Thursday, February 19, 2009

Books

As most of you probably know, I'm a big reader. These are some books I've read in the past couple months:

The Bravehearted Gospel by Eric Ludy
This is a powerful book. I would recommend it to all Christians, and especially pastors. It has a culture-defying message, a call to lay aside everything that entangles us and to wholeheartedly serve our Mighty God. A call for us to follow the cross, the world behind us, no turning back.

Set-Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy
Wow! From the very first chapter, this book spoke to my soul even more directly than The Bravehearted Gospel. It's specifically written to women about the awesomeness of giving your whole life to Christ. It has definitely called me to seek the Lord even more and surrender everything to Him. This may be a girls' book, but it's full of braveheartedness! I can't recommend it enough, and I'm only halfway through it!

Before You Meet Prince Charming by Sarah Mally
To be honest, I thought I had read enough relationship books to last me for a while. But the compelling title (true for me!) and some shining recommendations persuaded me to go for it, and I'm glad I did! Refreshingly pure presentation, but with a relevant and Godly message, it was an instant favorite. I think my favorite aspect of it was that it was geared to girls who came from a like background as me (Christian, with Godly parents, already wanting to be pure, etc.).

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Surprised? I prayed a lot before I read this series... and strangely enough, God gave me a green light. Or so I thought. More likely I was listening to my own temptations. I can't recommend it to anyone. Though the numerous "you've got to read this book" comments I got could count as "whatever is of good report" (Phil. 4:8), after reading it myself I have to conclude that it cannot count as noble, pure, virtuous or edifying. The values of the characters were contrary in so many ways to God's Word, and it is true that it is portraying evil as good. In many ways it reminded me of the Harry Potter books. Sensationally addictive but not spiritually edifying.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
This was a book assigned for school, but I was glad to finally have the chance to read it. I haven't finished it yet, though I'm close, (and I know how it ends). It's been interesting, but the character of Jane is a bit gloomy, and therefore the book has been too. Still, I've enjoyed it. A couple more chapters to go...

Finally... the best for last!
Ephesians,1 Corinthians, & 2 Corinthians written by Paul, inspired by God
Genesis written by Moses, inspired by God
Proverbs written by King Solomon, inspired by God
Psalms written by King David and others, inspired by God
If you can't read anything else read these! Hugely powerful, educational, and encouraging. :D

6 comments:

  1. Awesome book reviews! I totally agree with The Bravehearted Gospel. It is very good book that makes ya rethink many views you have on things. I can also heartedly recommend Ephesians,1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Genesis, Proverbs, and Psalms. I also would recommend Romans, also written by Paul, inspired by God. It's got some deep basics on how Christians wholeheartedly live. Awesome stuff.

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  2. I have just finished reading through 1 and 2 Corinthians. I have been reading through Sinner by Ted Dekker, but haven't felt much of an appetite for reading lately besides that and the Bible. I personally think that if a lot more Christians took 1 and 2 Corinthians and Acts and Ephesians and Galatians (basically, Paul's letters), our churches would have a much bigger impact on the world, and better fellowship amongst those within the church. The world will know us by our love, after all.

    It's cool those books are speaking to you. I read the first chapter of The Bravehearted Gospel and thought it was fantastic.

    God is giving me new ideas for my book as well. Are you still writing yours? I remember it had a cool beginning.

    ttyl.

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  3. No, I haven't been working on my book, but it's funny you should mention it. You're not the only one who did recently. It's still on hold, though.
    ~*~

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  4. Of the books you've mentioned, I've read Before You Meet Prince Charming, and all of the books of the Bible, of course. :) I started Jane Eyre once, but didn't get past the first couple pages. I would like to read it all the way through, tho. Don't you just LOVE a good book?!

    You're writing a book? Wow, that's quite an undertaking! Is it fictional? That is so neat! I've always thought it would be cool to write a book, but I have absolutely NO imagination, which is very helpful!!

    See you @ the dance on Wed??
    Aliisa

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  5. Well I third you continuing your book as well Liz. I want to know what happens! I've only been in suspense for like two years. =P Same goes for you Shane. Is the end in sight for your book? I'm dying to know what happens in that one as well. =D

    Corey <><

    P.S. Liz, could you some how tell me how you make your pictures small like they are but expandable? I don't like how Blogspot puts em in. Thanks!

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  6. "Don't tell anyone you're [writing a book], they'll encourage you to death." :P
    It would be neat to finish my book (jokingly referred to as my overdue 8th grade novel, haha), but right now it's just not a priority for me. Yeah, I thought the beginning was cool too, but beginnings are way easier for me to write than middles, because ya actually have to know the answers to the questions yer creating suspense about...

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