God's Wild Herbs By Dennis Ellingson

A companion volume to God's Healing Herbs, this book enticed the reader to get out into the wild in search of herbs which God provided for our enjoyment and nourishment. While I already consider dandelion greens (I buy them every Saturday morning at our Boca Downtown Greenmarket) a safe to eat,  delicious special herb, there were other herbs I was introduced to that I still may not feel comfortable picking and eating on a hike in another town. For example, another weed named Purslane interested me. Perhaps Dennis Ellingson would like to accompany me on a nature hike through a heavily weeded area so we could pick our salad greens safely? For I would so love to become a forager and live to tell and teach about it!!!

Precious and really appreciated were the recipes threaded throughout this very special book. Sarah Campbell shared her Chickweed Pesto recipe on page 39. Complete with kelp, walnuts, garlic, evoo, salt, parmesan cheese, black pepper (and chickweed of course!), I found this recipe clever. I do not believe my Italian husband would miss the basil for even a minute! Now, where do I find chickweed? Oh that's right - the author told me. It grows in my front yard in early spring. I quote, "Another name for the plant is winterweed" because it really begins its largest growth spurt during the fall, through winter and then, bang, come spring and the stuff is all over the place." As if we needed another good reason to discontinue our lawn pesticide service forever!

The photos were very helpful. Kit Ellingson took the photos for which we applaud her courage as she climbed through all things green and buggy to get the perfect shots. I enjoyed the beauty on each and every page.

Author Dennis Ellingson can be found on Facebook as The Herb Guy. He is also a Pastor and family man. I appreciated God's Wild Herbs and hope to bravely search for and successfully find some of the wild herbs presented. I know I would be in good company with other foragers four legged and other. God is so good to give us His creation. We just need to go out and enjoy it! Thank you Dennis Ellingson for an inspirational guide book to wild herbs!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Cladach Publishing as part of their book review bloggers 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

God's Healing Herbs by Dennis Ellingson

Complete with recipes, pencil sketch drawing of herbs with full context of their history back in the Bible days and so much more! I love this book as it served as a book I would keep in my kitchen bookshelf and refer to often.
 

My hope is that I will become a wealth of knowledge in regard to everyday herbs I use to make my family's meals. I consider knowing these facts about herbs a bridge to connect with those who may not normally be open to Bible facts who visit me for a meal or just to hang out in my kitchen. In this manner, I consider this special book a witnessing tool.
 

I appreciated the three separate sections titled: Twelve Essential Herbs for Women, Men and Children. I had not considered herbs as plant life that would heal me or lead to better health. I did not think of herbs as anything else but flavoring for an entrée or dessert. I considered herbs to be a garnish. Not so, as you will learn in God's Healing Herbs. In the Table of Medicinal Herbs: External and Internal, I was surprised to learn I could use herbs such as cinnamon and ginger on my hair! I found the internal chart to be not only exciting but inspiring. God intended for us to eat off the land. How far we have come from this basic approach. All the answers are in this book for the reader to not only live a healthy life by eating herbs but to overcome existing disease by eating herbs!

 

This book gives me hope that a Christian who has given up control of their health to the western attitude of "just pop a pill" will have their eyes opened to the exciting world of healing herbs which God intended for our use. This book has become a part of my personal library and though I will share the title with others, I will not allow my copy of God's Healing Herbs to leave my house.

 

Lastly, I smiled as I noticed the dedication on the front inside cover. It read, "Dedicated to the Lord God, who was "walking in the garden in the cool of the day" (Gen 3:8)."

 

Thank you God for the garden, for the thorns and thistles and so much more. Thank you Dennis Ellingson, for leading us to the back to the ground for a taste of all that was and still is good in the garden.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Cladach Publishing as part of their book review bloggers 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

 

 

 

A Heart Like His by Beth Moore

Another anointed work by Beth Moore. David is clearly the star in this book. In true Beth Moore style, we are taken a journey of forgiveness which begins with the life of David but ends with personal introspection aimed at leading the reader closer to Jesus.

 

Often, it felt as if Beth Moore was sitting beside me in each chapter. I could almost hear her voice as she shouted truth across each and every page. 

 

I would recommend reader reading 1 Samuel before beginning this book. Because Scripture was interlaced, I found it helpful to read all of 1 Samuel so that when she mentioned detailed situations, I did not have to put the book down and go read my Bible, thus interupting the flow of my time with God reading this book.

 

I did not get the impression that this book was intended for group Bible study, but there were review questions at the end of the book that I found intriguing.

 

At times I felt the chapters to be meaty and I had to stop reading because there was so much to take in, but this type of writing style I so very much appreciate because Beth Moore's teaching style sticks with me. I really appreciate her heart for God. She truly does have A Heart Like His just as David did!  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Shelton Interactive as part of BH Publishing Group book review bloggers 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Walking In Trust: Lessons Learned with my Blind Dog by Gayle M. Irwin

I confess, I procrastinated posting this review long after reading this book because I did not want to say goodbye to the author and her special blind dog Sage!! Walking In Trust was all about the journey of accepting and overcoming not just a dog's physical limitations, but for those who struggle physically, emotionally, or spiritually (that'd be me + you =everyone!!).
                                                                                  
Ms. Irwin had a way of telling a tale and then wove Scripture in a lessons learned type formula. Each chapter included annointed conversation which stimulated each of my senses. I heard the leaves crunch under Sage's feet as her nose sniffed the damp earth in search of a squirrel. I heard the birds chirp outside the window just as Sage did. I smiled knowing Sage enjoyed many years in the warmth of her owner's snuggly buggly sweater. She may not have been able to see - but she knew she was loved. Only an animal lover would understand the special bond that developed between Sage and the author. Therefore, I do recommend this book to any animal lover whether in search of Scripture or not - this book blessed me and reminded me not to complain about the little things in life that often seem to be so big at the time.

Sage was an overcomer! She was an inspiration and so filled with life. I loved hearing her adventures and how she taught others about learning to overcome challenges. The author's style was warming and personal. The setting was enjoyable as it was clear the author loved not only animals, but her husband and the great outdoors.

Possible spoiler alert: I cried with Ms. Irwin as she said goodbye to her best forever friend and I teared up long after reading the last chapter. I thought of my own dear 19 year, 7 months young dog Karamel, whose heart fought to beat on Valentine's Day five years ago xoxo. 

Purchase Walking in Trust today www.cladach.com! After laughing, crying, smiling and then some more tears - -  pass this gift to someone you love. I was blessed and continue to be blessed by Sage's journey. I pray we all come to love and be loved by a "Sage" - at least once in a lifetime. That is my prayer.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Cladach Publishing as part of their  book review bloggers 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Working Women of the Bible by Susan DiMickele

 This Bible Study/devo style book was anointed! First of all, the intro explained that this was not going to be one of those trendy "feel good" Bible study books. The author explained that she was not claiming to be a theologian or "expert" or "God help" guru (my words) but would come alongside the working woman and encourage her to look to the women of the Bible for inspiration.

Author Susan DiMickele shared that yes, women are called to follow Jesus, but she also threw out a quite relatable question on page 13, "Could somebody just please show me how it's supposed to be done?" I related to her question. So often as Christians, we just point out something for someone to do. Our words are many and it would be so easy to just show someone the way! Lead by example. I appreciated her candid struggle with not being shown how to do something new. Her question inspired me to do more than just talking about how to do something.

Thus the central theme of the entire book. She pointed working women to the working women of the Bible as our mentors. Interesting to me was the explanation of the two types of prostitution back in the days of Rahab. Who knew one type was accepted more so (ritual) vs. commercial, which was not as preferable of a way to "make a living" as a ritual prostitute was back then.

There were so many interesting facts I learned from reading Working Women of the Bible. One of them was found on page 123 in which the author stated, "Esther is like a glow stick - you can't turn her off." I appreciate this visual and how Esther also seemed to me to be a bit of an Energizer Bunny with regard to the King. It was the way in which the author explained in context the life of each woman mentioned and the challenge which led to the underpinnings (faith and mission combined) of each working woman which allowed each story to stick in my brain cells. I have never looked at any of these women in the way in which the author shared  with such attention on history and context. For these reasons I announced at the beginning of this review that this book truly was anointed. It truly was life changing for me.

The author stepped aside and was the vessel not the star in each chapter. The working woman in each chapter (as well as Jesus in the last chapter!) was the star. Lastly, I appreciated on page 160 learning the difference between worry and ponder. Also, "We have much to gain from Lydia's style. Many of us expect Christian women to be culturally insulated- even dull and boring. We've bought into a lie that we lack spiritual depth if we like to shop or wear leopard-skin pants or paint our toenails bright red. Even worse, some career women think they have to give up their style first in order to follow Christ. I once heard a pastor refer to this myth as the "second conversion." Once new Christians come to faith, they think they have to conform to a set of "Christian" cultural norms. They have to dress a certain way, attend certain church functions, and abstain from certain activities. It's all rather exhausting. I'm not buying it. And neither is Lydia...." (page 191).

Applause!

My only one eensy beensy criticism is that I did come across several editing oversights throughout the book. I would not have mentioned this in my review but the last typo on page 191 could not be overlooked. The author mentioned a "shrinking violent." I bring this fact up because here in South Florida where there is a large Spanish speaking population in our Bible studies, this comment no doubt would have been confusing as the term "shrinking violet" (with the language barrier as slang statements often have to be explained) may have been questioned, but to not have the correct term to begin with, the entire point may be lost on the reader.

Every church serious about mentoring women according to the Bible's standards should buy this book for their Bible study. Women need women and this Bible study would be excellent in a group study situation as the author is so relatable to the working Christian woman. We all need Titus women in our lives and this book contains many!

Purchase: http://www.bible.acu.edu/leafwood/pg.asp?ID=196  and to learn more about the author please visit her blog http://www.susandimickele.com/

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Leafwood Publishers as part of their  book review bloggers 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Advanced Firming Facial Pads by Dr. Denese of New York

Oh my goodness! I just had to start this review with an exclamation. The very first time I swiped the wet pad across my freshly cleansed (I use Dr. Denese Hydrating Cleanser) and toned face, I was not prepared for the "stinging" sensation which was much like a facial I once had in a salon in which I had an acid peel administered and then a laser. I actually was quite pleased to know that this "at home use" product packed such a powerful punch.

What confirmed the product to be a magic formula for fresh, radiant skin was the moment I looked in the mirror the next morning. I had forgotten about testing Advanced Firming Pads the night before. I actually did a double take and looked back in the mirror and smiled. I am a 40's something woman and radiance upon waking does not occur often ;).

I waited a few days and then repeated the process. I left the product on my face overnight and was equally pleased in the morning. The second time I used Advanced Firming Facial Pads I applied my favorite serum after (Dr. Denese's Doctor's Skin Recovery Serum). The serum I always use after using the SkinScience Clinical Resurfacing System (Dr. Denese's Micro dermabrasion machine). Liberally apply this serum and you will enjoy smoother skin than imaginable!

Advanced Firming Pads are Step 2 in Dr. Denese's Six Step Skin Care Program. http://www.drdenese.com/six-step-skin-care,

I always enjoy reviewing Dr. Denese's products. After seeing her on a PBS special I never forget her sharing that we must "work" our skin, meaning as we age, we must wash, tone, exfoliate, moisturize, and make it a priority to take the time and use the products she formulates - - thus that youthful glow.

Using her products, especially Advanced Firming Pads give me that healthy youthful glow that I have sought for a lifetime. So much more convenient and affordable as compared to going to a salon. Worth the investment and necessary for my at home beauty regime!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product free from Dr. Denese of New York for purpose of review. 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Salty Nail Art Too Good Not To Share

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable.

Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Implosion: Can America Recover from Its Economic & Spiritual Challenges in Time? By Joel C. Rosenberg

My main reason for accepting this title for review (other than reading a non fiction work by the talented and anointed author Joel C. Rosenberg), was to learn something new about these last days (Matthew 24:4-14). I learned many factoids as well as history with regard to the First and Second Great Awakening in America.

Undoubtedly, this book is for believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. Implosion could possibly be a difficult read for someone who is not familiar with the Bible. But,it could be a great type of mentoring gift to give a friend in which you can come alongside your friend and read together! I was so happy to read an invitation to make Jesus Lord (Romans 10:9-11) near the end of the book! I applauded that inclusion and was reminded of the author's mission of evangelizing all of his readers.

This book was 349 pages, however I gleaned the most new information starting on page 210. I quote, "A country cannot recover or be revived, however, if her people are sleeping. And a nation is in even worse danger if the church is largely sleeping too. After all, the church is the institution ordained by God to be a light to the nations. While America isn't mentioned as a key player in the last days, the church certainly is. While some have called America the "last best hope" of a turbulent world, the truth is that the church is the "last best hope" of America."

The author nailed this fact throughout the book, instructing his readers about the true role of government as God impressed upon our country's framers. Another quote from page 212, "You see, while the economic, political, and security failings of our country are deeply troubling, there is a much more insidious danger facing our country. It is a danger that threatens to make restoration and revival impossible. I am speaking of the spiritual blindness in America." Amen and Amen.

I was halfway through this book when President Obama was reelected.And so, understandably,  I was encouraged by Mr. Rosenberg's continuous reminder that God is in control of government and that each of us who live for Christ must seek Holy Spirit revival.

I was interested in learning about George Whitefield's realization as presented by Charles Wesley about what exactly being born again was. I appreciated this distinction and the examples in the 1700's and 1800's of men of faith who struggled to find a personal relationship with Jesus as opposed to a religion. I also did not realize about the revival in America in the 1970's.

Chapter 16 was my favorite chapter because of its helpful application. I appreciated the list of things I could do in these last days. I also gleaned insight into what 2 Chronicles 7:14 and specifically all of 2 Chronicles 7 means and doesn't mean for me as an American (verses Israel). I'm sorry, but every year it seems each Christian group in America uses the Chronicles 7:14 Scripture for their mission statement for the National Day of Prayer. Seems to me that asking God for His blessing that day is all well and good, but this verse in context is for Israel first and foremost. Knowing God's love for Israel, I intend to pray more than I have in the past for Israel, especially on the National Day of Prayer. I appreciated that insight.

I fully intend to take the author's advice and study Joel, Nehemiah, Ezra and Josiah as God used these Bible heroes back in the day to call His people to national repentance as well as to lead others to a renewed "hunger" for the Bible.

While this book did not provoke "shock and awe" in regard to my Last Days knowledge (I have studied this topic extensively throughout my 15 years of being a Christian), I do believe many readers will need to purchase multiple highlighters, go through oodles of pens making notes, and never have to dust the jacket on Implosion. I do believe this book would be an exceptional aid in a small group study, though it was not marketed in a Bible Study format per se.

Buy it today, read it cover to cover, glean all you can and then read it again. Buy your friend a copy, keep a copy and write your loved ones name on the cover. You never know when the Rapture will come. Your unsaved family member will read it long after you have gone on to eternal glory. Implosion will never become an outdated resource and it already has (post election) become a prophetic tool in which to share with anyone you come in contact with regarding history, politics and Jesus.

Now is the time to get serious about not only America - but the world. It's never too late to make a spiritual or economic change until GOD says it is....

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their book review bloggers 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Stressed-Less Living by Tracie Miles

Quite quickly after diving into this artistically covered (the lime green Adirondack chair located half on sand and half on surf made me smile as well as the conchshell next to the author's name was a nice touch along with the texture of the cover and the matching black and white photos in each new chapter) work by Tracie Miles, the theme was clear. We all have stress. We all will have stress. But there is a solution. Jesus Christ. With more focus on Jesus and less on us and our situations, we can have less stress and more victorious living!

I enjoyed the beginning of the book, but beginning on page 146 was when I rolled up my sleeves and started taking notes.The subtitle Running by Faith was an an Aha! moment for me. The author's account of running with her eyes closed was intriguing, inspiring and to me a wonderful challenge for all of us. Close my eyes and take a jog on the beach? An addition to my bucket list for sure!

Another poignant tale was of a woman in a wheelchair (don't want to be a spoiler) and though I guessed the ending for some reason (most likely I saw myself more as the woman who looked the part of someone who "had it all together but didn't" oops I may have been a spoiler after all) I was touched. This was just one example of the many unexpected endings in this book. I considered these "takeaway" stories a sort of parable which I will not soon forget. Priceless.

Chapter 8 offered up Kaitlyn in the attic - oh my goodness! Although I am not a Mom, I held my breath and nothing existed in my world until I finished that story. Also in that chapter, I so very much appreciated the description of the four types of adrenaline junkies. I saw someone I knew in one of those categories but am still trying to figure out where I fit in those categories. I have concluded I have a little bit of each of those traits in me and possibly need to have a fifth category created just for moi ;)!

Loved the Biblical discussion of Martha and Maty as well as Scripture throughout. Also everyyone everywhere would lead a stressed-less life by heeding the six action items which were supported by Scripture. They were: realign your life, recognize your need, adjust your focus, be filled with the Spirit, be faithful in your prayer life and believe God is who He says.

Tie for my favorite quote was (page 229), " We just need to bear in mind that, no matter how good those things feel in the moment, they will always bring temporary peace, while real peace, the serenity that changes the course of our lives, will come from Jesus alone", and (page 230) "Friends, your life is not going to change because you read a book about stress. Your life is going to change when you realize that the absence of God in your life is intensifying the presence of stress in your heart." Amen!

The theme of the book was reiterated int the last chapter with Isaiah 26:3 which says, "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!"

I heard her heart beating on many occasions, especially when she sat in her car and wondered what was she supposed to do. She felt stuck on so many levels! So many of us can relate to feeling lost and trying to fill that hole in our heart with all kinds of stuff. Nothing worked for me, except when I sat in the lap of my Jesus and poured out my soul to the author and finisher of my life (who knew me before the foundation of the earth might I add!). Tracie Miles got the coming-to-the-end of her "doing and being rope" and decided to bless her readers by sharing her story. Her lessons learned rang loud and clear in Stressed-Less Living.

My only negative comment was the mention of Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa and promotion of Yoga Journal. I reviewed his website www.drdharma.com and surfed around and stumbled upon a concerning statement by Dr. Dharma as purported to be quoted in his book The End of Karma, "Rather than a debt owed from a past life, karma is what's happening right here, right now. Karma is both action and the consequence of that action; it is cause and effect all in one go." The reviewer of his book goes on to say, "Moreover, according to Dr. Dharma, your best self is to live your dharma, which means that your ultimate destiny is to always remember that God and you, you and God are one. Doing this will help you end your karma and experience peace and oneness." http://www.drdharma.com/Public/Books/TheEndofKarma/index.cfm

If I were offered the opportunity to review the above book by Dr. Dharma, being the Berean that I am, I would provide the evidence to support or dispute my concerns above. However, this inclusion of the author above was unfortunate as well as unnecessary in my opinion. I still enjoyed the book and will recommend it. No doubt this man has done great things, but God reminds us in His Word that "apart from Me you can do nothing." And this Truth was the thread woven throughout Stressed-Less Living so I could not leave this negative comment out of my review.

Having gotten my one negative point off my proverbial chest, I have to say that this book was a dayspa for my soul. Everything from the feel of the cover, the image on the cover and throughout allowed me to glean from the authors experiences and also to dig into the Word. I felt loved reading this book because the tone was caring and not preachy or condescending. I truly felt Tracie Miles bared her soul on many levels throughout the book.

Stressed-less Living would be great for a Woman's Bible study as it included discussion questions at the end of each chapter as well as Scripture verses which would be great to challenge participants to memorize. Check out her website www.stressedlessliving.com. So many free devo's and a chance to sign up for her 10 Day Stress Detox. So many choices to suffer less stress and experience more of Jesus!! Now that's better than any day at the spa, isn't it?!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Leafwood Publishers as part of their book review bloggers 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

How Should Christians Vote? by Tony Evans

This petite book (83 pages) was handed out as a gift to many in which to glean, reinforce, and motivate the reader to not only vote, but to understand voting according to the Bible.

There were so many excellent quotes Mr. Evans included. One on page 18 regarding charity stuck with me. I quote, "Just as God restricts the church from giving charity to people prior to getting the family involved first (1 Timothy 5:4), likewise civil government is not to provide charity prior to the involvement of the family, church and other local charitable entities."

I also learned the difference between social justice and biblical justice.

Page 25 summed up the title of the book, "Every voting choice you exercise ought to be for the candidate, platform, party, or policy that will best represent the values of the kingdom of God." The rest of the book as the beginning of the book includes Scripture references. Author Tony Evans grabbed my attention many times with his use of words that aren't actually words. One example I quote, "Even when life looks like it's out of control, God is running its "out-of-controlness."

I learned what civil government was meant to be as the framers intended (not what it has become) and was introduced to the concept of interposition.

Examples of men and women in the Bible were cited throughout How Should Christians Vote! Did you know Shadrach, Meshach & Abednego were displaying civil disobedience? How about the wives in Exodus 1:17? Peter and John in Acts 4:18-20? They all were putting God above people. Civil disobedience in these situations was and never is wrong. Neither was hiding Jews during the Holocaust. Surprising to hear?

My all time favorite quote, "The ultimate solutions to our culture's problems won't land on Air Force One." Do I hear an Amen?

Kudos to Mr. Evans for reminding the reader that we do not live in a democracy but a republic. He explained the difference and it all made so much sense. I actually heard a Pastor preach that we in fact lived in a democracy. I found that sad to hear and I wondered if I was the only person to bring it to his attention that his statement was false.

Every Christian should read How Should Christians Vote? as well as buy extra copies to hand out to family and friends. Not just when a presidential election is on the horizon, but anytime, as we all need to be educated on what America was founded on, what it still means to the Lord, and where we are headed when we leave God out of the equation.

We enjoy freedoms because of sacrifice and those who came before who included God in our country's foundation.

Now go vote!!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from a faith based organization in Boca Raton, Florida. 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 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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