thanks for spending time with us today, Joe. We wish you continued success.



Monday, September 5, 2011

Book Review: Your Average Joe Unplugged by Joe Schneller

Are you guys ready for a light Christian devotional? Pick up a copy of Your Average Joe Unplugged by Joseph Schneller.

In this funny and insightful devotional, Schneller takes readers through 30 days in the life of an average Christian. Though told from a man's point of view with a decidedly male image on the front cover, I believe any man or woman would enjoy reading this book.

Some of the issues Schneller addresses are:
  • job dissatisfaction

  • a crisis of faith

  • using our gifts to honor the Lord

  • how marriage changes your life

  • daily Bible reading

  • coping with fear

Sandwiched in between these devotional moments are previously published humorous articles about things like taking out the trash, becoming  a parent, painting, epidurals, and shopping. Now, if I've given you the impression this book is only a barrel of laughs and serious Christians should steer clear of it, let me say that the author has an equal amount of profound wisdom to share with his readers.

Having made the tough decision to leave his job while his wife was pregnant with their second child, Schneller remained unemployed for some time. His writing produced a bit of money, but this former U.S. Marine captain with a degree in Psychology, was thrilled to find an entry level job paying minimum wage. While he knew that God has never been wrong, Schneller wasn't too happy about his job situation. As he considered God's infinite perfection (Day 1), he was able to relate to his Lord in Genesis 6:5-6 when God was, "grieved that He had made man on the earth, and His heart was filled with pain." Schneller goes on to discuss on Day 2 how much of our lives are spent working and wondering why that is. He brings us through the reasons for job dissatisfaction on Day 3. We live in a fallen, sinful world, but God wishes us to live with thankful hearts--even in the workplace. Schneller states that thankfulness is like a muscle--it needs exercise.
By the time you're done with all Schneller has to share on the subject, you're thinking, "Wow! He's right."

Each day ends with the Bread for Your Soul section that includes a portion of Scripture, Today's Encouragement, and a prayer.

Your Average Joe Unplugged by Joe Schneller is the perfect blend of humorous and insightful, playful and profound, light and deep. I recommend it to the everyday Christian who is eager to devote more time to the Lord.

Title: Your Average Joe Unplugged
Author: Joseph Schneller
Publisher: Nordskog Publishing
ISBN-10: 0983195714
ISBN-13: 978-0983195719
SRP:  $11.95




The author's publicist paid me to promote this book with a virtual book tour through Pump Up Your Book. That fee did not include a review. I received no compensation of any kind to provide my honest opinions.