Book Review: In Search Of Wisdom: Life-Changing Truths in the Book of Proverbs by Joyce Meyer

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:6 

Publishers Description

#1 New York Times bestselling author Joyce Meyer takes us on a journey through the wisdom of Proverbs that leaves us transformed and prepared to face daily choices and challenges.

The book of Proverbs is a treasure trove of spiritual and practical wisdom that equips us to live our best lives. Knowledge is important, but if it isn't converted into action, it fails to create transformational change in our lives. It is important to gain a thoughtful and practical understanding of the seven foundational principles in the book of Proverbs:
Wisdom,
Understanding,
Prudence,
Knowledge,
Discretion,
Discernment, and
Fear of the Lord.

If we desire to possess these qualities, we must make a commitment to a deeper understanding and implementation of these values in our daily lives.
Featuring inspiring questions to promote thoughtful reflection, In Search of Wisdom will enlighten you with God's understanding and teach you the foundational principles and secure God's help in practicing them.

My Personal Review

In Search of Wisdom: Life-Changing Truths in the Book of Proverbs by Joyce Meyer serves as a beautiful map of the book of Proverbs!

This is an excellent book that imparts practical wisdom on how to make daily decisions that will grow us closer to the Lord and keep us physically, emotionally, and spiritually safe. In the author’s usual manner of concise Biblical teaching, Joyce Meyer clearly defines that in order to obtain wisdom, we must first understand that by definition, “wisdom is not just the ‘gathering’ of knowledge, but the ‘proper use’ of knowledge." 

The work is organized into chapters that coincide with the book of Proverbs. The idea is that there are seven basic foundational principles to gain wisdom. If we can practice these principles, we will gain a deeper Biblical comprehension and thereby strengthen our walk with the Lord, which in turn, will help us manage our lives better. The principles uncovered within the book of Proverbs are: wisdom itself, understanding, prudence, knowledge, discretion, discernment, and the fear of the Lord.

What I love about this latest teaching treasure, besides it’s extremely timely release in a day where we are surrounded by confusion and turmoil, is the unashamed way that the truths of the Bible are addressed head on. Joyce does not mix words about hot topics, but rather addresses them directly from a Biblical stance. She reminds us that the fruits of our actions when we follow the guidance within the book of Proverbs, will be a blessing to not only our own life, but the lives we come in contact with on a daily basis. 

My take away from the book, In Search of Wisdom is threefold. First, the book serves as an uplifting reminder that God has given us an instructional manual within the book of Proverbs that is as relevant today as it was at the time of it’s initial writing. In our shifting world of unstable ideas, it is a beautiful gift to find a concrete list of behaviors that will help us live safe, content, abundant lives. Second, this latest work by Joyce Meyer could easily be used in a small group Bible study of Proverbs. There is enough material within each chapter to spark lots of exploration of God’s Word and open dialogue about how that applies to our lives. Finally, the book is one of encouragement and inspiration. As time goes by and life delivers new challenges, the reader will find new nuggets of truth and fresh perspective to handle many situations; it is a book that can easily be reread many times over! 

Thank you to FaithWords a division of Hachette Book Group, Inc. for this complimentary review copy of In Search of Wisdom by Joyce Meyer. I was not required to give a favorable review, but to simply read the work in it’s entirety and give my honest opinion.

God's Word Will Never Become Obsolete

Oh, how I love all you’ve revealed; I reverently ponder it all the day long. Your commands give me an edge on my enemies;
they never become obsolete. Psalm 119:97-98

The Word of God never needs an update!

I love when the Lord reveals His majesty through the beauty of nature! It's difficult to miss the connection to His creative spirit when I am running through a grove of trees in the middle of the forest. Nothing can clear my mind quicker and allow me to focus on the greatness of our God than moving through a quiet piece of the woods.

This physical setting brings to the forefront of my thinking, the enormity of our God and the complexities of His working in and through every situation in my life. Sometimes the Lord reveals His purposes...and other times He does not. I cherish the times when He does unveil His reasons, however, in those times that He remains silent and seemingly unwilling to explain His decisions, I must trust Him all the more. Those are the seasons of my life when following Him translates into the tangible faith of the scriptures. They are the times when I must believe without seeing. I must cling to His word and His promises and know that I have prayed...and He has heard. I must stand up...and when I fall back down...stand up again. As the verse above says...I must know that His words will "never be obsolete". I must breathe in and breathe out and stand firm on His promises.

Father God~

You are the beginning of all things. You are the end of all things. You have spoken us into being and we are Your children. May You continue to reveal your perfect will into our hearts so that we may accomplish Your purposes through our lives each day. Equip and empower us to carry through with Your plans with awe and reverence.

Praise be to the mighty name of Jesus!
Amen 

Book Review~ The Prayer of Protection: Living Fearlessly In Dangerous Times by Joseph Prince

I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust." Psalm 91:2

Book Description

This book is a beautiful reminder of the
confidence we are given when we are
hidden in Christ!

In these days of danger, trouble, and evil, New York Times bestselling author Joseph Prince reveals how God's children can have round-the-clock protection through the power of prayer.


THE PRAYER OF PROTECTION unveils the Bible's ultimate psalm of protection, Psalm 91, to help you understand more about how God guards His children. Joseph Prince offers simple keys and practical advice to finding and resting in the secret place of the Most High, where no evil can even come near you. You'll begin to live unafraid and with boldness as you allow the certainty of your heavenly Father's love and the sure promises of His Word to guard your heart against every fear. Come under the wings of the Almighty and live life divinely protected, 

positioned, and free from all fears with our covenant-keeping God!

My Personal Review

The Prayer of Protection~Living Fearlessly In Dangerous Times by Joseph Prince and published by FaithWords is an insightful work; it provides reassurance and comfort that we can live a protected and peaceful life in Christ.

Joseph Prince clearly communicates to the reader that the promises of protection located in Psalm 91 are relevant and tangible for each of God's children, today. His newest book, The Prayer of Protection breaks down Psalm 91, verse by verse with the intent to strengthen the reader's walk with Christ through the faith building truths that are found within this wonderful chapter in the Bible. The author points out that our culture breeds fear and weakness, from the constant media frenzy of negativity, to the belittling commentary about our God. This continual saturation of fear mongering can force us into an unfruitful paralyzing state. He asserts that as Christians, we need to stand firm in our hope in the Lord; we need to cling to the Word of God and not allow insecurity to take a stronghold in our lives.

The book is divided into twelve chapters. Each chapter carefully inspects a verse or two from Psalm 91. The prevailing message of getting the Word of God into our hearts is emphasized throughout the book, as Pastor Prince writes, "It is so important for you to invest time in getting God's living and powerful Word into your heart." He also contends that "we must involve the Lord Jesus in our lives every day, because only Christ can deliver us and keep us safe." 

I love the personal faith building testimonies that are scattered throughout this book. These illustrations of perseverence serve to provide examples of God in motion. The stories from other's trials create a fantastic sense of applicability that is inspiring. I also enjoyed the depth of which the author explores various words from the verses and uncovers their meaning within the Bible. In so doing, Prince unveils an understanding of the truths to a much deeper level. He continually stresses the importance of quoting the written Word of God, which will, "put up a shield of faith and release power as you declare that your God shall deliver you..". The author reminds us that when the Lord Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He did not merely "think" about scripture, He spoke it out loud. "The enemy will always try to keep you self-occupied and in fear. God wants you Christ-occupied and in faith." The author challenges the reader to memorize Psalm 91 and speak it with authority over your most difficult situations and watch what God does. He encourages us that worship through praise will activate angelic forces to guard us against all sorts of enemy attacks.

Finally, I was drawn into this book simply based upon the sincerity of the grace and mercy message that it contains. As we know, it is already so difficult to live in this world on a day to day basis, so a book that encourages hope, security, strength, confidence and love through the grounded roots of the gospel of Christ and the written Word of God is a HUGE winner in my mind! As Prince writes, "God has already foreseen the problems that we will face in this day and age, and His protection and covering over us is all-encompassing." 

The Prayer of Protection by Joseph Prince does not teach a formulaic "name it and claim it" ritualistic memorization of chanting nonsense, but conversely Prince pleads for each of us to have a relationship with Christ and then utilize this book as a tool to be explored slowly with an open Bible and a receptive heart to the Word of God. It also beckons to be read in an intimate small group where transparency within the setting would allow the Spirit of God to break chains, bring down walls of insecurity and draw people together through the chord of Christ. Whether you read this book in a quiet devotional setting with the Lord or in tandem with others, I would highly recommend you read it! 

Joseph Prince has provided a free 30-day prayer plan available to correlate with the book’s teaching and further your experience. Please click the following link if you would like to participate: http://www.faithwords.com/divineprotection. He also provides a link within the book that will provide answers to the perplexing suffering of Job through a free audio message of bonus content. 

Thank you to FaithWords, a division of Hachette Book Group Inc., for this review copy of The Prayer of Protection by Joseph Prince. The opinions within this review are my own; I was not required to write a favorable review.

Book Review: Making Disciples~Applying Truth In Daily Living by Carla Maclachlan

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20

Praise for Making Disciples

Making Disciples is both challenging and life-changing. My awareness of the power of Scripture to influence daily life has greatly increased. I now live life with a heavenly, rather than worldly, perspective. - J. Elfrink

God is using Making Disciples to transform my life! When I began to embrace discipleship and disciple making, my walk with Christ deepened. I better understand now that God is working in the moments of my days to bring Himself glory. - B. Williams

An excellent book filled with the truths
of God and a challenge to grow in
those truths on a daily basis.

After experiencing Making Disciples, I sense the urgency to know and teach God's Word. I've learned to listen beyond the normal conversations to seek God's opportunity. - B. Porter

Publishers Description

Jesus tells His followers to “go and make disciples”. You understand what it looks like to "go" (consider all the places you’ve been in the past few days.) But what does it look like to make disciples? Are you prepared to invest in the lives of others? 
Making Disciples is a practical book that will help you:

• Understand God’s purpose for disciple-making 
• Recognize and prepare for evangelistic opportunities 
• Practically apply biblical truth in daily living 
• Communicate and demonstrate living by faith 
• Engage others in formal and informal discipleship

My Personal Review

Making Disciples creates a path leading straight to the the thrown of grace where you find reflection, repentance, reconciliation and relationship! Making Disciples~Applying Truth In Daily Living by Carla Maclachlan is a beautiful call to apply the truths of the Bible directly to our lives and to cultivate a greater awareness and responsiveness to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

This book challenges the reader to take a deeper look at the principles of becoming a disciple of Christ, and further still, abiding with Christ and thereby communicating this love with others as we transform into His likeness day by day. The author defines a disciple of Jesus as “someone who chooses to believe in, learn from, and follow Him. Discipleship is a process by which believers are taught biblical principles and how to apply them in practical ways.” Maclachlan exhorts the reader to allow the Holy Spirit to speak into our individual circumstances and make changes as He directs. By increasing our sensitivity and opening our hearts to the will of God, we will experience the abundant life that He has for us.

The need to study God’s word and use it as our “discipleship instruction manual” is emphasized frequently within the chapters of Making Disciples. With scripture references on nearly every page, the author earnestly expresses that without the “infallible Word of God”, we will be ill equipped and unprepared to handle the daily divine appointments that the Lord has designed for each one of us. I enjoyed the analogy Maclachlan gives, as it relates to this subject, when she explains that just as nursing education is to be applied at a later date to help patients with their physical needs, we also should “anticipate using what God is teaching us to enhance the spiritual well-being of others.” Great thought!

The point that it is God’s ultimate goal for us to “reproduce His truth in the lives of others” is clearly conveyed throughout the writing. It is asserted that “receiving the gospel is merely the starting point of salvation and discipleship, not the end goal.” Because it is our aim to share the truth of Christ with those who don’t know Him, it is important for us to have many tools in our tool belt so that we can be messengers of the gospel in it’s entirety. Found within the pages is a very in-depth section covering the details of introducing an individual to Christ and presenting the full plan of redemption for their life.

The idea that spiritual growth is the catalyst to becoming an effective disciple of Christ is given a great deal of attention. This growth will only happen when we allow the Holy Spirit to train us. We must also consider forming mentoring “relationships that are intentional and purposeful in teaching, guiding, and training others to walk daily by faith in the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This mentoring process will help to promote spiritual maturity in others as well as in ourselves. The author even provides a helpful outline for beginning a mentoring connection. She is careful to explain that because of the uniquely created individuals that God places in our lives, we need to be acutely in tune with the leading of His Spirit and every discipleship opportunity that the Lord presents to us, adjusting our plans accordingly.

The subjects of surrender, sanctification, and faith are discussed at length. These daily decisions of obedience are paramount to moving forward in an abundant life with Christ; they are not a one time event, but rather a moment by moment choice to relinquish your right to self will and give that over to the will of God. Galatians 2:20 is used as a reference to this conclusion.

The final chapters discuss issues of our identity in Christ, the consequences of sin, learning from the past, adversity and more. I especially enjoyed the author’s sensitive approach to the matter of facing difficulties when it is not a direct result to personal sin. The point that our perspective will change, but perhaps not our circumstances, when we apply the truths of God in the trials of life is something that I have experienced in my own life. The scripture reference given here is John 16:33 where Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Recognizing and accepting God’s enormous purpose in the trials of life will give us spiritual victory over our situation.

Visit Carla at www.carlamaclachlan

My overwhelming impression of Making Disciples is very positive. It is written for a wide audience in that a person who is not familiar with the Bible, Christ, or God’s plan of salvation will read this book and quite possibly be drawn into a saving faith and a consistent scripture intake along with application of His Word. On the opposite side of the pendulum, the plethora of valuable and applicable information on discipleship that is contained within this book will certainly draw the spiritually mature Christian to pursue a more intimate and fruitful walk with Christ as they apply the truths of God on a daily basis through prayer, communion and the mentoring process.

Making Disciples is an excellent book. Unless I completely missed the point, however, it should be read slowly, prayerfully, and with a heart that is open to the voice of the Lord. It is not a book to scurry through and put up on your shelf to check off as “read.” No, in actuality, it should be marked “to be read again”. The rationale for this advice is simply that in a continually changing world, you will always be in a different circumstance. Yes, it might be similar, but NEVER the same and therefore, you will be able to reach for your Bible and this little gem of a book and prayerfully proceed. The Biblical  truths and discipleship process will provide you with just the right direction for the new situations that you most certainly will find yourself in.

Thank you to Bound By Faith Publishers for this paperback review copy of Making Disciples~Applying Truth In Daily Living by Carla Maclachlan. I was not required to give a favorable review, but simply to read the book and give a summary with my personal opinion of it’s content. I also was not required to purchase an E-copy, but I did so because I want to have an easily accessible copy for frequent referencing. I would highly recommend this book to non-Christians and Christians alike. I am confident that your life will certainly be changed by Carla’s passionate love for God and her clear communication of His truths.

Movie Review: Wildflower a Faith Street Films Production

Proverbs 3:5-6(NIV)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Suspense and drama combined with a
message of hope and healing!

WILDFLOWER (2015)

Company: Faith Street Film Partners II & Provident Label Group in association with Cave Pictures and Hope filled Media
Writer: Nicholas DiBella
Director: Nicholas DiBella
Producer: Nicholas DiBella, Marc Wax & Veronica Nickel
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 92 min.
Industry Rating: 12+
Starring: Nathalia Ramos, Cody Longo, Shari Rigby, Alex Steele

Synopsis:

Creatively gifted, college student Chloe Moray (portrayed by Nathalia Ramos, known for BRATZ, Arrested Development, House of Anubis) finds solace from a difficult childhood in her extraordinary art. But when an alarming dream begins to recur nightly, Chloe starts to believe that it might be a suppressed memory and that she may have witnessed a terrible crime as a little girl. Her search for peace takes her on a journey that forces Chloe to confront her past traumas and leads her to cross paths with Josh (Cody Longo, known for NOT TODAY, Hollywood Heights, Nashville), a young man dealing with his own painful loss. Together they find in each other someone they can trust as they seek to unlock a cold-case mystery from years before. But with the authorities blocking the way, Chloe's new-found hope is challenged in this powerful story of faith, triumph and healing.

Link to trailer: https://youtu.be/K0KLHhHOvws


My Personal Review:

Wildflower is a very engaging and suspense filled movie. This film is definitely worth your time and attention!

We often have "family movie nights" at our house, so when the opportunity arose to review this film, I snatched it up. This movie will be released on DVD & VOD April 5th, 2016. It will also be available for viewing on the Lifetime Movie Network in June. I definitely agree with the "12+" rating that has been assigned to it, due to the weightiness of specific themes and the intensity of many scenes throughout the movie. However, having said that, there is no profanity or nudity within this film which makes it more palatable for viewing with your older teens. It is a great catalyst for family discussions about the importance of trust, honesty, and transparency. My husband and I watched this with our 15 year old daughter.

What I love most about this film, in addition to the sheer entertainment and mystery is the prevailing message of how important it is to never give up on people even when we may not completely understand them or what they are going through. Wildflower highlights the fact that the four simple words, "I believe in you" carry a powerful message of hope and healing. This message is communicated throughout the film, but is especially apparent through the roles of the main characters as they deal with some very difficult situations from their past. Despite the inability of their loved ones to comprehend the magnitude of their experiences, they still continue to support them!

Nathalia Ramos (Chloe) and Cody Longo (Josh) do an exceptional job of portraying their characters in an authentic manner. Their relationship which slowly builds throughout the movie is selectively subtle, but deeply moving as the two begin to trust one another beyond the casual into a more transparent level. 

Wildflower also brings to light the fact that God is always present in our lives and even closer to us when we are going through difficult times. The knowledge that God's timing and purposes are not always within our comprehension is a prevailing theme within the movie as well. The trauma the main character goes through gives some insight into the struggles that someone suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may live with on a daily basis, thereby, revealing a needed sensitivity when working with persons going through this type of situation.

Wildflower is an excellent film. I highly recommend you take the time to watch it...you won't be disappointed! Thank you to Icon Media Group for this review copy of Wildflower. I received this free copy in exchange for an honest review. The opinions within this review are completely my own.

The Sun Came Up Late Today

Psalm 119:90(MSG)

Your truth never goes out of fashion; it's as up-to-date as the earth when the sun comes up.  

The sun was late rising this morning.  Well, at least that's what it felt like when I awoke to darkness, as compared with yesterday when the sun was shining brightly in my window at the exact same time.  I already miss that sunbeam coming into my bedroom early. Today is "Day Light Savings", so we sprang forward an hour.  I don't understand the need for Day Light "Savings" Time.  Do we actually save time?  This has always perplexed me.  We get what we get, right?  We end up shuttling more light to the end of the day and less brightness to the front half, but it's the same amount of time, so why do we call it "daylight savings time"?  Indeed...one of the baffling questions of my life that will never have a satisfying answer as far as I can tell.   

Springing forward.

I clearly like consistency, as you can discern from my dislike of the whole time change thing.  Oh to have such problems, right? But on a more serious note, one of my favorite things about God's word is that it is always the same.  It never changes. The words of the Bible are as applicable today as they were centuries ago.  

His Words are on time...every time.  They are never late. The truths of God are for everyone.  They are not for majorities or minorities.  The Word of God is forever adorned with the greatness of His love, mercy, and grace. We don't have to set it forward or back it up to keep pace with the culture in which we live. The Lord has taken care of all of that for us.  Sweet!!   

Father,

Thank You for providing us with an up-to-date time clock that will never change. Thank You for the comfort that we find in Your Word;  a strong tower to run to for shelter. Your words are a light unto our path and a lamp unto our feet.  Your voice is like a gentle stream of living water bringing life to all who would drink deeply of it.  I am forever amazed and give You all of my praise today.

In Christ's Name,

Amen

Grace! Grace!

Psalm 119:55(MSG)
I meditate on your name all night, God, treasuring your revelation, O God.

Rest in His grace.

Grace!  Grace!  Amazing grace....truly how sweet the sound.  On the heals of the music post from yesterday, these words are drawing me into the old treasured hymn, Amazing Grace.  The word, grace, is on my mind today, as I am reading the new book by Max Lucado entitled:  GRACE.  (A book review  will be coming soon.  I have to finish the book first, of course.)

Reading this verse today and meditating on all that is embodied in the mighty name of God, I am humbled to be called a child of the King!  He is so great that admittedly there are times when I feel extremely unworthy to call upon Him in my smallness and continued failings.  But, then, I am drawn back to that five letter word, G-R-A-C-E.  

I have heard this word described many ways throughout the years, but reading Max's words yesterday, encompassed everything that I believe the word grace means!  If you are struggling today with your humanness and perhaps being too hard on yourself...then pause a minute and meditate on the name of Jesus.  Or maybe you are thinking that if you could just get everything in your life straightened out and polished up, then you would make a decision to come to Christ....in your best Sunday clothes...all perfectly put together.  Guess what?  You don't need to do that.  You just need to come to Him...like you are...right now.  Still don't believe me?  Read the following passage from Max's book about Grace.  Let his words sink deeply in and bathe you in the loving arms of Christ.

Max Lucado from his book titled: GRACE, writes, "Grace is God as heart surgeon, cracking open your chest, removing your heart--poisoned as it is with pride and pain--and replacing it with his own.  Rather than tell you to change, he creates the change.  Do you clean up so he can accept you?  No, he accepts you and begins cleaning you up.  His dream isn't just to get you into heaven but to get heaven into you.  What a difference this makes!"  (Italics my own.)

Lord,
You are a God with infinite knowledge and wisdom!  We praise Your holy name today and thank you for your amazing grace.  May it wash completely over each of us as we approach Your throne of forgiveness.
In Your precious Son's name,
Amen





 

The Road To Somewhere

Psalm 119:30(MSG)
I choose the true road to Somewhere, I post Your road signs at every curve and corner.
Psalm 119:30(NIV)
I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws.

My daughter making her own road through the snow.

I'm thinking about the road trips I have been taking out of town lately.  Having an arrival  location in my mind, I set out on my journey, but if I've never traveled the roads to my destination, I rely completely on the road signs to get me there!  If it weren't for the well marked path, I might end up in Timbuktu.  (Timbuktu is actually an extremely remote location in Africa by the way.  My daughter informed me of that while she was studying her geography lesson the other day.  I absolutely love that...but I digress!) 

While driving through some of the busy cities on my recent trips, I find I have to really concentrate to stay in the correct lane or I might end up heading in the complete wrong direction!  The problem with that is, I might not even recognize it was a wrong turn until I end up arriving Nowhere...instead of the goal of "Somewhere!"  In utter frustration I might have added miles of rough road to my trip that would have been completely unnecessary had I not missed the turn off! 

Today's verse is incredibly tangible!  I have included two translations for a greater focus on exactly what it is that keeps me seeing the markers on every corner and holds me to the path that God wants for me to be on.  The conclusion I draw is that TRUTH and OBEDIENCE to the word of God and His law is what keeps me going Somewhere!  His words are what hold me to the correct roads in this life. 

I can always be sure that I am not lost when I am applying the truths that I find in the treasured Word of God.  I may not recognize the towns I am traveling through, but I know with great assurance that these are the exact places that God has allowed me to be if I am in His Word and in prayer.  I have to be intentional about staying on the right road, however.  If I veer off my course, there is the possibility of ending up in places the Lord never intended for me to be in! 

As a busy Mom, it's sometimes easy to start the day off running in many directions.  From the time my brain clicks on in the morning, I am thinking of all that needs to be accomplished in the few hours ahead.  The truth is though, that to really be effective and successfully implement my plan, I must make a conscious choice to open the Bible and talk with the God of heaven and earth before I run out the door!

God,
Thank you for providing a path to You through the Word that You so graciously left for us.  Help us to make wise choices and remain in Your truth throughout our days here.
In Jesus name,
Amen