Book Reviews

It's been a while, but I assure you I've been reading. It's my most favorite thing to do when the kids are quiet. Except for maybe take a bubble bath. Or drink coffee while it's still hot. And when I can do all three of those things simultaneously? Well, that, that, my friends, is pure bliss.

First up, Radical, by David Platt. In his words:


"You and I can choose to continue with business as usual in the Christian life and in the church as a whole, enjoying success based on the standards defined by the culture around us. Or we can take an honest look at the Jesus of the Bible and dare to ask what the consequences might be if we really believed him and really obeyed him.

If Jesus is who he said he is, and if his promises are as rewarding as the Bible claims they are, then we may discover that satisfaction in our lives and success in the church are not found in what our culture deems most important, but in radical abandonment to Jesus." 

This book is an easy read and full of stories and statistics and commentary that probe why you do what you do as it relates to church and giving and serving. 


For an insightful review of this book, considering both some positives and potentially negatives, click here.


Next up, Be Mature, by Warren Wiersbe. 


Christian Book sums this up by saying, "Beloved author and teacher Warren W. Wiersbe leads you through this practical book with advice on overcoming temptation, controlling the tongue, praying effectively, and practicing what the Bible teaches. With end of chapter study questions and a new introduction, Be Mature is the perfect companion for a study of James and becoming more mature in Christ."

I joined a women's Bible study last September to study this book together. Although I joined a new study this January, I took time to complete the book and am thankful I did.

The Book of James is my husband's favorite book of the Bible. He reads it a lot. He refers to it a lot. In fact, he has it memorized. (Yes, the entire book.) Since I live with this guy and spend a little bit of time with him, I've picked up on some of his passion and delight for this book.

And now, having studied it more deeply, I understand why. James is full to overflowing with practical wisdom for daily living the Christian life. Be Mature is an excellent resource to help you - no matter where you are in your spiritual journey - better understand how to live as a mature Christian.

Finally, Bringing Up Girls, by James Dobson.

In typical Dobson fashion, this book is full of statistics and stories and real-life examples that put a lump in your throat, bring you to your knees, and have you begging God for wisdom in raising your daughters.

Although this book is long (304 pages) it is an extremely easy read and I had it completed in less than a week.  Bringing Up Girls is not full of rocket science, but does contain pertinent reminders and insights about the uniqueness of girls and the complexities of raising them in the world today.

I was a little disappointed with the lack of discussion about the "Princess Movement" and how it's shaping today's little girls, but he does lend some opinion on the topic.

I was very encouraged, however, with his specific and intentional instruction to dads and their critical involvement in raising daughters. In fact, this book is now on Grady's nightstand for him to read - after he's done with a pile of Sports Illustrated magazines.