Cathy Bryant's Blog: CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog, page 65
January 18, 2013
A Message to the Church #5: Are You Dead?
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
Welcome to the fifth installment of Messages to the Church in our study from the book of Revelation. In case you missed the first four posts, you can find them here:
A Message to the Church #1: Have You Left Your First Love?
A Message to the Church #2: Are You Fearlessly Faithful?
A Message to the Church #3: Have You Compromised?
A Message to the Church #4: Are You Tolerant of Spiritual Adultery?
Before we begin today's study, let me reiterate my belief that these letters were written not just for the churches in John's day, but for the body of Christ, which is the church. So John's vision of Christ and His message to the church is just as relevant today as it was back then.
“To the angel of the church in Sardis write: He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars, says this: ‘I know your deeds, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God. So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Therefore if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you. But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’" ~Revelation 3:1-6 (NASB)
Symbolism
Once more reference is made to the seven stars mentioned in Revelation 1:16 and 2:1. According to chapter 1, verse 20, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches addressed in Revelation.
In addition, the seven Spirits of God are mentioned, just as in Revelation 1:4; 4:5; and 5:6. Theologians have various interpretations of this, but most believe that since seven is a number of perfection and completion in the Bible, that the number indicates the completeness and perfection of God's Holy Spirit. In fact some translations use the phrase "the sevenfold Spirit."
This goes along with another interpretation that some believe ties into Isaiah 11:2 which says: The Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and strength, The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. ~Isaiah 11:2 (NASB) According to this view, the seven aspects of God's Spirit are: 1)the Spirit of the Lord; 2)the spirit of wisdom; 3)the spirit of understanding; 4)the spirit of counsel; 5)the spirit of strength; 6)the spirit of knowledge; 7)the spirit of the fear of the Lord.
In my own humble estimation, God's Spirit is all these things, but any attempt to categorize Him too closely is to put Him in a box narrowly defined by human perspective and verbiage. I think the best approach is to simply recognize this phrase as God's Spirit, complete and perfect. It's especially important to remember that the description of One who holds the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars is a reference to the risen Christ (see Revelation 1:12-16).
What They're Doing Right
Unfortunately, nothing is mentioned, other than to recognize further down in the passage that there were some in the church in Sardis who had not soiled their clothes.
What He Has Against Them
Though they have a reputation of being alive, he calls them dead. This is so scary to me, and reminds me of the passage in the gospels which says: "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter." ~Matthew 7:21 (NASB)
It's scary because it indicates there are people who truly believe they are alive in Christ, when in reality they're spiritually dead. It's all too easy to profess faith in Christ, put on a Sunday School face, do good works, and think we're on the right track. But devils believe (James 2:19), Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), and our righteousness (our pride in our good works to save us and make us acceptable to God) is like soiled menstrual rags to the Lord (Isaiah 64:6). Busy activity doesn't mean we're alive!
Younger generations who grew up in church are now leaving the church in droves, in a large part because they see a disparity between the teachings of Jesus and how those in the church live out those teachings. To be alive in Christ means loving and following Him with all that we are, humbly admitting our unworthiness and inability to save ourselves, depending on His sacrificial atonement to cleanse us from our sin, and living in obedience to Him in following His revealed will for our lives.
This message to the church in Sardis also mentions that Christ had not found their deeds completed in the sight of God. We can't live with one foot in the fountain of faith and the other foot in the world. It's an all-or-nothing proposition. We can't half-serve Him. This was the very behavior Christ criticized in the religious leaders of His time on earth. Being a Christian is more than outward appearances.
What They Need To Do
Wake Up!!!
Strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die - This phrase, though definitely a call to immediate action before they completely died, also acknowledges that there was still hope for them.
Remember what you've received and heard - We've received salvation and forgiveness of sin; we've heard the good news of Christ's atoning sacrifice on our behalf and His Word which tells us how to live in accordance with His teaching
Keep it and repent - Do what you know to do according to what you've received and heard. Turn back from your sin and toward God.
The Warning
If they don't wake up, He is going to come like a thief in the night--in other words, at a time they least expected Him. In Luke 12:35-48, Jesus tells the parable of what happens to servants who know to be ready but aren't. Matthew 25 is devoted to this same message through the parable of the ten virgins, the parable of the faithful and unfaithful servants, and the sheep and the goats.
The Reward
Those who had not soiled their clothes and those who overcame would receive the same reward: garments of white, which indicated purity. It's mind-boggling to consider that only Christ, and not our own efforts at righteousness, can give us those snow-white robes we long to wear.
In addition, Christ would not erase their names from the Lamb's book of life, and would confess their names before the Father and His angels.
Application
Of all the letters, I see this one as one of the most applicable to the church in America, though it hurts to have to say it. We claim the name and "work" for the Lord, but don't do what He says in His Word. The application from this letter boils down to one simple question:
Are you dead?
Eternal Father, we come before You with broken and contrite hearts, confessing that our spiritual lives are often more about external appearances and busy activity than You. Forgive us, Lord. Wake us up and enable us to strengthen what remains, to remember the precious treasure of what we've received and heard, to keep it and repent. Thank You for the garments of white that You'll one day bestow on us if we wake up from our prosperity-induced complacency and apathy. Thank You, Lamb of God, that our names are written in Your book of life, and that there is hope for us if we turn back to You with all our hearts. Thank You, Jesus, our Advocate, that You promise to acknowledge us before God and His angels if we acknowledge You as Lord and Master of our lives. To You, and You alone, belong all glory, honor, and praise. Amen.
Welcome to the fifth installment of Messages to the Church in our study from the book of Revelation. In case you missed the first four posts, you can find them here:
A Message to the Church #1: Have You Left Your First Love?
A Message to the Church #2: Are You Fearlessly Faithful?
A Message to the Church #3: Have You Compromised?
A Message to the Church #4: Are You Tolerant of Spiritual Adultery?
Before we begin today's study, let me reiterate my belief that these letters were written not just for the churches in John's day, but for the body of Christ, which is the church. So John's vision of Christ and His message to the church is just as relevant today as it was back then.
“To the angel of the church in Sardis write: He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars, says this: ‘I know your deeds, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God. So remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent. Therefore if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you. But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’" ~Revelation 3:1-6 (NASB)
Symbolism
Once more reference is made to the seven stars mentioned in Revelation 1:16 and 2:1. According to chapter 1, verse 20, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches addressed in Revelation.
In addition, the seven Spirits of God are mentioned, just as in Revelation 1:4; 4:5; and 5:6. Theologians have various interpretations of this, but most believe that since seven is a number of perfection and completion in the Bible, that the number indicates the completeness and perfection of God's Holy Spirit. In fact some translations use the phrase "the sevenfold Spirit."
This goes along with another interpretation that some believe ties into Isaiah 11:2 which says: The Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and strength, The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. ~Isaiah 11:2 (NASB) According to this view, the seven aspects of God's Spirit are: 1)the Spirit of the Lord; 2)the spirit of wisdom; 3)the spirit of understanding; 4)the spirit of counsel; 5)the spirit of strength; 6)the spirit of knowledge; 7)the spirit of the fear of the Lord.
In my own humble estimation, God's Spirit is all these things, but any attempt to categorize Him too closely is to put Him in a box narrowly defined by human perspective and verbiage. I think the best approach is to simply recognize this phrase as God's Spirit, complete and perfect. It's especially important to remember that the description of One who holds the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars is a reference to the risen Christ (see Revelation 1:12-16).
What They're Doing Right
Unfortunately, nothing is mentioned, other than to recognize further down in the passage that there were some in the church in Sardis who had not soiled their clothes.
What He Has Against Them
Though they have a reputation of being alive, he calls them dead. This is so scary to me, and reminds me of the passage in the gospels which says: "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter." ~Matthew 7:21 (NASB)
It's scary because it indicates there are people who truly believe they are alive in Christ, when in reality they're spiritually dead. It's all too easy to profess faith in Christ, put on a Sunday School face, do good works, and think we're on the right track. But devils believe (James 2:19), Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), and our righteousness (our pride in our good works to save us and make us acceptable to God) is like soiled menstrual rags to the Lord (Isaiah 64:6). Busy activity doesn't mean we're alive!
Younger generations who grew up in church are now leaving the church in droves, in a large part because they see a disparity between the teachings of Jesus and how those in the church live out those teachings. To be alive in Christ means loving and following Him with all that we are, humbly admitting our unworthiness and inability to save ourselves, depending on His sacrificial atonement to cleanse us from our sin, and living in obedience to Him in following His revealed will for our lives.
This message to the church in Sardis also mentions that Christ had not found their deeds completed in the sight of God. We can't live with one foot in the fountain of faith and the other foot in the world. It's an all-or-nothing proposition. We can't half-serve Him. This was the very behavior Christ criticized in the religious leaders of His time on earth. Being a Christian is more than outward appearances.
What They Need To Do
Wake Up!!!
Strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die - This phrase, though definitely a call to immediate action before they completely died, also acknowledges that there was still hope for them.
Remember what you've received and heard - We've received salvation and forgiveness of sin; we've heard the good news of Christ's atoning sacrifice on our behalf and His Word which tells us how to live in accordance with His teaching
Keep it and repent - Do what you know to do according to what you've received and heard. Turn back from your sin and toward God.
The Warning
If they don't wake up, He is going to come like a thief in the night--in other words, at a time they least expected Him. In Luke 12:35-48, Jesus tells the parable of what happens to servants who know to be ready but aren't. Matthew 25 is devoted to this same message through the parable of the ten virgins, the parable of the faithful and unfaithful servants, and the sheep and the goats.
The Reward
Those who had not soiled their clothes and those who overcame would receive the same reward: garments of white, which indicated purity. It's mind-boggling to consider that only Christ, and not our own efforts at righteousness, can give us those snow-white robes we long to wear.
In addition, Christ would not erase their names from the Lamb's book of life, and would confess their names before the Father and His angels.
Application
Of all the letters, I see this one as one of the most applicable to the church in America, though it hurts to have to say it. We claim the name and "work" for the Lord, but don't do what He says in His Word. The application from this letter boils down to one simple question:
Are you dead?
Eternal Father, we come before You with broken and contrite hearts, confessing that our spiritual lives are often more about external appearances and busy activity than You. Forgive us, Lord. Wake us up and enable us to strengthen what remains, to remember the precious treasure of what we've received and heard, to keep it and repent. Thank You for the garments of white that You'll one day bestow on us if we wake up from our prosperity-induced complacency and apathy. Thank You, Lamb of God, that our names are written in Your book of life, and that there is hope for us if we turn back to You with all our hearts. Thank You, Jesus, our Advocate, that You promise to acknowledge us before God and His angels if we acknowledge You as Lord and Master of our lives. To You, and You alone, belong all glory, honor, and praise. Amen.
Free Christian Kindle eBooks for January 18, 2013
Want a way to read all these great Kindle freebies without purchasing a Kindle? Check out this post that tells you how. All the books listed
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Secrets
by Kristen Heitzmann
Published September 2004
Romance: Lance Michelli is on a quest to discover the secrets his grandmother
cannot tell. What happened all those years ago, and what is it she so
desperately needs him to find? The old villa in Sonoma holds the
answers, but it is now owned by a young woman who neither knows nor
cares about his mission. But Rese Barret is a force to contend with, and
her own impending storm could sweep him up as their sparring creates a
fierce and uncomfortable attraction.
4.3 stars with 171 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Nan's Journey
by Elaine Littau
Published January 2008
Historical: Desperate to save her life and that of her five-year-old brother,
Nan packs and flees an abusive home, embarking on a journey that will
test her faith, determination, and spirit. Set in the 1800s, Nan's
Journey, follows Nan and her brother, Elmer, as they seek safety and
find refuge and hope in the arms of a family of strangers--including
Fred Young, a disgruntled preacher turned mountain man, who reaches out
to help, only to find a hope and love renewed in his own heart.
4.6 stars with 41 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Last Aliyah
by Chris Hambleton
Published March 2011
Science Fiction/Fantasy: The tides of war are once again rising against the nation of Israel. Her
old alliances are unraveling, while new alliances against her are
rising. Rocket attacks on Haifa and Sderot are increasing, and
Israel cautiously prepares a response to a conflict that many fear will
never end. Iran has armed Hamas and Hezbollah to the teeth for
years, and now rumors are circulating that several nuclear warheads have
slipped through the Israeli blockade into Gaza. And then a decision is made that will change the face of the Middle East forever. Will Israel be ready as her Arab neighbors gather for war?
4.2 stars with 12 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Lighten Up
by Angela Ruth Strong
Published November 2012
Romance: Bethany Light is the daughter of a minister who can’t forgive her father
for running off with the church secretary. She goes to her own pastor
for counsel, never expecting to fall in love with him. To make matters
worse, she’s personal training his fiancé in preparation for the big day
and somehow ends up in their wedding. Refusing to make the same
mistake her dad made, Bethany tries to focus on fixing her family rather
than face her own issues. How could a household that used to have it
all together have fallen so far from grace?
4.4 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Make Him Room
by Kirsten Oliphant
Published November 2012
Advent Devotional: We may all have heard the real message of Christmas, but are you really
hearing it? It is so easy for us to get lost in the hustle and bustle
of holiday stuff, but Jesus wants you to make room in your heart for
him. This series of daily devotions from December 1 to December 25
matches up Old Testament prophecy with New Testament fulfillment about
Jesus. With a bite-sized reflection and a handful of discussion
questions, this devotional will work for the family around the dinner
table or for your personal time alone with God. This season, will you make him room?
4.9 stars with 31 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Secrets
by Kristen Heitzmann
Published September 2004
Romance: Lance Michelli is on a quest to discover the secrets his grandmother
cannot tell. What happened all those years ago, and what is it she so
desperately needs him to find? The old villa in Sonoma holds the
answers, but it is now owned by a young woman who neither knows nor
cares about his mission. But Rese Barret is a force to contend with, and
her own impending storm could sweep him up as their sparring creates a
fierce and uncomfortable attraction.
4.3 stars with 171 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Nan's Journey
by Elaine Littau
Published January 2008
Historical: Desperate to save her life and that of her five-year-old brother,
Nan packs and flees an abusive home, embarking on a journey that will
test her faith, determination, and spirit. Set in the 1800s, Nan's
Journey, follows Nan and her brother, Elmer, as they seek safety and
find refuge and hope in the arms of a family of strangers--including
Fred Young, a disgruntled preacher turned mountain man, who reaches out
to help, only to find a hope and love renewed in his own heart.
4.6 stars with 41 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Last Aliyah
by Chris Hambleton
Published March 2011
Science Fiction/Fantasy: The tides of war are once again rising against the nation of Israel. Her
old alliances are unraveling, while new alliances against her are
rising. Rocket attacks on Haifa and Sderot are increasing, and
Israel cautiously prepares a response to a conflict that many fear will
never end. Iran has armed Hamas and Hezbollah to the teeth for
years, and now rumors are circulating that several nuclear warheads have
slipped through the Israeli blockade into Gaza. And then a decision is made that will change the face of the Middle East forever. Will Israel be ready as her Arab neighbors gather for war?
4.2 stars with 12 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Lighten Up
by Angela Ruth Strong
Published November 2012
Romance: Bethany Light is the daughter of a minister who can’t forgive her father
for running off with the church secretary. She goes to her own pastor
for counsel, never expecting to fall in love with him. To make matters
worse, she’s personal training his fiancé in preparation for the big day
and somehow ends up in their wedding. Refusing to make the same
mistake her dad made, Bethany tries to focus on fixing her family rather
than face her own issues. How could a household that used to have it
all together have fallen so far from grace?
4.4 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Make Him Room
by Kirsten Oliphant
Published November 2012
Advent Devotional: We may all have heard the real message of Christmas, but are you really
hearing it? It is so easy for us to get lost in the hustle and bustle
of holiday stuff, but Jesus wants you to make room in your heart for
him. This series of daily devotions from December 1 to December 25
matches up Old Testament prophecy with New Testament fulfillment about
Jesus. With a bite-sized reflection and a handful of discussion
questions, this devotional will work for the family around the dinner
table or for your personal time alone with God. This season, will you make him room?
4.9 stars with 31 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 17, 2013
Frugal Friday: Recycled Clothes?
I will never pay full price for an item of clothing again. Ever.
When our gorgeous daughter-in-love joined the family five-and-a-half years ago, she
quickly got me hooked on thrift stores. Honestly, the idea of wearing a
stranger's hand-me-downs originally kind of freaked me out, but after
seeing the great deals that can be had on really nice brands of
clothing, I am 110% plus hooked on buying at thrift stores.
Take a shopping trip I made last year for example. I hit two different stores and ended up with a
completely new wardrobe for $70. With the brands of clothing I
purchased--all of which looked brand new--I most likely would have spent
at least $1,000 had I purchased the clothes off the department store
racks based on the brands alone.
Please don't misunderstand. I am not a brand snob. I've never had the
resources (or the desire) to purchase these brands at full price. But
there is a huge difference in quality-made clothing, and I bought it at a
fraction of the price!
In my shopping trip on this particular, I came home with 30 pieces of clothing (I know...way more than I needed)--7
pairs of pants, 22 tops, and 1 jacket--all for $70, averaging $2.33 per
item. Even the best store sales will never be able to match those kinds
of prices. And with such great deals, I can afford to completely change
my wardrobe anytime I like.
To me the great prices on great clothes are only the beginning. When I
purchase used clothing, I'm in effect recycling clothing, so that less
ends up in the local garbage dump. AND most thrift stores are run by
charitable organizations, so my dollars benefit such places as The
Salvation Army, a woman's shelter, a church, or any number of worthwhile
causes.
If you haven't tried thrift store shopping, I highly encourage you to give it a try. You might just get hooked! =)
Happy bargain hunting!
When our gorgeous daughter-in-love joined the family five-and-a-half years ago, she
quickly got me hooked on thrift stores. Honestly, the idea of wearing a
stranger's hand-me-downs originally kind of freaked me out, but after
seeing the great deals that can be had on really nice brands of
clothing, I am 110% plus hooked on buying at thrift stores.
Take a shopping trip I made last year for example. I hit two different stores and ended up with a
completely new wardrobe for $70. With the brands of clothing I
purchased--all of which looked brand new--I most likely would have spent
at least $1,000 had I purchased the clothes off the department store
racks based on the brands alone.
Please don't misunderstand. I am not a brand snob. I've never had the
resources (or the desire) to purchase these brands at full price. But
there is a huge difference in quality-made clothing, and I bought it at a
fraction of the price!
In my shopping trip on this particular, I came home with 30 pieces of clothing (I know...way more than I needed)--7
pairs of pants, 22 tops, and 1 jacket--all for $70, averaging $2.33 per
item. Even the best store sales will never be able to match those kinds
of prices. And with such great deals, I can afford to completely change
my wardrobe anytime I like.
To me the great prices on great clothes are only the beginning. When I
purchase used clothing, I'm in effect recycling clothing, so that less
ends up in the local garbage dump. AND most thrift stores are run by
charitable organizations, so my dollars benefit such places as The
Salvation Army, a woman's shelter, a church, or any number of worthwhile
causes.
If you haven't tried thrift store shopping, I highly encourage you to give it a try. You might just get hooked! =)
Happy bargain hunting!
Free Christian Kindle eBooks for January 17, 2013
Want a way to read all these great Kindle freebies without purchasing a Kindle? Check out this post that tells you how. All the books listed
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Summer's Song
by Lindi Peterson
Published May 2012
Romance: All she has to do is prove that she’s changed . . . completely. Pop-star
princess Summer Sinclair doesn’t know what to do with herself now that
she’s cleaned-up and sober. She knows God’s been nudging her, but since
God is unfamiliar territory, she feels scared and alone. Everything
changes when she meets Levi Preston, a Christian musician who’s falling
for Summer and wants her to be who God created her to be. But when the
reality of her life takes Levi to places he’s vowed to stay clear of,
will Summer’s newfound freedom be what breaks her heart as she does what
is best for Levi?
4.7 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Prepared in the Wilderness
by Roger D. Millhouse
Published December 2012
Nonfiction: What if America collapsed economically as a nation? What if international agencies cooperated with local agencies to seize
property and place individuals that resist the global agenda into
internment camps or murder them on site? What if you the reader were
immersed into this situation? What if the only place you could
relocate to was towards the uncertainty of the wilderness but found
refuge in a community that was embedded there? What if your task was to locate other places of interest and refuge as well as tracking
routes with your only available means of doing so were to read letters between two brothers with coded writings that also share their experiences from months prior as they share the events surrounding them, reconcile their relationship, and cling to hope of Messiah's return? Are you willing? Are you able? Are you ready to be immersed into the lives of two brothers that are embedded in communities, live life practically, share everything, utilize their gifts for the well being of the community, and most importantly to dig into the scriptures yourself? Are you ready to be prepared in the Wilderness?? The
purpose of this book is twofold. First, it is to encourage you to read
the Word, challenge you intellectually, challenge you to be integrated
positively in your community, and to live practically. Second it
is to set an example on how I humbly think being salt and light to the
world should be. Royalties are directed towards assisting families,
orphans, widows, veterans, and people in need.
4.3 stars with 6 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Highland Blessings
by Jennifer Hudson Taylor
Published December 2009
Historical Fiction: Highland Blessings is
the story of a highland warrior who kidnaps the daughter of his
greatest enemy and clan chief to honor a promise he made to his dying
father. Bryce MacPhearson, a
highland warrior, kidnaps Akira MacKenzie on her wedding day to honor a
promise he made to his dying father. While Akira’s strength in the Lord
becomes a witness to Bryce, she struggles to overcome her anger and
resentment when he forces her to wed him, hoping to end a
half-century-old feud between their clans. While
Akira begins to forgive, and Bryce learns to trust, a series of murders
leaves a trail of unanswered questions, confusion, and a legacy of hate
that once again rises between their families. Clearly, a traitor is in
their midst. Now the one man Akira
loves no longer trusts her, and her own life is in danger. Can Bryce
look beyond his pain and seek the truth? Will Akira discover the threat
against her before it’s too late? How will God turn a simple promise
into bountiful Highland blessings?
4.2 stars with 85 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Angels in our Countryside
by Robert John Burke
Published September 2010
Fiction Short Stories: A courtroom where souls are judged. A parallel Earth where a woman
struggles with her faith. A battle in Hell for the souls of the fallen. A
time-traveler at the first Christmas. A quiet talk on the beach between
Jesus and Judas Iscariot. These are just a few of the tales featured in
Angels in Our Countryside, a collection of twelve stories encompassing
fantasy, science fiction, and history, all with a Christian theme. Some
of the stories are traditional and uplifting. Others pose uncomfortable
questions. All attempt to discuss issues related to faith in a spirit
of honesty and praise. Whether you're a believer or a curious
seeker, Angels in Our Countryside will make you think about faith from
new angles, while offering up compelling tales of adventure, sacrifice,
and love.
4.7 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Satan's Hoax
by Brad L. Burge
Published October 2011
Fiction: Has God hidden some critically important aspects of the
interpretation of Christian end-times prophecies within the depths of
Judaism, until this generation? Seth Cohen spent the first
several decades of his life as an extremely zealous Hasidic Jew in
Jerusalem. His days were filled with studies of Torah and Kabbalah. Now,
several tragic and life changing events have opened his eyes to the
truth of the Christian gospel and prophecies. His unique insights are no
less world changing than those of the Apostle Paul. Join Jerusalem's
followers of Y'shua (Jesus) as they receive Seth's startling insights
into Christian prophecies and biblical truths.
4.4 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Captured
by Dennis Jernigan
Published August 2011
Fantasy/Science Fiction: The Chronicles of Bren: Captured is the beginning story in the saga of
one boy’s journey to manhood. Young teen, Lee Jennings, bullied
constantly by local boys, suddenly finds himself transported into a
world of fantasy and adventure…and plunged into a whole new identity as
the son of a king! How he traverses this new world and endures captivity
at the hands of the realm’s resident evil lord is also the journey of
self-discovery that will one day serve Lee in his adult life. Full of
fantastic beings and magical creatures from this new dimension and
wrought with many twists and turns, Captured is just the beginning for
Lee Jennings…and is designed to be an adventurously entertaining ride
for readers of all ages.
4.8 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Summer's Song
by Lindi Peterson
Published May 2012
Romance: All she has to do is prove that she’s changed . . . completely. Pop-star
princess Summer Sinclair doesn’t know what to do with herself now that
she’s cleaned-up and sober. She knows God’s been nudging her, but since
God is unfamiliar territory, she feels scared and alone. Everything
changes when she meets Levi Preston, a Christian musician who’s falling
for Summer and wants her to be who God created her to be. But when the
reality of her life takes Levi to places he’s vowed to stay clear of,
will Summer’s newfound freedom be what breaks her heart as she does what
is best for Levi?
4.7 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Prepared in the Wilderness
by Roger D. Millhouse
Published December 2012
Nonfiction: What if America collapsed economically as a nation? What if international agencies cooperated with local agencies to seize
property and place individuals that resist the global agenda into
internment camps or murder them on site? What if you the reader were
immersed into this situation? What if the only place you could
relocate to was towards the uncertainty of the wilderness but found
refuge in a community that was embedded there? What if your task was to locate other places of interest and refuge as well as tracking
routes with your only available means of doing so were to read letters between two brothers with coded writings that also share their experiences from months prior as they share the events surrounding them, reconcile their relationship, and cling to hope of Messiah's return? Are you willing? Are you able? Are you ready to be immersed into the lives of two brothers that are embedded in communities, live life practically, share everything, utilize their gifts for the well being of the community, and most importantly to dig into the scriptures yourself? Are you ready to be prepared in the Wilderness?? The
purpose of this book is twofold. First, it is to encourage you to read
the Word, challenge you intellectually, challenge you to be integrated
positively in your community, and to live practically. Second it
is to set an example on how I humbly think being salt and light to the
world should be. Royalties are directed towards assisting families,
orphans, widows, veterans, and people in need.
4.3 stars with 6 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Highland Blessings
by Jennifer Hudson Taylor
Published December 2009
Historical Fiction: Highland Blessings is
the story of a highland warrior who kidnaps the daughter of his
greatest enemy and clan chief to honor a promise he made to his dying
father. Bryce MacPhearson, a
highland warrior, kidnaps Akira MacKenzie on her wedding day to honor a
promise he made to his dying father. While Akira’s strength in the Lord
becomes a witness to Bryce, she struggles to overcome her anger and
resentment when he forces her to wed him, hoping to end a
half-century-old feud between their clans. While
Akira begins to forgive, and Bryce learns to trust, a series of murders
leaves a trail of unanswered questions, confusion, and a legacy of hate
that once again rises between their families. Clearly, a traitor is in
their midst. Now the one man Akira
loves no longer trusts her, and her own life is in danger. Can Bryce
look beyond his pain and seek the truth? Will Akira discover the threat
against her before it’s too late? How will God turn a simple promise
into bountiful Highland blessings?
4.2 stars with 85 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Angels in our Countryside
by Robert John Burke
Published September 2010
Fiction Short Stories: A courtroom where souls are judged. A parallel Earth where a woman
struggles with her faith. A battle in Hell for the souls of the fallen. A
time-traveler at the first Christmas. A quiet talk on the beach between
Jesus and Judas Iscariot. These are just a few of the tales featured in
Angels in Our Countryside, a collection of twelve stories encompassing
fantasy, science fiction, and history, all with a Christian theme. Some
of the stories are traditional and uplifting. Others pose uncomfortable
questions. All attempt to discuss issues related to faith in a spirit
of honesty and praise. Whether you're a believer or a curious
seeker, Angels in Our Countryside will make you think about faith from
new angles, while offering up compelling tales of adventure, sacrifice,
and love.
4.7 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Satan's Hoax
by Brad L. Burge
Published October 2011
Fiction: Has God hidden some critically important aspects of the
interpretation of Christian end-times prophecies within the depths of
Judaism, until this generation? Seth Cohen spent the first
several decades of his life as an extremely zealous Hasidic Jew in
Jerusalem. His days were filled with studies of Torah and Kabbalah. Now,
several tragic and life changing events have opened his eyes to the
truth of the Christian gospel and prophecies. His unique insights are no
less world changing than those of the Apostle Paul. Join Jerusalem's
followers of Y'shua (Jesus) as they receive Seth's startling insights
into Christian prophecies and biblical truths.
4.4 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Captured
by Dennis Jernigan
Published August 2011
Fantasy/Science Fiction: The Chronicles of Bren: Captured is the beginning story in the saga of
one boy’s journey to manhood. Young teen, Lee Jennings, bullied
constantly by local boys, suddenly finds himself transported into a
world of fantasy and adventure…and plunged into a whole new identity as
the son of a king! How he traverses this new world and endures captivity
at the hands of the realm’s resident evil lord is also the journey of
self-discovery that will one day serve Lee in his adult life. Full of
fantastic beings and magical creatures from this new dimension and
wrought with many twists and turns, Captured is just the beginning for
Lee Jennings…and is designed to be an adventurously entertaining ride
for readers of all ages.
4.8 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 16, 2013
Commit to Pray For Our Country
If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. ~2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV)
I can't remember a day in my lifetime when our nation's future has seemed so bleak and hopeless, even though I know that God is still in control. While it's easy to point fingers and play the blame game over the condition of our country, the verse above pretty much tells it like it is.
If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray . . .
As followers of Christ, we've grown proud and complacent. (More on this topic in Saturday's post, part #5 of the messages to churches found in Revelation.) If we're looking for a place to lay the blame, then maybe we need to take a good long look in the mirror. Notice that the verse isn't addressing those who don't belong to God. It addresses those who call themselves by His name! If we are truly appalled by the condition of our country, we need to abase ourselves, fall to our knees, and profess that God alone is able to deliver us. We should cry out like Jeremiah did for the nation of Israel, weeping for what America has become, and weeping that our complacency played a part in it.
. . . and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways . . .
I sadly confess that I am often much more eager to seek God's hand than I am His face, and I think that's true for many of us. We've become a nation of greedy gobblers with a gimme mentality. God will not tolerate being treated like our personal magic genie when He sacrificed so much to be our personal Lord and Savior. Again, He is not addressing the wicked ways of nonbelievers here; He's talking about His people.
. . . then will I hear from heaven . . .
Is it possible that God has turned a deaf ear because of our wickedness, pride, and selfish prayers? In order for Him to hear us, we should do what this verse in the Bible commands: humble ourselves and repent.
. . . and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
I think we all agree on this one point: We're all hungry for our land to be healed, for America to return to God-fearing country we used to be. God has made it pretty clear in this one verse what needs to take place first before that healing can happen. Please forgive me if I come across as mean-spirited and/or hateful here. I certainly don't mean to, nor do I have any reason to sound that way The solution doesn't lay in pointing fingers. It lays in repentance and humble prayer by God's people, and that includes me.
Will you join me and others in committing to pray for our country? In addition to our daily prayers for America, here are a few special dates and organizations to keep in mind (if you know of others, please feel free to share them in the comments section):
January 20, 2013 (Inauguration Day) - "Join me for "A Day to Pray", where we will ask God to grant our leaders, from the local school
houses to the White House, the wisdom they need for the road ahead. We
will gather to ask God for forgiveness and healing of our land and to
bless our Country and her people. This will not be a political rally but
a spiritual event and hopefully one that can help bring us together as
we move forward as a nation." ~Mike Huckabee, Facebook online event
May 2, 2013 - National Day of Prayer - "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." ~Psalm 33:12 - "The mission of the National Day of Prayer Task Force is to mobilize prayer in America and to encourage personal
repentance and righteousness in the culture."
Pray For America - "Engage in prayer for our nation, equip and encourage yourself and others
to take the challenge to Pray for America, and encounter the power of
God through prayer."
Heavenly Father, we come to You with humbled hearts, seeking Your face and Your forgiveness for our pride, our wickedness, and our selfishness as Your people. Lord, we are broken for our country, which no longer seems to stand for the Christian values and beliefs we hold so dear. We're saddened that our society seems bent on removing You from every nook and cranny of our nation, especially in light of all You've done for us. Lord, we humbly pray for Your healing of our land. Make Yourself known to our leaders as Sovereign God of Creation. Thank You, Father, that nothing is beyond Your control. May we continue to humble ourselves, seek Your face and forgiveness, and repent of our wickedness. Above all, Father, may Your will be done. Amen.
Free Christian Kindle eBooks for January 16, 2013
Want a way to read all these great Kindle freebies without purchasing a Kindle? Check out this post that tells you how. All the books listed
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
It Really Is A Wonderful Life
by Linda Wood Rondeau
Published November 2012
Romance: Midville newcomer and Iraq War widow, Dorie Fitzgerald, despises the frigid Adirondack wasteland that has now become her home. After
twenty failed job interviews, she questions the wisdom of moving to be
near her parents. Desperate to belong, she joins the local Community
Theater, in production for It s a Wonderful Life. Jamey Sullivan has put
his professional life on hold in order to run the family business and
to help his ailing father. He signs on for Midville s production of It s
a Wonderful Life, although he hopes to receive a Broadway casting call
any day now. When these two meet, they are instantly attracted
to one another. However, ambition, demanding children, and a romantic
rival threaten to squash their growing love for one another. It Really
IS a Wonderful Life is set in the beautiful Adirondack mountains, a
perfect backdrop for romantic conflict.
4.3 stars with 51 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Long Time Coming
by Vanessa Miller
Published March 2010
Women's Fiction: Faithful Christian Deidre
Clark-Morris is a professional career-minded woman with a loving
husband, but no children. Kenisha Smalls has lived in poverty all her
life. She has three children by three different men and has just been
diagnosed with inoperable cervical cancer. While the meeting between
these two women appears accidental, it becomes their catalyst of hope.
Neither woman expects the blessing that God has in store for her. While
Deidre will guide Kenisha on the path to eternal life with Jesus
Christ, Kenisha will teach Deidre how to stand strong against the
hard-knocks of life.
4.6 stars with 127 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
When the Devil Whistles
by Rick Acker
Published March 2010
Suspense: “I didn’t have a choice. I didn’t.”
That’s what Allie Whitman tells herself every night as she lies awake.
Sometimes she even believes it. But mostly she knows deep down that her
inability to make a hard choice has put millions of lives at risk,
including her own. Now the only one who can help her is her lawyer,
Connor Norman. Unfortunately, Allie’s actions have destroyed Connor’s
trust in her—and may destroy much, much more.
4 stars with 66 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
I Shall Not Want
by DebbieViguie
Published March 2010
Suspense: Charity work can be murder! It’s
Thanksgiving and Joseph Tyler, one of the members of Cindy’s church,
has organized a new charity that provides homeless people with rescue
dogs to love and care for. But one by one, the homeless recipients are
being murdered and their dogs stolen. Could an overly competitive
millionaire with his prize-winning pooches and a grudge be behind the
crimes? Or could it be someone much closer to Joseph who has something
sinister to hide? Cindy and Jeremiah must rush to find a killer before
he strikes again.
4.3 stars with 39 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Lotto
by Brad Hill
Published November 2012
Suspense: Keep the defib paddles handy! The Lotto is a "theological thriller"- a
genre you have never read before. The Lotto is fast-paced, converging
several story lines and combining moral dilemma, fast cars, expensive
scotch, casinos, marriage, gangs, guns and church. It is arrhythmic
drama, a palpitating alchemy of events and personalities that mashes the
throttle of theology to the floor. All that and humor too! You will
wonder how you would have responded. You will ask where a fleeting
dalliance with the devil might take you...what is true repentance and
can we ever presume upon grace?
4.8 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Grace Plus Nothing
by Jeff Harkin
Published 2010
Nonfiction: Join the ever-increasing army of Christians who are learning to relate
to God on the biblical basis of grace alone. Find out how the grace of
God imparts godly character to you and in you, day after day and year
after year. Find out how and why legalism imparts only ungodliness.
Grace Plus Nothing is filled with Scripture and practical examples
leading to the conclusion that godly character comes about through grace
alone.
5 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Hazardous Duty
by Christy Barritt
Published March 2012
Suspense: Buying a gun to kill your wife: $3,000
Hiring Trauma Care to clean afterward: $1,500
Having that same cleaner uncover evidence that frames you: priceless
On
her way to completing a degree in forensic science, Gabby St. Claire
drops out of school and starts her own crime scene cleaning business.
“Yeah, that’s me,” she says, “a crime scene cleaner. People waiting in
line behind me who strike up conversations always regret it.” When
a routine cleaning job uncovers a murder weapon the police overlooked,
she realizes that the wrong person is in jail. But the owner of the
weapon is a powerful foe . . . and willing to do anything to keep Gabby
quiet. With the help of her new neighbor, Riley Thomas, a man
whose life and faith fascinate her, Gabby plays the detective to make
sure the right person is put behind bars. Can Riley help her before
another murder occurs?
4.2 stars with 100 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Always the Designer Never the Bride
by Sandra D. Bricker
Published April 2012
Romance: It’s taken Audrey Regan years to establish herself as a wedding dress
designer, and to date she’s been roped into creating dresses for nine of
her girlfriends. Request #10 follows her vow to “Just say no!” and
comes from her very best friend. She can hardly turn Carly
down! Audrey arrives in Atlanta early to
perform all of her maid-of-honor duties along with final fittings for a
one-of-a-kind dress. But Carly’s wedding is nothing short of an event,
complete with Prince Charming, and the festivities make Audrey question
whether there’s a prince of her own anywhere in her future. Enter
the groom’s brother and best man. Shaggy-haired, tattooed bad boy J.R.
Hunt couldn’t be any more different from Prince Charming if he rode in
on a Harley Davidson. Oh, wait. He actually did ride in on a Harley!
4.1 stars with 67 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Running Barefoot
By Amy Harmon
Published April 2012
Young Adult Romance: When Josie Jensen, an awkward 13-year-old musical prodigy crashes
headlong into new-comer Samuel Yazzie, an 18-year-old Navajo boy full of
anger and confusion, an unlikely friendship blooms. Josie teaches
Samuel about words, music and friendship, and along the way finds a
kindred spirit. Upon graduation, Samuel abandons the sleepy, small town
in search of a future and a life, leaving his young friend behind. Many
years go by and Samuel returns, finding Josie in need of the very things
she offered him years before. Their roles reversed, Samuel teaches
Josie about life, love, and letting go. Deeply romantic and poignant,
Running Barefoot is the story of a small town girl and a Native American
boy, the ties that bind them to their homes and families, and the love
that gives them wings.
4.7 stars with 138 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Beyond the Storm
by Carolyn Zane
Published October 2012
Romance: After a tornado rips through her town, store owner Abigail comes across a
piece of fabric from a wedding dress among the devastation. Abigail is
moved to start collecting other swatches of fabric she finds – her
neighbor’s kitchen curtains, a man’s necktie, a dog’s bed – which she
stashes in shopping bags. As she pursues her seemingly absurd quest,
horrible realities spark the question, “What kind of a God would allow
such tragedy?” As she struggles to reconcile her right
to happiness amidst the destruction, Abigail begins piecing together a
patchwork quilt from the salvaged fabric in hopes it will bring some
peace. But a new relationship with Justin, a contractor, may require too
much of her fragile heart. Will her pain and questions of faith give
way to the courage to love?
4.6 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
It Really Is A Wonderful Life
by Linda Wood Rondeau
Published November 2012
Romance: Midville newcomer and Iraq War widow, Dorie Fitzgerald, despises the frigid Adirondack wasteland that has now become her home. After
twenty failed job interviews, she questions the wisdom of moving to be
near her parents. Desperate to belong, she joins the local Community
Theater, in production for It s a Wonderful Life. Jamey Sullivan has put
his professional life on hold in order to run the family business and
to help his ailing father. He signs on for Midville s production of It s
a Wonderful Life, although he hopes to receive a Broadway casting call
any day now. When these two meet, they are instantly attracted
to one another. However, ambition, demanding children, and a romantic
rival threaten to squash their growing love for one another. It Really
IS a Wonderful Life is set in the beautiful Adirondack mountains, a
perfect backdrop for romantic conflict.
4.3 stars with 51 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Long Time Coming
by Vanessa Miller
Published March 2010
Women's Fiction: Faithful Christian Deidre
Clark-Morris is a professional career-minded woman with a loving
husband, but no children. Kenisha Smalls has lived in poverty all her
life. She has three children by three different men and has just been
diagnosed with inoperable cervical cancer. While the meeting between
these two women appears accidental, it becomes their catalyst of hope.
Neither woman expects the blessing that God has in store for her. While
Deidre will guide Kenisha on the path to eternal life with Jesus
Christ, Kenisha will teach Deidre how to stand strong against the
hard-knocks of life.
4.6 stars with 127 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
When the Devil Whistles
by Rick Acker
Published March 2010
Suspense: “I didn’t have a choice. I didn’t.”
That’s what Allie Whitman tells herself every night as she lies awake.
Sometimes she even believes it. But mostly she knows deep down that her
inability to make a hard choice has put millions of lives at risk,
including her own. Now the only one who can help her is her lawyer,
Connor Norman. Unfortunately, Allie’s actions have destroyed Connor’s
trust in her—and may destroy much, much more.
4 stars with 66 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
I Shall Not Want
by DebbieViguie
Published March 2010
Suspense: Charity work can be murder! It’s
Thanksgiving and Joseph Tyler, one of the members of Cindy’s church,
has organized a new charity that provides homeless people with rescue
dogs to love and care for. But one by one, the homeless recipients are
being murdered and their dogs stolen. Could an overly competitive
millionaire with his prize-winning pooches and a grudge be behind the
crimes? Or could it be someone much closer to Joseph who has something
sinister to hide? Cindy and Jeremiah must rush to find a killer before
he strikes again.
4.3 stars with 39 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Lotto
by Brad Hill
Published November 2012
Suspense: Keep the defib paddles handy! The Lotto is a "theological thriller"- a
genre you have never read before. The Lotto is fast-paced, converging
several story lines and combining moral dilemma, fast cars, expensive
scotch, casinos, marriage, gangs, guns and church. It is arrhythmic
drama, a palpitating alchemy of events and personalities that mashes the
throttle of theology to the floor. All that and humor too! You will
wonder how you would have responded. You will ask where a fleeting
dalliance with the devil might take you...what is true repentance and
can we ever presume upon grace?
4.8 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Grace Plus Nothing
by Jeff Harkin
Published 2010
Nonfiction: Join the ever-increasing army of Christians who are learning to relate
to God on the biblical basis of grace alone. Find out how the grace of
God imparts godly character to you and in you, day after day and year
after year. Find out how and why legalism imparts only ungodliness.
Grace Plus Nothing is filled with Scripture and practical examples
leading to the conclusion that godly character comes about through grace
alone.
5 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Hazardous Duty
by Christy Barritt
Published March 2012
Suspense: Buying a gun to kill your wife: $3,000
Hiring Trauma Care to clean afterward: $1,500
Having that same cleaner uncover evidence that frames you: priceless
On
her way to completing a degree in forensic science, Gabby St. Claire
drops out of school and starts her own crime scene cleaning business.
“Yeah, that’s me,” she says, “a crime scene cleaner. People waiting in
line behind me who strike up conversations always regret it.” When
a routine cleaning job uncovers a murder weapon the police overlooked,
she realizes that the wrong person is in jail. But the owner of the
weapon is a powerful foe . . . and willing to do anything to keep Gabby
quiet. With the help of her new neighbor, Riley Thomas, a man
whose life and faith fascinate her, Gabby plays the detective to make
sure the right person is put behind bars. Can Riley help her before
another murder occurs?
4.2 stars with 100 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Always the Designer Never the Bride
by Sandra D. Bricker
Published April 2012
Romance: It’s taken Audrey Regan years to establish herself as a wedding dress
designer, and to date she’s been roped into creating dresses for nine of
her girlfriends. Request #10 follows her vow to “Just say no!” and
comes from her very best friend. She can hardly turn Carly
down! Audrey arrives in Atlanta early to
perform all of her maid-of-honor duties along with final fittings for a
one-of-a-kind dress. But Carly’s wedding is nothing short of an event,
complete with Prince Charming, and the festivities make Audrey question
whether there’s a prince of her own anywhere in her future. Enter
the groom’s brother and best man. Shaggy-haired, tattooed bad boy J.R.
Hunt couldn’t be any more different from Prince Charming if he rode in
on a Harley Davidson. Oh, wait. He actually did ride in on a Harley!
4.1 stars with 67 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Running Barefoot
By Amy Harmon
Published April 2012
Young Adult Romance: When Josie Jensen, an awkward 13-year-old musical prodigy crashes
headlong into new-comer Samuel Yazzie, an 18-year-old Navajo boy full of
anger and confusion, an unlikely friendship blooms. Josie teaches
Samuel about words, music and friendship, and along the way finds a
kindred spirit. Upon graduation, Samuel abandons the sleepy, small town
in search of a future and a life, leaving his young friend behind. Many
years go by and Samuel returns, finding Josie in need of the very things
she offered him years before. Their roles reversed, Samuel teaches
Josie about life, love, and letting go. Deeply romantic and poignant,
Running Barefoot is the story of a small town girl and a Native American
boy, the ties that bind them to their homes and families, and the love
that gives them wings.
4.7 stars with 138 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Beyond the Storm
by Carolyn Zane
Published October 2012
Romance: After a tornado rips through her town, store owner Abigail comes across a
piece of fabric from a wedding dress among the devastation. Abigail is
moved to start collecting other swatches of fabric she finds – her
neighbor’s kitchen curtains, a man’s necktie, a dog’s bed – which she
stashes in shopping bags. As she pursues her seemingly absurd quest,
horrible realities spark the question, “What kind of a God would allow
such tragedy?” As she struggles to reconcile her right
to happiness amidst the destruction, Abigail begins piecing together a
patchwork quilt from the salvaged fabric in hopes it will bring some
peace. But a new relationship with Justin, a contractor, may require too
much of her fragile heart. Will her pain and questions of faith give
way to the courage to love?
4.6 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 15, 2013
Writer Wednesday: Amazon Features That Help Authors
Although I've sold books on Amazon.com since 2009 when
Texas Roads
(book 1 in the Miller's Creek novels and an American Christian Fiction Writers' Genesis contest finalist) first hit the shelves, I'm still learning all the ins and outs when it comes to this gargantuan of the internet. I posted recently about the importance of reviews to an author's success, but that is actually only one small part of the Amazon ecosystem.
Here are a few other features that writers should be aware of:
TAGS
One feature that is apparently vital to an author's success on Amazon are tags. As an author, I'm allowed to create tags for each book when the book is first published. Some of the tags that I've used for my books are: Christian romance, Texas, Miller's Creek, home, faith, grace, Christian fiction, inspirational romance, etc. My understanding (which may or may not be correct) is that these tags help readers find similar products. And interestingly enough, readers are also allowed to create tags for books. The more tags a book receives, the more it shows up in that particular tag category when readers go searching for a new book to read.
To find the tag section on a book's page, scroll down to beneath the reviews section to a section entitled: Tags Customers Associate With This Product. (I believe that people are allowed to leave up to fifteen tags for each book.) To tag a book, simply click in each square beside the tags that are already in place. If you want to add a different tag, you can do so in the longer text box that says "Your tags" which is followed by an "Add" button.
I was surprised to find this feature on only the book's Kindle version page, and not on the print copy page. (But it could be I just wasn't looking in the right place...)
SHARED NOTES AND HIGHLIGHTS
This feature is only on the Kindle version's page as best I can tell. I accidentally stumbled across this when checking the tags of my books in preparation for this article. As a Kindle owner, I knew I could highlight and make notes on the various books I read on my Kindle, but I didn't realize that these could be shared. How awesome it was to find some of my favorite lines in the books shared by readers! =)
I'm not quite sure how, or if, this feature affects the book's sales, but it is a neat feature, and possibly one that potential readers check out before they purchase the book. On the Amazon pages I visited, this feature was directly above the tag section and below the review section.
AUTHOR CENTRAL PAGE
Directly beneath the book's title on Amazon is the author's name. If you hover the cursor over this name, a little box will pop up that offers the opportunity to visit the author's Author Central page. In my own explorations on Amazon, I've noticed that several authors haven't taken advantage of this feature.
In my very humble opinion, this feature is a great way to show all your Amazon content in one place and interact with readers. There is a place for an author biography, photos, videos, and even allows the author to show their Twitter and blog feeds if they choose. You can check out my Author Central page here: http://www.amazon.com/Cathy-Bryant/e/B002SKQCDO/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1 (While you're there, please take a sec to "like" my author page!) =)
"LIKE" BUTTONS
Speaking of "like" buttons, at the top of each book's page is the thumbs up button we've grown to used to on Facebook. This is a great way for readers to show whether or not they like various books. (Not sure this button is in any way connected to Facebook.) Though I don't know how or for sure, it could be that Amazon uses those "likes" in choosing which books they promote in the "Customers Who Bought This Item" feature. (I do know that downloads on my books' freebie days affects those promotions.)
SHARE BUTTONS
On the right side of the book's page, right underneath the three green boxes are really tiny share buttons for e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. What a great way to share your books with others, and for readers to share your books on social media outlets and e-mail.
SHARE CUSTOMER IMAGES
I don't know why I haven't seen this feature before (maybe because it's still in beta testing), but right beneath the book cover on Amazon, is a little blue text link that allows people to share images related to the book. (On the page for A Path Less Traveled , one reader has shared a blooming tree with the caption, "Springtime in Kentucky," I guess to correspond with springtime in Texas in the story.) After finding this feature, I opted to share this photo of me standing next to a road sign that read's "Miller Creek," as well as some pics of bluebonnets hubby and I took when we made a trip to shoot bluebonnet blossoms for the cover of the book. I was even given a chance to share some personal thoughts about the photos. Again, I'm not sure how it will affect book sales, other than to possibly give a personal edge to the book's page for readers.
Hope all you writers out there found this post helpful. And if you know of any other features that I failed to mention, please list them in the comments below!
Happy Writing!
Here are a few other features that writers should be aware of:
TAGS
One feature that is apparently vital to an author's success on Amazon are tags. As an author, I'm allowed to create tags for each book when the book is first published. Some of the tags that I've used for my books are: Christian romance, Texas, Miller's Creek, home, faith, grace, Christian fiction, inspirational romance, etc. My understanding (which may or may not be correct) is that these tags help readers find similar products. And interestingly enough, readers are also allowed to create tags for books. The more tags a book receives, the more it shows up in that particular tag category when readers go searching for a new book to read.
To find the tag section on a book's page, scroll down to beneath the reviews section to a section entitled: Tags Customers Associate With This Product. (I believe that people are allowed to leave up to fifteen tags for each book.) To tag a book, simply click in each square beside the tags that are already in place. If you want to add a different tag, you can do so in the longer text box that says "Your tags" which is followed by an "Add" button.
I was surprised to find this feature on only the book's Kindle version page, and not on the print copy page. (But it could be I just wasn't looking in the right place...)
SHARED NOTES AND HIGHLIGHTS
This feature is only on the Kindle version's page as best I can tell. I accidentally stumbled across this when checking the tags of my books in preparation for this article. As a Kindle owner, I knew I could highlight and make notes on the various books I read on my Kindle, but I didn't realize that these could be shared. How awesome it was to find some of my favorite lines in the books shared by readers! =)
I'm not quite sure how, or if, this feature affects the book's sales, but it is a neat feature, and possibly one that potential readers check out before they purchase the book. On the Amazon pages I visited, this feature was directly above the tag section and below the review section.
AUTHOR CENTRAL PAGE
Directly beneath the book's title on Amazon is the author's name. If you hover the cursor over this name, a little box will pop up that offers the opportunity to visit the author's Author Central page. In my own explorations on Amazon, I've noticed that several authors haven't taken advantage of this feature.
In my very humble opinion, this feature is a great way to show all your Amazon content in one place and interact with readers. There is a place for an author biography, photos, videos, and even allows the author to show their Twitter and blog feeds if they choose. You can check out my Author Central page here: http://www.amazon.com/Cathy-Bryant/e/B002SKQCDO/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1 (While you're there, please take a sec to "like" my author page!) =)
"LIKE" BUTTONS
Speaking of "like" buttons, at the top of each book's page is the thumbs up button we've grown to used to on Facebook. This is a great way for readers to show whether or not they like various books. (Not sure this button is in any way connected to Facebook.) Though I don't know how or for sure, it could be that Amazon uses those "likes" in choosing which books they promote in the "Customers Who Bought This Item" feature. (I do know that downloads on my books' freebie days affects those promotions.)
SHARE BUTTONS
On the right side of the book's page, right underneath the three green boxes are really tiny share buttons for e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. What a great way to share your books with others, and for readers to share your books on social media outlets and e-mail.
SHARE CUSTOMER IMAGES
I don't know why I haven't seen this feature before (maybe because it's still in beta testing), but right beneath the book cover on Amazon, is a little blue text link that allows people to share images related to the book. (On the page for A Path Less Traveled , one reader has shared a blooming tree with the caption, "Springtime in Kentucky," I guess to correspond with springtime in Texas in the story.) After finding this feature, I opted to share this photo of me standing next to a road sign that read's "Miller Creek," as well as some pics of bluebonnets hubby and I took when we made a trip to shoot bluebonnet blossoms for the cover of the book. I was even given a chance to share some personal thoughts about the photos. Again, I'm not sure how it will affect book sales, other than to possibly give a personal edge to the book's page for readers.
Hope all you writers out there found this post helpful. And if you know of any other features that I failed to mention, please list them in the comments below!
Happy Writing!
Free Christian Kindle eBooks for January 15, 2013
Want a way to read all these great Kindle freebies without purchasing a Kindle? Check out this post that tells you how. All the books listed
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Tested by Fire
by Pat Patterson
Published August 2011
Suspense: Paramedic Jim Stockbridge doesn’t need God, he’s a fighter, and as far
as he’s concerned the world is his toy. But when he responds to an EMS
call in the ghetto and finds his best friend brutally stabbed and shot,
he suddenly realizes he’s in for the fight of his life. Mad with
rage he hunts down Sid Drake’s killers and renders his own form of
justice, but he soon finds himself lost, tangling with a vicious street
gang and its ruthless warlord, William “J-Rock” Jackson. And so it
begins, a long dark journey that pushes Jim deep into his own personal
world of bitterness and revenge, and ultimately to the brink of
disaster. But
Jim’s ultimate fight is yet to come. Can he save the beautiful love
of his life from a cold drowning death, and carry the gospel back to the
ghetto street where his best friend died? He must, but to do so will
require strength he never knew, the kind of God-given power known only
to a man who has truly been…Tested By Fire.
4.4 stars with 19 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Wholehearted
by Roger Wernette
Published January 2011
Nonfiction: Have you ever wondered if there was more to the Christian faith than
just “accepting Christ”? Do you feel the need to give your relationship
with Christ a boost? “Wholehearted” will show you how, and will also
help you make a lasting impact on your family and community. By
looking at three truly life-changing commands given to us by Jesus,
Roger Wernette guides the reader to a new understanding of what
Christianity is all about. He shows you how just eleven words—love God,
obey God, & teach others to love and obey God—will unlock God’s
power in your own life as never before. Thoroughly biblical,
“Wholehearted” is both challenging and uplifting. Whatever your age and
stage in the Christian faith, you will be glad you read “Wholehearted.”
4.8 stars with 32 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Jesus the Messiah
by John Ankerberg and John Weldon
Published March 2009
Nonfiction: Is Jesus the True Messiah? Jesus of Nazareth changed the world. He is
the subject of more books, plays, poetry, films and worship than any man
in history. But is He more than just a man? Citing specific facts and
probability statistics, the authors conclusively show:
• Unassailable, prophetic proof that Jesus is the Messiah
• Biblical evidence confirming Jesus’ supreme authority
• Specific confirmation of the Bible’s accuracy in prophecy
Knowing the Truth About Jesus the Messiah offers you ready access to proof that Jesus Christ is the Messiah.
4 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
I'll Watch the Moon
by Ann Tatlock
Published February 2011
Historical: Award-winning novelist Ann Tatlock once again lovingly crafts a story
that will touch readers' hearts while illuminating a powerful spiritual
truth.
I'll Watch the Moon is the story of Catherine Tierney,
angry at a God whom she no longer believes exists, and her painful
journey back to faith. It is also the story of her friendship with Josef
Karski, who teaches her how to trust in God as he reveals his own story
of surviving the horrors of Auschwitz. And finally, it is the story of
Nova Tierney, Catherine's daughter, and the threads that bind their
lives together. Ann Tatlock has skillfully and gracefully wove a tale
readers won't soon forget.
4.9 stars with 37 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Tested by Fire
by Pat Patterson
Published August 2011
Suspense: Paramedic Jim Stockbridge doesn’t need God, he’s a fighter, and as far
as he’s concerned the world is his toy. But when he responds to an EMS
call in the ghetto and finds his best friend brutally stabbed and shot,
he suddenly realizes he’s in for the fight of his life. Mad with
rage he hunts down Sid Drake’s killers and renders his own form of
justice, but he soon finds himself lost, tangling with a vicious street
gang and its ruthless warlord, William “J-Rock” Jackson. And so it
begins, a long dark journey that pushes Jim deep into his own personal
world of bitterness and revenge, and ultimately to the brink of
disaster. But
Jim’s ultimate fight is yet to come. Can he save the beautiful love
of his life from a cold drowning death, and carry the gospel back to the
ghetto street where his best friend died? He must, but to do so will
require strength he never knew, the kind of God-given power known only
to a man who has truly been…Tested By Fire.
4.4 stars with 19 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Wholehearted
by Roger Wernette
Published January 2011
Nonfiction: Have you ever wondered if there was more to the Christian faith than
just “accepting Christ”? Do you feel the need to give your relationship
with Christ a boost? “Wholehearted” will show you how, and will also
help you make a lasting impact on your family and community. By
looking at three truly life-changing commands given to us by Jesus,
Roger Wernette guides the reader to a new understanding of what
Christianity is all about. He shows you how just eleven words—love God,
obey God, & teach others to love and obey God—will unlock God’s
power in your own life as never before. Thoroughly biblical,
“Wholehearted” is both challenging and uplifting. Whatever your age and
stage in the Christian faith, you will be glad you read “Wholehearted.”
4.8 stars with 32 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Jesus the Messiah
by John Ankerberg and John Weldon
Published March 2009
Nonfiction: Is Jesus the True Messiah? Jesus of Nazareth changed the world. He is
the subject of more books, plays, poetry, films and worship than any man
in history. But is He more than just a man? Citing specific facts and
probability statistics, the authors conclusively show:
• Unassailable, prophetic proof that Jesus is the Messiah
• Biblical evidence confirming Jesus’ supreme authority
• Specific confirmation of the Bible’s accuracy in prophecy
Knowing the Truth About Jesus the Messiah offers you ready access to proof that Jesus Christ is the Messiah.
4 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
I'll Watch the Moon
by Ann Tatlock
Published February 2011
Historical: Award-winning novelist Ann Tatlock once again lovingly crafts a story
that will touch readers' hearts while illuminating a powerful spiritual
truth.
I'll Watch the Moon is the story of Catherine Tierney,
angry at a God whom she no longer believes exists, and her painful
journey back to faith. It is also the story of her friendship with Josef
Karski, who teaches her how to trust in God as he reveals his own story
of surviving the horrors of Auschwitz. And finally, it is the story of
Nova Tierney, Catherine's daughter, and the threads that bind their
lives together. Ann Tatlock has skillfully and gracefully wove a tale
readers won't soon forget.
4.9 stars with 37 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 14, 2013
Book Cover Completed for "Pilgrimage of Promise"
Work continues on Pilgrimage of Promise, the fourth book in the Miller's Creek novels. I'm happy to report that I'm almost finished with the first round of edits. Next will be the really hard round of deep edits, but the part of the process where the story really begins to shine.
I don't know why, but this has been the easiest novel I've ever written. Maybe it's because I've become very acquainted with Mama Beth over the course of three novels. She's been waiting patiently for the past four years for me to tell her side of the story... ;)
As you can tell by the photo to the left, the book cover is completed, and I really love the way it turned out. It fits the story really well. Here's the back cover copy for the book:
A love story that stands the test of time…
A dusty stack of unopened love letters forces Bo and Mona Beth
Miller to revisit a part of their past they’d rather leave buried–especially in
the face of death. Only as they
retrace history will they learn the truth about the shattered promise
that threatens to come between them. But can their relationship endure
the deception and sabotage they unearth, or will the experience compel
them to trust more fully in the promises that never fail?
If you'd like to read the very rough first draft of chapter one, you can do so HERE. I'm keeping eyes, arms, fingers, legs and toes crossed in hopes that the book will be finished by the end of March!
Thanks for sharing this milestone with me,
Free Christian Kindle eBooks for January 14, 2013
Want a way to read all these great Kindle freebies without purchasing a Kindle? Check out this post that tells you how. All the books listed
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Left Behind
by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins
Published for Kindle March 2011
Futuristic: An airborne Boeing 747 is headed to London when, without any warning,
passengers mysteriously disappear from their seats. Terror and chaos
slowly spread not only through the plane but also worldwide as unusual
events continue to unfold. For those who have been left behind, the
apocalypse has just begun.
4 stars with 2,388 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Until Forever
by Darlene Shortridge
Published April 2012
Romance: Until Forever is a story of a young family that is torn apart by the
devastating effects of alcoholism. Can healing take place in a
relationship when an unforgivable act is committed? Will Jessi's pain
and Mark's guilt keep them apart forever, or will unforeseen
circumstances bind them together?
4.5 stars with 81 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Child of the King
by Debra Diaz
Published September 2012
Historical Fiction: The daughter of Paulus and Alysia is grown now, and ready for a life of
her own...but Rachel is unable to rise above her past, and something
that happened in Rome, years ago. Metellus, former tribune in the
Praetorian Guard, has been commissioned by the emperor to bring Rachel
from Jerusalem to Rome, and it is a journey that will affect both their
lives...in ways they never could have imagined. This standalone novel is
Book III in the "Woman of Sin" trilogy.
4.8 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Noble Pursuits
By Chautona Havig
Published October 2009
Romance: Nolan Burke has everything a man could hope for- well, except for a
wife. In his search for a genuine relationship, he's come up empty
handed. Desperate for a change of scenery (and desperate for an escape
from the attentions of aggressive Rockland women), he's relocating to
Brunswick. He is not prepared for Grace. Independent,
strong, and decidedly feminine, Grace Buscher is living her childhood
dream. While friends and family watch concerned and amazed, she pinches
pennies into dollars as the most successful (and only) house-spinster in
the greater Rockland area. When Nolan meets Grace, two worlds collide resulting in accidents, misunderstandings, and one silly serenade to a mouse.
4.2 stars with 22 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Forever Blessed
by Darlene Shortridge
Published July 2012
Romance: Forever Blessed is the story of a young mother who is on the run
from an abusive husband with her three children in tow. Does Laney find
safety from a controlling manipulating spouse? Does Paul track her
down and make her pay for her disobedience? Where does God fit into all
this?
4.6 stars with 33 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Open Your Hymnal
by Denise K. Loock
Published May 2010
Nonfiction Devotional: Do you ever catch yourself singing a song in church without paying
attention to the words? Open Your Hymnal is a collection of thirty
devotions that transport the wisdom of classic hymns and gospel songs
into the twenty-first century. Introduce yourself to the rich spiritual
heritage that hymnals contain or gain a new perspective on songs you've
sung since childhood. Whether you sing in the choir loft, the worship
team, or the pew, the refreshing biblical insights in this book will
enhance your appreciation of the words you sing every time you open a
hymnal.
4.8 stars with 13 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Zora and Nicky: A Novel in Black and White
by Claudia Mair Burney
Published January 2010
Contemporary Christian fiction: Zora Nella Hampton Johnson knows exactly where she comes from—and her
daddy won't let her forget. Of course for that privilege he keeps her in
Prada and Kate Spade, Coach and YSL. He chooses her boyfriend, her car,
her address, and ignores her love of painting, art, and the old ways of
her grandaddy's soulful AME church—where the hymns pleaded, cajoled,
and raised the roof. Her daddy may be a preacher, but some-where among
the thousands of church members, the on-site coffee house, and the
JumboTron, Zora lost God. And she wants Him back.
Nicky Parker, a
recent graduate of Berkeley and reformed playboy, also suffers the
trials of being a preacher's kid, and he can't remember the last time he
saw eye-to-eye with his white, racist, Southern Baptist father. What he
does remember—and it will be forever burned in his brain despite myriad
prayers to Jesus—is the way Zora looked the first time he saw her. Like
Nefertiti. Only better. When they meet at a bible study far from their
respective home churches, the first churlish, sarcastic sparks that fly
sizzle with defensiveness. But God has a special way of feeding the
flames and though of different flocks, these two lost sheep will find
Him and much, much more.
4.4 stars with 50 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Master's Garden
by Joyce A. Scott
Published November 2011
Christian Classics novella: Little girls dream of being a princess, but Elizabeth Rose Wickham has
the rare privilege of being one. Not in this world, but the world of the
Garden, which is ruled by a dragon who "fishes" for humans with
kindness and provision, then turns them to stone. Scared and lonely for
her parents, Elizabeth meets the one, true Master of the Garden, and
learns she is Princess Chara, the Foretold One, destined to help deliver
the garden from the dragon's despotic rule.
5 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Open Your Hymnal Again
by Denise K. Loock
Published June 2012
Nonfiction Devotional: Do you ever catch yourself singing a song in church without paying attention to the words? Open Your Hymnal Again
is another collection of hymnal devotions that transport the wisdom of
classic hymns and gospel songs into the twenty-first century. Giving
God glory, honor, and thanks nourishes our souls and invigorates our
faith. For centuries hymn writers have exalted God's sovereignty and
splendor in their lyrics. With biblical insights and practical
applications, the 31 devotions in Open Your Hymnal Again use the worship models of hymns and gospel songs to awaken a fresh wonder for God in your heart. Open Your Hymnal Again and worship with me. Introduce
yourself to the rich spiritual heritage that hymnals contain or gain a
new perspective on songs you've sung since childhood. Whether you sing
in the choir loft, the worship team, or the pew, the refreshing biblical
insights in this book will enhance your appreciation of the words you
sing every time you open a hymnal.
5 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
here are free at the time of posting, but these free e-books change to
pay status very quickly. Always check to make sure the books are indeed
free before you click to buy. Also, I want to offer readers only the
most highly rated books, so all books listed are at least 4 out of 5
stars with at least 5 reviews. Just so you know, I have not read all
these books, so I can't testify to their content or spiritual accuracy. I
am a part of the Amazon Associates program, which allows me to
earn a small advertising fee from Amazon for showcasing these books by
linking directly to them. Happy reading!
Left Behind
by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins
Published for Kindle March 2011
Futuristic: An airborne Boeing 747 is headed to London when, without any warning,
passengers mysteriously disappear from their seats. Terror and chaos
slowly spread not only through the plane but also worldwide as unusual
events continue to unfold. For those who have been left behind, the
apocalypse has just begun.
4 stars with 2,388 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Until Forever
by Darlene Shortridge
Published April 2012
Romance: Until Forever is a story of a young family that is torn apart by the
devastating effects of alcoholism. Can healing take place in a
relationship when an unforgivable act is committed? Will Jessi's pain
and Mark's guilt keep them apart forever, or will unforeseen
circumstances bind them together?
4.5 stars with 81 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Child of the King
by Debra Diaz
Published September 2012
Historical Fiction: The daughter of Paulus and Alysia is grown now, and ready for a life of
her own...but Rachel is unable to rise above her past, and something
that happened in Rome, years ago. Metellus, former tribune in the
Praetorian Guard, has been commissioned by the emperor to bring Rachel
from Jerusalem to Rome, and it is a journey that will affect both their
lives...in ways they never could have imagined. This standalone novel is
Book III in the "Woman of Sin" trilogy.
4.8 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Noble Pursuits
By Chautona Havig
Published October 2009
Romance: Nolan Burke has everything a man could hope for- well, except for a
wife. In his search for a genuine relationship, he's come up empty
handed. Desperate for a change of scenery (and desperate for an escape
from the attentions of aggressive Rockland women), he's relocating to
Brunswick. He is not prepared for Grace. Independent,
strong, and decidedly feminine, Grace Buscher is living her childhood
dream. While friends and family watch concerned and amazed, she pinches
pennies into dollars as the most successful (and only) house-spinster in
the greater Rockland area. When Nolan meets Grace, two worlds collide resulting in accidents, misunderstandings, and one silly serenade to a mouse.
4.2 stars with 22 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Forever Blessed
by Darlene Shortridge
Published July 2012
Romance: Forever Blessed is the story of a young mother who is on the run
from an abusive husband with her three children in tow. Does Laney find
safety from a controlling manipulating spouse? Does Paul track her
down and make her pay for her disobedience? Where does God fit into all
this?
4.6 stars with 33 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Open Your Hymnal
by Denise K. Loock
Published May 2010
Nonfiction Devotional: Do you ever catch yourself singing a song in church without paying
attention to the words? Open Your Hymnal is a collection of thirty
devotions that transport the wisdom of classic hymns and gospel songs
into the twenty-first century. Introduce yourself to the rich spiritual
heritage that hymnals contain or gain a new perspective on songs you've
sung since childhood. Whether you sing in the choir loft, the worship
team, or the pew, the refreshing biblical insights in this book will
enhance your appreciation of the words you sing every time you open a
hymnal.
4.8 stars with 13 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Zora and Nicky: A Novel in Black and White
by Claudia Mair Burney
Published January 2010
Contemporary Christian fiction: Zora Nella Hampton Johnson knows exactly where she comes from—and her
daddy won't let her forget. Of course for that privilege he keeps her in
Prada and Kate Spade, Coach and YSL. He chooses her boyfriend, her car,
her address, and ignores her love of painting, art, and the old ways of
her grandaddy's soulful AME church—where the hymns pleaded, cajoled,
and raised the roof. Her daddy may be a preacher, but some-where among
the thousands of church members, the on-site coffee house, and the
JumboTron, Zora lost God. And she wants Him back.
Nicky Parker, a
recent graduate of Berkeley and reformed playboy, also suffers the
trials of being a preacher's kid, and he can't remember the last time he
saw eye-to-eye with his white, racist, Southern Baptist father. What he
does remember—and it will be forever burned in his brain despite myriad
prayers to Jesus—is the way Zora looked the first time he saw her. Like
Nefertiti. Only better. When they meet at a bible study far from their
respective home churches, the first churlish, sarcastic sparks that fly
sizzle with defensiveness. But God has a special way of feeding the
flames and though of different flocks, these two lost sheep will find
Him and much, much more.
4.4 stars with 50 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Master's Garden
by Joyce A. Scott
Published November 2011
Christian Classics novella: Little girls dream of being a princess, but Elizabeth Rose Wickham has
the rare privilege of being one. Not in this world, but the world of the
Garden, which is ruled by a dragon who "fishes" for humans with
kindness and provision, then turns them to stone. Scared and lonely for
her parents, Elizabeth meets the one, true Master of the Garden, and
learns she is Princess Chara, the Foretold One, destined to help deliver
the garden from the dragon's despotic rule.
5 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Open Your Hymnal Again
by Denise K. Loock
Published June 2012
Nonfiction Devotional: Do you ever catch yourself singing a song in church without paying attention to the words? Open Your Hymnal Again
is another collection of hymnal devotions that transport the wisdom of
classic hymns and gospel songs into the twenty-first century. Giving
God glory, honor, and thanks nourishes our souls and invigorates our
faith. For centuries hymn writers have exalted God's sovereignty and
splendor in their lyrics. With biblical insights and practical
applications, the 31 devotions in Open Your Hymnal Again use the worship models of hymns and gospel songs to awaken a fresh wonder for God in your heart. Open Your Hymnal Again and worship with me. Introduce
yourself to the rich spiritual heritage that hymnals contain or gain a
new perspective on songs you've sung since childhood. Whether you sing
in the choir loft, the worship team, or the pew, the refreshing biblical
insights in this book will enhance your appreciation of the words you
sing every time you open a hymnal.
5 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog
FREE digital copy of A PATH LESS TRAVELED (2nd stand-alone book in the Miller's Creek novels and an Amazon Kindle Best-Seller) when you subscribe to Cathy's FROM MY FRONT PORCH newsletter. On my blog
...more
- Cathy Bryant's profile
- 390 followers
