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Forty Loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day
“Why don’t I have more faith?”
“Why am I so bored with Jesus?”
“Why are Christians so hard for me to like?”
There are many questions we’re not supposed to ask when playing by the religious rules. It makes people uncomfortable. So why is it that Jesus invited questions and even asked some of them himself? What is it that you’re afraid to ask God? It’s a risky prospect to begin asking–but far riskier to continue simply trying to get by without knowing. Author C. D. Baker asked himself 40 soul-searching questions which started a conversation in his heart and ultimately showed him more about God than He ever expected.
Can we become more honest with who we really are and find who God says He really is at the same time? Come indulge yourself in daily readings with an honest exploration of your secret fears and thoughts, and know that you will always be welcomed in God’s unconditional love.
Search me, O God … and know my anxious thoughts.
–Psalm 139:23 NIV
“Why am I so bored with Jesus?”
“Why are Christians so hard for me to like?”
There are many questions we’re not supposed to ask when playing by the religious rules. It makes people uncomfortable. So why is it that Jesus invited questions and even asked some of them himself? What is it that you’re afraid to ask God? It’s a risky prospect to begin asking–but far riskier to continue simply trying to get by without knowing. Author C. D. Baker asked himself 40 soul-searching questions which started a conversation in his heart and ultimately showed him more about God than He ever expected.
Can we become more honest with who we really are and find who God says He really is at the same time? Come indulge yourself in daily readings with an honest exploration of your secret fears and thoughts, and know that you will always be welcomed in God’s unconditional love.
Search me, O God … and know my anxious thoughts.
–Psalm 139:23 NIV
176 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
1 person is currently reading
3 people want to read
About the author
C.D. Baker
13 books15 followers C. David Baker’s first novel, A Journey of Souls, was released in 2000 and re-released in 2004 as Crusade of Tears…a Christee Nominee. He has written nine historical novels, two Christian devotionals, and a children's book published variously in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Ukraine and Russia. Research has taken him throughout Europe, and his interviews have included a variety of fascinating people such Manfred Rommel, son of Fieldmarshal Rommel, and Johann Voss, author and veteran of the Waffen-SS, both of whom contributed much to Baker’s 'Seduction of Eva Volk.
The descendant of early German and Scottish immigrants to Pennsylvania, Baker’s family tree is an assortment of Mennonite, Reformed, and Presbyterian families including Adam Neff–the flag bearer who stood by Zwingli as he died during the battle of Kappel, William Rittenhouse–the first American paper maker, and William Penn’s Dutch grandmother. Twenty of his ancestors served in Pennsylvania militias during the American Revolution.
The father of two sons, Baker lives on a small farm with his wife, Sue. Together they raise livestock with an interest in natural/organic methods and a passion for humane treatment. Failure has been part of his life as well. It has been these deep valleys that have led David to the well of Grace from which the essence of his writing is drawn,
The descendant of early German and Scottish immigrants to Pennsylvania, Baker’s family tree is an assortment of Mennonite, Reformed, and Presbyterian families including Adam Neff–the flag bearer who stood by Zwingli as he died during the battle of Kappel, William Rittenhouse–the first American paper maker, and William Penn’s Dutch grandmother. Twenty of his ancestors served in Pennsylvania militias during the American Revolution.
The father of two sons, Baker lives on a small farm with his wife, Sue. Together they raise livestock with an interest in natural/organic methods and a passion for humane treatment. Failure has been part of his life as well. It has been these deep valleys that have led David to the well of Grace from which the essence of his writing is drawn,
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
September 9, 2016
When I read the summary for the forty day devotional 40 loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day, by C.D. Baker, I was skeptical. It starts, “There are many questions we’re not supposed to ask...” Oh boy, I thought, what in the world is this book about? Honestly, I don’t know of a devotional book I would more quickly recommend to every Christian, no matter how long they’ve known Christ. Each chapter starts with what could be considered an “uncomfortable” question in any Christian circle. I’m pretty sure though, that God can handle my questions. Maybe even those questions, that may make others uncomfortable, will draw not only me, but anyone that learns the answer, closer to God! This book has given me insight to things that I really never was comfortable enough to figure it out on my own. It is heavily scripture filled, very biblically based. Why should we not ask a question because “we’re not supposed to,” or because “it’s not culturally acceptable?” When questions are not asked, answers are not discovered, and things never change. Why should someone else say what I can or cannot ask God? He welcomes our question! I strongly encourage you to read this book!
*This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.*
*This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.*
January 16, 2021
Spiritually challenging read.
The supporting scripture & stories he uses to illustrate the 40 individual questions have been thought provoking. I especially enjoyed reflecting on the prayers. I often found myself exploring the food for thought questions before getting there. I liked that because it meant I was on target and using the reading to reflect and listen to the Spirits leading.
Overall, great read.
The supporting scripture & stories he uses to illustrate the 40 individual questions have been thought provoking. I especially enjoyed reflecting on the prayers. I often found myself exploring the food for thought questions before getting there. I liked that because it meant I was on target and using the reading to reflect and listen to the Spirits leading.
Overall, great read.
February 17, 2017
Devotional books abound these days. They remain popular since Christians continue to desire books which help them connect with God. Scriptural readings followed by devotional thoughts, a prayer or a poem - this is what one expects to encounter with books in this genre. One doesn't expect to be given penetrating and even troubling questions.
40 Loaves does just that. C.D. Baker dares to ask and discuss the questions that find their way into our heart of hearts. Why do I so easily lose self-control? Why am I so uncomfortable with doubts? Why can't I overcome sin in my life? Why am I so discontented? These questions (and more like them) aren't addressed easily.
I knew that this book addressed such questions. I wasn't prepared for how relevant the treatment of them would be. Baker uses such questions to probe deeply into our souls, and to ground us firmly in the gospel of God's free grace. Throughout his devotioanl readings, he displays a gift in cutting to the heart of the problem.
Each reading begins with a story or example which draws us into the problem represented by the question covered in the reading. The stories are gleaned from Baker's ministry and life experience, and they do much to keep the book interesting. The devotional then considers the question and finds the key issue or obstacle such a question reveals. The Scripture is briefly applied to the problem at hand, and some questions for further reflection are provided. The section ends with a brief prayer pertinent to the issue.
The readings are short, 4 small pages each. Yet their message is weighty. Don't think the book is frighteningly sober or dreadfully serious. It is, but it isn't. Baker manages to keep the readings eminently readable, interesting and above all, helpful.
As a once-upon-a-time-legalist, I found Baker's emphasis on grace refreshing, and his exposure of their peril of performance-based Christianity convincing. Baker also quite often gives encouragement and reminds us that we are human after all. It would be wrong to assume that Baker just offers a cheery view of the world, however. He acknowledges and addresses the grittiness of the Christian struggle. And his thoughts are grounded in Scripture. I appreciated his emphasis on the centrality of the gospel and his encouragement to focus on Jesus.
This little volume will be a blessing to you. All the more if you find yourself voicing some disturbing questions. 40 Loaves will prove to be accessible to almost any reader, and offers a high return on any investment involved in the reading. This book has made me interested in picking up some of Baker's other devotional books. I encourage you to pick up a copy of this book, you won't be disappointed.
This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.
40 Loaves does just that. C.D. Baker dares to ask and discuss the questions that find their way into our heart of hearts. Why do I so easily lose self-control? Why am I so uncomfortable with doubts? Why can't I overcome sin in my life? Why am I so discontented? These questions (and more like them) aren't addressed easily.
I knew that this book addressed such questions. I wasn't prepared for how relevant the treatment of them would be. Baker uses such questions to probe deeply into our souls, and to ground us firmly in the gospel of God's free grace. Throughout his devotioanl readings, he displays a gift in cutting to the heart of the problem.
Each reading begins with a story or example which draws us into the problem represented by the question covered in the reading. The stories are gleaned from Baker's ministry and life experience, and they do much to keep the book interesting. The devotional then considers the question and finds the key issue or obstacle such a question reveals. The Scripture is briefly applied to the problem at hand, and some questions for further reflection are provided. The section ends with a brief prayer pertinent to the issue.
The readings are short, 4 small pages each. Yet their message is weighty. Don't think the book is frighteningly sober or dreadfully serious. It is, but it isn't. Baker manages to keep the readings eminently readable, interesting and above all, helpful.
As a once-upon-a-time-legalist, I found Baker's emphasis on grace refreshing, and his exposure of their peril of performance-based Christianity convincing. Baker also quite often gives encouragement and reminds us that we are human after all. It would be wrong to assume that Baker just offers a cheery view of the world, however. He acknowledges and addresses the grittiness of the Christian struggle. And his thoughts are grounded in Scripture. I appreciated his emphasis on the centrality of the gospel and his encouragement to focus on Jesus.
This little volume will be a blessing to you. All the more if you find yourself voicing some disturbing questions. 40 Loaves will prove to be accessible to almost any reader, and offers a high return on any investment involved in the reading. This book has made me interested in picking up some of Baker's other devotional books. I encourage you to pick up a copy of this book, you won't be disappointed.
This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.
March 24, 2010
"Wisdom is found when troubled hearts ask honest questions" is the opening statement to this lovely devotional book by C. D. Baker, author of 101 Cups of Water.
In `Forty Loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day`, the author presents forty thought provoking devotional messages that stir your the reader to examine their personal beliefs and perhaps engage some new ideas.
This is an honest book filled with straight forward comments, conversations, and illustrations. I must say, there were many sections I would consider favorites, but my select favorites were:
Why Am I Afraid to Read My Bible?
(Chapter Six)
Loved this one because it gets to the heart of one of the most basic of Christian struggles. As Christians, we want to read our Bible but there are times when the Truth contain in the Scriptures we read are hard to hear, hard to receive, and hard to incorporate into our lives.
Why Does Grace Sometimes Make Me Uncomfortable?
(Chapter Twenty)
Another great chapter as it deals with the basic human need to forever try to buy or earn or keep our salvation. Even after years of walking with God, Christians will sometimes resort to this behavior. It is almost like it is our default response. This chapter open with an especially good illustration. A conversation with a woman about just accepting the free gift of Grace.
Why Am I So Dependent on Order in My Life?
(Chapter Twenty-Nine)
This message gave me new insight as the term `Order Addiction' was explained. I discovered here that planning (even in the mindset of attempting `good stewardship') can be idol worship, something I had not considered before.
If you are looking for a conversational devotional or know a friend struggling with a few of the basics of Christianity and perhaps has a few honest questions, this would be a great choice.
Read it for the personal challenge or examination, then bring it with you to discuss over coffee with a friend. I recommend it highly.
Disclaimer:
The review copy of this book was provided free of charge by Waterbrook Multnomah and was donated to the library of Westwood Baptist Church
In `Forty Loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day`, the author presents forty thought provoking devotional messages that stir your the reader to examine their personal beliefs and perhaps engage some new ideas.
This is an honest book filled with straight forward comments, conversations, and illustrations. I must say, there were many sections I would consider favorites, but my select favorites were:
Why Am I Afraid to Read My Bible?
(Chapter Six)
Loved this one because it gets to the heart of one of the most basic of Christian struggles. As Christians, we want to read our Bible but there are times when the Truth contain in the Scriptures we read are hard to hear, hard to receive, and hard to incorporate into our lives.
Why Does Grace Sometimes Make Me Uncomfortable?
(Chapter Twenty)
Another great chapter as it deals with the basic human need to forever try to buy or earn or keep our salvation. Even after years of walking with God, Christians will sometimes resort to this behavior. It is almost like it is our default response. This chapter open with an especially good illustration. A conversation with a woman about just accepting the free gift of Grace.
Why Am I So Dependent on Order in My Life?
(Chapter Twenty-Nine)
This message gave me new insight as the term `Order Addiction' was explained. I discovered here that planning (even in the mindset of attempting `good stewardship') can be idol worship, something I had not considered before.
If you are looking for a conversational devotional or know a friend struggling with a few of the basics of Christianity and perhaps has a few honest questions, this would be a great choice.
Read it for the personal challenge or examination, then bring it with you to discuss over coffee with a friend. I recommend it highly.
Disclaimer:
The review copy of this book was provided free of charge by Waterbrook Multnomah and was donated to the library of Westwood Baptist Church
December 8, 2009
Have you heard of this before? 40 loaves - Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day by C.D. Baker.
I ask because he's authored several books and yet this is the first I've heard of him!
As the New Year approaches this would be a great way to start off the New Year with some daily devotional reflections that will tickle your taste buds for the first 40 days! The comforting aroma that Baker provides will melt in your mouth and make you crave more! (laughing now because I just realized his last name is Baker and the book is loaves... that's funny lol bread.. baker.. get it? sorry, yes. I couldn't resist.).
Seriously though I really enjoyed this devotional. I found it interesting, compelling and moving. Baker really asks a lot of tough questions. Each chapter or slice will give you insight, encouragement and perhaps a renewed sense of worth in your relationship with God. He asks a lot of tough questions with his "Food for Thought" questions, such as why don’t I have more faith? or why am I so bored with Jesus? And one that really touched me was why don’t I feel connected at church? or Why don't I know what I want in life? I tell ya he covers questions that you didn't even THINK you had an issue with!
It really made me question my motives, and gave me an opportunity to have a real heart to heart with God. It pushed my buttons to think beyond myself and make me move forward with my relationship with Christ and that is so important!
“40 Loaves is something of a collection of the kinds of questions I felt finally free to ask of myself and of my relationship with Christ,” says Baker. “It’s my belief that these questions are shared by many others who long for the freedom to simply ask them out loud. I hope this book becomes a platform that frees others to search their hearts more deeply and be fed with the Bread of life.”
Quite simply to say I loved it.
I ask because he's authored several books and yet this is the first I've heard of him!
As the New Year approaches this would be a great way to start off the New Year with some daily devotional reflections that will tickle your taste buds for the first 40 days! The comforting aroma that Baker provides will melt in your mouth and make you crave more! (laughing now because I just realized his last name is Baker and the book is loaves... that's funny lol bread.. baker.. get it? sorry, yes. I couldn't resist.).
Seriously though I really enjoyed this devotional. I found it interesting, compelling and moving. Baker really asks a lot of tough questions. Each chapter or slice will give you insight, encouragement and perhaps a renewed sense of worth in your relationship with God. He asks a lot of tough questions with his "Food for Thought" questions, such as why don’t I have more faith? or why am I so bored with Jesus? And one that really touched me was why don’t I feel connected at church? or Why don't I know what I want in life? I tell ya he covers questions that you didn't even THINK you had an issue with!
It really made me question my motives, and gave me an opportunity to have a real heart to heart with God. It pushed my buttons to think beyond myself and make me move forward with my relationship with Christ and that is so important!
“40 Loaves is something of a collection of the kinds of questions I felt finally free to ask of myself and of my relationship with Christ,” says Baker. “It’s my belief that these questions are shared by many others who long for the freedom to simply ask them out loud. I hope this book becomes a platform that frees others to search their hearts more deeply and be fed with the Bread of life.”
Quite simply to say I loved it.
December 14, 2009
This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.
I am always on the lookout for a good devotional. I often start them and never finish them because they seldom offer me what I need. There are plenty of books that address the needs of Christians who are content and comfortable in their faith. There aren't many that feed those who may have a "hungry spirit." I was drawn in by 40 LOAVES immediately after reading the Note to Reader. Baker begins this devotional by pointing out that it is okay to have questions and doubts about our faith. As he points out, "Questions invite authenticity." It is so refreshing to hear someone say that!!! 40 LOAVES offers a series of bread crumbs (or more nourishing loaves) for those of us who feel a bit lost in our faith. It challenges us to ask the tough questions.
I especially loved the sections on sin and feeling disconnected and angry. Baker allows us to explore these feelings that many Christians want simply to sweep under the rug. For those of us who struggle with issues of faith and doubt, this book allows us a safe place to ask the tough questions. Each section is only a few pages long and includes thought questions and a prayer. This would make a great holiday gift to help those who wish to explore their faith in greater depth a great way to start the new year. It also has forty chapters which would make it a good read for Lent as well.
I am always on the lookout for a good devotional. I often start them and never finish them because they seldom offer me what I need. There are plenty of books that address the needs of Christians who are content and comfortable in their faith. There aren't many that feed those who may have a "hungry spirit." I was drawn in by 40 LOAVES immediately after reading the Note to Reader. Baker begins this devotional by pointing out that it is okay to have questions and doubts about our faith. As he points out, "Questions invite authenticity." It is so refreshing to hear someone say that!!! 40 LOAVES offers a series of bread crumbs (or more nourishing loaves) for those of us who feel a bit lost in our faith. It challenges us to ask the tough questions.
I especially loved the sections on sin and feeling disconnected and angry. Baker allows us to explore these feelings that many Christians want simply to sweep under the rug. For those of us who struggle with issues of faith and doubt, this book allows us a safe place to ask the tough questions. Each section is only a few pages long and includes thought questions and a prayer. This would make a great holiday gift to help those who wish to explore their faith in greater depth a great way to start the new year. It also has forty chapters which would make it a good read for Lent as well.
December 18, 2009
40 Loaves by C.D. Baker is a devotional book that has 40 different, challenging topics that can and should (in my opinion) be read over 40 days. This would be a great way to start off the New Year! Many think that, with the wealth of devotional books available these days, that this is just another run-of-the-mill book. It's not. The author is not afraid to ask some of the most challenging questions that are faced in today's society. I had my face tinged red a few times while reading this book because of the way the questions were posed and what my answers were versus what they should have been. However, that being said, this is not a "preachy" devotional book either. It's written with a gentle spirit of love and humility.
As previously mentioned, this would make a great 40 day study. Get the loaves ready and break bread with your Savior!
This review book was provided by Waterbrook Multnomah.
As previously mentioned, this would make a great 40 day study. Get the loaves ready and break bread with your Savior!
This review book was provided by Waterbrook Multnomah.
December 18, 2009
40 Loaves by C.D. Baker is the perfect devotional for those who want to take their faith deeper but don't have a lot of time. Each of the 40 chapters is just two-three pages long and delves into issues that we all face: why do I complain so much? why am I so confused about finding God's will? why I am so desperate to be understood? Chapters begin with a short personal anecdote and end with a few questions to encourage the reader to look deeper followed by a prayer. The brevity doesn't mean Baker skips on depth, he gets right to the core of the issue giving readers understanding and hope. Baker takes away the excuse that readers' don't have enough time to spend each day deepening their relationship with the Lord.
February 23, 2016
delightful and challenging.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews