Explore the Bible: personal study guide: 1,2 Kings, summer 2022 by G.B. Howell

 

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This study guide covers the end of King David's reign to the diaspora of Israel and the fall of Judah. The Israelites go into captivity because of their connection to the world of gods and not the One and only true God. The teachings of the devout are not received well by the generations who show an undisciplined behavior and a growing trend away from the teachings of scripture. The accounts reveal that there is a price to pay for sin and it must be paid. The purpose of Jesus Christ coming into the world is to pay that price that mankind cannot achieve by himself. The only requirement is faith in Christ and belief that scripture is God, as well.

The Federalists Papers (Amazon Classics Edition) by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, James Anderson Foster (Narrator)

 4 out of 5 stars  ****

A most important work on the birth of our government. The language is such that it is difficult to focus on the content of this audiobook when I listen with headphones and go about my daily tasks. This comprehensive explanation about procedures and process besides structure bases the world's best attempts to achieve a fair and just government for and by the people and not a tyrannical blueprint copied from history's strong nations that control its people for the sake of the government. America benefits greatly from these early, foundational concepts that are preserved in The Federalists Papers. It is a reference source that enlightens readers to why and how the United States government is so successful. Attacking these principles weakens the exceptionalism of America.

In Touch: Daily Readings for Devotional Living, June 2022 by Dr. Charles Stanley

Another eventful month tempered by the inspired words of Dr. Charles Stanley. June's devotional reading is grace from God which blesses readers with fruits of His Holy Spirit. It just takes a reminder to trigger a chain reaction of processes that soothe the soul and alleviate physical pain from tense muscles and poor posture. This participant welcomes the opportunity to surrender to the Lord, commune with Him directly, and bolster saving faith.

Everybody, Always: Becoming Love in a World Full of Setbacks and Difficult People by Bob Goff

This is a wonderful book of witness and testimony. These are stories Bob Goff brings to the public about maturing in Christianity. Bob's real struggle with intentional behavior that attempts to walk with Christ, in love, proves his humanity but grows his spirit in moments of perseverance, longsuffering, and communication with God. The stories uplift because the Holy Spirit reveals itself and lessons nurture the soul to witness God's word proven true to those whose eyes are open.

Follow the Wind: Our Lord, the Holy Spirit by Steve Brown

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Pastor Steve Brown writes an honest account of his experience with the Holy Spirit, not just what he has learned about Him. He admits his own interpretations may be wrong or may be right; the important fact is that he believes in the Holy Spirit as part of the Triune God with the Father and the Son, Jesus Christ. He also admits in this book that he is an effective sharer of God's word and he attributes that to his relationship with the Holy Spirit, the Wind. That relationship is not predicated on fear and submission but rather a friendship and love. This point Pastor Brown stresses for Christians to see how much the Holy Spirit is involved in their lives. To support this thought, Brown presents the fruits of the Holy Spirit in an in-depth look at its application in his life.

Without judging how anyone else interprets their faith, Brown realizes people perceive differently and worship differently. The difference does not make anyone wrong or right, just different. Once one drops their own perceptions and surrenders to the Holy Spirit; then he experiences God's will instead of trying to identify, categorize, dissect, and create it.
 

Explore the Bible: 1,2 Thessalonians: Spring 2022 by Tod Tanner

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This Bible Study Guide covers the letters written by the Apostle Paul to the Thessalonians. Paul escapes Thessalonica after starting a church there. Members of this church are under persecution. Timothy, a companion of Paul's, stays in Thessalonica until he meets up with Paul in Athens. Timothy reports that the church is still active but some church members are struggling to remain faithful to the teachings Paul shares with them earlier. So, Paul writes two letters on two separate occasions that Timothy brings to the Thessalonian church. These letters rebuke those who are not living a disciplined life based on faith in Jesus Christ who dies for mankind's sins and promises everlasting life in heaven.

 

The Last Emperor of Mexico: The Dramatic Story of the Habsburg Archduke Who Created a Kingdom in the New World by Edward Shawcross

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

A chapter in history of which I know very little, this book beautifully tells the story of Mexico's political growing pains. The discovery of the New World becomes fertile soil for European powers, opportunists, and anyone who could conquer indigenous people to blend cultures, if not, assert existing foreign culture in the challenging territories of the Americas. This account does not cover Mexico's initial conquest but the battles among the conquerors, themselves, to establish a Monarchy in this part of the world.

The influence of Spain is great but the French appetite for riches and dominance begin the story of The Last Emperor of Mexico: The Dramatic Story of the Habsburg Archduke Who Created a Kingdom in the New World. The tradition of European Monarchy is the excuse Napoleon, of France, uses to employ a prince of Austria as Emperor of Mexico. This insertion accompanies the French Foreign Legion, French and Prussian advisors in military and foreign relations besides carving out a palatial existence in the rugged terrain of Mexico.

The interesting facets of resistance to Monarchy and the threat of Republicanism cause events to remain in a state of flux for the upper class dignitaries who look to share the stage of prominence in the world of aristocracy. The story reveals mankind's ambition with greed, pride, and power producing an unfavorable outcome and hardships along the way.

In Touch: Daily Readings for Devotional Living, May 2022 (Mass Market Paperback) by Dr. Charles Stanley

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

As a month's calendar unfolds with all of its appointments and synchronized events, the In Touch: Daily Readings for Devotional Living series aids in my efforts to maintain an even keel regardless of circumstance.  Scripture and discussion of it reveals truth that may unsettle my soul.  Solutions to my problems are not specifically granted if for selfish reasons.  The education devotionals provide develops a more God-centered life that makes discernment between righteousness and evil easier.  With a loving relationship there is a desire to pursue God's word and become aware of His Holy Spirit who blesses, comforts, warns, encourages, and loves every day.  Instead of angst God's word produces a peace and joy only experienced through the grace of the Holy Spirit.  This May issue's theme is a reminder that God is always with us.

Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience by Brené Brown (Goodreads Author)

5 out of 5 Stars  *****

Brene Brown professionally researches other research and observes subjects, people and their words, to map the vast realm of connectedness that promotes or undermines social harmony. She stresses how valuable true meanings of specific terms and their accurate communication are for unity to have a chance over divisiveness. She admits her own updates in learning the true meanings of similar words with their own distinctive qualities. She identifies the base emotions behind each word, the engine that drives the meaning. For example, she notes the deleterious effects of pity, from shame, as it compares to humility, a quality born out of compassion and reverence. Pity is a "close enemy" of humility, not a synonym. The author and narrator delivers all her fascinating findings in a most congenial fashion that make listening to the audiobook a pleasant experience.

 

The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music by Dave Grohl

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

A most enjoyable read and a story I can relate. Dave Grohl captures the Rock and Roll scene with all of its offshoots over decades of music expression. His upbringing may be similar to many who read his story but his success is ultimately due to the love provided by those most important to him, his mother in particular. What is most surprising is the level-headedness and achievement of his dreams in such a crazy world of letting his freak out. God bless David Grohl, his family, and friends.

In Touch: Daily Readings for Devoted Living: April 2022 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

A commune with God first thing in the morning starts with my awareness of His presence, a possible conversation, prayer of praise and contrition, and a daily reading from Dr. Charles Stanley's In Touch series. April's devotional concentrates on trusting God and His will (the Way) for the future, and spreading His word, His love, by our words and deeds. It also addresses the balance between celebration and rest. 

Rationality: What It Is, Why It Seems Scarce, Why It Matters by Steven Pinker (Goodreads Author)

4 out of 5 stars  ****
 

Scholarly explanation of rationality and how humans use it to achieve their goals whether noble or not. Reason, logic, and truth can expose hypocrisy and rally support for causes deemed worthwhile. So rationality is a valuable tool to evoke moral progress in a flawed world inhabited by flawed beings.

The bulk of this book is a mindful that lists scientific formulae, graphs, and statistic computations that require an attentive focus to grasp. Listening to the audiobook in the car proves to be disconcerting because safety while driving robs from that focus needed. A disappointment occurs when politics becomes opportunity to voice obvious prejudice in the name of rationality. Opinion is stated as fact with a hint of snobbery and elitism. 

The Holy Spirit: Activating God's Power in Your Life by Billy Graham, Jack Garrett (Narrator)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Billy Graham explains religious questions about the Holy Spirit, the Triune God, and the Spirit's purpose. Developing a relationship with the Holy Spirit is impossible without faith in God and His word, the Bible. Jesus Christ is the other component of that Trinity. Jesus tells the apostles that He leaves the Holy Spirit with them to guide, support, and encourage them in their mission to spread the Good News, the gospel, after He leaves but that He'll return one day.  After Christ's second coming, mankind will be without the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit benefits those who accept Him and rejects those who refuse. Its fruit are the characteristics of God, never changing, and not subject to any laws or rules. They are Peace, Love, Joy, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control. Surrender to God's will and be graced with these qualities in a transformation that yields eternal life.

The Holy Spirit dwells in Christians to comfort as well. The imperfection of man is apparent in an honest relationship with God and this is not only humbling but dangerous if one gives up striving to live a life Jesus exemplifies. Man's failures are not damning; only quitting on the Holy Spirit is. Man's sins are forgiven by the sacrifice Christ makes on the cross.

The Spirit exhorts confession, repentance, and obedience out of love. This daily practice of prayer, Bible study, and obedience deepens the understanding of one's purpose, to love God with all one's heart and to love one's neighbor as oneself. Listen to His wisdom, feel His peace of mind, grow in love and do everything in it; notice constant joy regardless of any circumstance, demonstrate kindness, be of good humor and intention, be trustworthy and never lie, be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger in gentleness, and surrender to the Holy Spirit personal desires for the righteous will of God.

The President and the Freedom Fighter: Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, and Their Battle to Save America's Soul by Brian Kilmeade

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A wonderful read about the lives of two self-made men from different parts of the country in the mid 1800's. Their fates converge in a time of great stress and human suffering. Each possess qualities they admire in the other. Together they cause the fundamental changes needed in a time America needs them most, the Civil War. At first, Abe Lincoln, the president, does not commit to the abolitionists' cause to put an end to slavery. A self-educated, runaway slave who becomes a gifted orator against slavery, Frederick Douglas, influences the president enough for him to champion the Emancipation Proclamation which initiates eventual freedom for all slaves in a United States of America. Brian Kilmeade does a great job paralleling these two historical giants as men driven by the moral standards delineated in the Declaration of Independence. He captures their strength and poise; qualities that enable the violent clash of ideas to dwell inside earnest and pragmatic leaders who serve one nation and the notion that a Constitutional Republic can exist in harmony once the stain of slavery is removed.

In Touch Daily Readings for devoted living march 2022 by Dr. Charles Stanley

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This monthly devotional stresses wisdom, how to acquire it, and how to practice it everyday. It is wise to read Dr. Charles Stanley's devotionals everyday because it brings one in communion with God who grants wisdom. 

Extinction Shadow (Extinction Cycle: Dark Age #1) by Nicholas Sansbury Smith (Goodreads Author), Anthony J. Melchiorri (Goodreads Author), R.C. Bray (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

The first book of an enjoyable diversion from reality, Extinction Cycle: Dark Age 1: Extinction Shadow begins a dystopian series, a renewed encounter with a supposedly vanquished enemy. Biological experiments gone wrong produce hideous creatures known as Variants. Their escape and voracious appetite for living flesh and blood start a major war for survival. This series begins post-war with humans seemingly about to eliminate their created nightmare.  Special military units establish safe zones throughout the United States and scout for stray creatures. When certain posts go dark, no communication or inhabitants, the Ghost Team is sent to investigate. Their discoveries raise new questions but one thing is for sure, the Variants are mutating at an incredible rate, becoming smarter, and thriving somewhere. This intense display of courage and loyalty comes alive because of the narration by R.C. Bray who reads the excellent writing of Nicholas Sansbury Smith and Anthony J. Melchiorri.

 

The Widow by K.L. Slater (Goodreads Author)

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

Interesting story, well written, well narrated and a pleasure in which to escape. The mundane becomes a world of mystery and drama about everyday people. Slater captures ethnic styles of the characters. The protagonist's view emanates from a middle-class English town with Polish transients who seek temporary safe haven while on their own personal quests. Childhood and adult relationship issues reveal personal struggles that are relatable. The five star rating indicates an appreciation for the author's hard work and talent in expressing this narrative so eloquently. 

The Righteous Mind: Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion by Jonathan Haidt

4 out of 5 stars  **** 

Jonathan Haidt explains what motivates people to feel one way or another about an issue utilizes intuition before tactical reasoning. Intuition may result from personal experiences but reason belongs to group(ish) associations to support a viewpoint their intuition directs. They defend their opinions as righteous despite any proof of veracity. Similar minds use reason to support their stance behind drawn lines. The more significant the issue the more passionate the defense. This can lead to less debate and wider divisions.

The slippery slope that leads to division between large parties, Democrat vs Republicans or Liberals vs Conservatives, develops as each group assigns certain qualities to their group as defining characteristics for the party. One party touts a list of preferable, human pursuits that provide society opportunities to thrive in a secure prosperity while demonizing others who do not belong to their group's collective way of thinking. The tools and actions, the means, to achieve desired outcomes, the ends, justify their positions and define their campaigns.

People also wear their party affiliation as a badge that deputizes them in the name of everything that is good. The problem with this is the "untruth" that it creates, "us against them" mentality, a natural division. Groups of humans can accept an entire agenda that is not 100 percent representative of their true beliefs just to fit in a powerful, structured party. The sense of belongingness is strong in humans, especially when membership infuses one with a sense of power they lack as a sole individual. Truth, again, may suffer cover-up consequences when it does not align with a particular agenda.

To his credit, the author admits that he is a Liberal. His political leanings are evident before his admission when he refers to one side being this and the other that. Those descriptions are from old and new talking points that fail to recognize that all sides possess the human qualities they attribute to one party or another. They are generalizations which are faulty. Also, the descriptions are outdated. What is known as "Liberal" has come to define the Left side of politics when it should simply apply to individuals without denoting one group or the other. Labelling differences seems to create a deeper chasm with less thought to what truly defines the label, itself.

This book is a scholarly research and investigation into what makes good people divided on the passionate subjects of politics and religion. It sheds much needed light onto the psychology and motivation for one's choices. The author, a proclaimed Atheist, admits that religious groups produce the kindest, most peace loving, and tolerant people in the world. He bases this on their codes of morality which appeal to the higher standards one strives to achieve. Religion is also responsible for so much death and turmoil due to the unhealthy divide that can emerge between one religion and another, especially when one feels more powerful or dominant than the other. Then, the bully tactics start. To diffuse such terrible outcomes, truth should be the "rider" that guides the "elephant" through life.
 

In Touch Daily Reading For Devoted Living February 2022 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

Another month of influential scripture and comments from a scholarly Christian, Dr. Charles Stanley. February's devotional reminds me how important my relationship is with God, His Holy Spirit, and my Lord, Jesus Christ. This issue also reveals how my faith displays in my confessions, repentance, and renewed behavior. The In Touch series is the guardrail on the slipper slopes I encounter.

The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure (Audiobook) by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt

 

4 out of 5 stars  ****

A book that uses objectivity with just a hint of human frailty to describe the divide in America, especially on college campuses and the last two generations known as Millennials and the "I" Generation - Millennials approximate mid 1990's to 2005, "I" generation refers to "internet" generation from 2005 to present. The psychology of coping effectively utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to combat untruths and subsequent maladies that accompany detrimental thinking patterns an individual may harbor. The pursuit of truth is in the remedy and demands a thicker skin and more personal responsibility. Honest debate promotes freedom of speech and the right to assemble. This book cites today's trends that indicate a healthy approach to teaching young adults is neglected for a more indoctrinating way to sway impressionable minds to a certain mindset. That trend gives birth to "cancel culture." Lukianoff and Haidt do not point at one particular party or another but try to remain neutral. Their observations are fascinating as some drawn conclusions may be subject to personal politics and worldview. This work is important and significant in recognizing the red flags current trends raise. The logic is sound in the science while scholarly opinion still rests in the realm of human imperfection. 

Rock Trivia Madness: 60s to 90s Rock Music Trivia & Amazing Facts by Bill O'Neill, Ray Connor (Goodreads Author)

4 out of 5 stars  ***** 

A book that amuses with stats and stories about songs, albums, and artists who may not be household names throughout the world. Many of the artists continue to be influential in the music industry, today, in addition to their contributions which author, Bill O'Neill, refers in Rock Trivia Madness. The most prominent feature of the book is how the 60's through the 90's creates new genres that eventually fuse into descriptive styles. One can add songs and artists to playlists enriching the variety and quality to their collection. It is wonderful when a book adds something pleasing and exciting to one's life that would otherwise be absent.

A Change of Plans by Dennis E. Taylor (Goodreads Author), Neil Hellegers (Goodreads Author) (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A jaunt through space and time with cryogenics and logical human ingenuity. Taylor writes an exciting tale of one mission bound by duty to save as many Earthlings as possible before the sun engulfs the solar system. Best efforts fall short of expectations and hard decisions must be made. Mankind's survival depends upon it. A Change in Plans demonstrates the need for both law and order while thinking freely to bend the restraints of rules and regulations for the sake of human existence. 
 

Die Trying by Nicholas Ryan (Goodreads Author)

5 out 5 stars  *****

Dystopia has more than one cause, each manifests world devastation and survivor struggle. Other than world war, alien invasion, or magical conjuring of evil, zombies have their own realm. What sets one zombie story apart from another is the imagination of its author. Nicholas Ryan writes a thrilling story using choice vocabulary and sentence structure that brings fantasy a tinge of reality. The storyline may follow other plots but the character creation and their interaction with one another elevates Die Trying above most.

 

Beyond Biden: Rebuilding the America We Love by Newt Gingrich (Goodreads Author)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A coherent explanation of events that precede and follow the election of Joe Biden as President of the United States, the democrats' campaign and efforts to assure that outcome, and the woke Far Left direction they are trying to impose on America.  The author backs his findings with historical accounts, polls, graphs, and charts in the back of the book. Gingrich sees America's future challenges being met by the private sector, the American people, rather than more government legislation that hinders the growth of ideas and over-regulates freedom. The sharp contrast between the Trump and Biden administrations poignantly display the counter productivity of this current regime from the prosperous, energetic strength that Trump conveys. International powers are emboldened with Biden in office because of his withdrawal from Afghanistan which resembles surrender.  Broken promises and a lack of transparency are also major factors that separate Biden's presidency from Trump's. Newt Gingrich is optimistic about America in this book even though he stresses the seriousness of the Progressive agenda to turn America into an apologetic, weaker power who accepts dependency on government to meet people's needs and dependency on foreign countries for natural resources, like oil and natural gas. He quotes Ronald Reagan's motto that capture's the American spirit, "You ain't seen nothing, yet."

In Touch Daily Readings For Devoted Living January 2022 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

These daily devotionals are an integral part of my life, now; a first routine as significant as taking my meds, which coincides with the early morning hours. These scripturally inspired writings touch me with divine intent that calm my spirit and humble my ego. My conscious conversations with God start first thing in the morning. I am better suited to face any circumstance with a proper perspective based on love and truth. God bless Dr. Charles Stanley for being His holy conduit.

Explore the Bible: Personal Study Guide, Winter 2021-22 by Robert B. Evans III

 

 

5 out of 5 stars  ****

This Bible Study Guide is about Ezekiel and Daniel. Ezekiel, the prophet, informs Israel about their inevitable destruction in Jerusalem, their subservient existence in Babylon, and their eventual restoration after their discipline and repentance. Daniel lives during these Times of the Gentiles. He is one of the captured Godly remnant subject to Babylon and eventually, Persia, who conquers Babylon. These two books of the Bible display God's sovereignty at all times. God's people demonstrate their faith and ultimate power of God in Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's survival of the extremely hot kilns into which they were thrown for not bowing to a pagan king.

Vicarious by Rhett C. Bruno (Goodreads Author), Wil Wheaton (Goodreads Author) (Narrator), Katherine McNamara (Narrator)

4 out of 5 stars  ****

Another dystopian world that has humanity filtered through the latest science technology to treat a select few in a separated living space from those who must deal with nature on their own without the perks of an advanced society. The advances are questionable since lessons learned from trial and tribulation fade with dependence on government for every human need. Procreation is managed by selective breeding; hence, the human love interest in this story unfolds from that stage. The protagonist realizes love, all along, has been directing his behavior as it takes him for an adventurous experience in both worlds and beyond. 

Mission Critical (Gray Man #8) by Mark Greaney (Goodreads Author)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A story of espionage and intrigue, Mission Critical (Gray Man, #8), captures the audience in its excellent telling. Mark Greaney writes beautifully transposing listeners from their particular perspective to world stages where he resurrects strong, engaging characters from his keen imagination. The plot has a quick pace as supporting players enter the story and the web broadens. The romance between a key individual and the protagonist is tempered by family issues that are central to the plot.

The Roach by Rhett C. Bruno (Goodreads Author), R.C. Bray (narrator)

 

 

Rhett Bruno writes and R. C. Bray narrates a great story in a familiar genre, Fantasy/Fiction Dark Hero, with a unique twist: A wheelchair-bound survivor of everything from child abuse to urban crime. The author writes in the first person; so, the protagonist's point of view is where the audience enjoys the mystery and discovers just how difficult life can be for the handicapped. Simple tasks taken for granted require planning, execution, and usually assistance. The Roach overcomes overwhelming odds with his resolve and brutal introspective honesty. The supporting cast of characters develop interesting and probing scenarios that delve into mankind's psyche as suspense builds and action thrills solving crimes of jealousy, hate, and greed.