As mentioned in last post, I plan to post my brief reviews of the books I am reading as part of my year's resolutions each month. Below are the books I have read in January.
1. Not A Fan by Kyle Idleman
Not a Fan challenges the reader to be more than just a fan of Jesus, but to be a follower; to not just go to church, have a Christian music ringtone on his cell phone, and be able to quote the Lord’s Prayer from memory, but to take up his cross and follow Jesus at any cost. Idleman poses practical questions about where, when, and what Jesus is calling His followers to do and to be that challenge and inspire. Although not very theological, it is motivational in nature, written simply, and the reader is bound to put the book down pondering his commitment to the words of Jesus.
2. Come Thirsty by Max Lucado
This book is full of stories of people seeking refreshment from Jesus, the Living Water. The questions for thought in the back of the book are helpful to connect the stories of each chapter with one’s own story. Although the book is a quick read and inspirational, reading only the first and last chapters would be sufficient for understanding the point of the entire book.
3. The Man Who Was Thursday by G. K. Chesterton
This novel tells the story of Gabriel Syme, a police detective, who goes undercover as a member of the anarchist council by the name of Thursday. Because of a vow he takes early on in the story, he cannot disclose his findings to the police. It follows his adventure running from the very group of people he is posing as, and fighting to stop the murder the council has agreed to carry out. Syme honors his vow of secrecy, but somehow finds comrades along the journey. This allegorical, suspense novel is a page turner, written in poetic detail. A joy to read.
4. Finally Alive by John Piper
Finally Alive tells the story of the born again believer. Piper explains what the new birth is, why it is important, how it comes about, what happens afterward, and how we can share it with other people. I thoroughly enjoyed the read; it brings a beautiful, fresh perspective to the gospel and salvation. It was an encouragement to my faith.
5. Slave by John MacArthur
MacArthur gives insight Biblically and historically into slavery and the paradox that it is for the believer. Explained within its pages is slavery to sin, being slaved by grace, going from slaves to sons in God’s eyes, and serving God as our Master. Deep, rich, and insightful, but not a difficult read. I would highly recommend.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
2012 Resolutions
I have not blogged in months. There has truly been nothing noteworthy to say. I'm not sure anything I say is ever noteworthy, but today I will post my new year's resolutions.
Resolutions 2012
#1 My first resolution is financial. I will say little more specifically, except that I give God only what first comes from His hand. (1 Chronicles 29:14) I want to view all of my finances that way.
#2 To practice my femininity. This resolution has so many aspects.
Some of it is physical: being careful to wear modest clothing. I want to cover my head more often, and wear skirts more.
Some of it is in lifestyle: To be the one who sits on the floor when there aren't enough seats. To clean. To learn how to cook and bake exceptionally well (and without boxed food). To practice hostessing and hospitality. To let men be the man and be the lady when they open doors for me, or ask to carry my laundry, or whatever - to be the weaker instead of trying to be so independent and strong all the time. To learn more sewing techniques instead of just throwing fabric together and hoping it works. To learn and practice skills that will be useful in marriage and motherhood, especially at work as a nanny in nurturing, caring for, and training children. Doing good, especially in the community and neighborhood. Learning skills to be a homemaker. Being a good listener, and a good helper.
And some of it is inward: Cultivating a gentle and quiet spirit. Submitting to authority inwardly as well as outwardly. I’m sure the list could go on and on.
#3 To read 52 books this year (that's about 1 book a week). I plan to write a brief review of every book I read this year too so that I can keep them all straight in my head. I will hopefully post these once a month.
Resolutions 2012
#1 My first resolution is financial. I will say little more specifically, except that I give God only what first comes from His hand. (1 Chronicles 29:14) I want to view all of my finances that way.
#2 To practice my femininity. This resolution has so many aspects.
Some of it is physical: being careful to wear modest clothing. I want to cover my head more often, and wear skirts more.
Some of it is in lifestyle: To be the one who sits on the floor when there aren't enough seats. To clean. To learn how to cook and bake exceptionally well (and without boxed food). To practice hostessing and hospitality. To let men be the man and be the lady when they open doors for me, or ask to carry my laundry, or whatever - to be the weaker instead of trying to be so independent and strong all the time. To learn more sewing techniques instead of just throwing fabric together and hoping it works. To learn and practice skills that will be useful in marriage and motherhood, especially at work as a nanny in nurturing, caring for, and training children. Doing good, especially in the community and neighborhood. Learning skills to be a homemaker. Being a good listener, and a good helper.
And some of it is inward: Cultivating a gentle and quiet spirit. Submitting to authority inwardly as well as outwardly. I’m sure the list could go on and on.
#3 To read 52 books this year (that's about 1 book a week). I plan to write a brief review of every book I read this year too so that I can keep them all straight in my head. I will hopefully post these once a month.
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