365 Mornings with Jesus, a daily devotional book for 2012, is written especially for women by a team of inspirtational Christian women. This book contains one short themed daily devotional based on a different bible verse for each day. Each devotion is written by one of the team of inspritional writers who draw upon their experiences of motherhood and marriage and apply them to eternal biblical principles. It will bring inspiration to many young moms, stressed out from the pressures of motherhood and homemaking to see how their experiences can actually apply to the bible. For a typical carefree mother who faces the ordinary challanges presented by motherhood, this book is certain to provide relevant inspiration.
For those women readers who are not young moms, it may be difficult to relate to the number of motherhood related anecdotes and themes. There is an overwhelming number of children themed anecdotes that women who are either not mothers whether by choice or circumstance, will find difficult to relate to. Unless they are young married mothers, I believe that many readers will feel that this book is simply not relevant to their season in life. This lighthearted devotional may not provide the relief and comfort that so many readers may need when going through serious life challanges such as terminal or chronic illness, loss & grief, unemployment or depression. Rather, this devotional may even further the grief, isolation and dissatisfaction that women may harbor in less than ideal life circumstances. Furthermore, the teachings are relatively passive, as indicate in one of the early January devotionals explaining that sins will happen in a passive manner using an analogy of a leaf passively floating in a river, following the current. It seems to imply that faith consists of passively letting life happen, regardless of our duty to make difficult choices, and then simply to persevere, accept forgiveness and move on. There is very little focus on the biblical concepts of guilt which lead to repentance.
There is certainly nothing wrong with drawing from personal experiences of motherhood and marriage when writing a devotional- it can be quite effective as an outreach method for a target audience- namely young moms. In fact, Jesus used personalized circumstances tailored to his audience when he taugh in parables- using analogies with fishing, farming, finance and even parenthood. Yet, the parables were varied and intended for a wide audience, while these devotions are best suited to a targeted readership. This devotional is best described as a good introduction to Christian devotionals for the young mother in that it introduces biblical concepts in an easily digestible, non threatening manner to new believers. Personally I feel this book should have a sub-title such as "Daily Inspiration for Mothers", for the sake of full disclosure. As a blogger for Litfuse publicity group I recieved this book by Guidepost publishers for the purpose of writing this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Saturday, January 7, 2012
The World of Animals
World of Animals - Fascinating facts about the world of animals published by Master Books, is a fully illustrated, exhaustive fact filled book of Animals for students. The quality presentation of this book rivals that of many popular science themed books for children. From the cover that features a holographic image of a tiger that changes when you reposition the angle of the book, to the graphics, photos and text- this book is sure to capture the attention of any young reader interested in science and animals.
The beginning of the book features an introduction about the oprigin of animals in general, based on the biblical creation account of genesis. The book is further divided by chapters based on the complexity of the organism and animal, starting with simple animals in chapter one which features a suprising and diverse array of both well known and lesser known unique creatures. Even though this book is intended for students and children in general, I found many chapters of this book very informative and thorough. The format and layout of the book presents the animal kingdom in such a way as to give the larger picture to the reader. Animals are not listed in a haphazard alphabetical format which makes no scientifc fact, but rather they are organised based on complexity, species and habitat. I don't think a better presentation or arrangement could be made.
The title in of itself is rather broad- including a variety of animals grouped by species. This book, although not a scholary text book, provides a well rounded background for Animals- superior to that of a text book. The superior organization and presentation of this book of animals rivals the quality of any animal encyclopedia. Basically no living creature is left out, from the floating portists, mosss and fungi to the comples antelope and elephant. Presenting science and the study of animal life in such an appealing format makes is more obtainable for students in general. The format and presentation of this book makes the study of animals comprehensive. As a blogger for New Leaf publishers I recieved this book, published by Master Books for the purpose of writing this review.
The beginning of the book features an introduction about the oprigin of animals in general, based on the biblical creation account of genesis. The book is further divided by chapters based on the complexity of the organism and animal, starting with simple animals in chapter one which features a suprising and diverse array of both well known and lesser known unique creatures. Even though this book is intended for students and children in general, I found many chapters of this book very informative and thorough. The format and layout of the book presents the animal kingdom in such a way as to give the larger picture to the reader. Animals are not listed in a haphazard alphabetical format which makes no scientifc fact, but rather they are organised based on complexity, species and habitat. I don't think a better presentation or arrangement could be made.
The title in of itself is rather broad- including a variety of animals grouped by species. This book, although not a scholary text book, provides a well rounded background for Animals- superior to that of a text book. The superior organization and presentation of this book of animals rivals the quality of any animal encyclopedia. Basically no living creature is left out, from the floating portists, mosss and fungi to the comples antelope and elephant. Presenting science and the study of animal life in such an appealing format makes is more obtainable for students in general. The format and presentation of this book makes the study of animals comprehensive. As a blogger for New Leaf publishers I recieved this book, published by Master Books for the purpose of writing this review.
World of Science
World of Science- Fascinating facts about the world of science published by Master Books, is a fully illustrated book of popular science for students. The quality presentation of this book rivals that of many popular science themed books for children. From the cover that features a holographic image of an atom that changes when you reposition the angle of the book, to the graphics, photos and text- this book is sure to capture the attention of any young reader interested in science.
The title in of itself is rather broad- including a variety of science related topics ranging from chemistry, physics, geology and space. The final section inmcludes hands on experiements for readers to perform, suitable for the classroom or home. Concepts such as atoms, energy, electricity and climate are briefly discussed and simplified for the young school-aged reader. Complex subjects are made simple to understand and are followed up with photographs, color illustrations and charts. This book, although not a scholary text book, provides a well rounded background for science. Presenting science in such an appealing format makes is more obtainable for students in general. As a blogger for New Leaf publishers I recieved this book, published by Master Books for the purpose of writing this review.
The title in of itself is rather broad- including a variety of science related topics ranging from chemistry, physics, geology and space. The final section inmcludes hands on experiements for readers to perform, suitable for the classroom or home. Concepts such as atoms, energy, electricity and climate are briefly discussed and simplified for the young school-aged reader. Complex subjects are made simple to understand and are followed up with photographs, color illustrations and charts. This book, although not a scholary text book, provides a well rounded background for science. Presenting science in such an appealing format makes is more obtainable for students in general. As a blogger for New Leaf publishers I recieved this book, published by Master Books for the purpose of writing this review.
AB4T- Answer Book For Teens by Bodie Hodge, Tommy Mitchell with Ken Ham
AB4T- Answer Book For Teens: Your Questions God's Answers by Bodie Hodge, Tommy Mitchell with Ken Ham is unique, graphic apologetics book written for teenaged readers. The appealing modern color graphics, and computer- photoshop styled art is enough to compete with popular teen magazines and draw the attention of teenaged readers. Yet beneath the modern illustrated appearance is an indepth look at biblical principals and theology written in simplified language for a young reader.
Fifteen common, yet crucial questions about faith and the bible are addressed, ranging in various topics such as evolution, natural disasters, philosophy and morals. More specifically, satisfying and complete answers are provided for timely scientific questions such as the validity of evolution, the time fram of dinosours, the myths of dragons, as well as the theories of the age of the earth. Such issues in particular are important to teenagers who take science classes in highschool. I believe even college aged science students would even benefit from the scientific chapters contained. The introduction includes a words list defining the concepts discussed in the book.
One issue that I was concerned with was the interpretation of a popular passage in Romans that explains that there are those who have the truth written on their hearts even apart from direct tradition of the judeo- Christian revelation. This refers to the fact that some who have not been formally taught the truths of good inherently know the truths based on the glory of God's ever present creation. Yet, this book reinterprets this passage loosely to refer to all unbelievers and athiests as a whole when they accept certain judeo- christian traditions such as marriage and the concept of wearing clothing. While this is an interesting application of this passage, I don't believe this was Paul's intent when he actually wrote the letter. Other than this issue of interpretation,. as a whole, the explanations in the book are true to bibloical teaching as intended.
In a culture dominated by sub standard mass media, and magazines which serve to shape the impresssionable minds and morals of teenagers, finanally a publication is made to appeal to this target audience. In contrast to a bare bones text based book on CS Lewis, Aquinas or Augustine apologetics, this book captures the main themes in a repackaged, modern format that is easily digested by young readers. As a blogger for New Leaf Publishers I recieved this book published by Master Books for the purpose of review.
Fifteen common, yet crucial questions about faith and the bible are addressed, ranging in various topics such as evolution, natural disasters, philosophy and morals. More specifically, satisfying and complete answers are provided for timely scientific questions such as the validity of evolution, the time fram of dinosours, the myths of dragons, as well as the theories of the age of the earth. Such issues in particular are important to teenagers who take science classes in highschool. I believe even college aged science students would even benefit from the scientific chapters contained. The introduction includes a words list defining the concepts discussed in the book.
One issue that I was concerned with was the interpretation of a popular passage in Romans that explains that there are those who have the truth written on their hearts even apart from direct tradition of the judeo- Christian revelation. This refers to the fact that some who have not been formally taught the truths of good inherently know the truths based on the glory of God's ever present creation. Yet, this book reinterprets this passage loosely to refer to all unbelievers and athiests as a whole when they accept certain judeo- christian traditions such as marriage and the concept of wearing clothing. While this is an interesting application of this passage, I don't believe this was Paul's intent when he actually wrote the letter. Other than this issue of interpretation,. as a whole, the explanations in the book are true to bibloical teaching as intended.
In a culture dominated by sub standard mass media, and magazines which serve to shape the impresssionable minds and morals of teenagers, finanally a publication is made to appeal to this target audience. In contrast to a bare bones text based book on CS Lewis, Aquinas or Augustine apologetics, this book captures the main themes in a repackaged, modern format that is easily digested by young readers. As a blogger for New Leaf Publishers I recieved this book published by Master Books for the purpose of review.
101 Bible Adventures by Carolyn Larsen
101 Bible Adventures- The Ultimate Quest for Truth featuring the New Living Translation, by Carolyn Larsen is a new book of bible stories made just for children. In contrast to traditional bibles, each bible story featured has its own illustrated cartoon similar to the style of the cartoons one might see in the cartoon pages of the Sunday newspaper. Additionally, helpful side bars of information are also included. The cartoons each have a clever caption that might be better appreciated by older children. For example in the story "A Test for Abraham", the cartoon depicts a very worried looking son- dripping with beads of sweat- Isaiah, tied to a log with an equally concerned Abraham. The bottom caption states, "That was just a little too close".
Each story has a brief summary section titles "What's up", as well as the corresponding bible passage reference. A key verse, featuring the New Living Translation is featured next to a key icon. The "now What?" side bar explains the significance and meaning of the particular story. The two-tone pages and bold grapohics make the text easy for school aged readers to read as well.
101 stories taken from the Old and New testaments of the bible are featured in chronological order. The stories are short and simple to hold the attention of a young reader. As a blogger for Tyndale, I recieved this book published by Tyndale Kids publishers for the purpose of writing this review. I believe this book makes a great alternative to the traditional children's bible and is perfect for school aged readers.
Each story has a brief summary section titles "What's up", as well as the corresponding bible passage reference. A key verse, featuring the New Living Translation is featured next to a key icon. The "now What?" side bar explains the significance and meaning of the particular story. The two-tone pages and bold grapohics make the text easy for school aged readers to read as well.
101 stories taken from the Old and New testaments of the bible are featured in chronological order. The stories are short and simple to hold the attention of a young reader. As a blogger for Tyndale, I recieved this book published by Tyndale Kids publishers for the purpose of writing this review. I believe this book makes a great alternative to the traditional children's bible and is perfect for school aged readers.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
The Essential Guide to Healing by Bill Johnson and Randy Clark
The Essential Guide to Healing: Equipping All Christians to Pray for the Sick by Bill Johnson and Randy Clark is a specialized book targeted to those Christians who believe in the existence of the literal gift of physical healing. In fact, for those who believe that physical healing is a gift, this is an extensive how to guide to prayer and healing. Literal modern day spiritual gifts is one of those internal issues that have the potential to cause such controversy as to cause divisions within the church as well as subdivisions, sects and cults. After all, it is often fights over secondary issues such as this which cause splinter groups and numerous different denominations in the first place.
Basically those who believe in physical lietral healing are generally those same individuals who believe that talking in tongues, a.k.a "angel language" is an actual gift of the Holy Spirit that is common place today. Nevertheless, this book is not a defense of spiritual gifts in general and it focuses specifically on the alleged gift of physical healing.
The intense focus on physical healing as a gift of the Holy Spirit comes at a great cost. basically it dismisses the purpose of pain and the possibility that God uses pain and suffering for the greater glory. Pain and suffering are a fact of life, and it does has its purpose. While it is true that Jesus physically healed the sick, it was not the focus of his ministry. Rather the purpose of the healing was in order to give glory to God's name while he was present. In the ancient church this gift served the apostles well in fascilitating the growth of faith at a time when physical signs and proofs were most needed. But as as Paul stated in the book of Corinthians we have the word of God as a testament and that certain gifts will eventually pass away.
This book promotes important concepts such as helping others and focusing others- something that all Christians are called to do. Prayer is important, but sometimes we just simply don't get physical healing but rather and more importantly, spiritual healing and peace. For those readers who wish to learn more about the point of view of the concept of literal physical healing, this book is very thorough. The authors include a very good and detailed history of the issue of the healing debate and its origins.This book covers the growth of the controversy concerning spiritual gifts and its stem from the protestant and Roman Catholic churches. For any student or reader interested in the history of thology and the history of denominations, from the point of the spiritual gift controversy, this book is very informative. As a blogger I receieved this book from Chosen publishers, a division of Baker publishing group for the purpose of writing this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Basically those who believe in physical lietral healing are generally those same individuals who believe that talking in tongues, a.k.a "angel language" is an actual gift of the Holy Spirit that is common place today. Nevertheless, this book is not a defense of spiritual gifts in general and it focuses specifically on the alleged gift of physical healing.
The intense focus on physical healing as a gift of the Holy Spirit comes at a great cost. basically it dismisses the purpose of pain and the possibility that God uses pain and suffering for the greater glory. Pain and suffering are a fact of life, and it does has its purpose. While it is true that Jesus physically healed the sick, it was not the focus of his ministry. Rather the purpose of the healing was in order to give glory to God's name while he was present. In the ancient church this gift served the apostles well in fascilitating the growth of faith at a time when physical signs and proofs were most needed. But as as Paul stated in the book of Corinthians we have the word of God as a testament and that certain gifts will eventually pass away.
This book promotes important concepts such as helping others and focusing others- something that all Christians are called to do. Prayer is important, but sometimes we just simply don't get physical healing but rather and more importantly, spiritual healing and peace. For those readers who wish to learn more about the point of view of the concept of literal physical healing, this book is very thorough. The authors include a very good and detailed history of the issue of the healing debate and its origins.This book covers the growth of the controversy concerning spiritual gifts and its stem from the protestant and Roman Catholic churches. For any student or reader interested in the history of thology and the history of denominations, from the point of the spiritual gift controversy, this book is very informative. As a blogger I receieved this book from Chosen publishers, a division of Baker publishing group for the purpose of writing this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
The Promise of Provision by Derek Prince
The new book, The Promise of Provision by Derek Prince serves to justify financial wealth. At times, this book appears to be self serving in its defence of financial wealth and proseperity. The author considers financial poverty to be a curse, rather than a blessing, explaining that the abundance life and wealth refer to financial and material abundance, and not simply spiritual abundance.
It goes without saying that there are numerous occasions that the bible tells us to store treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Nevertheless, this book goes through great lengths to redefine wealth and richness as literal richness and that poverty refers not to spiritual lack, but physical lack. This controversal book redefines many biblical terms and expressions to refer to the material sense rather than the spiritual sense. In the end, it seems this book is a justification for those who have material wealth and resources.
Regardless, this book does make a good point- and that point is this: with material abundance comes responsability to share and help the less fortunate as well as the church. In of itself, some readers may see this as a self serving statement in that wealthy Christians should be justified and encouraged so that they may don ate to chruches. Another interesting segment of this book is its discussion of generalational curses. Based on observation there is some validity to the fact that poverty, emotional illness, and health issues seem to span over generations. but the danger of this line of thinking is that it may be taken to the extreme in the belief that all sufferering: physical, financial and emotional is the result of sin. This is not always the case when one considers Jesus' words in the new testament when he explains that a man had a certain illness for the glory of God. This books dismisses the divine purpose of pain and suffering. This book most likely will serve to perpetuate the negative stereotypes of the poor and sick, rather than giving those who suffer the biblical and spiritual strength to persevere. I'd suggest that any reader who wants a balanced persepective on God's provision, would do better to read the words of scripture than this interpretation whichserves to "tickle the ears" of those advantaged readers who seek to justify their wealth and prosperity. As a blogger I receieved this book from Chosen publishers, a dividion of Baker publishing group, for the purpose of writing this review. My opinions are my own.
It goes without saying that there are numerous occasions that the bible tells us to store treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Nevertheless, this book goes through great lengths to redefine wealth and richness as literal richness and that poverty refers not to spiritual lack, but physical lack. This controversal book redefines many biblical terms and expressions to refer to the material sense rather than the spiritual sense. In the end, it seems this book is a justification for those who have material wealth and resources.
Regardless, this book does make a good point- and that point is this: with material abundance comes responsability to share and help the less fortunate as well as the church. In of itself, some readers may see this as a self serving statement in that wealthy Christians should be justified and encouraged so that they may don ate to chruches. Another interesting segment of this book is its discussion of generalational curses. Based on observation there is some validity to the fact that poverty, emotional illness, and health issues seem to span over generations. but the danger of this line of thinking is that it may be taken to the extreme in the belief that all sufferering: physical, financial and emotional is the result of sin. This is not always the case when one considers Jesus' words in the new testament when he explains that a man had a certain illness for the glory of God. This books dismisses the divine purpose of pain and suffering. This book most likely will serve to perpetuate the negative stereotypes of the poor and sick, rather than giving those who suffer the biblical and spiritual strength to persevere. I'd suggest that any reader who wants a balanced persepective on God's provision, would do better to read the words of scripture than this interpretation whichserves to "tickle the ears" of those advantaged readers who seek to justify their wealth and prosperity. As a blogger I receieved this book from Chosen publishers, a dividion of Baker publishing group, for the purpose of writing this review. My opinions are my own.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Alienation by Jon S. Lewis
Alienation by Jon S. Lewis is the second novel in the new young adult fictional C.H.A.O.S. trilogy series. In light of the popular culture topic of alien invasions seen in countless movies and new TV series, this timely book is sure to appeal to young audiences. This book is second in ther series, so obviously reader will probably get the most out of this work if they had read the first novel. The science fiction plot will certainly hold the attention of teenaged readers. The chapters are short and simple. The youing teenage hero of the story is involved in a conspiracy involving the government and aliens. He must follow his destiny and save the world.
This book integrates the popular genre of the comic book- novel hybrid. Before the first chapter begins, there is a comic book excerpt- with authentic vintage styled text and cartoons. At the end of the book, a "Classified Top Secret" report is contained- a virtual "Digital Sketchbook" of characters drawn on an iphone background to simulate an electronic database.
As a blogger for booksneeze I recieved this book for the purpose of writing this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
This book integrates the popular genre of the comic book- novel hybrid. Before the first chapter begins, there is a comic book excerpt- with authentic vintage styled text and cartoons. At the end of the book, a "Classified Top Secret" report is contained- a virtual "Digital Sketchbook" of characters drawn on an iphone background to simulate an electronic database.
As a blogger for booksneeze I recieved this book for the purpose of writing this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
The Old Library
based on a re-occurring dream
I find myself following a desolate winding dirt pathway across the desert plains region. Blinded by the scorching mid-day sun, somehow, I trudge my way along the path as if by auto-pilot. It is unknown how I actually find my way when I suddenly arrive at a large, spacious, empty, utilitarian multi- platform lobby. There is no entrance, nor door- it is as if I simply find myself placed there. Dreary, faded red commercial carpet at my feet, and above me, sterile, indistinct white walls and ceiling cannot be distinguished from the bright sky above. With a sense of urgency, I am drawn with a single mindedness to the worn, carpet covered stairs- the only visual landmark: quickly I walk up several winding levels.
Finally at the end, I reach gymnasium styled double doors as if approaching a large gym or school cafeteria. I push open the doors to find I am close to my destination: a stark contrast to the spacious, airy lobby- a dim, gloomy, cavernous library with multiple levels awaits me. I am greeted by the scent of freshly uprooted soil, and old books. Even though it is damp, and musty, it is an inviting and comforting, nonetheless. This unusual space is best described as a hybrid of an old forest, with old, twisted trees and scattered remains and relics. Dark, large antique book shelves loom above, crammed with old volumes. Dusty, long oblong boxes, rest undisturbed, in various nooks and crevices. Bookshelves, and relics and picturesque stonework are haphazardly scattered, as well as discarded, wilted, and dry roses. The neglected, old library is overgrown with soft green moss, and climbing vines. Grasping the cool, pointed, black, iron rails, I run up three levels, bypassing the first two levels without even a glance, as I know my time is limited. Oblivious to the beautifully crafted stone monuments, as soon as I reach the top of the platform, I turn to the left, to reach a small, dark, cool, encased, attic-like space and and my hurried quest is complete. Physically drained, and tired, I slip down to the ground, slumped against a cool corner, to rest for a moment, quite comfortably, in fact, not a care or concern in the world, peacefully thinking that I wish I could stay undisturbed, for a little while longer.
I find myself following a desolate winding dirt pathway across the desert plains region. Blinded by the scorching mid-day sun, somehow, I trudge my way along the path as if by auto-pilot. It is unknown how I actually find my way when I suddenly arrive at a large, spacious, empty, utilitarian multi- platform lobby. There is no entrance, nor door- it is as if I simply find myself placed there. Dreary, faded red commercial carpet at my feet, and above me, sterile, indistinct white walls and ceiling cannot be distinguished from the bright sky above. With a sense of urgency, I am drawn with a single mindedness to the worn, carpet covered stairs- the only visual landmark: quickly I walk up several winding levels.
Finally at the end, I reach gymnasium styled double doors as if approaching a large gym or school cafeteria. I push open the doors to find I am close to my destination: a stark contrast to the spacious, airy lobby- a dim, gloomy, cavernous library with multiple levels awaits me. I am greeted by the scent of freshly uprooted soil, and old books. Even though it is damp, and musty, it is an inviting and comforting, nonetheless. This unusual space is best described as a hybrid of an old forest, with old, twisted trees and scattered remains and relics. Dark, large antique book shelves loom above, crammed with old volumes. Dusty, long oblong boxes, rest undisturbed, in various nooks and crevices. Bookshelves, and relics and picturesque stonework are haphazardly scattered, as well as discarded, wilted, and dry roses. The neglected, old library is overgrown with soft green moss, and climbing vines. Grasping the cool, pointed, black, iron rails, I run up three levels, bypassing the first two levels without even a glance, as I know my time is limited. Oblivious to the beautifully crafted stone monuments, as soon as I reach the top of the platform, I turn to the left, to reach a small, dark, cool, encased, attic-like space and and my hurried quest is complete. Physically drained, and tired, I slip down to the ground, slumped against a cool corner, to rest for a moment, quite comfortably, in fact, not a care or concern in the world, peacefully thinking that I wish I could stay undisturbed, for a little while longer.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Healing is a Choice by Stephen Arterburn
Healing is a Choice by Stephen Arterburn is a lifechanging book based on biblical teaching to help the reader address and face the tragedies in life. The author's premise is that if painful memories and experiences are left untreated or buried in the mind, that they resurface later in the form of deprerssion chronic illness or mental illness. This is not simply a secular self help book, but rather a spiritual book based on biblical teaching. This book is a sombering wake- up call, as the author warns that the sick mind is usually not capable of healing itself on its own without outside help. After each chapter is a work book or study guide to allow the reader to take a guided tour through the healing process. This author has a good insight to the purposes of pain and depression and states that depression is a sign that should not be ignored or medicated away, but rather a sign that something needs to be addressed. This book alsoteaches personal responsability for one's actions and feelings- not excuses.
In large part, I did agree with the book and its methods to help the reader overcome his or her pain. The author himself experienced a difficult and a public divorce that threatened his ministry career. He included an honest analysis of his own avoidance and dissconnection relationship issues. Nevertheless, his "faults"based on his self- accessment, seemed mild and at times self serving. Yet the author maintained a rigid adherence to certain ideas. I believe there was an undue focus on one's past. It almost seemed as if this could perpetuate a morbid fascination with digging up the past and ruminating on past events or past hurts. If somethong has been buried in the subconscious mind, that it is a survival technique and perhaps it ois best to leave it be then allow it to resurface. The mind and spirit have an amazing ability to heal and forgetting or burying the past (such as traumatic and painful events) are part of the healing process and coping mechanisms. Why go through such lengths to undue the work of the mind with an unnatural expedition into one's past? I also believe that Christian counseling (or any counseling for that matter) isn't always available and financially prohbitive for many people who struggle financially. In an ideal world everyone would get help for their issues, but this isn't an ideal world. Even if one has health insurance, the copays for counseling visits add up- especially ongoing visits. If therapy continues for an indefinate amount of time, the money expense is significant. On pages206-207 the author has a disclaimer warning the reader not to simply read the books and attemp self healing, but that outside help and counseling is essential- and that the reader may do more harm than good in attempting to help himself without the services of a professional counselor or clergy. As a blogger for Thomas Nelson publishesr I recieved this book for the purpose of writing this review.
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/healing-is-a-choice-stephen-arterburn/1102008043?ean=9780785232438&itm=1&usri=healing+is+a+choice
In large part, I did agree with the book and its methods to help the reader overcome his or her pain. The author himself experienced a difficult and a public divorce that threatened his ministry career. He included an honest analysis of his own avoidance and dissconnection relationship issues. Nevertheless, his "faults"based on his self- accessment, seemed mild and at times self serving. Yet the author maintained a rigid adherence to certain ideas. I believe there was an undue focus on one's past. It almost seemed as if this could perpetuate a morbid fascination with digging up the past and ruminating on past events or past hurts. If somethong has been buried in the subconscious mind, that it is a survival technique and perhaps it ois best to leave it be then allow it to resurface. The mind and spirit have an amazing ability to heal and forgetting or burying the past (such as traumatic and painful events) are part of the healing process and coping mechanisms. Why go through such lengths to undue the work of the mind with an unnatural expedition into one's past? I also believe that Christian counseling (or any counseling for that matter) isn't always available and financially prohbitive for many people who struggle financially. In an ideal world everyone would get help for their issues, but this isn't an ideal world. Even if one has health insurance, the copays for counseling visits add up- especially ongoing visits. If therapy continues for an indefinate amount of time, the money expense is significant. On pages206-207 the author has a disclaimer warning the reader not to simply read the books and attemp self healing, but that outside help and counseling is essential- and that the reader may do more harm than good in attempting to help himself without the services of a professional counselor or clergy. As a blogger for Thomas Nelson publishesr I recieved this book for the purpose of writing this review.
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/healing-is-a-choice-stephen-arterburn/1102008043?ean=9780785232438&itm=1&usri=healing+is+a+choice
Monday, November 28, 2011
So sick of the Holiday Greed :( :(
"Every who down in who-ville, teh tall and the small was singing! Without any presents at all. Maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas means a little bit more"-
from How The Grinch Stole Christmas
It is that time of year again, when so many people use the birth of Jesus to justify greed. I am so sick of hearing about "black Friday" and how commonplace it has become that most people think nothing of spending so much money- even so called "Christians". Many even flaunt about it and brag about their financial ability to spend. Hundreds and maybe even thousands of dollars are spent by the every day consumer to purchase electronics, clothing, accessories and other things- all of this in the name of the "Christmas Spirit". -Not to mention that it is already common place for the average American to think nothing of spending hundreds of dollars on a coach bag, Ugg boots, iphones, manicures, frivolous vacations, dinners out and clothes. Society centers around greed, materialism and competition.
If you can look past the amateurish quality of the following you tube video (See the link), a good point is made about how many people complain about not having enough without regard to those who do not even have basic neccessities such as food or clothing. Many don't have the luxury to worry about which iphone or tablet to buy. They don't care about a $600 coach bag or coach shoes, when they do not even have food to feed their children. How insignificant and petty and greedy are our shopping habits when compared to the suffering and lack of so many.
VIDEO (click link below)
Poor Vs Rich
How ironic that a secular children's writer, Dr Seuss summed the true spirit of Christmas: "Every who down in who-ville, teh tall and the small was singing! Without any presents at all. Maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas means a little bit more"- from How The Grinch Stole Christmas.---all the while the rest of us "Christians" do our share of promtoting materialism and greed at not only holiday time but all year round.
Black Friday GREED!!!!!
from How The Grinch Stole Christmas
It is that time of year again, when so many people use the birth of Jesus to justify greed. I am so sick of hearing about "black Friday" and how commonplace it has become that most people think nothing of spending so much money- even so called "Christians". Many even flaunt about it and brag about their financial ability to spend. Hundreds and maybe even thousands of dollars are spent by the every day consumer to purchase electronics, clothing, accessories and other things- all of this in the name of the "Christmas Spirit". -Not to mention that it is already common place for the average American to think nothing of spending hundreds of dollars on a coach bag, Ugg boots, iphones, manicures, frivolous vacations, dinners out and clothes. Society centers around greed, materialism and competition.
If you can look past the amateurish quality of the following you tube video (See the link), a good point is made about how many people complain about not having enough without regard to those who do not even have basic neccessities such as food or clothing. Many don't have the luxury to worry about which iphone or tablet to buy. They don't care about a $600 coach bag or coach shoes, when they do not even have food to feed their children. How insignificant and petty and greedy are our shopping habits when compared to the suffering and lack of so many.
VIDEO (click link below)
Poor Vs Rich
How ironic that a secular children's writer, Dr Seuss summed the true spirit of Christmas: "Every who down in who-ville, teh tall and the small was singing! Without any presents at all. Maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas means a little bit more"- from How The Grinch Stole Christmas.---all the while the rest of us "Christians" do our share of promtoting materialism and greed at not only holiday time but all year round.
Black Friday GREED!!!!!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Night of the Living Dead Christian by Matt Mikalatos
Night of the Living Dead Christian, by Matt Mikalatos is a hybrid between a horror satire and a book on biblical spirituality. Don't be fooled by the comic book styled graphics on the cover, and its bright green block letters and cartoon zombies- this book has a relevant message for young and old alike- as well as secular and religious readers. Underneath the satire and humor, the author presents a sombering message about hypocricy and divisions among so called Christians and churches.
These days, I don't know who hasn't hasn't heard of zombies- they are the subject of many horror movies, TV shows, and apparently Christian literature as well. Yet, the analogy between zombies, warewolves, vampires and other monsters is obvious, even though it has been overlooked! Really, this books asserts that people are in fact no different from the personification of a warewolf, zombie or other horrible creature- the undead- physically alive,technically, yet dead, spiritually- alive in the form of a body, breathing, walking, existing- yet dead in spirit. Yet in an ironic twist, the self- aware, humble warewolf hero, is portrayed as more human, and more honest than the typical, hypocritical, self professed Christians that are so common.Mikalatos basically sums up Paul’s new testament teaching on false teachings, hypocrisy and faith without specifically referencing Paul’s letters. Even Paul in his New Testament letters points out that Christians often are their own worst enemy in turning other people away from God. Simply read through the vices of the unsaved. The analogy and correlation between those who are unsaved with zombies and warewolves makes a sense- and it is in a format that can be easily understood and enjoyed by Christians and secular readers, as well as older and younger readers alike.
"As for you, don't you remember how you used to exist? Corpses, dead in life, buried by transgressions, wandering the course of this perverse world. You were the offspring of the prince of the power of the air- oh, how he owned you, just as he still controls those living in disobediance. I'm not talking about outsiders alone; we were all guilty of falling headlong for the persuasive passions of this world; we all have had our fill of indulging the flesh and mind, obeying impulses to follow perverse thoughts motivated by dark powers. as a result, our natural inclinations led us to be children of wrath, just like the rest of human kind." Ephesians 2: 1-3 (the Voice NT
Matt Mikalatos challenges some common misconceptions that many readers may have about the concept of Christianity through the story of an enlightened warewolf in the midst of a spiritual battle. The warewolf, seeking relief, has amazing insight and clarity that one would not expect to see from such an untamed, wild creature. The warewold himself is the one who points out the sobering reality that many who claim to be Christian, aren’t really Christian on page 53 when he states “If claiming to be a Christian meant personal transformation, our world would be a far different place. As it is I know far too many Christians who are worse men as Christians then they were as pagans”. It also is pointed out that many religious churches and institutions are really impediments to true faith. For example, he challenges the notion that just because one says he or she is a Christian doesn’t mean that they are. He points out the divisive and cultic nature of some well known denominations and contrasts them with the true spirituality of the bible. He makes fun of those bookworms, who hide behind complicated theology and thick, expensive study bibles, pointing out how works and appearances are not enough to save. At one point, Matt adresses the controversy over translations- literal vs paraphrase, when Matt and the warewolf are arguing over what translations is best. During the debate, they are adminished by another character, Hibbs, who states "The fact is, all those translations are the scriptures. They have different styles and different purposes.....you should stop fighting over translations so much that itprevents you from reading the scriptures." page 179.
Another popular cultural icon, the vampire, (especially in light of the Twilight series), is used as another analogy in this story. Mikalatos challanges the romantic notion of the vampire and portrays the concept of the vampire for what it actually is- the representation and personification of selfish greed and ambition at the expense of others. Using a fictional vampire named Lara, to communicate the truth of the human condition, vampires are redifined as not only fictional, yet literal creatures that such blood, but as anyone who profits or gains through the manipulation of others. "You don't have to suck blood to be a vampire", she explains on page 140. "It's a question of selfishness, of putting yourself and your needs ahead of people around you." Based on that definition of vampire, then most people today can consider themselves to be vampire-like. The theme of monsters, zombies and warewolves is simply a platform that the author uses to communicate the problems that are wrong with luke- warm, modern Christianity and churches, and people in general for that matter. The quest to save a warewolf, mirrors the quest to save people- or all of us- from false, hypocritical and ineffective religion in favor of the true salvation offered by the good news of the gospel message.
The book itself includes many added bonuses: an author interview, discussion guide and even a mini handbook to the various monsters and undead creatures. The rejected titles included at the back of the book is entertaining in of itself. The monster handbook, titled, “Are You a Monster: A Layman’s Guide to Common Monstrosities”, lists some creatures such as warewolves, Vampires and Zombies. It also adds mummies, which according to the guide, are normally found in their habitats which include long established ministries. Which of course is a reference to hypocritical, ineffective and rigid religion which bears little resemblance to the biblical truth of the gospel message. This book is sure to appeal to a wide audience, and it is a unique format for outreach to may who would not normally read a spiritual book.
As a blogger for Tyndale publishers I received this book for the purpose of writing this review.
If you enjoyed this review, or if you would like more information, you may wish to visit the following sites:
*******************************
My story.....
****************************************
SPECIAL GIVEAWAY- Please comment on this review. A random winner's comment will be chosen to win a certificate for a copy of Matt's book. If chosen, you will be contacted.
These days, I don't know who hasn't hasn't heard of zombies- they are the subject of many horror movies, TV shows, and apparently Christian literature as well. Yet, the analogy between zombies, warewolves, vampires and other monsters is obvious, even though it has been overlooked! Really, this books asserts that people are in fact no different from the personification of a warewolf, zombie or other horrible creature- the undead- physically alive,technically, yet dead, spiritually- alive in the form of a body, breathing, walking, existing- yet dead in spirit. Yet in an ironic twist, the self- aware, humble warewolf hero, is portrayed as more human, and more honest than the typical, hypocritical, self professed Christians that are so common.Mikalatos basically sums up Paul’s new testament teaching on false teachings, hypocrisy and faith without specifically referencing Paul’s letters. Even Paul in his New Testament letters points out that Christians often are their own worst enemy in turning other people away from God. Simply read through the vices of the unsaved. The analogy and correlation between those who are unsaved with zombies and warewolves makes a sense- and it is in a format that can be easily understood and enjoyed by Christians and secular readers, as well as older and younger readers alike.
"As for you, don't you remember how you used to exist? Corpses, dead in life, buried by transgressions, wandering the course of this perverse world. You were the offspring of the prince of the power of the air- oh, how he owned you, just as he still controls those living in disobediance. I'm not talking about outsiders alone; we were all guilty of falling headlong for the persuasive passions of this world; we all have had our fill of indulging the flesh and mind, obeying impulses to follow perverse thoughts motivated by dark powers. as a result, our natural inclinations led us to be children of wrath, just like the rest of human kind." Ephesians 2: 1-3 (the Voice NT
Matt Mikalatos challenges some common misconceptions that many readers may have about the concept of Christianity through the story of an enlightened warewolf in the midst of a spiritual battle. The warewolf, seeking relief, has amazing insight and clarity that one would not expect to see from such an untamed, wild creature. The warewold himself is the one who points out the sobering reality that many who claim to be Christian, aren’t really Christian on page 53 when he states “If claiming to be a Christian meant personal transformation, our world would be a far different place. As it is I know far too many Christians who are worse men as Christians then they were as pagans”. It also is pointed out that many religious churches and institutions are really impediments to true faith. For example, he challenges the notion that just because one says he or she is a Christian doesn’t mean that they are. He points out the divisive and cultic nature of some well known denominations and contrasts them with the true spirituality of the bible. He makes fun of those bookworms, who hide behind complicated theology and thick, expensive study bibles, pointing out how works and appearances are not enough to save. At one point, Matt adresses the controversy over translations- literal vs paraphrase, when Matt and the warewolf are arguing over what translations is best. During the debate, they are adminished by another character, Hibbs, who states "The fact is, all those translations are the scriptures. They have different styles and different purposes.....you should stop fighting over translations so much that itprevents you from reading the scriptures." page 179.
Another popular cultural icon, the vampire, (especially in light of the Twilight series), is used as another analogy in this story. Mikalatos challanges the romantic notion of the vampire and portrays the concept of the vampire for what it actually is- the representation and personification of selfish greed and ambition at the expense of others. Using a fictional vampire named Lara, to communicate the truth of the human condition, vampires are redifined as not only fictional, yet literal creatures that such blood, but as anyone who profits or gains through the manipulation of others. "You don't have to suck blood to be a vampire", she explains on page 140. "It's a question of selfishness, of putting yourself and your needs ahead of people around you." Based on that definition of vampire, then most people today can consider themselves to be vampire-like. The theme of monsters, zombies and warewolves is simply a platform that the author uses to communicate the problems that are wrong with luke- warm, modern Christianity and churches, and people in general for that matter. The quest to save a warewolf, mirrors the quest to save people- or all of us- from false, hypocritical and ineffective religion in favor of the true salvation offered by the good news of the gospel message.
The book itself includes many added bonuses: an author interview, discussion guide and even a mini handbook to the various monsters and undead creatures. The rejected titles included at the back of the book is entertaining in of itself. The monster handbook, titled, “Are You a Monster: A Layman’s Guide to Common Monstrosities”, lists some creatures such as warewolves, Vampires and Zombies. It also adds mummies, which according to the guide, are normally found in their habitats which include long established ministries. Which of course is a reference to hypocritical, ineffective and rigid religion which bears little resemblance to the biblical truth of the gospel message. This book is sure to appeal to a wide audience, and it is a unique format for outreach to may who would not normally read a spiritual book.
As a blogger for Tyndale publishers I received this book for the purpose of writing this review.
If you enjoyed this review, or if you would like more information, you may wish to visit the following sites:
*******************************
My story.....
****************************************
SPECIAL GIVEAWAY- Please comment on this review. A random winner's comment will be chosen to win a certificate for a copy of Matt's book. If chosen, you will be contacted.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Saved from death
This describes me- a passage from Ephesions, a new testament book written by Paul, the apostle, "As for you, don't you remember how you used to exist? Corpses, dead in life, buried by transgressions, wandering the course of this perverse world. You were the offspring of the prince of the power of the air- oh, how he owned you, just as he still controls those living in disobediance. I'm not talking about outsiders alone; we were all guilty of falling headlong for the persuasive passions of this world; we all have had our fill of indulging the flesh and mind, obeying impulses to follow perverse thoughts motivated by dark powers. as a result, our natural inclinations led us to be children of wrath, just like the rest of human kind." Ephesians 2: 1-3 (the Voice NT). Everyone has heard of Zombies- the living dead. A body, reanimated, disgusting, grotesque and barbaric- alive yet devoid of the essential part that makes us human. I don't know who hasn't hasn't heard of zombies- they are the subject of many horror movies. At one time in my life I really was no different from the personification of a zombie- the undead- physically alive,technically, yet dead, spiritually- alive in the form of a body, breathing, walking, existing- yet dead in spirit. I had the appearance of physical life, that is true, but I was dead in all that really mattered.
Even though the actual story begins when I was very young, with the memory of my earliest of memories, for the sake of time I will fast forward to the day when I made an important decision that changed my life. That day started like any other day. There were no distinct weather conditions, special holidays, anniversaries or achievements to mark the date. In fact the particular calendar day was so insignificant that I no longer remember the date or even the exact year for that matter. It had never crossed my mind to record the date. Yet, the significance of that decision cannot be measured.
Some minimal background is required to understand the change that resulted from that important decision. Like countless others, I too had some difficult and awkward years when I was young. I did not grow up with the burden of any extraordinary impairments or circumstances. I did not have any unusual traumatic events. I was not tortured nor was I abused. Never did I go to bed hungry, not did I have to live in a shack. No PTSD memories linger to haunt me. But I did have some physical and emotional impediments which became more pronounced as I grew older. The events of my life in of themselves were neither memorable nor significant. I had three sisters who kept to themselves and two parents: my mother, nevertheless was not always around when I was young- but that was ok.
When I was really young, I was always a bit antisocial and distant from the other children. During my teenaged years, my physical and emotional deficits became more pronounced at a most inopportune time of life when appearance and social skills are paramount for normal positive social interaction. As I matured, my appearance shamed me and I was distanced from the other girls my age. My physical appearance embarrassed me to such an extent that I lived in a constant state of abject discomfort and anxiety that someone would tease me. Graceless, indelicate and overgrown, I was isolated and frequently tormented by my peers. I was made fun of, humiliated and embarrassed. I was ignorant concerning the normal common social, health and hygiene knowledge that so many people take for granted. While the other girls engaged in sports, went to dances, took home economics and health class, I avoided these activities with the understanding that I would have no use for such skills which would most certainly never be put into the context of which they were intended. I lacked friends and was very lonely as a result of my physical appearance which was not considered to be even within the normal standards. I eventually reconciled myself to my fate, as well as my physical state. I did not have any hope for a better future. When I was very young, I was brought to therapists to “correct” my issues- to no avail. Attempts at brainwashing me to normalcy failed- retreats failed, counseling failed as well as writing those daily, laborious, repetitive positive affirmations in the spiral bound notebook that I was forced to do. Inside I had the same wants, goals and dreams as any other teenaged girl. Yet these were unattainable. While these problems may pale in comparison to the world’s social injustices and inequities, this was my life and my world! It was all that mattered to me at the time in my own selfish, self- centered world.
Outside I was quiet, yet within I was sad, angry, bitter and jealous. I was shy and lacked confidence and self esteem. I withdrew inward. Every night I would cry myself to sleep. . I could pass half the night awake in bed feeling sorry for myself. Sometimes I played out long scenarios of suicide despite the fact that I was too much of a coward for that. Imaginary scenarios of revenge and justice helped me fall asleep. In my dreams I lived out detailed fantasies of revenge and redemption- that is, of course- when I finally was able to sleep. I had a fear of death- not of my own but of my family. This extreme fear of others dying, made it very difficult for me to sleep. I specifically feared that my Dad would die. He had been hospitalized and had seizures, but no known diagnosis. I lived with a sick sense of dread and impending doom every night for years! In fact I would leave my bedroom sometime during the night and go out to the couch. I could barely even walk past the hall to go to the bathroom without having an intense fear of impending death. I hate nightmares often about death. I often wished my mother or older sisters were around so I didn’t have to face this fear alone. My only prayers were prayers that I would die peacefully in my sleep and never wake up. I didn’t fear my own death, however. I welcomed it. I doubted that even God existed because if He really did, I was sure that I had been abandoned by God. I wondered why I of all people deserved to have been singled out by my peers to endure such misery and frustration.
During the daytime I was withdrawn and anxious. I did not watch tv. I did not listen to music. I engaged in solitary activities: reading, writing, drawing and playing with dolls. I would clean and organize my room and my books and my dolls and my various collections. I had many collections: rocks, stickers, stamps, petrified/ shellacked hermit crabs….. All these things were my expressive outlet- especially writing. I could spend hours, and even an entire night simply writing- filling entire notebooks within a few short hours! This was the age before computers- so I would write and write and write until my fingers were red and callused and sore. I had to finish, I could not leave a piece of work unfinished! Oh, how I lived my life in my room. I lived out my dreams- reenacting a perfect world, and fulfilling my wishes for revenge and my dreams. All those little tiny people represented real people. I created a miniature replica of a town, filled with homes and schools, stores and people. After school from the time I was eight throughout high school, I lived out my life of normalcy and dreams through the fictitious town I created as well as its inhabitants. I found peace by playing within that town. Anything that happened in real life, I would reenact in my small miniature town. No detail was too insignificant to include in my little town replica. In fact, it had its own transportation system, school system, a library and even a newspaper! The newspaper was available both in miniature format as well as larger traditional format- to this day I still have some copies.
I enjoyed books and lived my life’s adventures from reading literature and novels. I also enjoyed philosophy, psychology and science as well. Much of my knowledge and experience came from books. I lived life experiences through reading, and made them come to life through my writings, my fantasies and the re-enactment through my dolls. To me this was life!
By today’s standards, my dreams as a youth were pretty mundane: my peers, normal and average by the world’s standards, represented the manifestation, and complete embodiment of my dreams. As impossible as it seemed my hopes consisted of getting a boyfriend, getting married and having children. That’s it! That was the scope of my ambition- simply to be normal like everyone else. Sure I did well in school- getting on the honor roll and honor society without ever having to study. I completed all my school work , studying and research papers in the time it took me to take the bus ride home and during the time it took finish my business on the toilet bowl. I had three cats, and these three animals were my only physical companions. I constantly feared they would get loose and run away.
The irony is that despite the anger and jealous feelings I harbored within, I felt morally superior to everyone else. I deluded myself into thinking I was righteously perfect. I believed I was so good and guilty of no wrong whatsoever. I believed I was morally superior to all those other so-called ingrates of society masquerading as “good” people. In fact everyone else had wronged me in my own mind. I believed if there actually was such a place as heaven, then I would go there with no problem. I was so puffed up with pride about my own goodness when I compared myself with all those other degenerates that dated, went to dances, listened to music or dressed in nice clothing. At least they were degenerates in my own mind. Yet at times when my father who was a believer in the bible would discuss the bible, I would silently, and without a word, stomp out in offense and leave the room. I simply did not want to hear about God or the bible. I silently and without complaint kept all my worries and miseries to myself.
One day this internal misery came to an end. I vaguely recall a young woman in her twenties associated with a high school self esteem related assembly program who somehow crossed my path and befriended me. She was a Christian, yet at the time having no interest in religion, Christianity or the bible, I do not recall any specific details concerning her associations. She invited me to lunch at Burger King during my lunch hour. We talked, or rather she talked, and I “listened”. In actuality I was more concerned about finishing my french fries than listening to whatever she appeared to be rambling about. She could not have missed my apathy and lack of response. She dutifully and in a perfunctory manner went over, laboriously page by page, a green booklet. She did not miss a detail explaining every diagram and caption- of which I barely glanced indifferently. But one statement of all the others stood out: she called me a sinner. Well she also explained how everyone was a sinner and that no one was righteous in God’s eyes. A sinner! I didn’t say anything, but immediately I took offense. How dare she assume that I was a sinner! She did not know who she was speaking to obviously. Obviously she didn’t know about my sufferings and misery. How inaccurate and ridiculous to accuse me of all people a sinner. As far as I was concerned I never sinned. I don’t remember anything else except that I felt disappointed somehow and she gave me that booklet and that somehow I made it back in time for my History class on time.
Looking back I remember the parables of Jesus about how hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven, and that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle….. Well, a more formidable obstacle comes to mind- pride and self righteousness! How much easier it is for a camel to go through an eye of a needle than a self righteous, stubborn, self pitying young girl (or anyone for that matter) to humble herself spiritually and enter the kingdom of heaven. Yet, it did happen!
Later that day I tried to put the entire conversation out of my mind. I still couldn’t get over the idea that she had referred to me as a sinner like everyone else. But the thoughts of that conversation and that verse consumed me! “For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory if God”. (Romans 3:23) I was a sinner according to that statement! I pondered in my mind the implications of that statement. What if it was true? What if I was actually separated from God? The consequences were to terrible for me to even imagine. Just the thought that it may be true and I was outside of God was too much to bear.For days and maybe even weeks, I can not recall, I thought about it- deliberating and debating in my mind the consequences of that new knowledge. Oh how I wished that my comfortable vague ideas about God and heaven had not been challenged. I had grown accustomed to living comfortably within my own world with my self righteous attitude and self pity. What if it were really true? What if it was possible to have a relationship with God? What if I was separated from God? I had to humble myself spiritually and admit that I was a sinner. I had no choice and no excuse. Despite the hardships of my life, I still was guilty of sin in my actions and most of all my thoughts. My feelings of revenge and anger and envy were sinful! My fictitious fantasies were impure and sinful in God’s eyes. I was not morally perfect as I had deluded myself into believing. I had to make a choice and I had to make a change. It was a real decision. I decided to accept God’s friendship and gift of grace, admitting that I was guilty of sin. In that moment I had made the decision. There was no turning back. The message of the gospel and of salvation was truly good news. “God demonstrated his love towards us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:8 For the first time in my life I felt truly happy and hopeful, as if an enormous burden had been cast off. The evil feelings I harbored within were a burden all my life, and it was liberating to release those negative feelings and to have God as my friend.
I still remember how I used to exist, as a corpse, dead in life, buried by my transgressions, wandering the course of this perverse world. I was the offspring of the prince of the power of the air- oh, how he owned me, living in disobediance, guilty of falling headlong for the persuasive passions of this world; having had my fill of indulging the flesh and mind, obeying impulses to follow perverse thoughts motivated by dark powers. Ephesians 2: 1-3 (the Voice NT). I once was dead, but now I am alive, born again- saved. Because I have heard the word of truth- and received the good news of salvation- and because I have believed in the One who is truth, marked with the Holy Spirit, who is promised as the guarentee, who frees and resuces all who belong to Him.
Even though the actual story begins when I was very young, with the memory of my earliest of memories, for the sake of time I will fast forward to the day when I made an important decision that changed my life. That day started like any other day. There were no distinct weather conditions, special holidays, anniversaries or achievements to mark the date. In fact the particular calendar day was so insignificant that I no longer remember the date or even the exact year for that matter. It had never crossed my mind to record the date. Yet, the significance of that decision cannot be measured.
Some minimal background is required to understand the change that resulted from that important decision. Like countless others, I too had some difficult and awkward years when I was young. I did not grow up with the burden of any extraordinary impairments or circumstances. I did not have any unusual traumatic events. I was not tortured nor was I abused. Never did I go to bed hungry, not did I have to live in a shack. No PTSD memories linger to haunt me. But I did have some physical and emotional impediments which became more pronounced as I grew older. The events of my life in of themselves were neither memorable nor significant. I had three sisters who kept to themselves and two parents: my mother, nevertheless was not always around when I was young- but that was ok.
When I was really young, I was always a bit antisocial and distant from the other children. During my teenaged years, my physical and emotional deficits became more pronounced at a most inopportune time of life when appearance and social skills are paramount for normal positive social interaction. As I matured, my appearance shamed me and I was distanced from the other girls my age. My physical appearance embarrassed me to such an extent that I lived in a constant state of abject discomfort and anxiety that someone would tease me. Graceless, indelicate and overgrown, I was isolated and frequently tormented by my peers. I was made fun of, humiliated and embarrassed. I was ignorant concerning the normal common social, health and hygiene knowledge that so many people take for granted. While the other girls engaged in sports, went to dances, took home economics and health class, I avoided these activities with the understanding that I would have no use for such skills which would most certainly never be put into the context of which they were intended. I lacked friends and was very lonely as a result of my physical appearance which was not considered to be even within the normal standards. I eventually reconciled myself to my fate, as well as my physical state. I did not have any hope for a better future. When I was very young, I was brought to therapists to “correct” my issues- to no avail. Attempts at brainwashing me to normalcy failed- retreats failed, counseling failed as well as writing those daily, laborious, repetitive positive affirmations in the spiral bound notebook that I was forced to do. Inside I had the same wants, goals and dreams as any other teenaged girl. Yet these were unattainable. While these problems may pale in comparison to the world’s social injustices and inequities, this was my life and my world! It was all that mattered to me at the time in my own selfish, self- centered world.
Outside I was quiet, yet within I was sad, angry, bitter and jealous. I was shy and lacked confidence and self esteem. I withdrew inward. Every night I would cry myself to sleep. . I could pass half the night awake in bed feeling sorry for myself. Sometimes I played out long scenarios of suicide despite the fact that I was too much of a coward for that. Imaginary scenarios of revenge and justice helped me fall asleep. In my dreams I lived out detailed fantasies of revenge and redemption- that is, of course- when I finally was able to sleep. I had a fear of death- not of my own but of my family. This extreme fear of others dying, made it very difficult for me to sleep. I specifically feared that my Dad would die. He had been hospitalized and had seizures, but no known diagnosis. I lived with a sick sense of dread and impending doom every night for years! In fact I would leave my bedroom sometime during the night and go out to the couch. I could barely even walk past the hall to go to the bathroom without having an intense fear of impending death. I hate nightmares often about death. I often wished my mother or older sisters were around so I didn’t have to face this fear alone. My only prayers were prayers that I would die peacefully in my sleep and never wake up. I didn’t fear my own death, however. I welcomed it. I doubted that even God existed because if He really did, I was sure that I had been abandoned by God. I wondered why I of all people deserved to have been singled out by my peers to endure such misery and frustration.
During the daytime I was withdrawn and anxious. I did not watch tv. I did not listen to music. I engaged in solitary activities: reading, writing, drawing and playing with dolls. I would clean and organize my room and my books and my dolls and my various collections. I had many collections: rocks, stickers, stamps, petrified/ shellacked hermit crabs….. All these things were my expressive outlet- especially writing. I could spend hours, and even an entire night simply writing- filling entire notebooks within a few short hours! This was the age before computers- so I would write and write and write until my fingers were red and callused and sore. I had to finish, I could not leave a piece of work unfinished! Oh, how I lived my life in my room. I lived out my dreams- reenacting a perfect world, and fulfilling my wishes for revenge and my dreams. All those little tiny people represented real people. I created a miniature replica of a town, filled with homes and schools, stores and people. After school from the time I was eight throughout high school, I lived out my life of normalcy and dreams through the fictitious town I created as well as its inhabitants. I found peace by playing within that town. Anything that happened in real life, I would reenact in my small miniature town. No detail was too insignificant to include in my little town replica. In fact, it had its own transportation system, school system, a library and even a newspaper! The newspaper was available both in miniature format as well as larger traditional format- to this day I still have some copies.
I enjoyed books and lived my life’s adventures from reading literature and novels. I also enjoyed philosophy, psychology and science as well. Much of my knowledge and experience came from books. I lived life experiences through reading, and made them come to life through my writings, my fantasies and the re-enactment through my dolls. To me this was life!
By today’s standards, my dreams as a youth were pretty mundane: my peers, normal and average by the world’s standards, represented the manifestation, and complete embodiment of my dreams. As impossible as it seemed my hopes consisted of getting a boyfriend, getting married and having children. That’s it! That was the scope of my ambition- simply to be normal like everyone else. Sure I did well in school- getting on the honor roll and honor society without ever having to study. I completed all my school work , studying and research papers in the time it took me to take the bus ride home and during the time it took finish my business on the toilet bowl. I had three cats, and these three animals were my only physical companions. I constantly feared they would get loose and run away.
The irony is that despite the anger and jealous feelings I harbored within, I felt morally superior to everyone else. I deluded myself into thinking I was righteously perfect. I believed I was so good and guilty of no wrong whatsoever. I believed I was morally superior to all those other so-called ingrates of society masquerading as “good” people. In fact everyone else had wronged me in my own mind. I believed if there actually was such a place as heaven, then I would go there with no problem. I was so puffed up with pride about my own goodness when I compared myself with all those other degenerates that dated, went to dances, listened to music or dressed in nice clothing. At least they were degenerates in my own mind. Yet at times when my father who was a believer in the bible would discuss the bible, I would silently, and without a word, stomp out in offense and leave the room. I simply did not want to hear about God or the bible. I silently and without complaint kept all my worries and miseries to myself.
One day this internal misery came to an end. I vaguely recall a young woman in her twenties associated with a high school self esteem related assembly program who somehow crossed my path and befriended me. She was a Christian, yet at the time having no interest in religion, Christianity or the bible, I do not recall any specific details concerning her associations. She invited me to lunch at Burger King during my lunch hour. We talked, or rather she talked, and I “listened”. In actuality I was more concerned about finishing my french fries than listening to whatever she appeared to be rambling about. She could not have missed my apathy and lack of response. She dutifully and in a perfunctory manner went over, laboriously page by page, a green booklet. She did not miss a detail explaining every diagram and caption- of which I barely glanced indifferently. But one statement of all the others stood out: she called me a sinner. Well she also explained how everyone was a sinner and that no one was righteous in God’s eyes. A sinner! I didn’t say anything, but immediately I took offense. How dare she assume that I was a sinner! She did not know who she was speaking to obviously. Obviously she didn’t know about my sufferings and misery. How inaccurate and ridiculous to accuse me of all people a sinner. As far as I was concerned I never sinned. I don’t remember anything else except that I felt disappointed somehow and she gave me that booklet and that somehow I made it back in time for my History class on time.
Looking back I remember the parables of Jesus about how hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven, and that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle….. Well, a more formidable obstacle comes to mind- pride and self righteousness! How much easier it is for a camel to go through an eye of a needle than a self righteous, stubborn, self pitying young girl (or anyone for that matter) to humble herself spiritually and enter the kingdom of heaven. Yet, it did happen!
Later that day I tried to put the entire conversation out of my mind. I still couldn’t get over the idea that she had referred to me as a sinner like everyone else. But the thoughts of that conversation and that verse consumed me! “For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory if God”. (Romans 3:23) I was a sinner according to that statement! I pondered in my mind the implications of that statement. What if it was true? What if I was actually separated from God? The consequences were to terrible for me to even imagine. Just the thought that it may be true and I was outside of God was too much to bear.For days and maybe even weeks, I can not recall, I thought about it- deliberating and debating in my mind the consequences of that new knowledge. Oh how I wished that my comfortable vague ideas about God and heaven had not been challenged. I had grown accustomed to living comfortably within my own world with my self righteous attitude and self pity. What if it were really true? What if it was possible to have a relationship with God? What if I was separated from God? I had to humble myself spiritually and admit that I was a sinner. I had no choice and no excuse. Despite the hardships of my life, I still was guilty of sin in my actions and most of all my thoughts. My feelings of revenge and anger and envy were sinful! My fictitious fantasies were impure and sinful in God’s eyes. I was not morally perfect as I had deluded myself into believing. I had to make a choice and I had to make a change. It was a real decision. I decided to accept God’s friendship and gift of grace, admitting that I was guilty of sin. In that moment I had made the decision. There was no turning back. The message of the gospel and of salvation was truly good news. “God demonstrated his love towards us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:8 For the first time in my life I felt truly happy and hopeful, as if an enormous burden had been cast off. The evil feelings I harbored within were a burden all my life, and it was liberating to release those negative feelings and to have God as my friend.
I still remember how I used to exist, as a corpse, dead in life, buried by my transgressions, wandering the course of this perverse world. I was the offspring of the prince of the power of the air- oh, how he owned me, living in disobediance, guilty of falling headlong for the persuasive passions of this world; having had my fill of indulging the flesh and mind, obeying impulses to follow perverse thoughts motivated by dark powers. Ephesians 2: 1-3 (the Voice NT). I once was dead, but now I am alive, born again- saved. Because I have heard the word of truth- and received the good news of salvation- and because I have believed in the One who is truth, marked with the Holy Spirit, who is promised as the guarentee, who frees and resuces all who belong to Him.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Heaven Is for Real DVD Conversation Guide
The Heaven Is for Real DVD Conversation Guide is based on the book, Heaven is for Real -A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, By Todd Burpo. This kit basically completes and explains the ideas introduced by the book. This kit is more like an after the fact, defense of the book and of Colton's experiences. It is an apologetic styled work written in defense of book and of Colton's experience- perhaps written in answer to the vocal skeptics. I was suprised that this conversation guide book gives a clear message of the gospel, true to the message of the bible. Theologically, this book explained salvation and heaven in simple, easy to understand and relevant terms. The errorof relativison and the ideas of nirvana were exposed and explained in light of the true message of the gospel.
Obviously, since this kit is based on the book, many references are made to Colton's specific visions of heaven, which may or may not be biblically accurate. For those who are skeptical of near death experiences and private visions, in general,such refernces to Colton's own portrayal should be taken with a grain of salt. Even Christians who believe strongly in the bible should be cautious about accepting the validity of a private vision. Whereas the original book was pretty simple and left a lot of the biblically based explanatory information out- this DVD and guide fills the gaps of information. Personally, I believe the text of the conversation guide should have been integrated into the original book- perhaps in the back as a study guide suppliment.
For those who never read the book on which this kit is based, Heaven is for Real -A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, By Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent, claims to be an account of a true story. A pastor, writes the account of his son's trip to heaven, that happened during the emergency surgery of his 4 year old son near death experience. While alleged near death experiences are somewhat common, based on the media attention in documentaries, articles and even books, what makes this story unique is the fact that it comes from a 4 year old boy, who upon his return to his parents, reveals information that he could possibly not have known everywhere else.
Even though this story is easy to read and easy to follow, it raises spiritually complex issues such as the issue of the legitimacy of private visions apart from revealed scripture. While it is true that some NDE can be ruled out as the side effects of a dying or injured brain, not all can be scientifically ruled out. Some perhaps might be supernatural in nature. Nevertheless that does not mean they should automatically be accepted as biblical in nature or truth. I must admit I am skeptical when it comes to believing modern day visions and NDE. For example, there are so many alleged apparitions of Mary in the Catholic church, that I believe most to be hoaxes, and in other cases, demonic in nature.
Convieniently, this entire miraculous story occured to a pastor's son. The reader places his faith by accepting the word of the pastor- the author of this book- that his 4 year old son did in fact go to heaven and that it is a true account and not fabricated or embellished. While the pastor does not admit to adding to his son's depictions of heaven, he interprets them in light of scripture. In of itslef there is nothing wrong with doing that. Once the reader decides to accept the author's word that this story is legit, it is up to the reader to discern the source or supernatural power behind the NDE. This is where most readers will most likely accept with blind faith that this is a true account and that it is based on biblical truth. This is because most people want to believe this heartwarming and comforting message is true.
Any responsible reader familiar with the bible will be aware that he or she is faced with the task of determining if the experience of Colton is spiritually based on truth, or if it perhaps is an indirect attempt of Satan to mislead believers into accepting false information. Paul warned in the letters of the new testement, especially in the book of Galations, that even Satan, and evil spirits can appear as angels of light, deceiving many. So, if this is true, then is it possible that a Pastor might be decieved and misinterpret his son's experience as being from God when it possibly isn't? That possibility must be acknowledged by anyone who reads this book. While Paul acknowledged the possibility of personal visions in the ancient church, he himself did not place on any believer the burden of accepting any other private vision other than the message containe din the gospel. When Colton urgently claimed that all must know Jesus to enter Heaven, that is accurate- and perhaps the most significant piece of information that could possibly validate the experience as being in line with scripture. As far as the other details- knowledge of his grandfather and unborn sister- that information could be obtained from evil sources for the purpose of adding "authenticity" and misleading believers into believeing the other aspects of the visions Colton shared. The evil spirits are known for mixing truth with falsehood. We are in a spiritual battle, and nothing is off limits as far as the evil spirits of this world are concerned. they will try all sorts oftricky and decieving deceptions. They will try any underhanded tactic even going so far as using an innocent boy and his Pastor Dad, as tools to mislead others. It isn't always obvious to everyone to sort truth from untruth unless they are firmly grounded in the Holy Spirit. Even those involved in the occult such as palm readers and fortune tellers, can sometimes fortell the future or the past with amazing accuracy with supernatural information supplied by the evil spirit realm. The details of the throne of God, the angels and other aspects are questionable, as to their spiritual authenticity.
As a blogger for booksneeze I received this book & DVD kit from Thomas Nelson publishers for the purpose of writing this review. It is with caution I would suggest this book to anyone to read- unless of course that reader is willing to take the time to discern, in light of scripture, the validity of the message presented by this little boy's experience and his dad who authored the book. I do believe however, the kit is a neccessary part of this book- and without some explanatory material, many readers will be left with an incomplete picture.
Obviously, since this kit is based on the book, many references are made to Colton's specific visions of heaven, which may or may not be biblically accurate. For those who are skeptical of near death experiences and private visions, in general,such refernces to Colton's own portrayal should be taken with a grain of salt. Even Christians who believe strongly in the bible should be cautious about accepting the validity of a private vision. Whereas the original book was pretty simple and left a lot of the biblically based explanatory information out- this DVD and guide fills the gaps of information. Personally, I believe the text of the conversation guide should have been integrated into the original book- perhaps in the back as a study guide suppliment.
For those who never read the book on which this kit is based, Heaven is for Real -A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, By Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent, claims to be an account of a true story. A pastor, writes the account of his son's trip to heaven, that happened during the emergency surgery of his 4 year old son near death experience. While alleged near death experiences are somewhat common, based on the media attention in documentaries, articles and even books, what makes this story unique is the fact that it comes from a 4 year old boy, who upon his return to his parents, reveals information that he could possibly not have known everywhere else.
Even though this story is easy to read and easy to follow, it raises spiritually complex issues such as the issue of the legitimacy of private visions apart from revealed scripture. While it is true that some NDE can be ruled out as the side effects of a dying or injured brain, not all can be scientifically ruled out. Some perhaps might be supernatural in nature. Nevertheless that does not mean they should automatically be accepted as biblical in nature or truth. I must admit I am skeptical when it comes to believing modern day visions and NDE. For example, there are so many alleged apparitions of Mary in the Catholic church, that I believe most to be hoaxes, and in other cases, demonic in nature.
Convieniently, this entire miraculous story occured to a pastor's son. The reader places his faith by accepting the word of the pastor- the author of this book- that his 4 year old son did in fact go to heaven and that it is a true account and not fabricated or embellished. While the pastor does not admit to adding to his son's depictions of heaven, he interprets them in light of scripture. In of itslef there is nothing wrong with doing that. Once the reader decides to accept the author's word that this story is legit, it is up to the reader to discern the source or supernatural power behind the NDE. This is where most readers will most likely accept with blind faith that this is a true account and that it is based on biblical truth. This is because most people want to believe this heartwarming and comforting message is true.
Any responsible reader familiar with the bible will be aware that he or she is faced with the task of determining if the experience of Colton is spiritually based on truth, or if it perhaps is an indirect attempt of Satan to mislead believers into accepting false information. Paul warned in the letters of the new testement, especially in the book of Galations, that even Satan, and evil spirits can appear as angels of light, deceiving many. So, if this is true, then is it possible that a Pastor might be decieved and misinterpret his son's experience as being from God when it possibly isn't? That possibility must be acknowledged by anyone who reads this book. While Paul acknowledged the possibility of personal visions in the ancient church, he himself did not place on any believer the burden of accepting any other private vision other than the message containe din the gospel. When Colton urgently claimed that all must know Jesus to enter Heaven, that is accurate- and perhaps the most significant piece of information that could possibly validate the experience as being in line with scripture. As far as the other details- knowledge of his grandfather and unborn sister- that information could be obtained from evil sources for the purpose of adding "authenticity" and misleading believers into believeing the other aspects of the visions Colton shared. The evil spirits are known for mixing truth with falsehood. We are in a spiritual battle, and nothing is off limits as far as the evil spirits of this world are concerned. they will try all sorts oftricky and decieving deceptions. They will try any underhanded tactic even going so far as using an innocent boy and his Pastor Dad, as tools to mislead others. It isn't always obvious to everyone to sort truth from untruth unless they are firmly grounded in the Holy Spirit. Even those involved in the occult such as palm readers and fortune tellers, can sometimes fortell the future or the past with amazing accuracy with supernatural information supplied by the evil spirit realm. The details of the throne of God, the angels and other aspects are questionable, as to their spiritual authenticity.
As a blogger for booksneeze I received this book & DVD kit from Thomas Nelson publishers for the purpose of writing this review. It is with caution I would suggest this book to anyone to read- unless of course that reader is willing to take the time to discern, in light of scripture, the validity of the message presented by this little boy's experience and his dad who authored the book. I do believe however, the kit is a neccessary part of this book- and without some explanatory material, many readers will be left with an incomplete picture.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
To write in one's personal bible or not OR Why I do not write notes in my bible
To write in one's personal bible or not has been an issue that I have contemplated on many occasions. I have seriously considered writing notes and underlining important passages- especially considering at how popular it is among many faithful bible readers. As I stare at two of copies of a bible I just won from entering an online facebook contest, I found myself thinking, with a pen in hand, why not write some notes and highlight passages in one of the copies. Considering that I have more than one bible- I figured why not write notes in at least one copy. That is one way to personalize one's own bible and memoralize one's own thoughts. In the end, I have ultimately decided not to write notes and not to highlight passages of my bible. (And I gave away the extra copy). Instead, I prefer to write important verses and passages in a journal or on notecards. Or perhaps I will even stick a small sticky note near an especially important or meaningful verse. And I will stick to my preference of not writing directly in my bible.
Any commentary or thoughts I have about what I read in the bible are written in a journal or typed out on a word document or blog- rather than writing them directly in the bible or on the margins of the pages. The reason I have decided not to write notes in my bible is because in my humility, I understand that my interpretations or my emphasis of certain verses are passages are probably not always inspired by the Holy Spirit. It might also be self serving or biased. So, why would I want my words or emphasis side by side with God's word, for me to see each and every time I opened my bible. Even if I went so far as to claim to have private revelations, or visions from God (neither of which, I claim), no matter how convinced I may be that they were true, it still would not compare to the authenticity or holiness of God's words. I would not put my words, or interpretations on the same level as scripture itself and I would not want to "deface" a copy of the bible with my own words. I would not want to obscure the true meaning of scripture by having it interpreted or elaborated with my words. Therefore, I keep my words and thoughts where they belong- in my mind, or if I feel so inclined, on a seperate sheet of paper where they will not interfere or obscure the actual bible's words. I am not denouncing or judging anyone else's decision to write in his or her own bible. I am just simply expressing my opinion and the reason behind it.
While I do believe the Holy Spirit can inspire anyone to read and understand the full meaning of the bible's message, the words of the bible speak for themselves! I can not add anything to the inspired words, and the best I can do is memorize them as they are written- with nothing more added or taken away. So even if I owned a million copies of the bible, if I take one off the book shelf, and see handwritten comments, I might be tempted to rely on my own comments and highlighted passages, rather than just simply reading and relying on the bible itself. At minimum, my focus would be diverted to my own notes and interpretations rather than on the bible text. If I felt so inclined to interpret the bible or add study notes-then perhaps I should simply just write them out in a seperate document. In fact, I did do this- I wrote a summary or simplified version of the entire New Testament from Acts to Revelation, which is available on this blog!
Any commentary or thoughts I have about what I read in the bible are written in a journal or typed out on a word document or blog- rather than writing them directly in the bible or on the margins of the pages. The reason I have decided not to write notes in my bible is because in my humility, I understand that my interpretations or my emphasis of certain verses are passages are probably not always inspired by the Holy Spirit. It might also be self serving or biased. So, why would I want my words or emphasis side by side with God's word, for me to see each and every time I opened my bible. Even if I went so far as to claim to have private revelations, or visions from God (neither of which, I claim), no matter how convinced I may be that they were true, it still would not compare to the authenticity or holiness of God's words. I would not put my words, or interpretations on the same level as scripture itself and I would not want to "deface" a copy of the bible with my own words. I would not want to obscure the true meaning of scripture by having it interpreted or elaborated with my words. Therefore, I keep my words and thoughts where they belong- in my mind, or if I feel so inclined, on a seperate sheet of paper where they will not interfere or obscure the actual bible's words. I am not denouncing or judging anyone else's decision to write in his or her own bible. I am just simply expressing my opinion and the reason behind it.
While I do believe the Holy Spirit can inspire anyone to read and understand the full meaning of the bible's message, the words of the bible speak for themselves! I can not add anything to the inspired words, and the best I can do is memorize them as they are written- with nothing more added or taken away. So even if I owned a million copies of the bible, if I take one off the book shelf, and see handwritten comments, I might be tempted to rely on my own comments and highlighted passages, rather than just simply reading and relying on the bible itself. At minimum, my focus would be diverted to my own notes and interpretations rather than on the bible text. If I felt so inclined to interpret the bible or add study notes-then perhaps I should simply just write them out in a seperate document. In fact, I did do this- I wrote a summary or simplified version of the entire New Testament from Acts to Revelation, which is available on this blog!
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