Cathy Bryant's Blog: CatBryant.com ~ Journey Blog, page 66
January 13, 2013
Letting God Be God
One of the most wonderful aspects of being a Christ-follower is the perfecting and maturing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It's such a blessing to know that He is leading and guiding us, gently showing us those areas where we have a mistaken view or a stronghold that needs to be overcome. The still, quiet voice has reached through the mayhem of the world on many occasions in my life, most recently in the area of letting God be God. (I won't even get started on how many times He's had to re-teach me this very same lesson. Thank God for His unlimited patience with me!)
With an A-type personality and what my husband lovingly refers to as my CDO tendencies (obesessive-compulsive disorder alphabetized), I confess to a natural inclination toward trying to control things. And the scarier the world gets, the more obsessed I get with exerting control. From economic downturn and possible global financial collapse to dependency upon a stressed electrical grid and on to self-seeking government officials, and so on, I have no trouble finding an area in which to shoulder more responsibility than God ever intended for me take on.
After a recent time of making some pretty tough decisions, I became convicted that I probably came across as a little hard-nosed and controlling because I wanted to make sure we weren't getting into a bad situation. Don't get me wrong, I believe we're supposed to use our common sense. But the truth is that no situation or decision will come without trouble because we live in a fallen world. And never in His Word does God promise us a life free from difficulty. (In fact He promises just the opposite in John 16:33.)
What we can rest assured in is that He is with us no matter what and has already overcome the world. He is able to bring us through a fiery furnace unscathed and better for the experience, no matter how much we shrink back from the experience. And we can trust His leading even when we're afraid, because ultimately He knows what's best for us and has promised to never give us more than we can bear.
So when life leaves us frozen in fear, afraid to take the next step because of potential danger, the best response is turn to the Lord in complete faith and trust. He is capable of shouldering the unknown (which isn't at all unknown to Him), comforting us with His unfailing love, and strengthening us for the task that lies ahead. As difficult as it is, (especially for us Type-A, CDO people), I simply must learn to let go of my desire to be in control and let God be God.
After all, He's infinitely better at it than I could ever be.
With an A-type personality and what my husband lovingly refers to as my CDO tendencies (obesessive-compulsive disorder alphabetized), I confess to a natural inclination toward trying to control things. And the scarier the world gets, the more obsessed I get with exerting control. From economic downturn and possible global financial collapse to dependency upon a stressed electrical grid and on to self-seeking government officials, and so on, I have no trouble finding an area in which to shoulder more responsibility than God ever intended for me take on.
After a recent time of making some pretty tough decisions, I became convicted that I probably came across as a little hard-nosed and controlling because I wanted to make sure we weren't getting into a bad situation. Don't get me wrong, I believe we're supposed to use our common sense. But the truth is that no situation or decision will come without trouble because we live in a fallen world. And never in His Word does God promise us a life free from difficulty. (In fact He promises just the opposite in John 16:33.)
What we can rest assured in is that He is with us no matter what and has already overcome the world. He is able to bring us through a fiery furnace unscathed and better for the experience, no matter how much we shrink back from the experience. And we can trust His leading even when we're afraid, because ultimately He knows what's best for us and has promised to never give us more than we can bear.
So when life leaves us frozen in fear, afraid to take the next step because of potential danger, the best response is turn to the Lord in complete faith and trust. He is capable of shouldering the unknown (which isn't at all unknown to Him), comforting us with His unfailing love, and strengthening us for the task that lies ahead. As difficult as it is, (especially for us Type-A, CDO people), I simply must learn to let go of my desire to be in control and let God be God.
After all, He's infinitely better at it than I could ever be.
January 12, 2013
A Message to the Church #4: Are You Tolerant of Spiritual Adultery?
In case you missed the other parts of this series and want to read the articles in order, here are the links to the previous posts:
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?
“And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: The Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet are like burnished bronze, says this: ‘I know your deeds, and your love and faith and service and perseverance, and that your deeds of late are greater than at first. But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit acts of immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent, and she does not want to repent of her immorality. Behold, I will throw her on a bed of sickness, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of her deeds. And I will kill her children with pestilence, and all the churches will know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts; and I will give to each one of you according to your deeds. But I say to you, the rest who are in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not known the deep things of Satan, as they call them—I place no other burden on you. Nevertheless what you have, hold fast until I come. He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations; and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of the potter are broken to pieces, as I also have received authority from My Father; and I will give him the morning star. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’" ~Revelation 2:18-29 (NASB)
Symbolism
In previous letters, Jesus' persona was cloaked in characteristics of who He was and is. In this letter, He is revealed by His name, the Son of God, and then is characterized by "eyes like a flame of fire and feet like burnished bronze." We've all heard those with particularly penetrating gazes referred to as those who could burn a hole through you with their eyes. I believe that is the picture John is portraying here, as the One who sees everything--not only outward actions but inward motivations. The description of feet like burnished bronze might perhaps indicate the process of being refined by fire. Both of these descriptions relate to Revelation 1:13-16. Regardless of the interpretation, we must recognize that this description points to the author of the letter as Jesus.
What They're Doing Right
love
faith
service
perseverence
spiritual progress
What He Has Against Them
They tolerate the woman Jezebel. The story of Jezebel is told in 1 and 2 Kings in the Bible, and shows how as queen of Israel she led the people into Baal worship and persecuted the true prophets of God. Historically, the name Jezebel has become synonymous with prostitution. In reading the Bible, it is easy to see the correlation between idolatry and prostitution (Colossians 3:5; Malachi 2:11-13; Hosea 1:2, 7; 2:2-5; 4:12-19; 5:1-3). As God's people, we are betrothed to Him. Any idolatry is harlotry.
Notice that Jezebel calls herself a prophetess, but teaches and leads God's people away into immorality and idolatry. Notice also that the church's problem is that they tolerate her behavior.
What They Need To Do
Don't give in to the teaching of Jezebel.
Hold fast until He comes.
Repent, if they have indeed followed the way of spiritual adultery.
The Warning
Jezebel, representing false prophecy that leads God's people into idolatry, will be thrown into a bed of sickness, and those who commit spiritual adultery with her will be thrown into great tribulation. The offspring of Jezebel will be killed with pestilence. I think it should be pointed out that God has a purpose in all this destruction: so that the churches will know that He is the One who knows our minds and our hearts. He finished up with a promise to give us what our deeds deserve--whether deeds of love, faith, service, perseverance, and spiritual progress, or deeds of tolerating and committing spiritual adultery.
The Reward
First, the reward mentioned is this passage is not only for overcoming, but also keeping His deeds until the end. Those who do so will be given authority and rule over the nations just as Christ has been given authority and rule. In addition, they will receive the bright and morning star, which is another name for Christ.
Application
As much as we'd like to believe otherwise, idolatry still exists. Anything in our life that takes priority and pre-eminence over Christ is idolatry. And all idolatry is the equivalent of spiritual adultery, because we are in a covenant relationship with Him as Lord and Master of our lives. We must take great caution not to tolerate the teachings that lead us further away from Him and into spiritual adultery.
So the question for us is:
Are We Tolerant of Spiritual Adultery?
Heavenly Father, we seek Your forgiveness for all the times we've allowed other things and people--including ourselves and our selfish ways--to take precedence over You. Lord, we turn away from that kind of life and toward You as our Lord and Master, recognizing that all we are and all we have is because of Who You are, the eternal and Almighty God. Forgive us also for our tolerance of things that tend to lead us away from you and into spiritual adultery. We know that You sent Your Son to free us from slavery to sin, yet we're so quick to chase after those things that only lead us away from You. May our lives be characterized by deeds exemplified by You--love, faith, service, perseverance--so that we grow more and more like You every day. Search our hearts, Lord, and reveal to us the areas in which we've tolerated ungodly and unholy things. Break our hearts for what breaks Yours. Thank You for being our reward. Amen.
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?
“And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: The Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet are like burnished bronze, says this: ‘I know your deeds, and your love and faith and service and perseverance, and that your deeds of late are greater than at first. But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit acts of immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent, and she does not want to repent of her immorality. Behold, I will throw her on a bed of sickness, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of her deeds. And I will kill her children with pestilence, and all the churches will know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts; and I will give to each one of you according to your deeds. But I say to you, the rest who are in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not known the deep things of Satan, as they call them—I place no other burden on you. Nevertheless what you have, hold fast until I come. He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations; and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of the potter are broken to pieces, as I also have received authority from My Father; and I will give him the morning star. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’" ~Revelation 2:18-29 (NASB)
Symbolism
In previous letters, Jesus' persona was cloaked in characteristics of who He was and is. In this letter, He is revealed by His name, the Son of God, and then is characterized by "eyes like a flame of fire and feet like burnished bronze." We've all heard those with particularly penetrating gazes referred to as those who could burn a hole through you with their eyes. I believe that is the picture John is portraying here, as the One who sees everything--not only outward actions but inward motivations. The description of feet like burnished bronze might perhaps indicate the process of being refined by fire. Both of these descriptions relate to Revelation 1:13-16. Regardless of the interpretation, we must recognize that this description points to the author of the letter as Jesus.
What They're Doing Right
love
faith
service
perseverence
spiritual progress
What He Has Against Them
They tolerate the woman Jezebel. The story of Jezebel is told in 1 and 2 Kings in the Bible, and shows how as queen of Israel she led the people into Baal worship and persecuted the true prophets of God. Historically, the name Jezebel has become synonymous with prostitution. In reading the Bible, it is easy to see the correlation between idolatry and prostitution (Colossians 3:5; Malachi 2:11-13; Hosea 1:2, 7; 2:2-5; 4:12-19; 5:1-3). As God's people, we are betrothed to Him. Any idolatry is harlotry.
Notice that Jezebel calls herself a prophetess, but teaches and leads God's people away into immorality and idolatry. Notice also that the church's problem is that they tolerate her behavior.
What They Need To Do
Don't give in to the teaching of Jezebel.
Hold fast until He comes.
Repent, if they have indeed followed the way of spiritual adultery.
The Warning
Jezebel, representing false prophecy that leads God's people into idolatry, will be thrown into a bed of sickness, and those who commit spiritual adultery with her will be thrown into great tribulation. The offspring of Jezebel will be killed with pestilence. I think it should be pointed out that God has a purpose in all this destruction: so that the churches will know that He is the One who knows our minds and our hearts. He finished up with a promise to give us what our deeds deserve--whether deeds of love, faith, service, perseverance, and spiritual progress, or deeds of tolerating and committing spiritual adultery.
The Reward
First, the reward mentioned is this passage is not only for overcoming, but also keeping His deeds until the end. Those who do so will be given authority and rule over the nations just as Christ has been given authority and rule. In addition, they will receive the bright and morning star, which is another name for Christ.
Application
As much as we'd like to believe otherwise, idolatry still exists. Anything in our life that takes priority and pre-eminence over Christ is idolatry. And all idolatry is the equivalent of spiritual adultery, because we are in a covenant relationship with Him as Lord and Master of our lives. We must take great caution not to tolerate the teachings that lead us further away from Him and into spiritual adultery.
So the question for us is:
Are We Tolerant of Spiritual Adultery?
Heavenly Father, we seek Your forgiveness for all the times we've allowed other things and people--including ourselves and our selfish ways--to take precedence over You. Lord, we turn away from that kind of life and toward You as our Lord and Master, recognizing that all we are and all we have is because of Who You are, the eternal and Almighty God. Forgive us also for our tolerance of things that tend to lead us away from you and into spiritual adultery. We know that You sent Your Son to free us from slavery to sin, yet we're so quick to chase after those things that only lead us away from You. May our lives be characterized by deeds exemplified by You--love, faith, service, perseverance--so that we grow more and more like You every day. Search our hearts, Lord, and reveal to us the areas in which we've tolerated ungodly and unholy things. Break our hearts for what breaks Yours. Thank You for being our reward. Amen.
Free Christian Kindle Books for January 12, 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!
Unclaimed Legacy
by Deborah Heal
Published August 2012
Historical Mystery: Abby's weird computer program is working again. And it comes in handy
when they agree to help the Old Dears next door with their family tree.
Except Abby and John learn more about one of the ladies' ancestors than
they ever wanted to know. Convicted in 1871 of murder and arson, Reuben
Buchanan is a blight on the family's reputation. But was he really
guilty? Abby and John get inside the mind of a murderer to find out. But
while they're rummaging around in the Old Dears' family history, they
discover the truth of God's promise to bless a thousand generations ... and a legacy waiting to be reclaimed.
4.5 stars with 25 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Search for Melchizedek
by Jeffrey Tiel
Published April 2012
Supernatural Thriller: The ancient Epistle to the Hebrews contains a hitherto unnoticed enigma.
It refers to a man without beginning or end – one who lives forever.
So, who and where is he? The Jews knew him only as the Wanderer. T. S.
Eliot called him the Witness. And the early Christians named him . . .
Melchizedek. Federal Agent Roger Quarston can’t know that investigating
some ancient, blood stained manuscripts will lead him to this same
Melchizedek - whose revelation will threaten allegiances, challenge
faiths, crack political foundations, enliven ancient dynasties, and open
the promise of immortality and unimagined power.
4.9 stars with 11 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
This Means War
by Cheryl Ellicott
Published August 2011
Nonfiction: As an adoptive or foster parent, have you ever felt in over your head,
and about to sink? You're not alone! This Means War was written to lift
you up and give you a second wind! Happy, successful, easy
adoptions are a reality! Many times the children are no more or less
difficult to parent than average. However, sometimes raising adopted
kids is extremely difficult.
4 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Bible is Beautiful
by Brett Davis
Published January 2013
Nonfiction: For two thousand years the Christian church has told a story. This story
reaches back to the beginning of history, it concerns every single
person who ever lived and it centers around a man professed by hundreds
of millions to be God himself. A rather signficant story. According to
centuries of Christians, it is the Story-capitol S. The Story of
Creation being stitched back together by its Creator being torn apart.
The Story of the universe's King. The Story of Jesus. This high-energy
introduction "connects the dots" of the Bible's vast and various books.
Utilizing both inviting visuals and expansive footnotes, it plunges
readers into the world revealed in Jesus. A world of hope where God is
closer than you can imagine, where humanity can discover its destiny and
where the end is simply the beautiful beginning. The Bible is Beautiful
is for the young, for the old, for the Christian, for the curious, for
the skeptic-for anyone who has ever wanted to hear the Story of the
Bible with new ears.
5 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Brief Survey of the Book of Romans
by Brad Andres
Published April 2012
Nonfiction: In this short book you will cover the main topics discussed in the book
of Romans. You will acquire a greater understanding of the Righteousness
of God and gain a deeper knowledge of the Salvation of Christ. You will
also consider the necessity of the Holy Spirit in your personal life
and learn about God's grand plan of salvation since the beginning. Last
of all, you will see how to apply the concepts covered to your personal
life.
4.6 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The College Field Manual
by Michael Johnson
Published October 2011
Nonfiction: The College Field Manual: A Young Adult’s Guide to Faith, Finances, and Education
Imagine
juggling time, money and faith issues while facing the pressures of
learning new skills, navigating relational challenges of making new
friends in a new setting while remaking a working relationship with
parents--all in one year. If you are about to enter college, or love
someone who is, then The College Field Manual is for you. Discover
coping techniques and timely strategies on these and other critical
topics:
•Taking your faith to college
•Relating to parents
•Building study skills for success
•Money management and avoiding the debt trap
•Discovering God's plan for your life
•Understanding the "World of Work"
4.7 stars with 6 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!
Unclaimed Legacy
by Deborah Heal
Published August 2012
Historical Mystery: Abby's weird computer program is working again. And it comes in handy
when they agree to help the Old Dears next door with their family tree.
Except Abby and John learn more about one of the ladies' ancestors than
they ever wanted to know. Convicted in 1871 of murder and arson, Reuben
Buchanan is a blight on the family's reputation. But was he really
guilty? Abby and John get inside the mind of a murderer to find out. But
while they're rummaging around in the Old Dears' family history, they
discover the truth of God's promise to bless a thousand generations ... and a legacy waiting to be reclaimed.
4.5 stars with 25 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Search for Melchizedek
by Jeffrey Tiel
Published April 2012
Supernatural Thriller: The ancient Epistle to the Hebrews contains a hitherto unnoticed enigma.
It refers to a man without beginning or end – one who lives forever.
So, who and where is he? The Jews knew him only as the Wanderer. T. S.
Eliot called him the Witness. And the early Christians named him . . .
Melchizedek. Federal Agent Roger Quarston can’t know that investigating
some ancient, blood stained manuscripts will lead him to this same
Melchizedek - whose revelation will threaten allegiances, challenge
faiths, crack political foundations, enliven ancient dynasties, and open
the promise of immortality and unimagined power.
4.9 stars with 11 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
This Means War
by Cheryl Ellicott
Published August 2011
Nonfiction: As an adoptive or foster parent, have you ever felt in over your head,
and about to sink? You're not alone! This Means War was written to lift
you up and give you a second wind! Happy, successful, easy
adoptions are a reality! Many times the children are no more or less
difficult to parent than average. However, sometimes raising adopted
kids is extremely difficult.
4 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Bible is Beautiful
by Brett Davis
Published January 2013
Nonfiction: For two thousand years the Christian church has told a story. This story
reaches back to the beginning of history, it concerns every single
person who ever lived and it centers around a man professed by hundreds
of millions to be God himself. A rather signficant story. According to
centuries of Christians, it is the Story-capitol S. The Story of
Creation being stitched back together by its Creator being torn apart.
The Story of the universe's King. The Story of Jesus. This high-energy
introduction "connects the dots" of the Bible's vast and various books.
Utilizing both inviting visuals and expansive footnotes, it plunges
readers into the world revealed in Jesus. A world of hope where God is
closer than you can imagine, where humanity can discover its destiny and
where the end is simply the beautiful beginning. The Bible is Beautiful
is for the young, for the old, for the Christian, for the curious, for
the skeptic-for anyone who has ever wanted to hear the Story of the
Bible with new ears.
5 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Brief Survey of the Book of Romans
by Brad Andres
Published April 2012
Nonfiction: In this short book you will cover the main topics discussed in the book
of Romans. You will acquire a greater understanding of the Righteousness
of God and gain a deeper knowledge of the Salvation of Christ. You will
also consider the necessity of the Holy Spirit in your personal life
and learn about God's grand plan of salvation since the beginning. Last
of all, you will see how to apply the concepts covered to your personal
life.
4.6 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The College Field Manual
by Michael Johnson
Published October 2011
Nonfiction: The College Field Manual: A Young Adult’s Guide to Faith, Finances, and Education
Imagine
juggling time, money and faith issues while facing the pressures of
learning new skills, navigating relational challenges of making new
friends in a new setting while remaking a working relationship with
parents--all in one year. If you are about to enter college, or love
someone who is, then The College Field Manual is for you. Discover
coping techniques and timely strategies on these and other critical
topics:
•Taking your faith to college
•Relating to parents
•Building study skills for success
•Money management and avoiding the debt trap
•Discovering God's plan for your life
•Understanding the "World of Work"
4.7 stars with 6 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 11, 2013
A Message to the Church #3: Have You Compromised?
In case you missed the first part of this series and want to read the articles in order, here are the links to each of the previous posts:
A Message to the Church #1: Have You Left Your First Love?
A Message to the Church #2: Are You Fearlessly Faithful?
“And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: The One who has the sharp two-edged sword says this: ‘I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is; and you hold fast My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. But I have a few things against you, because you have there some who hold the teaching of Balaam, who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit acts of immorality. So you also have some who in the same way hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent; or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will make war against them with the sword of My mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.’" ~Revelation 2:12-17 (NASB)
Symbolism
The One who has the sharp two-edged sword is Jesus (Revelation 1:16). Jesus is referred to as the Word of God (John 1:1), and in Hebrews 4:12 the Word is said to be "sharper than a double-edged sword."
What They're Doing Right
They hold fast to His name
They haven't denied the faith
Both of these in spite of dwelling where Satan's throne is and where Christians were martyred
What He Has Against Them
The church at Pergamum seemed to have allowed the false teaching of those like Balaam and the Nicolaitanes, who misled God's people for the purpose of dishonest gain (Numbers 22-24; 31:16; 1 Peter 5:1-3). In other words they had compromised God's Word, watering it down with false teaching to make it more acceptable to them.
What They Need To Do
The answer is summed up in one word: Repent. The believers in Pergamum needed to resist the false teachings of those in the church who wanted to compromise the message of the gospel and instead turn toward God. How can the gospel be compromised? These are the ways that come to my mind based on this particular passage, though I'm sure in this sinful world there are most likely other ways:
Accept an "anything goes" mentality in regards to morality. Just because God offers grace doesn't give us a license to sin (Galatians 5:1; Romans 6:1; Titus 2:11-12).
Any attempt to "add to" the gospel through a works-based salvation (Romans 3:19-20; Galatians 3:24; Isaiah 64:6; Luke 17:10; Ephesians 2:8-9).
Use the gospel as a means of personal gain (1Timothy 6:3-11; Philippians 1:15-18; 2 Peter 2:1-3; 2 Corinthians 2:17).
The Warning
Jesus promises to go to war with those teaching and following a perversion of His gospel. Notice that the weapon He uses is the sword of His Word. Folks, the implication of this passage should be heeded by all of us. In this day and age of information and education, we have no excuse for not reading or not knowing our Bibles! Unfortunately, Satan makes it all too easy to compromise our beliefs with tempting heresies that make us feel better about ourselves. Don't believe me? Take a look at all the people in our country who believe that we're all going to heaven, that all roads lead to God, and that the gospel is nothing more than a "name it and claim it theology." Watch out!!! Listen to (heed, take it to heart, obey) what the Spirit is saying!
The Reward
One part of the reward is hidden manna. Most of us remember the story of how God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness by giving them manna, literally "What is it?", the bread of heaven. But we can't forget that Jesus is the bread of life, come down from Heaven, and broken for our transgressions. He is our spiritual sustenance, "hidden" from the world. He is our reward! He is sufficient to meet our needs!
The white stone was used in Biblical times for the following: 1)to acquit a man; 2)to free someone from guilt or slavery; 3)winning a race; and 4)to a victorious soldier returning from battle. This sends shivers up my spine. For those of us who overcome, we will receive that white stone of acquittal, freeing us from our guilt and sin slavery, to prove that we've won the race and arrived at home victorious. How do we overcome? Only through following Christ.
Throughout the Bible, God bestowed new names on people, to reveal a change in their identity. Abram became Abraham, the father of many. Jacob (deceiver) became Israel (he struggles with God). The list could go on and on. I believe with all my heart that as Christ-followers we have a new identity and a new name. And based on today's passage, I believe we are the only ones who will truly "know" and understand our new name, because we are the ones who have lived it.
Application
We must constantly be on guard against the subtlety of Satan and his false teachings. Remember how he works, tempting us to doubt God and His Word and to give in to the desires of our sinful nature. He talks a good game. He makes it sound good and right. The only way to keep ourselves pure in this regard is to maintain a close and active relationship with the Lord and His Spirit. We need to hold everything up to the light of God's Word. We need to constantly check ourselves to make sure we haven't compromised His gospel.
The question we need to ask ourselves is:
Have we compromised?
God in heaven, how grateful we are for Your gospel of good news and grace. Thank You that You understand how subtle Satan is and how he constantly tries to trip us up with his lies and trickery. Thank You that Your Spirit dwells within us, convicting us of sin and guiding us. Thank You for the example of the sinless life Jesus lived that we might have His steps to follow in. Shine Your Holy penetrating Light into our lives, Father, and reveal to us the areas in which we've compromised our faith with the false teaching of the world. Give us the strength to repent and turn back to You. Thank You that You've promised the Bread of Life and the white stone with a new name to those who overcome. Thank You for making our victory possible, not through anything we've done or deserved, but because of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.
A Message to the Church #1: Have You Left Your First Love?
A Message to the Church #2: Are You Fearlessly Faithful?
“And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: The One who has the sharp two-edged sword says this: ‘I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is; and you hold fast My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. But I have a few things against you, because you have there some who hold the teaching of Balaam, who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit acts of immorality. So you also have some who in the same way hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent; or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will make war against them with the sword of My mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.’" ~Revelation 2:12-17 (NASB)
Symbolism
The One who has the sharp two-edged sword is Jesus (Revelation 1:16). Jesus is referred to as the Word of God (John 1:1), and in Hebrews 4:12 the Word is said to be "sharper than a double-edged sword."
What They're Doing Right
They hold fast to His name
They haven't denied the faith
Both of these in spite of dwelling where Satan's throne is and where Christians were martyred
What He Has Against Them
The church at Pergamum seemed to have allowed the false teaching of those like Balaam and the Nicolaitanes, who misled God's people for the purpose of dishonest gain (Numbers 22-24; 31:16; 1 Peter 5:1-3). In other words they had compromised God's Word, watering it down with false teaching to make it more acceptable to them.
What They Need To Do
The answer is summed up in one word: Repent. The believers in Pergamum needed to resist the false teachings of those in the church who wanted to compromise the message of the gospel and instead turn toward God. How can the gospel be compromised? These are the ways that come to my mind based on this particular passage, though I'm sure in this sinful world there are most likely other ways:
Accept an "anything goes" mentality in regards to morality. Just because God offers grace doesn't give us a license to sin (Galatians 5:1; Romans 6:1; Titus 2:11-12).
Any attempt to "add to" the gospel through a works-based salvation (Romans 3:19-20; Galatians 3:24; Isaiah 64:6; Luke 17:10; Ephesians 2:8-9).
Use the gospel as a means of personal gain (1Timothy 6:3-11; Philippians 1:15-18; 2 Peter 2:1-3; 2 Corinthians 2:17).
The Warning
Jesus promises to go to war with those teaching and following a perversion of His gospel. Notice that the weapon He uses is the sword of His Word. Folks, the implication of this passage should be heeded by all of us. In this day and age of information and education, we have no excuse for not reading or not knowing our Bibles! Unfortunately, Satan makes it all too easy to compromise our beliefs with tempting heresies that make us feel better about ourselves. Don't believe me? Take a look at all the people in our country who believe that we're all going to heaven, that all roads lead to God, and that the gospel is nothing more than a "name it and claim it theology." Watch out!!! Listen to (heed, take it to heart, obey) what the Spirit is saying!
The Reward
One part of the reward is hidden manna. Most of us remember the story of how God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness by giving them manna, literally "What is it?", the bread of heaven. But we can't forget that Jesus is the bread of life, come down from Heaven, and broken for our transgressions. He is our spiritual sustenance, "hidden" from the world. He is our reward! He is sufficient to meet our needs!
The white stone was used in Biblical times for the following: 1)to acquit a man; 2)to free someone from guilt or slavery; 3)winning a race; and 4)to a victorious soldier returning from battle. This sends shivers up my spine. For those of us who overcome, we will receive that white stone of acquittal, freeing us from our guilt and sin slavery, to prove that we've won the race and arrived at home victorious. How do we overcome? Only through following Christ.
Throughout the Bible, God bestowed new names on people, to reveal a change in their identity. Abram became Abraham, the father of many. Jacob (deceiver) became Israel (he struggles with God). The list could go on and on. I believe with all my heart that as Christ-followers we have a new identity and a new name. And based on today's passage, I believe we are the only ones who will truly "know" and understand our new name, because we are the ones who have lived it.
Application
We must constantly be on guard against the subtlety of Satan and his false teachings. Remember how he works, tempting us to doubt God and His Word and to give in to the desires of our sinful nature. He talks a good game. He makes it sound good and right. The only way to keep ourselves pure in this regard is to maintain a close and active relationship with the Lord and His Spirit. We need to hold everything up to the light of God's Word. We need to constantly check ourselves to make sure we haven't compromised His gospel.
The question we need to ask ourselves is:
Have we compromised?
God in heaven, how grateful we are for Your gospel of good news and grace. Thank You that You understand how subtle Satan is and how he constantly tries to trip us up with his lies and trickery. Thank You that Your Spirit dwells within us, convicting us of sin and guiding us. Thank You for the example of the sinless life Jesus lived that we might have His steps to follow in. Shine Your Holy penetrating Light into our lives, Father, and reveal to us the areas in which we've compromised our faith with the false teaching of the world. Give us the strength to repent and turn back to You. Thank You that You've promised the Bread of Life and the white stone with a new name to those who overcome. Thank You for making our victory possible, not through anything we've done or deserved, but because of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.
Free Christian Kindle Books for January 11, 2012
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!
Disguised for Love
by J. B. Lifflander
Published December 2011
Romance: It's 1931 and the time is the Great Depression. Many wealthy families have lost everything in the stock market crash but some are keeping quiet aboutit. They are keeping up appearances in the hope of marrying into a rich family. Esther, Priscilla, and Anna Strickland are from one of the richest families and they are all looking for husbands. The problem is how can they know if the men they meet are truly in love with them, or are only after their money? Priscilla thinks she has figured out a way, and she gets her sisters to go along with her scheme. But will it work?
4.6 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Influence
by Matthew John Slick
Published July 2012
Supernatural Thriller: Mark is in his garden, grieving and depressed over the unexplained death
of his son and without knowing it, is almost coaxed by a demon into
committing suicide. But, at the last moment Sotare, an angel, rescues
him and is later permitted to appear to Mark in the Garden. The two
dialogue about God, life, death, good, evil, the spiritual realm, and
the nature of truth. However, all is not well. The demons are watching
and powerful evil forces are sent to kill and destroy those who are
close to Mark and those who are praying for him. As Sotare teaches Mark,
he is given answers to his questions -- but they do not come easily. He
must face his greatest challenge in order to learn his greatest lesson.
The battle over Mark unfolds in both the spiritual and physical worlds
as angels are sent to battle against the evil forces that are seeking to
destroy. True victory is never easy.
4.6 stars with 95 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
A Way Through the Sea
by Robert Elmer
Published January 2011
Children's Historical Fiction: For eleven-year-old Peter Andersen and his twin sister Elise, living in
the city of Helsingor, Denmark during World War 2 means German soldiers
in the streets, German patrol boats in the harbor, and German fighter
planes in the sky. Everyone is nervous, especially their Jewish friend
Henrik and his parents. Of course, before the invasion, no one in
Denmark cared whether a person was Jewish. But now the Nazis are
secretly rounding up all of the Jews who live in Denmark and sending
them to prison camps in Germany. Suddenly, Henrik and his family must
escape! Sweden offers the only place of refuge, but with soldiers
lurking the streets and Nazi boats patrolling the sea, only a miracle
can get the Jews to safety!
4.9 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Q Manifesto
by Alan Schleimer
Published November 2012
Suspense/Thriller: Disenchanted with his profession, Jay Hunt gave up a lucrative Wall
Street career to become a backcountry tour guide. Soon after, an ancient
manuscript is uncovered that reveals the Gospels were an orchestrated
fiction written by a first-century sect at Qumran. Though its revelation
stuns the world, Jay ignores it until his father, a retired Dead Sea
Scrolls expert, gets in over his head investigating the scroll.
Suspicious of numerous accidents, Jay follows a trail of clues that
uncovers evidence of a grand plot that will tip the balance of world
power. Marked for death by unknown assailants, Jay soon learns that the
world’s only chance to survive Armageddon depends on him deciphering
cryptic messages in his quest for the truth.
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!
Disguised for Love
by J. B. Lifflander
Published December 2011
Romance: It's 1931 and the time is the Great Depression. Many wealthy families have lost everything in the stock market crash but some are keeping quiet aboutit. They are keeping up appearances in the hope of marrying into a rich family. Esther, Priscilla, and Anna Strickland are from one of the richest families and they are all looking for husbands. The problem is how can they know if the men they meet are truly in love with them, or are only after their money? Priscilla thinks she has figured out a way, and she gets her sisters to go along with her scheme. But will it work?
4.6 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Influence
by Matthew John Slick
Published July 2012
Supernatural Thriller: Mark is in his garden, grieving and depressed over the unexplained death
of his son and without knowing it, is almost coaxed by a demon into
committing suicide. But, at the last moment Sotare, an angel, rescues
him and is later permitted to appear to Mark in the Garden. The two
dialogue about God, life, death, good, evil, the spiritual realm, and
the nature of truth. However, all is not well. The demons are watching
and powerful evil forces are sent to kill and destroy those who are
close to Mark and those who are praying for him. As Sotare teaches Mark,
he is given answers to his questions -- but they do not come easily. He
must face his greatest challenge in order to learn his greatest lesson.
The battle over Mark unfolds in both the spiritual and physical worlds
as angels are sent to battle against the evil forces that are seeking to
destroy. True victory is never easy.
4.6 stars with 95 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
A Way Through the Sea
by Robert Elmer
Published January 2011
Children's Historical Fiction: For eleven-year-old Peter Andersen and his twin sister Elise, living in
the city of Helsingor, Denmark during World War 2 means German soldiers
in the streets, German patrol boats in the harbor, and German fighter
planes in the sky. Everyone is nervous, especially their Jewish friend
Henrik and his parents. Of course, before the invasion, no one in
Denmark cared whether a person was Jewish. But now the Nazis are
secretly rounding up all of the Jews who live in Denmark and sending
them to prison camps in Germany. Suddenly, Henrik and his family must
escape! Sweden offers the only place of refuge, but with soldiers
lurking the streets and Nazi boats patrolling the sea, only a miracle
can get the Jews to safety!
4.9 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Q Manifesto
by Alan Schleimer
Published November 2012
Suspense/Thriller: Disenchanted with his profession, Jay Hunt gave up a lucrative Wall
Street career to become a backcountry tour guide. Soon after, an ancient
manuscript is uncovered that reveals the Gospels were an orchestrated
fiction written by a first-century sect at Qumran. Though its revelation
stuns the world, Jay ignores it until his father, a retired Dead Sea
Scrolls expert, gets in over his head investigating the scroll.
Suspicious of numerous accidents, Jay follows a trail of clues that
uncovers evidence of a grand plot that will tip the balance of world
power. Marked for death by unknown assailants, Jay soon learns that the
world’s only chance to survive Armageddon depends on him deciphering
cryptic messages in his quest for the truth.
5 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 10, 2013
Frugal Friday: One Way to Organize Your Coupons
Everyone has to find systems that work best for them. Just as
corporations all have various ways of managing various tasks, every
person tends to create their own ways of managing the different aspects
of their lives.
The following ideas are based on how I manage my coupons. My hope is
that after reading this article you'll be inspired to take the ideas
presented here and alter them to make them your own.
What You'll Need:
large binder (Mine has the clear pocket on the front and back as well as half pockets on the inside front and back covers)
several clear sheet protector pockets (8.5 x 11) - I use twenty-one
several dividers (I use twenty)
paper clips
coupons
NOTE: If you're new to couponing, you will more than likely change and
adapt your system a few times until you find the way that works best for
you, so don't spend a lot of money on these items and get frustrated
with your system at first. It will get easier. I promise.
Steps To Take:
Divide your coupons into categories. You may want to take stock of
what you have and create some tentative categories. The more even your
stacks are, the easier it will be to put your finger on the coupon
you're looking for at any given time. Here are my categories. Feel free
to adapt yours based on the shopping needs and habits of you and your
family.
SECTION 1: STORES I SHOP ON A REGULAR BASIS (In each pocket
for various stores, I keep store coupons specific to that store as well
as current shopping lists. Sometimes I include a copy of the store's
weekly ad for reference.):
Walgreen's
Target
Family Dollar/Dollar General
Harp's/Allen's
Other
SECTION 2: COUPON CATEGORIES (Notice that I keep these in alphabetical order; that makes them easier to rifle through):
Apparel & Beauty Products - clothing, make-up, lotions, hair color
Automotive & Pet - tire, oil changes, pet food and products
Baking/Sauces/Spices - cake mixes, cookie dough, cooking oil, sauces
such as hot sauce, Worcestershire, enchilada, pizza, spaghetti, etc.,
and spices
Beverages - juices, soft drinks, coffee, tea, etc.
Boxed & Canned Goods - all boxed foods except for cereals,
pancake mixes, and cake mixes (cereals and pancake mixes are stashed
under the breakfast foods category), as well as canned fruits, veggies,
etc.
Breakfast Foods - cereals, pancake mixes, cinnamon rolls, syrups, jellies, etc.
Cleaning Products & Household Items - stuff to clean with, as well as items such as batteries, hooks, cookware, etc.
Dairy & Frozen Foods - butter, ice cream, yogurt, milk, frozen veggies and breads, etc.
Home & Office - bug sprays, office supplies, furniture, etc.
Hygeine - hair products, razors, toothpastes, toothbrushes, deodorant, etc.
Meats & Pizza/Produce - lunch meats, hot dogs, pizzas, bagged produce
Paper & Plastic - toilet paper, paper towels, foil, plastic wrap, sandwich bags, trash bags, etc.
Pharmacy - vitamins, first aid items, pain relievers, etc.
Restaurants - coupons abound in this category, so expect a full pocket
Snack Foods - chips, dips, snack bars, crackers, cookies, candy, gum, etc.
NOTE: You will notice that some foods could fit in more than one
category. As you make your list and divide up your coupons, you may have
to dry different combinations to keep your stacks fairly even. Jot down
reminder notes, because you may forget at first where you put the
battery coupons. After a while, you'll remember automatically.
Once your coupons are divided, use a divider for each category. Label each divider.
Insert the labeled divider in your binder alphabetically (store
categories first with item categories last) with a sheet protector
between each one. Also insert a sheet protector at the very front. (I
use this front sheet protector for coupons that are about to expire that
week. At each store, I pull out these coupons to see if there's a great
stacking opportunity or if I have a need for that product. One of the
hardest things you have to learn to do is throw coupons away. It almost
feels like I'm burning money every time I do it, but if you don't have a
need for the item, or room for it, you don't need to buy it. And RULE
#1: It's not a bargain unless you can afford it...)
Put your coupons in the sheet protectors behind the appropriate
divider. (At first I tried keeping them organized by expiration date,
but every time I printed out new coupons I would have to go in and
re-organize. This grew old quick. Now I just stick them all together in
their respective pockets. I go through once a week to pull coupons about
to expire and slip them in the front pocket.)
In the store section, as you make your shopping list from the
various store advertisements, clip the appropriate coupons to the
shopping list with a paper clip. I keep a few extra clips attached to
the front inside pocket of my binder. I also keep copies of various
store's coupon policies in this front inside pocket.
In the clear outside pocket of the binder, I keep special vouchers
for Living Social, Saveology, and other such deals. Right now, it's
housing two massages for hubby and myself, a dinner voucher for a
new-to-us restaurant, a free round of bowling, admission to a large cat
sanctuary nearby, a family photography session, and vouchers for a
butcher/deli business near where we live.
Please, please, please remember that my way is not the only way. It
happens to be the way that works best for me. Feel free to use the parts
that help you and throw out the rest. More than anything, HAVE FUN!
(I'd LOVE to hear tips from you in the comment section about what works best for you. Maybe I can pick up a few new tricks!) =)
Happy Saving,
corporations all have various ways of managing various tasks, every
person tends to create their own ways of managing the different aspects
of their lives.
The following ideas are based on how I manage my coupons. My hope is
that after reading this article you'll be inspired to take the ideas
presented here and alter them to make them your own.
What You'll Need:
large binder (Mine has the clear pocket on the front and back as well as half pockets on the inside front and back covers)
several clear sheet protector pockets (8.5 x 11) - I use twenty-one
several dividers (I use twenty)
paper clips
coupons
NOTE: If you're new to couponing, you will more than likely change and
adapt your system a few times until you find the way that works best for
you, so don't spend a lot of money on these items and get frustrated
with your system at first. It will get easier. I promise.
Steps To Take:
Divide your coupons into categories. You may want to take stock of
what you have and create some tentative categories. The more even your
stacks are, the easier it will be to put your finger on the coupon
you're looking for at any given time. Here are my categories. Feel free
to adapt yours based on the shopping needs and habits of you and your
family.
SECTION 1: STORES I SHOP ON A REGULAR BASIS (In each pocket
for various stores, I keep store coupons specific to that store as well
as current shopping lists. Sometimes I include a copy of the store's
weekly ad for reference.):
Walgreen's
Target
Family Dollar/Dollar General
Harp's/Allen's
Other
SECTION 2: COUPON CATEGORIES (Notice that I keep these in alphabetical order; that makes them easier to rifle through):
Apparel & Beauty Products - clothing, make-up, lotions, hair color
Automotive & Pet - tire, oil changes, pet food and products
Baking/Sauces/Spices - cake mixes, cookie dough, cooking oil, sauces
such as hot sauce, Worcestershire, enchilada, pizza, spaghetti, etc.,
and spices
Beverages - juices, soft drinks, coffee, tea, etc.
Boxed & Canned Goods - all boxed foods except for cereals,
pancake mixes, and cake mixes (cereals and pancake mixes are stashed
under the breakfast foods category), as well as canned fruits, veggies,
etc.
Breakfast Foods - cereals, pancake mixes, cinnamon rolls, syrups, jellies, etc.
Cleaning Products & Household Items - stuff to clean with, as well as items such as batteries, hooks, cookware, etc.
Dairy & Frozen Foods - butter, ice cream, yogurt, milk, frozen veggies and breads, etc.
Home & Office - bug sprays, office supplies, furniture, etc.
Hygeine - hair products, razors, toothpastes, toothbrushes, deodorant, etc.
Meats & Pizza/Produce - lunch meats, hot dogs, pizzas, bagged produce
Paper & Plastic - toilet paper, paper towels, foil, plastic wrap, sandwich bags, trash bags, etc.
Pharmacy - vitamins, first aid items, pain relievers, etc.
Restaurants - coupons abound in this category, so expect a full pocket
Snack Foods - chips, dips, snack bars, crackers, cookies, candy, gum, etc.
NOTE: You will notice that some foods could fit in more than one
category. As you make your list and divide up your coupons, you may have
to dry different combinations to keep your stacks fairly even. Jot down
reminder notes, because you may forget at first where you put the
battery coupons. After a while, you'll remember automatically.
Once your coupons are divided, use a divider for each category. Label each divider.
Insert the labeled divider in your binder alphabetically (store
categories first with item categories last) with a sheet protector
between each one. Also insert a sheet protector at the very front. (I
use this front sheet protector for coupons that are about to expire that
week. At each store, I pull out these coupons to see if there's a great
stacking opportunity or if I have a need for that product. One of the
hardest things you have to learn to do is throw coupons away. It almost
feels like I'm burning money every time I do it, but if you don't have a
need for the item, or room for it, you don't need to buy it. And RULE
#1: It's not a bargain unless you can afford it...)
Put your coupons in the sheet protectors behind the appropriate
divider. (At first I tried keeping them organized by expiration date,
but every time I printed out new coupons I would have to go in and
re-organize. This grew old quick. Now I just stick them all together in
their respective pockets. I go through once a week to pull coupons about
to expire and slip them in the front pocket.)
In the store section, as you make your shopping list from the
various store advertisements, clip the appropriate coupons to the
shopping list with a paper clip. I keep a few extra clips attached to
the front inside pocket of my binder. I also keep copies of various
store's coupon policies in this front inside pocket.
In the clear outside pocket of the binder, I keep special vouchers
for Living Social, Saveology, and other such deals. Right now, it's
housing two massages for hubby and myself, a dinner voucher for a
new-to-us restaurant, a free round of bowling, admission to a large cat
sanctuary nearby, a family photography session, and vouchers for a
butcher/deli business near where we live.
Please, please, please remember that my way is not the only way. It
happens to be the way that works best for me. Feel free to use the parts
that help you and throw out the rest. More than anything, HAVE FUN!
(I'd LOVE to hear tips from you in the comment section about what works best for you. Maybe I can pick up a few new tricks!) =)
Happy Saving,
Free Christian Kindle Books for January 10, 2013
While I may not be able to post free books everyday since
it's a time-consuming process, I will post as often as I can. All the books listed
here were 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!
Ordained Irreverence
by McMillian Moody
Published August 2011
Contemporary Fiction: "Ordained Irreverence is a very funny novel about a young church intern named Elmo Jenkins
who's learning the ropes in a big downtown church. It's loaded with
humorous, awkward, and even touching stories, many of which were
inspired by the author's own experiences. The cast of characters filling
the pews at First Church keep Elmo on his toes and more than a
little bewildered at times. Woven throughout Elmo's adventures is a
hundred-year-old mystery he's determined to solve and even a chance at
romance along the way. McMillian Moody's fast-paced, laugh-out-loud novel will bring a smile to even the most backslidden amongst its readers." - OBT Bookz
4.5 stars with 94 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Tea With Emma
by Diane Moody
Published June 2011
Romance novella: Fresh from a Jane Austen tour in England, Maddie Cooper returns home to
Texas, determined to bring a touch of "Austen to Austin." She dreams of
opening an authentic English tea room and, like Austen's Emma, put into
practice her self-proclaimed gift as a matchmaker. But an airport mishap
with a cranky Englishman gets her off on the wrong foot (quite
literally), especially when he moves into the university guest house
across the street. Can Maddie find a love for her unapproachable new
neighbor, or has she finally met her match?
4.2 stars with 52 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Seeking Patience
by Josie Riviera
Published November 2012
Historical: Do people prove their self-worth by strength, or by character? A
Romany leader confronts the English heritage he has denied when he
lands, beaten and powerless, in the path of a high-spirited young widow.
Will the prim countess agree to hide the charismatic rogue in her home
and jeopardize her safety while her stepson accuses her of murdering her
elderly husband? Patience Blakwell is not beautiful. As a
dutiful young countess in Regency England, she endures her husband’s
cruelty. She struggles with her faith, trying to understand why God is
not following the plan she had for her life—to be loved and cherished by
her husband. After her husband’s unexpected death, her grown stepson
charges her with her late husband’s murder. Luca Boldor, more
Gypsy than English, is determined to prove that he is strong and capable
and doesn’t need anyone. But once he is forced to depend on Lady
Patience Blakwell, a woman who represents all he loathes, he must decide
whether he should turn away when she needs him, or risk his most
vulnerable, forgiving self to keep her safe. By denying his English
heritage, has he denied a part of himself?
4.7 stars with 16 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Ruby
by Lauraine Snelling
Published August 2003
Historical: Ruby Torvald and her young sister, Opal, have received an inheritance
from their long-lost father who left home years ago to seek his fortune
in the Black Hills. When they leave their comfortable situation in
Chicago and arrive at the mining town of Medora to claim their
inheritance, the sisters discover that rather than the legacy of gold
they expected, their father has left them a shocking bequest. Ruby's
bold determination in the face of scandal leads the reader on a journey
both heartwarming and inspiring.
4 stars with 91 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Past Forward
by Chautona Havig
Published October 2012
Serial Romance Novella: Past Forward is a serial novel released weekly on Kindle. Alone
without friends or family to comfort her after the death of her mother,
Willow Finley’s idyllic life is over—and just beginning. When
Willow Finley awakes on a hot summer morning, she is unprepared for the
grief that awaits her. Jerked from a life of isolation with her mother,
Willow learns what alone really means when she finds her mother still in
her bed, never to awaken again in this life. From the moment
Willow arrives in the police station with her startling announcement,
Chad Tesdall fights the friendship he knows he can't avoid. Follow
Willow through the first months of motherhood. She learns to battle
schedules, work, teething, and of course, the postpartum bulge. Chad
and she hit a hard place that sends them to their parents for
counsel--and one of the biggest arguments they have ever had. Follow as Willow's story unfolds past forward. Released weekly as a serial novel.
4.8 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Reality's Dawn
by R. L. Copple
Published March 2011
Science Fiction/Fantasy: Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, reality invaded the world. When the presence of reality emerges from under the façade of perception, lives are changed. Forever. A
mystical ring binds Sisko to bless others with miracles and avoid using
its power for himself, which would lead to a curse. With his friends
Josh the wizard and Seth the leader of a gang of thieves, Sisko explores
the emerging reality through his travels and adventures. Journey
with Sisko as reality’s presence confronts and changes the greedy, the
killers, the trapped, the demonic, and Sisko himself.…Reality has dawned, and no one will be the same.
4.6 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
empty.
by Cherie Hill
Published January 2013
Nonfiction: Life can leave you at a loss for words. It has a way of suddenly casting
you into the darkness of doubt. In these desperate moments, you find
your soul being drained dry . . . you’re empty . . . and faith just
doesn’t seem to matter anymore. Faith loses out when you realize that
God could have done something . . . and He did nothing. Your life is
further emptied when you realize that even if you live the “Christian”
life, things don’t always turn out the way you’d like them to . . . and
that’s not the way you hoped faith worked. You don’t want God to comfort
you in your troubles . . . you want Him to take them from you. You’ve been waiting for God to show up, yet He’s actually been waiting for you. He’s ready to meet with you . . . one on one . . . at the well.
4.5 stars with 6 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Hope Being Gone
by Cherie Hill
Published January 2013
Nonfiction: You thought you had hope, until tragedy took over. You thought life was
in control, until it erupted into chaos. You assumed you were strong,
until you were suddenly brought to your knees. You thought you walked by
faith, until you found yourself consumed in the darkness of despair.
Hope is gone. You’re facing circumstances in life that seem
insurmountable, even for God. We quickly realize that our
problem isn’t that we haven’t trusted God, but that we trusted God and
believed He’d come through . . . and He didn’t. He could have prevented
our pain and suffering, but He chose not to. We cry out, but there is no
answer and our faith takes a tragic turn. But God’s silence is
not His solution and His absence is not His answer. His goals are
eternal, not earthly. You want a way out . . . He’s making a way
through. You crave comfort . . . and He brings you to the Cross. It is
there that we realize: we can’t deliver ourselves from a crisis that God
himself has orchestrated. God is taking you on a journey of
faith, and hope is just a step away . . . but a step in the right
direction takes you right through the valley. And it is there, where all
hope seems gone that God takes your faith places you never knew it
could go. He’s teaching you to trust Him through your doubt and in your
fears. He’s growing your faith and showing you that you can trust Him . .
. even when there is no evidence that you should.
4.7 stars with 16 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Identity
by Ted Dekker
Published December 2012
Suspense: Who am I? My name is Christy Snow. I'm seventeen and I'm about to die. I'm
buried in a coffin under tons of concrete. No one knows where I am. My
heart sounds like a monster with clobber feet, running straight toward
me. I'm lying on my back, soaked with sweat from the hair on my head to
the soles of my feet. My hands and feet won't stop shaking. Some
will say that I m not really here. Some will say I'm delusional. Some
will say that I don t even exist. But who are they? I'm the one buried
in a grave. My name is Christy Snow. I'm seventeen. I'm about to die. So who are you?
4.5 stars with 80 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
it's a time-consuming process, I will post as often as I can. All the books listed
here were 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!
Ordained Irreverence
by McMillian Moody
Published August 2011
Contemporary Fiction: "Ordained Irreverence is a very funny novel about a young church intern named Elmo Jenkins
who's learning the ropes in a big downtown church. It's loaded with
humorous, awkward, and even touching stories, many of which were
inspired by the author's own experiences. The cast of characters filling
the pews at First Church keep Elmo on his toes and more than a
little bewildered at times. Woven throughout Elmo's adventures is a
hundred-year-old mystery he's determined to solve and even a chance at
romance along the way. McMillian Moody's fast-paced, laugh-out-loud novel will bring a smile to even the most backslidden amongst its readers." - OBT Bookz
4.5 stars with 94 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Tea With Emma
by Diane Moody
Published June 2011
Romance novella: Fresh from a Jane Austen tour in England, Maddie Cooper returns home to
Texas, determined to bring a touch of "Austen to Austin." She dreams of
opening an authentic English tea room and, like Austen's Emma, put into
practice her self-proclaimed gift as a matchmaker. But an airport mishap
with a cranky Englishman gets her off on the wrong foot (quite
literally), especially when he moves into the university guest house
across the street. Can Maddie find a love for her unapproachable new
neighbor, or has she finally met her match?
4.2 stars with 52 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Seeking Patience
by Josie Riviera
Published November 2012
Historical: Do people prove their self-worth by strength, or by character? A
Romany leader confronts the English heritage he has denied when he
lands, beaten and powerless, in the path of a high-spirited young widow.
Will the prim countess agree to hide the charismatic rogue in her home
and jeopardize her safety while her stepson accuses her of murdering her
elderly husband? Patience Blakwell is not beautiful. As a
dutiful young countess in Regency England, she endures her husband’s
cruelty. She struggles with her faith, trying to understand why God is
not following the plan she had for her life—to be loved and cherished by
her husband. After her husband’s unexpected death, her grown stepson
charges her with her late husband’s murder. Luca Boldor, more
Gypsy than English, is determined to prove that he is strong and capable
and doesn’t need anyone. But once he is forced to depend on Lady
Patience Blakwell, a woman who represents all he loathes, he must decide
whether he should turn away when she needs him, or risk his most
vulnerable, forgiving self to keep her safe. By denying his English
heritage, has he denied a part of himself?
4.7 stars with 16 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Ruby
by Lauraine Snelling
Published August 2003
Historical: Ruby Torvald and her young sister, Opal, have received an inheritance
from their long-lost father who left home years ago to seek his fortune
in the Black Hills. When they leave their comfortable situation in
Chicago and arrive at the mining town of Medora to claim their
inheritance, the sisters discover that rather than the legacy of gold
they expected, their father has left them a shocking bequest. Ruby's
bold determination in the face of scandal leads the reader on a journey
both heartwarming and inspiring.
4 stars with 91 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Past Forward
by Chautona Havig
Published October 2012
Serial Romance Novella: Past Forward is a serial novel released weekly on Kindle. Alone
without friends or family to comfort her after the death of her mother,
Willow Finley’s idyllic life is over—and just beginning. When
Willow Finley awakes on a hot summer morning, she is unprepared for the
grief that awaits her. Jerked from a life of isolation with her mother,
Willow learns what alone really means when she finds her mother still in
her bed, never to awaken again in this life. From the moment
Willow arrives in the police station with her startling announcement,
Chad Tesdall fights the friendship he knows he can't avoid. Follow
Willow through the first months of motherhood. She learns to battle
schedules, work, teething, and of course, the postpartum bulge. Chad
and she hit a hard place that sends them to their parents for
counsel--and one of the biggest arguments they have ever had. Follow as Willow's story unfolds past forward. Released weekly as a serial novel.
4.8 stars with 9 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Reality's Dawn
by R. L. Copple
Published March 2011
Science Fiction/Fantasy: Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, reality invaded the world. When the presence of reality emerges from under the façade of perception, lives are changed. Forever. A
mystical ring binds Sisko to bless others with miracles and avoid using
its power for himself, which would lead to a curse. With his friends
Josh the wizard and Seth the leader of a gang of thieves, Sisko explores
the emerging reality through his travels and adventures. Journey
with Sisko as reality’s presence confronts and changes the greedy, the
killers, the trapped, the demonic, and Sisko himself.…Reality has dawned, and no one will be the same.
4.6 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
empty.
by Cherie Hill
Published January 2013
Nonfiction: Life can leave you at a loss for words. It has a way of suddenly casting
you into the darkness of doubt. In these desperate moments, you find
your soul being drained dry . . . you’re empty . . . and faith just
doesn’t seem to matter anymore. Faith loses out when you realize that
God could have done something . . . and He did nothing. Your life is
further emptied when you realize that even if you live the “Christian”
life, things don’t always turn out the way you’d like them to . . . and
that’s not the way you hoped faith worked. You don’t want God to comfort
you in your troubles . . . you want Him to take them from you. You’ve been waiting for God to show up, yet He’s actually been waiting for you. He’s ready to meet with you . . . one on one . . . at the well.
4.5 stars with 6 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Hope Being Gone
by Cherie Hill
Published January 2013
Nonfiction: You thought you had hope, until tragedy took over. You thought life was
in control, until it erupted into chaos. You assumed you were strong,
until you were suddenly brought to your knees. You thought you walked by
faith, until you found yourself consumed in the darkness of despair.
Hope is gone. You’re facing circumstances in life that seem
insurmountable, even for God. We quickly realize that our
problem isn’t that we haven’t trusted God, but that we trusted God and
believed He’d come through . . . and He didn’t. He could have prevented
our pain and suffering, but He chose not to. We cry out, but there is no
answer and our faith takes a tragic turn. But God’s silence is
not His solution and His absence is not His answer. His goals are
eternal, not earthly. You want a way out . . . He’s making a way
through. You crave comfort . . . and He brings you to the Cross. It is
there that we realize: we can’t deliver ourselves from a crisis that God
himself has orchestrated. God is taking you on a journey of
faith, and hope is just a step away . . . but a step in the right
direction takes you right through the valley. And it is there, where all
hope seems gone that God takes your faith places you never knew it
could go. He’s teaching you to trust Him through your doubt and in your
fears. He’s growing your faith and showing you that you can trust Him . .
. even when there is no evidence that you should.
4.7 stars with 16 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Identity
by Ted Dekker
Published December 2012
Suspense: Who am I? My name is Christy Snow. I'm seventeen and I'm about to die. I'm
buried in a coffin under tons of concrete. No one knows where I am. My
heart sounds like a monster with clobber feet, running straight toward
me. I'm lying on my back, soaked with sweat from the hair on my head to
the soles of my feet. My hands and feet won't stop shaking. Some
will say that I m not really here. Some will say I'm delusional. Some
will say that I don t even exist. But who are they? I'm the one buried
in a grave. My name is Christy Snow. I'm seventeen. I'm about to die. So who are you?
4.5 stars with 80 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 9, 2013
Life Signs
"And this is the promise that He has promised us--eternal life." ~1 John 2:25 (NKJV)
Realize that everyone has sinned, and sin leads to death.
...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God... ~Romans 3:23 (NASB)
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 6:23 (NASB)
Stop and remember that God loves you.
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. ~Romans 5:8 (NASB)
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. ~John 3:16 (NASB)
Make a U-turn. Turn away from your sin and toward God.
Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord... ~Acts 3:19 (NASB)
There's only one way to God: faith in Jesus.
Jesus said to him: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." ~John 14:6 (NASB)
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. ~Ephesians 2:8-9 (NASB)
Yield your life to Jesus.
...that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved... ~Romans 10:9 (NASB)
And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me." ~Luke 9:23 (NASB)
If anyone reading this post has questions concerning your relationship to God, I'd be happy to talk with you further. Just send an email to Cathy at catbry1(at)yahoo(dot)com. Please put the words "life signs" in the subject line so your message won't go to the spam folder. And please don't hesitate--this earthly life is too uncertain to put off your decision concerning God.
“Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” ~Romans 10:13 (NASB)
Heavenly Father, We praise You for being the eternal God and Creator of the universe. All power and honor and glory belong to You and You alone. Help us to recognize our sinful condition and the resulting death that comes with sin. Thank You for loving us in spite of sin and making a way for us to be restored through the sacrifice of Your perfect Son, Jesus, who went to the cross in our place, taking on Himself what we deserved. Help us to turn away from our sin and toward You by placing our faith in Jesus and our lives under His control. We ask these things in the powerful and precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Realize that everyone has sinned, and sin leads to death.
...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God... ~Romans 3:23 (NASB)
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 6:23 (NASB)
Stop and remember that God loves you.
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. ~Romans 5:8 (NASB)
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. ~John 3:16 (NASB)
Make a U-turn. Turn away from your sin and toward God.
Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord... ~Acts 3:19 (NASB)
There's only one way to God: faith in Jesus.
Jesus said to him: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." ~John 14:6 (NASB)
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. ~Ephesians 2:8-9 (NASB)
Yield your life to Jesus.
...that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved... ~Romans 10:9 (NASB)
And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me." ~Luke 9:23 (NASB)
If anyone reading this post has questions concerning your relationship to God, I'd be happy to talk with you further. Just send an email to Cathy at catbry1(at)yahoo(dot)com. Please put the words "life signs" in the subject line so your message won't go to the spam folder. And please don't hesitate--this earthly life is too uncertain to put off your decision concerning God.
“Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” ~Romans 10:13 (NASB)
Heavenly Father, We praise You for being the eternal God and Creator of the universe. All power and honor and glory belong to You and You alone. Help us to recognize our sinful condition and the resulting death that comes with sin. Thank You for loving us in spite of sin and making a way for us to be restored through the sacrifice of Your perfect Son, Jesus, who went to the cross in our place, taking on Himself what we deserved. Help us to turn away from our sin and toward You by placing our faith in Jesus and our lives under His control. We ask these things in the powerful and precious name of Jesus. Amen.
10 Free Christian Kindle Books for January 9, 2013
While I may not be able to post free books everyday since
it's a time-consuming process, I will post as often as I can. All the books listed
here were 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!
The Dog That Talked to God
by Jim Kraus
Published March 2012
Contemporary Fiction: Recently widowed Mary Fassler has no choice except to believe Rufus, the
miniature schnauzer, who claims to speak to the Divine. The
question is: Will Mary follow the dog's advice, and leave everything
she knows and loves? Is this at the urging of God? Or is it something
else? Will Mary risk it all or ignore the urgings of her own heart?
4.3 stars with 132 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Pastor's Wife
by Jennifer AlLee
Published December 2009
Romance: Maura
Sullivan never intended to set foot in Granger, Ohio, again. But when
circumstances force her to return, she must face all the disappointments
she tried so hard to leave behind: a husband who ignored her, a
congregation she couldn’t please, and a God who took away everything she
ever loved. Nick
Shepherd thought he had put the past behind him, until the day his
estranged wife walked back into town. Intending only to help Maura
through her crisis of faith, Nick finds his feelings for her never died.
Now, he must admit the mistakes he made, how he hurt his wife, and find
a way to give and receive forgiveness.As
God works in both of their lives, Nick and Maura start to believe they
can repair their broken relationship and reunite as man and wife. But
Maura has one more secret to tell Nick before they can move forward.
It’s what ultimately drove her to leave him six years earlier, and the
one thing that can destroy the fragile trust they’ve built.
4.1 stars with 119 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Call of Zulina
by Kay Marshall Strom
Published July 2009
Historical Suspense: Set in 1787 in West Africa, The Call of Zulina opens
as the scorching harmattan winds blow. Desperate to avoid marriage to
an odious suitor, Grace escapes the family compound only to be caught up
in a slave revolt at the fortress of Zulina. Soon, she begins to grasp
the brutality and ferocity of the family business. Held for ransom,
viciously maimed by a runaway slave, and threatened with death, Grace is
finally jerked into reality and comes to sympathize with the plight of
the captives. She admires their strength and courage and is genuinely
moved by the African Cabeto’s passion, determination, and willingness to
sacrifice anything, including his own life, for his people’s freedom.
4.1 stars with 34 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Calling of Emily Evans
by Janette Oke
Published October 2006
Historical: She feels God nudging her toward ministry, but what options are there
for a young single woman? Emily Evans has a hard time getting herself to
class on time, much less figuring out God's will for her life. Then, to
her surprise, she feels that God is calling her into full-time
Christian service. She expects the Lord will also provide her with a
companion to share her life and ministry, but Emily does not want to
marry any of the available young men. She squares her shoulders and
decides she will accept the task of opening a new church in a pioneer
community--alone. When Emily arrives at her new assignment, she is
disappointed to find the church building in disrepair. After many days
of hard work fixing it up, she announces her first service and is once
again disappointed, this time in the size of her congregation. Is her
faith strong enough to stand against the local doubters and myriad
challenges that will test her calling?
4.3 stars with 29 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Shift
by D. Doyle Reynolds
Published March 2012
Contemporary Fiction: Sandy thinks a night of baby-sitting five-year-old Cassie, who reads
Dickens, will be fun, and that maybe she can get to the bottom of
Cassie’s nightmares and a secret the little girl is hiding. When an
experimental weather-control device falls off the Navy jet carrying it
and it crashes just blocks away up in the hills, it ramps up, out of
control, and they awake to a massive storm and utter darkness. With the
power outage, the only working radio Sandy can find is one that her dear
departed husband had stored in a metal drum of survival gear in the
garage. Sandy and Cassie learn that there is an exodus to the
local Police Station for shelter because their chunk of town has been
taken someplace else by the faulty apparatus that has borne them away in
a bubble of time and space where angels and demons, or something, are
fighting in the sky and on the ground. Cassie thinks that’s what they
are because that is what they resemble. Others believe they are aliens
at war and they are helplessly marooned with them. Meanwhile, the
military aparatus is outside The Zone attempting to undo the damage,
even as virtually every branch of the Federal Government decends upon
the coastal community of Ventura, California.
4.9 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Red Leaves and the Living Token
by Benjamin David Burrell
Published May 2012
Science Fiction/Fantasy: Doctors tell Raj that his son Emret won't survive his illness. As Raj struggles to prepare himself and Emret for the inevitable, he's confronted by Moslin, his son's nurse, who's been filling Emret's head with fairytales about heroic quests and powerful disease curing miracles. Emret now thinks that all he has to do is find the mythical Red Tree from the nurse's stories, and he'll live. In an attempt to protect his son from further emotional damage, Raj asks Moslin to stay away from Emret. He returns hours later to find them both missing. He searches the fairytales for clues to where they may have gone and stumbles upon stories that, strangely, he already knows. He saw them in a vision just before his son disappeared.
4.2 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Dunn Deal
by Catherine Leggitt
Published February 2012
Suspense: Rumors of dirty cops, midnight meetings on Friday the thirteenth, and a
forested militia masquerading as a religious cult—these and other
peculiar elements complicate the senseless murder of Deputy Sheriff
Baxter Dunn, son-in-law of Christine Sterling’s best friend and mentor
Zora Jane Callahan. The subject may be frightful, but amateur
sleuth Christine Sterling tackles it with her characteristic blend of
snoopiness and tenacity, especially after Molly, her beloved border
collie, is dog napped in retaliation for Christine’s intrusion into
matters that are none of her business. National media attention
fuels the escalating conflict between Christine and the authorities.
Constance Boyd, a renowned newswoman, arrives to launch her own inquiry
into the murder. When she crosses paths with Zora Jane, a strong
Christian with a heart for spreading the Gospel, she is confronted with
Truth. Zora Jane challenges postmodern humanistic beliefs using
scripture. But Miss Boyd clings to her perverted “religion.” Suspicions
develop concerning which of the lawmen can be trusted, if any. Truth is
challenged on every side. When a second murder jolts the tranquil
community, Christine gets tagged as the prime suspect. Who will rescue
Molly if Christine ends up behind bars?
4.2 stars with 11 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Faithful One
by Michele Chynoweth
Published January 2012
Contemporary Fiction: Seth Jacobs has it all -- a successful business, a mansion in greater
Boston, a beautiful wife and three loving children. Yet, in a series of
events beyond his control Seth loses everything, including his health.
Struggling to find some understanding amidst his pain, Seth’s faith is
challenged further by his wife Maria, who betrays him, and even his
friends, who suggest that perhaps God has His reasons for inflicting so
much suffering upon him. At the end of his rope, Seth meets Lucille
O’Hanlon, a young yet wise social worker who tries to help him realize
the spiritual solution he so desperately seeks. Lucille also begins to
fill the void left by Seth’s losses, and as they grow closer together,
he must finally determine if their relationship is of God’s Will or just
his own. Seth questions God as we all do in times of hardship.
With Lucille’s help, he finally receives an unexpected answer to his
despair and is faced with decisions that will determine the new path his
life takes. A modern-day story based on the Book of Job, The Faithful
One inspires us all to have a little faith no matter what.
4.8 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
You're Worth It!
by Pat Rinker
Published December 2012
Christian Youth Ministry: You’re Worth It! - A Scripture Devotional Helping Teens to Love God with their whole heart, mind, soul and strength. From
the author who has inspired thousands of young people in their faith
journey for nearly four decades, comes the Scripture Devotional for
Youth, You’re Worth It! – a compelling daily blueprint for teens and
young adults, providing inspiration and guidance for building the most
important relationship one can have, a deep and personal relationship
with God! “All that life is, is a series of relationships, in
which we learn to love God and others. Everything else either
contributes to that or distracts us from it.” Rinker’s philosophy of
ministry follows that all ministry is relational. “Whether or not we
have effective ministry depends on the quality of our relationships.” In
Rinker’s first Scripture Devotional for teens and young adults, Pat
leads you step-by-step to a growing awareness of God’s presence, as you
build a deep and personal relationship with Him. Presented in Pat’s
compassionate and approachable style, this devotional for youth is the
first of its kind to directly confront the true challenges facing
Christian teens in this second decade of the 21st century. Youth
Ministry Leaders will also find this 270-page book a wonderful resources
for their Youth Programs, providing an inspiring and engaging resource
for ongoing youth devotional programs.
5 stars with 6 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Lost the Plot
by Paul Beck
Published July 2012
Nonfiction: Complacent, asleep, ineffective, hypocritical. However you choose to
describe it, the church simply isn't working. In Lost the Plot, you get
an in depth look at our failures and what we can do to fix them. Dive
into what the Bible says about the early church and take a look at our
own churches from the outside in. Lost the Plot will leave you
with a sense that there is more to church than 2 hours on the weekend in
an elegant, multi-million dollar building sipping a latte. We have
forgotten our first love in America and have replaced Him with love for
ourselves. We have lost the plot.
4.3 stars with 10 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
it's a time-consuming process, I will post as often as I can. All the books listed
here were 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!
The Dog That Talked to God
by Jim Kraus
Published March 2012
Contemporary Fiction: Recently widowed Mary Fassler has no choice except to believe Rufus, the
miniature schnauzer, who claims to speak to the Divine. The
question is: Will Mary follow the dog's advice, and leave everything
she knows and loves? Is this at the urging of God? Or is it something
else? Will Mary risk it all or ignore the urgings of her own heart?
4.3 stars with 132 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Pastor's Wife
by Jennifer AlLee
Published December 2009
Romance: Maura
Sullivan never intended to set foot in Granger, Ohio, again. But when
circumstances force her to return, she must face all the disappointments
she tried so hard to leave behind: a husband who ignored her, a
congregation she couldn’t please, and a God who took away everything she
ever loved. Nick
Shepherd thought he had put the past behind him, until the day his
estranged wife walked back into town. Intending only to help Maura
through her crisis of faith, Nick finds his feelings for her never died.
Now, he must admit the mistakes he made, how he hurt his wife, and find
a way to give and receive forgiveness.As
God works in both of their lives, Nick and Maura start to believe they
can repair their broken relationship and reunite as man and wife. But
Maura has one more secret to tell Nick before they can move forward.
It’s what ultimately drove her to leave him six years earlier, and the
one thing that can destroy the fragile trust they’ve built.
4.1 stars with 119 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Call of Zulina
by Kay Marshall Strom
Published July 2009
Historical Suspense: Set in 1787 in West Africa, The Call of Zulina opens
as the scorching harmattan winds blow. Desperate to avoid marriage to
an odious suitor, Grace escapes the family compound only to be caught up
in a slave revolt at the fortress of Zulina. Soon, she begins to grasp
the brutality and ferocity of the family business. Held for ransom,
viciously maimed by a runaway slave, and threatened with death, Grace is
finally jerked into reality and comes to sympathize with the plight of
the captives. She admires their strength and courage and is genuinely
moved by the African Cabeto’s passion, determination, and willingness to
sacrifice anything, including his own life, for his people’s freedom.
4.1 stars with 34 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Calling of Emily Evans
by Janette Oke
Published October 2006
Historical: She feels God nudging her toward ministry, but what options are there
for a young single woman? Emily Evans has a hard time getting herself to
class on time, much less figuring out God's will for her life. Then, to
her surprise, she feels that God is calling her into full-time
Christian service. She expects the Lord will also provide her with a
companion to share her life and ministry, but Emily does not want to
marry any of the available young men. She squares her shoulders and
decides she will accept the task of opening a new church in a pioneer
community--alone. When Emily arrives at her new assignment, she is
disappointed to find the church building in disrepair. After many days
of hard work fixing it up, she announces her first service and is once
again disappointed, this time in the size of her congregation. Is her
faith strong enough to stand against the local doubters and myriad
challenges that will test her calling?
4.3 stars with 29 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Shift
by D. Doyle Reynolds
Published March 2012
Contemporary Fiction: Sandy thinks a night of baby-sitting five-year-old Cassie, who reads
Dickens, will be fun, and that maybe she can get to the bottom of
Cassie’s nightmares and a secret the little girl is hiding. When an
experimental weather-control device falls off the Navy jet carrying it
and it crashes just blocks away up in the hills, it ramps up, out of
control, and they awake to a massive storm and utter darkness. With the
power outage, the only working radio Sandy can find is one that her dear
departed husband had stored in a metal drum of survival gear in the
garage. Sandy and Cassie learn that there is an exodus to the
local Police Station for shelter because their chunk of town has been
taken someplace else by the faulty apparatus that has borne them away in
a bubble of time and space where angels and demons, or something, are
fighting in the sky and on the ground. Cassie thinks that’s what they
are because that is what they resemble. Others believe they are aliens
at war and they are helplessly marooned with them. Meanwhile, the
military aparatus is outside The Zone attempting to undo the damage,
even as virtually every branch of the Federal Government decends upon
the coastal community of Ventura, California.
4.9 stars with 7 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Red Leaves and the Living Token
by Benjamin David Burrell
Published May 2012
Science Fiction/Fantasy: Doctors tell Raj that his son Emret won't survive his illness. As Raj struggles to prepare himself and Emret for the inevitable, he's confronted by Moslin, his son's nurse, who's been filling Emret's head with fairytales about heroic quests and powerful disease curing miracles. Emret now thinks that all he has to do is find the mythical Red Tree from the nurse's stories, and he'll live. In an attempt to protect his son from further emotional damage, Raj asks Moslin to stay away from Emret. He returns hours later to find them both missing. He searches the fairytales for clues to where they may have gone and stumbles upon stories that, strangely, he already knows. He saw them in a vision just before his son disappeared.
4.2 stars with 5 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Dunn Deal
by Catherine Leggitt
Published February 2012
Suspense: Rumors of dirty cops, midnight meetings on Friday the thirteenth, and a
forested militia masquerading as a religious cult—these and other
peculiar elements complicate the senseless murder of Deputy Sheriff
Baxter Dunn, son-in-law of Christine Sterling’s best friend and mentor
Zora Jane Callahan. The subject may be frightful, but amateur
sleuth Christine Sterling tackles it with her characteristic blend of
snoopiness and tenacity, especially after Molly, her beloved border
collie, is dog napped in retaliation for Christine’s intrusion into
matters that are none of her business. National media attention
fuels the escalating conflict between Christine and the authorities.
Constance Boyd, a renowned newswoman, arrives to launch her own inquiry
into the murder. When she crosses paths with Zora Jane, a strong
Christian with a heart for spreading the Gospel, she is confronted with
Truth. Zora Jane challenges postmodern humanistic beliefs using
scripture. But Miss Boyd clings to her perverted “religion.” Suspicions
develop concerning which of the lawmen can be trusted, if any. Truth is
challenged on every side. When a second murder jolts the tranquil
community, Christine gets tagged as the prime suspect. Who will rescue
Molly if Christine ends up behind bars?
4.2 stars with 11 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
The Faithful One
by Michele Chynoweth
Published January 2012
Contemporary Fiction: Seth Jacobs has it all -- a successful business, a mansion in greater
Boston, a beautiful wife and three loving children. Yet, in a series of
events beyond his control Seth loses everything, including his health.
Struggling to find some understanding amidst his pain, Seth’s faith is
challenged further by his wife Maria, who betrays him, and even his
friends, who suggest that perhaps God has His reasons for inflicting so
much suffering upon him. At the end of his rope, Seth meets Lucille
O’Hanlon, a young yet wise social worker who tries to help him realize
the spiritual solution he so desperately seeks. Lucille also begins to
fill the void left by Seth’s losses, and as they grow closer together,
he must finally determine if their relationship is of God’s Will or just
his own. Seth questions God as we all do in times of hardship.
With Lucille’s help, he finally receives an unexpected answer to his
despair and is faced with decisions that will determine the new path his
life takes. A modern-day story based on the Book of Job, The Faithful
One inspires us all to have a little faith no matter what.
4.8 stars with 14 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
You're Worth It!
by Pat Rinker
Published December 2012
Christian Youth Ministry: You’re Worth It! - A Scripture Devotional Helping Teens to Love God with their whole heart, mind, soul and strength. From
the author who has inspired thousands of young people in their faith
journey for nearly four decades, comes the Scripture Devotional for
Youth, You’re Worth It! – a compelling daily blueprint for teens and
young adults, providing inspiration and guidance for building the most
important relationship one can have, a deep and personal relationship
with God! “All that life is, is a series of relationships, in
which we learn to love God and others. Everything else either
contributes to that or distracts us from it.” Rinker’s philosophy of
ministry follows that all ministry is relational. “Whether or not we
have effective ministry depends on the quality of our relationships.” In
Rinker’s first Scripture Devotional for teens and young adults, Pat
leads you step-by-step to a growing awareness of God’s presence, as you
build a deep and personal relationship with Him. Presented in Pat’s
compassionate and approachable style, this devotional for youth is the
first of its kind to directly confront the true challenges facing
Christian teens in this second decade of the 21st century. Youth
Ministry Leaders will also find this 270-page book a wonderful resources
for their Youth Programs, providing an inspiring and engaging resource
for ongoing youth devotional programs.
5 stars with 6 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
Lost the Plot
by Paul Beck
Published July 2012
Nonfiction: Complacent, asleep, ineffective, hypocritical. However you choose to
describe it, the church simply isn't working. In Lost the Plot, you get
an in depth look at our failures and what we can do to fix them. Dive
into what the Bible says about the early church and take a look at our
own churches from the outside in. Lost the Plot will leave you
with a sense that there is more to church than 2 hours on the weekend in
an elegant, multi-million dollar building sipping a latte. We have
forgotten our first love in America and have replaced Him with love for
ourselves. We have lost the plot.
4.3 stars with 10 reviews
Free? Click HERE to see.
January 8, 2013
Writer Wednesday: Tips on the Re-Writing Process
Yay! You've done it. You've finished the first draft of your novel! Congrats! That, in and of itself is a major accomplishment, because lots of people want to write a book, but few ever do. So now what? Sorry to burst your finally-done-with-my-book bubble, but you're not finished yet. In fact, you're just now getting started.
Several well-known writers have intimated that a book isn't just written, it's re-written. In fact, most writers make several passes through their story during the re-writing so they can focus on fewer things as they go through their novel with a fine-toothed comb. Now that you have your story down on paper, here are a few tips that I follow during the re-writing process that will hopefully help you as well. (Please keep in mind that I don't complete all the following in one pass through the story, but usually in several passes or read-throughs.)
Take some time away from your story. I would suggest at least a week and no more than a month. Take too little, and you're still too close to the story to eye it objectively. Take too much, and you'll lose your heart for this particular story.
Determine whether or not you want to read it in print or on the computer. In my estimation, there are pros and cons to each approach. It is easier to mark up in print (and to read it a comfortable location), but it is expensive to print out your novels when it comes to paper and ink. I now use my laptop for my personal re-writing process, using highlighters and other colors of ink to make notations. If it's a simple typo, spelling, punctuation, or restructuring of sentences, I correct it on the spot. Otherwise, I just make a mark or notation and keep going.
Read through your novel as quickly as you can, preferably out loud. (Reading out loud keeps you from skimming over the words and helps you locate odd phrasing and repeated words.) Note where things need to be added or subtracted. Don't take the time to re-write now unless it will be a simple fix. The purpose of reading through quickly is to get a feel for the pacing and flow of the story. It will also help you catch structure and timeline issues, though if you did your pre-writing well, you most likely won't have too many problems here.
Once you've finished the initial reading, go back through your notes and markings and make the needed corrections.
On the next pass, check descriptions. Do you thoroughly ground the reader in the scene with your descriptions? Are they too wordy and lengthy? (I find that a book is easier to read when you add little snippets of description throughout the scene rather than large chunks of nothing but description.) Can the reader get a strong sense of the characters and the setting?
Pay careful attention to the beginnings and endings of scenes, as well as time and location transitions. There needs to be a good flow that doesn't confuse the reader. Scene beginnings need to answer the questions: who, where, when, why, what, and how. Scene endings need to leave the reader hanging a bit, so they're eager to turn the page to find out what happens next. And make sure that you haven't jumped from one time frame or location to another without giving your reader adequate information.
On yet another pass, you need to pay careful attention to the dialogue. Make sure that the reader can determine who is talking. At the same time, you don't want to have dialogue tags after every snippet of dialogue. I have a general rule of thumb that I include some kind of identification of who is speaking for every three snippets of dialogue. More than that and it confuses the reader.
With more writing experience, you will begin to notice the pet words and phrases you tend to use. Use the find feature in your word processing program to locate these "pets," and find another way to write the same thing, but fresher! Watch out for cliches. (While it's okay for your characters to speak in cliches, it's not okay for you as the writer. Yank those puppies out of there! Hmmm...I think that might be a bit cliche...)
Use the strongest words you can find. Replace words like "walk" with sauntered, scuttled, bustled, strode, tiptoed, strolled, strutted, etc. This will make your writing come alive!
Eliminate unnecessary adjectives and adverbs. It will strengthen your writing.
Check to make sure that you vary the sentence structure. Don't start every sentence with a personal pronoun. (I try to only use "he" or "she" at the beginning of a sentence once per paragraph.) This step will make your readers happy!
Check for sensory detail in every scene. Can your readers not only see what is happening, but also smell, taste, feel, hear, touch, and intuit?
Make sure that emotion levels are appropriate for the scene. Readers want to be emotionally connected to the story, so adding sorrow, joy, anger, etc. is very important. But if your characters are constantly emoting, it will wear the reader out and become unbelievable.
Make sure that every scene reveals the main character's goal and motivation.
Make sure that every page has plenty of conflict, whether in dialogue or in action. Conflict keeps the reader reading.
As I begin edits to Pilgrimage of Promise (book 4 in the Miller's Creek novels), I will be applying these tips. Hope these suggestions are useful to you in your re-writing process. And if any of you have a tip to share, please feel free to list it in the comments below.
Happy re-writing!
Several well-known writers have intimated that a book isn't just written, it's re-written. In fact, most writers make several passes through their story during the re-writing so they can focus on fewer things as they go through their novel with a fine-toothed comb. Now that you have your story down on paper, here are a few tips that I follow during the re-writing process that will hopefully help you as well. (Please keep in mind that I don't complete all the following in one pass through the story, but usually in several passes or read-throughs.)
Take some time away from your story. I would suggest at least a week and no more than a month. Take too little, and you're still too close to the story to eye it objectively. Take too much, and you'll lose your heart for this particular story.
Determine whether or not you want to read it in print or on the computer. In my estimation, there are pros and cons to each approach. It is easier to mark up in print (and to read it a comfortable location), but it is expensive to print out your novels when it comes to paper and ink. I now use my laptop for my personal re-writing process, using highlighters and other colors of ink to make notations. If it's a simple typo, spelling, punctuation, or restructuring of sentences, I correct it on the spot. Otherwise, I just make a mark or notation and keep going.
Read through your novel as quickly as you can, preferably out loud. (Reading out loud keeps you from skimming over the words and helps you locate odd phrasing and repeated words.) Note where things need to be added or subtracted. Don't take the time to re-write now unless it will be a simple fix. The purpose of reading through quickly is to get a feel for the pacing and flow of the story. It will also help you catch structure and timeline issues, though if you did your pre-writing well, you most likely won't have too many problems here.
Once you've finished the initial reading, go back through your notes and markings and make the needed corrections.
On the next pass, check descriptions. Do you thoroughly ground the reader in the scene with your descriptions? Are they too wordy and lengthy? (I find that a book is easier to read when you add little snippets of description throughout the scene rather than large chunks of nothing but description.) Can the reader get a strong sense of the characters and the setting?
Pay careful attention to the beginnings and endings of scenes, as well as time and location transitions. There needs to be a good flow that doesn't confuse the reader. Scene beginnings need to answer the questions: who, where, when, why, what, and how. Scene endings need to leave the reader hanging a bit, so they're eager to turn the page to find out what happens next. And make sure that you haven't jumped from one time frame or location to another without giving your reader adequate information.
On yet another pass, you need to pay careful attention to the dialogue. Make sure that the reader can determine who is talking. At the same time, you don't want to have dialogue tags after every snippet of dialogue. I have a general rule of thumb that I include some kind of identification of who is speaking for every three snippets of dialogue. More than that and it confuses the reader.
With more writing experience, you will begin to notice the pet words and phrases you tend to use. Use the find feature in your word processing program to locate these "pets," and find another way to write the same thing, but fresher! Watch out for cliches. (While it's okay for your characters to speak in cliches, it's not okay for you as the writer. Yank those puppies out of there! Hmmm...I think that might be a bit cliche...)
Use the strongest words you can find. Replace words like "walk" with sauntered, scuttled, bustled, strode, tiptoed, strolled, strutted, etc. This will make your writing come alive!
Eliminate unnecessary adjectives and adverbs. It will strengthen your writing.
Check to make sure that you vary the sentence structure. Don't start every sentence with a personal pronoun. (I try to only use "he" or "she" at the beginning of a sentence once per paragraph.) This step will make your readers happy!
Check for sensory detail in every scene. Can your readers not only see what is happening, but also smell, taste, feel, hear, touch, and intuit?
Make sure that emotion levels are appropriate for the scene. Readers want to be emotionally connected to the story, so adding sorrow, joy, anger, etc. is very important. But if your characters are constantly emoting, it will wear the reader out and become unbelievable.
Make sure that every scene reveals the main character's goal and motivation.
Make sure that every page has plenty of conflict, whether in dialogue or in action. Conflict keeps the reader reading.
As I begin edits to Pilgrimage of Promise (book 4 in the Miller's Creek novels), I will be applying these tips. Hope these suggestions are useful to you in your re-writing process. And if any of you have a tip to share, please feel free to list it in the comments below.
Happy re-writing!
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
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