Explore the Bible: Personal study Guide: Luke 10-24 Spring 2021 by Matt Capps

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This bible study asks who one thinks Jesus is. The apostle, Luke, reveals Jesus's ministry in Galilee, Judea, Perea, and Jerusalem to answer this question. Faith is required for salvation and it is strengthened by testing a person's beliefs. Luke covers the ultimate test of love in writing about the betrayal, trials, crucifixion and burial. The study ends with the resurrection, Great Commission, and Christ's ascension.

The bible study keeps the word of God alive and familiar in my life of striving to be my best. Its message is always fresh and rewarding. I am humbled and uplifted.

Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy (Great Courses) by David Kyle Johnson (Goodreads Author)

3 stars out of 5  ***

The subject is interesting but some of the psychological/philosophical explanations are too long verging on the edge of monotony. It is enlightening to hear a scholars analysis of past Sci-Fi movies and novels. Many are fascinating concepts but less fascinating books and movies.
 

Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America by Bill O'Reilly (Goodreads Author), Martin Dugard (Goodreads Author)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I relish this transportation back to the 1800's to view and contemplate our nation's recent history. The collaboration of O'Reilly and Dugard produces another interesting portrayal of events based on expert investigation and actual documents by government and individual citizens. The writing style places me in Indian Territories with maps that orient my adventure. The tension of clashing cultures raises moral and ethical questions that are passionately displayed on both sides, Indians versus Predominantly white settlers. Mexico is another player in this actual drama but it is not as aggressive as the New World's latest inhabitants, Americans expanding their horizons to live a better life. Unfortunately, expansion comes at a price that affects everyone it touches. These chapters depict hardship and sorrow that trace their path from injustice, strife, and revenge. Through it all, good and bad, indominable courage rises in many to meet harsh challenges and overcome crushing obstacles. These people live in infamy, now, because of historians who dedicate their work to be as close to the truth as possible. Such is Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America.

Down the Rabbit Hole: Curious Adventures and Cautionary Tales of a Former Playboy Bunny by Holly Madison (Author/Narrator)

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A pleasant surprise, Holly Madison, subject and narrator, delivers an interesting, cogent description of her experiences and relationships in her young adult life. This memoir reveals that the blond bombshell, ex Hugh Hefner girlfriend , is not just a pretty face. Her thought process shows in the telling of her interactions with celebrity, high society, business and what it takes to maintain such a lifestyle. Holly matures as a woman and an asset in developing and producing her own shows which become hits and are still shown on social media, today.

In Touch: Daily Living for Devoted Living: April 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I speak to God daily and more often because Dr. Charles Stanley provides a monthly series of daily devotionals, In Touch: Readings for Devoted Living . The April, 2021, issue explores: Why only God fully satisfies; temptation separates us from God; what idols exist today; and there is only one true God. By reading these pages every morning my attitude settles into a peace that is truly God's and this makes the communion genuine. I am overwhelmed and grateful. This practice encourages me to always be open to God's will and obey His loving direction that man (meaning male and female) should always endeavor to live in love. "In everything you do, let it be in love." - 1 Cor. 16:14 (NIV)

The Rise of Rome by Gregory S. Aldrete

 

5 out or 5 stars  *****

This presentation about Roman civilization is a delight to listen or read. The factors responsible for Rome's success as a thriving, expanding culture are eloquently communicated by the narrator who has command of the information in this historical account. The beginning of Rome starts with a Trojan war hero who survives the fall of Troy, Aeneas. His seed produces the twins, Romulus and Remus. Romulus kills Remus and Rome is born.

The parallels between then and now are remarkable. The same flaws in man exist to create political, social, and personal problems as a result of greed and pride corrupting power and causing divisive unrest. An historical account of this caliber is necessary for a people to study and improve their own history which intends to repeat.

In Touch: Daily Readings for Devoted Living, March 2021 by Dr. Charles Stanley

5 out of 5 stars  *****

In Touch is a devotional that nurtures maturing Christians. In this March issue Dr. Stanley explains coping with strong emotions and how to deal with sinful passions. He also tells how Jesus is the example to follow when it comes to convictions, detaching from the world, and trusting in God, the Father. These daily readings keep one closer to God as the author is blessed by the Holy Spirit.