Sunday, November 24, 2013

Book Review: A Bible for the Journey

Tyndale House Publishers provided a complimentary copy of The Wayfinding Bible in exchange for an honest review.
     I have read several Bible translations in the last few years and have never stumbled upon such an easy-to-use Bible. For many, at first glance, the Bible can be overwhelming. Which of the 66 chapters does one start with? The New or the Old Testament? A Gospel? It really can be a monumental task just to start reading the Bible.
     The Wayfinding Bible, a New Living Translation Bible, is written with a modern-day American vernacular while maintaining the integrity of the original meaning.  The Bible sets out three different reading plans to choose from depending on what you are looking for. If you want an in-depth plan, the orange-highlighted Scenic Route is for you. Maybe you want a fairly in-depth look, but don't want to commit as much time, then you will find the green Direct Route is suitable for you. Finally, there is the blue-coded Flyover Route, which will give you a quick, 52-readings plan. All three reading plans are in chronological order making the Bible a lot less confusing. Between reading 1 and 2 Samuel, Kings and Chronicles there are enough names to make your head spin, usually. This one takes the guess work out of it.
     For the sake of time and wanting a quick sampling I chose the Flyover Route of The Wayfinding Bible. I was completely enthralled. This bible brings such a fresh perspective to the Word of God. Each reading begins with a synopsis of the events leading up to that chapter lending a relatively good idea of the context in which the reading is based upon. I never felt I was missing something in between the readings of this route knowing full well many events occurred. The synopsis is concise and logical. With the context in mind your read the featured verses.
     Subsequently, an observation point and exploration point are read. These points are to further your understanding of the context and the applicable spiritual ramifications of those verses. The Wayfinding Bible is full of other features. I loved the points that painted a better historical portrait for me. Between book introductions, historical markers, side trips and more this Bible is engaging and fun. There are so many ways in which to enjoy this bible, it really could be treasured and explored for years.
     Honestly, there are times when I get bored of reading my Bible cover to cover. This Bible broke it up for me in a way that kept my attention. I was excited to see where I was headed next. Who knew an arrow could be fun to follow? I do now, after following the blue arrows that led to the next reading.
     The Wayfinding Bible is truly made for every believer, new and seasoned alike. For the seeker, this edition would be perfect and money well invested. May your journey into the Word be fascinating and rewarding.


Sunday, November 17, 2013

Book Review: Worth Your Time

Tyndale Publishers provided a complimentary copy of the featured book in exchange for an honest review.
     Holiness seems to be a vague part of the Christian faith. Many pastors speak of holiness in passing, but never get to the root of holiness and what it means to pursue it as a means to worship the Lord. Yet, the Holy Spirit is key to leading a holy life as God has called us to live. Fortunately for readers young and old, editor Bob Hostetler has compiled the writings of Samuel Logan Brengle into bite-sized portions in this fabulous compact devotional, Take Time to Be Holy: 365 Daily Inspirations to Bring You Closer to God.
     "Do you want to know what holiness is? It is pure love." This excerpt from the reading of January 11 has to be my favorite line out of the devotional. Maybe some will find it trite and simple, yet Brengle points out holiness isn't any more complicated than that in thought. It is to love others. Of course, in deed it is far more difficult to love others purely, unconditionally and without want of anything reciprocated.
      Brengle further delineates the Holy Spirit, His work in and through us and the extension of love flowing out into the world. It is in awe the reader will stand in front of the Almighty day by day. Brengle's words are so concise and thought-provoking that it is a wonder when three paragraphs or so can dig deep into the heart of the matter.
     I thoroughly enjoyed each reading. Through doctrine and personal experiences the author draws upon the Holy Spirit to teach what it means to strive after and embody holiness to the glory of God. It is striking and inspiring to read of a man who lived a life working for The Salvation Army what seems to be as holy as humanly possible, perfectly imperfect this side of heaven, and humbly bestowed credit to God never losing sight of his eternal destiny.
     Take Time to Be Holy is a gem of a devotional. A page that will take one a minute to read each day can lead to eternal repercussions that far surpass that given moment dedicated to learning of the Lord. I highly recommend this book for any believer who wants to draw closer to God and know more intimately the Spirit within.