Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God's Will by Kevin DeYoung (Goodreads Author)

5 of 5 stars  *****

Kevin DeYoung clarifies the meaning of finding and doing God's will. He eloquently suggests that those who wait for a sign from God or interpret events as the will of God are applying their own intellect to their perceptions and not necessarily identifying the will of God. Instead, DeYoung advocates that people live their faithful life simply doing something and God's plan may be revealed to them. 

Kevin also describes Bible enthusiasts who rely on scripture to make key decisions in life. He is not implying that people not read scripture and glean wisdom from the reading, but not to rely on verses as the magic manual that must be obeyed at all costs. For instance, a depressed person who desires guidance for a way out of the doldrums may turn to a passage that tells him to hang himself from a tree as Judas did.


The gist of this book is to educate readers of God's sovereignty and mankind's responsibility. Every action, every decision people make should follow the will of God, in a perfect world, but people and this world are far from perfect. The attempt for perfection immobilizes the imperfect for fear of not obeying or failing to do the divine will of God. So, the best one can do is to simply do something with the knowledge and effort to praise God in our undertakings. The goal is not to stray so far from the Creator as to dismiss Him entirely in our life. 

If one is looking for a formula to walk in God's will, DeYoung offers on page 120:           

          Live for God. Obey the Scriptures. Think of others before 

          yourself. Be holy. Love Jesus. And as you do these things, 

          do whatever else you like, with whomever you like, 

          wherever you like,...

Truth is meant to be more experience than discovery. As the pastor from New City Church, Tullian Tchividjian, writes, "This book shows that discovering God's will happens not as we 'let go and let God,' but as we trust God and get going." 

An Echo in the Darkness (Mark of the Lion, #2) by Francine Rivers (Goodreads Author), Richard Ferrone (Narrator)

5 of 5 stars  *****

This reader is taken back in time to Ephesus, Rome, and the Holy Land by Francine Rivers, once again. Rivers depicts these ancient places of Earth during Roman rule and occupation. This fabulous journey is rich in historical accuracy and philosophical enlightenment.

An Echo in the Darkness: Mark of the Lion is the second book of Francine's Christian Historic trilogy. It begins with a surprise and evolves into an enticing story of wealth, greed, and jealousy that turns to loss, sorrow, and forgiveness when the protagonist searches for truth. Poetic justice may be observed by intelligence but wisdom unveils the divine plan of redemption for those who learn and seek contrition. 

Love of a certain humble heroine is the driving force throughout the plot in both books but is most evident in the second. This reviewer appreciates the manner in which the first book ends, shocking as it is, and wonders how the third book continues the emotional saga of rich and poor transcending all obstacles in the name of Jesus Christ. Book two, An Echo in the Darkness: Mark of the Lion, has an almost story-book ending that could be a final chapter.

One Pot Meals: Sheet Pan, Skillet $ Dutch Oven Recipes by Louis Weber

4 of 5 stars  ****

A well written and produced cook book that offers many easy meals that prove to please the taste buds. The few recipes enjoyed by this critic make owning One Pot Meals: Sheet Pan, Skillet $ Dutch Oven Recipes worth the cost. The book found a place in this chef's kitchen.

Horse Soldiers by D. Stanton

5 of 5 stars  *****

Horse Soldiers is a thoroughly investigated and superbly written account of the few American Special Forces who entered Afghanistan post the 9-11 attack on the Twin Towers in the United States of America. These men were the first to respond so they were poorly outfitted but uniquely prepared by their training. Their ages were older than the average soldier and most had families who they left suddenly for the call of duty. These men were adept at being familiar with the people they engaged as ally and enemy. They were careful not to insult those with whom they fought and demonstrated courage and intelligence by the way they fought.

It is said that there will never be another campaign fought like this one successfully completed in Afghanistan. America was seen as an invading force after this campaign because the Special Forces personnel who rode with the horse soldiers of the Northern Alliance were pulled out before Afghanistan could rebuild itself into a better country. Instead, the warring tribes, that include the Taliban, dominated the society.

Stanton's ability to recreate the battles, the home front, and the perspective of the Afghans and the soldiers involved in this campaign is a tribute to his many interviews with the actual men, women, and historians he had to complete before writing this great American true story.

The Neon Rain (Dave Robicheaux #1) by James Lee Burke, Will Patton (Narrator)

5 of 5 stars  *****

An interesting, entertaining, Louisiana-spun tale about law enforcement in bayou country. Will Patton provides the southern drawl appropriate for the narration of The Neon Rain using James Lee Burke's masterful colloquialisms and colorful text.

Follow Lieutenant Dave Robicheaux in his detective adventures. He conjures his knowledge, Viet Nam experience, and gut instincts to bring down local bad guys and nationally corrupt generals on both sides of the law. His exploits are not always by the book so he finds himself in an estranged relationship with his employer. Not one to take the path of least resistance, Detective Robicheaux stands firmly on the few principals that are responsible for his survival.

A Voice in the Wind (Mark of the Lion #1) by Francine Rivers

5 of 5 stars  *****


An excellent Christian Historical Fiction, A Voice in the Wind (Mark of the Lion, #1), by Francine Rivers, is the first novel in this genre that keeps the reader enthralled with the accurate environment in which this spellbinding story takes place. Each character represents the people of the time period so that a sensational experience may inform readers in an historical lesson while feeling like one is an unseen observer in an elaborate movie.

The messages A Voice in the Wind (Mark of the Lion, #1) are themed in the Holy Scripture spreading throughout Asia Minor and the Roman Empire post crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Apostle, John, is still alive and plays a role in the lives of the multicultural cast brought together by fate. 

A Jewess slave hides her Christianity but her humble service and inner peace attract those who find her remarkable compared to other slaves. The intrigue causes conversations that enlighten a ruling class, appeal to depressed and frightened slaves, and gain the respect of a certain gladiator. As this tale revolves around this girl, the reader journeys through history on the currents of holy scripture, the word of God. What an enjoyable way to keep one's conversation with the Creator ongoing.

Explore the Bible: Personal Study Guide: 1, 2 Peter; Jude: Fall 2016 by Jeff Iorg (Editor)

5 of 5 stars  *****

This Bible Study Guide explores the Apostle, Peter's, desire to direct early Christians toward the truth about the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the face of persecution, Peter's task is to encourage followers to keep faith and receive the fruits of the Holy Spirit which lightens the severity of the suffering Christians receive. Out of this comes Hope of salvation and an eternal life without any suffering.

Peter and Jude also teach how Christians can discern the false teacher from the true disciple of Christ. The true disciples do not vary from the holy scriptures and live a Christlike life so that their words are inspired by the Holy Spirit and their deeds align with their teachings. False teachers include themselves as benefactors of their teaching. They lack the humility and heart to serve their fellow man out of love. Reminding each other of the scripture's lessons as written and taught by the disciples is necessary to limit straying from the will of God.