Bible Review: NIV Life Application Study Bible~Third Edition

Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Trusted & Treasured by Millions of Readers for over 30 Years, the Tyndale Life Application Study Bible Is Today’s #1–Selling Study Bible

NIV Life Application Study Bible Third Edition



NIV Life Application Study Bible Third Edition

Now thoroughly updated and expanded, offering even more relevant insights and spiritual guidance for applying God’s Word to everyday life in today’s world. With a fresh, new interior page design and comprehensively updated study notes and features, this Bible will help you better understand God’s Word and provide you with practical ways to apply it to your life every day. The Life Application Study Bible—It’s how to do life!

Study the stories and teachings of the Bible with verse-by-verse commentary. Gain wisdom from people in the Bible by exploring their accomplishments and learning from their mistakes. Survey the big picture of each book through overviews, vital statistics, outlines, and timelines, and grasp difficult concepts using in-text maps, charts, and diagrams.

Features Include:

• Enhanced, updated, and with new content added throughout 
• Now more than 10,000 Life Application® notes and features 
• Over 100 Life Application® Bible character profiles 
• Introductions and overviews for each book of the Bible 
• More than 500 maps & charts 
• Dictionary/concordance 
• Side-column cross-references 
• Index to notes, charts, maps, and profiles 
• Refreshed design with a second color for visual clarity 
• 16 pages of full-color maps 
•  Durable Smyth-sewn binding, lays flat when open
• Presentation page
• Single-column format
• Christian Worker's Resource- a special supplement to enhance the reader's ministry                          
• Full text of the Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV)
• Black Letter
• Text Size: 8.5 Point
• Note Size: 7 Point

MY PERSONAL REVIEW


John 1:1
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Beautiful two tone brown with stitching,
this Bible looks great on a table or
even better....in your hands!

The NIV Life Application Study Bible~Third Edition, for the remainder of this review referred to as the "NIV LASB~3rd", is an incredible update to your previous edition study Bible, or will make a wonderful first study Bible for anyone who has not had the opportunity to own a "study bible" up to this point. With a claim of "over 75% of the Bible's features being application oriented", relating scripture to your life has just taken on a whole new meaning!

Diving right in, I want to mention just a few things right off the top about the NIV LASB~3rd. First, I want to clarify that this is a study Bible with emphasis on application in your life and as such, when you put it side by side with non-study Bibles, you will immediately see a huge difference in organization of content, as well as, a greatly increased volume of notes, maps, outlines and other tools to assist your comprehension of the history and context of the designated passages. Secondly, if you are comparing this Bible to other study Bibles that are not assigned the "life application" title, you will also see stark differences in the notes, as the non-application Bibles will not generally address the final question of "how does this passage relate to me?" The NIV LASB~3rd will answer that question and so many more!

I want to examine the NIV LASB~3rd from two perspectives. The first one being that of comparison to a general non-study NIV Bible. The second angle is to differentiate the NIV LASB~3rd to it's previous editions, begging to answer the question, "do I really need to update my older NIV LASB edition?" Spoiler alert...the answer is...yes.

Here are a few of our Zondervan NIV Bibles.
So much goodness!

Let's start by exploring the features of the NIV LASB~3rd to reveal the immense difference in this Bible versus a non-study Bible. The NIV LASB~3rd has such incredible fluidity and includes all of the following categories in a beautiful color scheme that sets the Bible passages apart from the commentary making it easier to access the information. Each book is set up in the exact same way, so before long your muscle memory is taking over and your eyes are looking right to the section you want without having to hunt all over and flip back and forth from page to page. It has an unending supply of resources to assist you with your search for truth. It's a beautiful thing to behold! Obviously a non-study Bible is also filled with truth, it's just more challenging to sift, sort, comprehend, and apply.

The NIV Life Application Study Bible~3rd Edition Features include:

• Notes
• Book Introductions: divided into a timeline, vital statistics, overview, blueprint, megathemes, and maps.
• Outline
• A Harmony Of the Books of Kings & Chronicles (3rd Edition only)
• A Harmony of the Gospels
• Personality Profiles
• Maps 
• Charts & Diagrams
• Cross-References
• Textual Notes and Section Headings
• A Christian Worker's Resource (3rd Edition only)
• Master Index
• Dictionary/Concordance

There's the question again, do you need to update your older edition (1988 and forward) NIV LASB with the new 3rd Edition? For that answer, this interview (click here to read) with the general editor of the NIV LASB~3rd, Ron Beers, on the Bible Gateway Blog may give you some clarity. He likens this new Bible edition to the Smart Phone updates that keep us current with the times. I enjoyed this analogy and I would agree with him, a new updated edition will only serve to enhance your experience with this Bible. 

Here's why I think it's a great investment. There are enough intriguing updates to make it worth your money to purchase this latest version. One of the newest features is 

"A Harmony Of The Books Of Kings & Chronicles." This new section provides a timeline of the books of Kings and Chronicles. It does an excellent job to assist the reader in understanding the interaction between the timing, location, and accomplishments (albeit good or bad) of each king's reign. It even identifies which prophets were prophesying during the leader's rule. It is a fantastic systematic summary of the northern and southern kingship reigns with plenty of reference scripture to lead you on an in-depth search, if you so desire.

There is also a new feature titled: "A Christian Worker's Resource". It's located towards the back of the NIV LASB~3rd directly before the 365 Day Reading Plan and Master Index. It has been created to equip and empower the Christ follower for witnessing, mentoring, and even leading a small group. One of the sub-sections within this titled, "So You Have Been Asked To Speak", provides ideas for leading a small group or Bible study. The direction found within these two pages claims that "you'll be able to put together a talk that is both informative and challenging-to any audience at anytime." While I haven't had the opportunity to utilize the plan yet, I love the ideas and structure and now have a great place to quickly access when the need arises.

Side by side comparison of NIV LASB~1st
with the NIV LASB~3rd Edition.

Besides the addition of several new features, I also recognized the consistent subtle content differences between the Personality Profiles under the headings: strengths-accomplishments and weaknesses-mistakes within the 3rd edition as compared to the 1st edition. This is a feature that the old edition has, however, the new edition is using a bit different language, some extra characterizations, and a few noted omissions from the older version. 

Let's compare one of the profiles so you can see what I mean. We'll look at the "Eve Profile". 

The first edition states that Eve "displayed certain characteristics of God", whereas the NIV LASB 3rd omits these words. The first edition states "The female shares in the image of God", compared to the 3rd which states, "Women share equally in the image of God". Finally, the "occupation assigned" for Eve in the older edition defines her as a "wife, helper, companion, co-manager of Eden". The new edition only states that she is, "The Co-Manager of Eden". These are intriguing differences. There are enough distinctions that I want to ponder them further.             

The content of the NIV LASB~3rd has a plethora of historical information, commentary, cross references, notes, maps, charts, diagrams, and leadership tools. Clearly the expansive team of contributors are a group of individual professionals who are dedicated to the Word of God. It even includes an abbreviated 365 Day Reading Plan that is a perfect "tour of God's Word", as it leads the reader from Genesis to Revelation in a "streamlined look at the entire Bible". 

The design, physical appearance and functionality of this specific Bible is  gorgeous. The "lay flat" design provides a completely horizontal page by page viewing when the book is open. The distracting arching and flopping of pages during reading is a thing of the past with this quality work. The pages with their two tone color, as described in the product description, truly does help to clarify what is part of the outline and  feature content as opposed to the scripture presentation. 

There are really only two items about this Bible that are a slight issue, but one has a solution and the other one will actually develop your gift of patience. The first challenge is the font is crazy small at 8.5 for the scripture and 7 for the notes. Now, having said that, if you have "young eyes" and some bright light, this won't bother you at all. However, if you have "older eyes", say over half a century like mine, then you might want to consider getting the large print option, although you will have to wait a bit longer because it doesn't release until 4/2019. The second difficulty is that the pages are incredibly thin. I'm sure that was necessary to try to keep the book more compact, but the result is that the pages stick together while you're trying to turn them. This isn't a deal breaker though, because again, you will develop perseverance and self control while you carefully peel apart each page. Once you have gotten through every page of the Bible, they no longer do that....so problem solved...read the whole Bible!! :) 

In conclusion, I am not a theologian, nor am I currently attending seminary. I am, however, a lover of Christ and continually desirous of growing closer to Him. I have found incredible insight through studying the Bible and immeasurable peace by "hiding His Word in my heart" through scripture memorization. If you want to deepen your relationship with the Lord, spending time in His Word will certainly help you attain your goal! The Bible literally tells us that the Word of God is God! If you're looking for a great Study Bible for yourself, or perhaps someone on your Christmas list, you should look no farther; the NIV Life Application Study Bible~Third Edition will not disappoint you! It is an excellent Bible and after many hours of study and comparison, I would highly recommend it!! 

Also, keep in mind that not only will your money be going towards something that could potentially enrich your love of God and open your eyes to how Christ is moving in your life today, but in addition, every NIV Bible you purchase helps www.biblica.com translate and give Bibles to people in need around the world.  

It has been an honor and privilege to be able to review this NIV Life Application Study Bible~Third Edition as part of the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid  (BG2) program. Thank you to Zondervan and Tyndale House Publishers, Inc for this complimentary review copy in exchange for my honest assessment of this work. 

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.

Seasons~Days~Years

Psalm 119:66(MSG)  Train me in good common sense;  I'm thoroughly committed to living Your way.



What season of life are you in?

Oh my goodness!  What a beautiful day in the Ozarks, both from a weather standpoint and from a worship point of view.  It's been simply incredible!  The outside temperature is a breezy 78 degrees with slightly cloudy skies and gently chirping birds in the background.  If I didn't know that it was the middle of August, I would certainly think it was October. 

More importantly, however, was the contagious atmosphere inside the sanctuary of God this morning, where a message of hope found in Christ reached the chaos of our hearts!  This has become a weekly occurrence from the preaching team at our church and unless I'm confused, it should be an experience happening in all Gospel preaching churches throughout the globe!  Why?  Because the Word of God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow and it is most certainly a life giving force!

Today, that Word was delivered by Pastor Robert Madu.  It was clear, concise, and received with complete joy to the gathering of believers!!  We laughed.  We cried.  We prayed.  We worshipped the King of Kings!  Can I get an "Amen?!" 

Pastor Madu had a lot to say about "God's Word power" and a clear message for us to quit trying to do life with our "will power"!  He eloquently reminded each one of us that we need the Word of God in our lives to understand and respond appropriately to the season of life that we are currently in.  If we will remain responsive to His Words and aware of the season of our life we are going through, then our days will be good and our years will be fruitful for the Lord!

You will be able to access his message at JRAG (click) within a day by simply scrolling over and then clicking the "message and resources"  tab on the website, followed by a search for his name and today's date.  If you are able to set aside 30 minutes to listen to his encouraging words, you will most certainly be refreshed and rejuvenated and thoroughly committed to living His way", as today's verse directs!  Seriously good stuff!!

Dear Almighty God,
Refresh and renew our hearts today and give us the common sense to remain in Your Word and to dedicate our lives to living through Your "Word power" instead of our willpower.  Please continue to bless Your message through Pastor Robert Madu.
In Jesus Name,
Amen

Singing His Words

Psalm 119:54
I set your instructions to music and sing them as I walk this pilgrim way.

Ahh...the healing power of His Word set to music!  Humming His directions gives incredible strength and builds our faith to a whole new level!  Clear direct advice for us right here in black and white. 

Conversely, there is much to be lost in our closeness with the Savior when we listen to music that is saturated with dark discouraging lyrics.  Why?  Because those despair riddled words will immediately flood our minds when we are in challenging circumstances.  Those careless ideas of hopelessness and isolation, that are unfortunately quite prevalent in our society today, have the end result of submerging the listener into a sinking pit of emptiness.  Don't allow it in!  Guard against it.

God's word is like fresh water.  Without it we cannot survive.

This is a beautiful verse of instruction for our children as well.  If you are raising children, I challenge you to go through their play lists and make certain that what they are hearing is lifting them up and building a God confidence rather than a self consciousness.  During an especially challenging time in one of my children's lives, I purchased a CD at our local Christian store that set to music specific scripture that applied to the situation.  The incredible comfort gained from the simple exercise of playing the CD in the background essentially every time we were home or in the car, was immeasurable!  We were also able to memorize the verses, allowing His direction to play continually in our minds even when the music was not available!  It was life changing for us!

While writing this post today, I decided to look for scripture set to music on the Internet.  I found a beautiful blog created by a family who has applied today's scripture and made it a way of life.  If you are interested in hearing just one of their creations, click here and enjoy!  Their blog provides a large volume of scripture put to music and they have even included sheet music for free!  The URL is:  www.scripturemelodies.blogspot.com. 

Lord,
Thank You once again for Your words that guide and direct us in very simple and concise ways.  May Your strength rise up anew within us this week as we choose a leader for our country.  May Your perfect will be done.
In Christ's Name,
Amen

 

My New Plant

My "Upside Down Plant"

Psalm 119:36(MSG)
Give me a bent for Your words of wisdom, and not for piling up loot.

Reading the word "bent" this morning reminded me of this phenomenal new plant I just found!  Take a look at the flower.  If you are a gardener then you probably already recognize this species as a Cyclamen Persicum, but I being a novice to the plant world, had to look up it's name.  It has to be one of the coolest things I've seen in a long time!  I hope you can tell from this picture what it's doing, but if not, then I'll tell you.  It's basically growing upside down.  The flowering portion of the plant is bent to the earth instead of up to the sun.  It's pedals open upward, but the center stays pointing down.  Completely incredible!!

I am observing it to see if bees are interested in it, because they would have to literally fly upside down to get any pollen from it.  Wouldn't that be a funny sight to behold!  Anyway, what is even more fantastic about this plant, is that even though it is upside down, once it blooms, it's pedals still grow toward the light.

There are a few conclusions I have drawn after thinking about my beautiful new plant today.  First of all, this plant that sits on my front porch, where I see it constantly on my coming and going, reminds me that God creates all of His creation so uniquely beautiful.  When I look at it, I'm also reminded that this plant that is so different in it's upside down way is still functioning quite well as a flower.  Maybe looking different is kind of special.  Perhaps I don't want to waste my time trying to look like everybody else. 

This flowering plant and today's verse also remind me that no matter what direction I find myself facing, I will always need to turn to the light of His Words and wisdom to get my nourishment and strength to carry out His plan for me.  The plant is facing down, but it's pedals are raising up to the sun.  It's not much different with me.  I'm surrounded by "loot"....or the material distractions of this world, but "my pedals" or, in this case my heart, needs to remain turned to the Son of God for my light.

Lord,
You are a creative God!  Thank you for a simple flowering plant to remind me of Your creativity.  Help me to remain turned to Your words and to put them into practice every day this week!
In the creative name of Christ,
Amen