Book Review ... Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

I think I recognize these people… that’s the thought that came to mind as I read Max Lucado’s book Cast of Characters. I enjoyed the way he showed biblical characters that I’ve read about from I was a child in a more human and relatable way. The way he used personal stories alongside that of the characters made the book a more interesting read.

I love that the book sometimes asks questions… almost like an imaginary interview like, “Joseph, did you and Jesus arm wrestle.” Sections like that made me smile because I enjoy thinking of our biblical heroes as men and women just like us.

I silently cheered are I read about Mephibosheth… to go from having nothing, living in the shadows to sitting at the kings table.

As I read through the book each chapter and each character presented had something that tugged at my heartstrings, inspired me or simply made me reflect on my life and spiritual walk.

I like the fact that each chapter of the book ended with questions for reflections and discussion because it made me dig a little deeper into God’s word.

I love Max Lucado’s conversational style of writing and thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

Do You Read the Instructions?

A few days ago I was preparing to laminate some pictures for my classroom on my new laminating machine. I waited for it to warm up, put the first picture in the laminating sheet and tried to feed it through the machine. It refused to go through. I tried again several times but to no avail. By this time I was both frustrated and panicked. I had purchased the laminating machine in Florida so it wasn’t as if I could jump in my car and return it to the store if it was defective.


As I sat there frustrated and just a tad bit upset, I heard that still, small voice saying, “read the instructions.” So I pulled out the instructions (like I should have done in the first place.) As I looked at the instructions I realized that I was trying to feed the paper through the wrong end. Yep, I went through at least 15 minutes of frustration because I was too impatient to take two minutes and read the instructions.

“If you want to know the purpose of a thing, you ask the manufacturer. Dr. Myles Munroe

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jeremiah 29:11 KJV

So many times in life we experience frustrations because we don’t want to take the time to see what the instruction manual says. Every problem we will ever encounter God has addressed in the instruction manual he left us called the Bible. Unfortunately, many times we just skim the surface and don’t really internalize his word. However, the only way we will really have a meaningful relationship with God and understand what His purpose is for our lives is if we take time out of our busy schedules to study his word.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV

My prayer today is that I would not try to navigate life on my own strength but that I would always consult the instruction manual that the creator has left in place for me. It makes life so much easier.

Previously published at Laced With Grace August 23, 2007. 

The Secret Place

I'm over here today.

Are you living your life in a hurry, spending each day on the run Do you make big decisions, without a clear vision, just hoping the God’s will is done ?

Stop by Laced With Grace to read the rest of my post.

God Knows

"You never did tell me why you made that decision," he said quietly, completely out of the blue. I stared at him in disbelief. Was I hearing correctly? The decision he was talking about wasn't something new, in fact it was quite a while back. Why bring it up now?

For just a moment the old anger, hurt and resentment rose up inside. The reasons and explanation regarding my decision had all been explained, discussed, dissected and discarded by others as trivial, including him. Did I want to even try to explain again? Yet, I wanted to be understood. I wanted to know that somebody saw my side. I wanted validation that my decision was the right one.

"The innate desire to defend myself battled fiercely with the voice of the Holy Spirit speaking softly to my heart.

"Be still, the battle is not yours."

Read the rest of my post in the latest issue of Sanctified Together.

Never Let You Go Book Review

Book Description

Lexi lives in the shadow of choices her husband made. Especially Grant’s choice to leave seven years ago, without a word. Her relationship with their daughter, Molly, is now the most important thing in her life. Lexi will do anything—work grueling hours, attend church on her only day off, sacrifice financially—just to see Molly smile.

When Grant shows up declaring his intent to re-enter their daughter’s life, Lexi is skeptical of his motives. She soon determines not to let him near Molly. Then a drug dealer named Warden arrives on Lexi’s doorstep, demanding payment of Grant’s old debts.

But that's just the earthly perspective. Staggering supernatural events are spilling into her world in real and shocking ways. Hell's fury is great, but Heaven's power is greater still. In a novel that defies easy categorization, this has all the early buzz of the breakthrough read of 2010.

My Review…

I’m a lover of Christian fiction and I’m always on the lookout for new authors. This was my first time reading a book by Erin Healy and I enjoyed it. The fact that it had a plot somewhat revolving around spiritual warfare reminded me of some of Frank Peretti’s popular books. The book also has the theme of forgiveness woven through it reminding us that that we empower the enemy when we choose not to forgive. This book kept my attention from cover to cover and I wouldn’t mind reading more from this author.

Girl Talk June 2010

Click on a link to read items from the final issue of Girl Talk.

A Goodbye Note

A Thank You Note

Are You God's Girl?

Dare to Believe

Flash Forward Dawn & Elaine

Graduation... A 20 Year Perspective

Publisher's Note


SPOTLIGHT ON
Miss Shanice Simmons

SPOTLIGHT ON
Miss Lachante Williams

Reflections... A Mother's Perspective

Ten Things a Girl Needs

What's on Your Voicemail?

Thank You

Goodbye... it's never been something I enjoy saying. However, this month I say goodbye after ten years to my teen girl magazine. As I say farewell I'd just like to send a few shout outs to those who have helped along the way...



To those who have assisted through finances, writing articles, editing, stapling, folding or simply sending an encouraging email, thank you and may God bless you always.

To my girls who let me “stalk” you with my camera, thank you for humoring me.



To my readers… you have caused me to grow in my writing, my thinking and my walk with God… thank you.



To my bloggy buddies, thanks for your sweet comments and encouragement on my girltalk related posts.

Love you all,
Farewell, God knows when we shall meet again.