Christian life and practice Books

Book SynopsisAs a firefighter, Mitch (Keith Mitchell) is trained to snatch people from flames. As a Christian, he sees sin as a real fire to be fought in people's lives - hence the title: snatched from the fire. Don't read this book if you want religion, answers to life's great mysteries or the secret of winning the lottery. Do read it if you are willing to lose your prejudice and meet someone more important than the three above put together - Jesus. Meeting Jesus results in real living, life with freedom and purpose. And you'll find a happy eternity thrown in as well.Trade ReviewEntertaining and educational, compelling and challenging, interesting and instructive. -- J.John * Evangelist, The Philo Trust *Mitch has beautifully articulated that the answers to the needs of this broken world can be found only in Jesus Christ. -- Gavin Peacock * Former Chelsea FC and Queens Park Ranger Captain *Funny, well written and aimed to change lives. -- Dr R.T. Kendall * Former Minister at Westminster Chapel, London *Disarming honesty, alarming reality, personal experiences and biblical bombshells... fascinating reading. In the midst of love and laughter, suffering and pain, bereavement and romance, a story unfolds... Prepare to be stirred to pray, aroused to action and motivated to be real with God. This book will start some fires of faith which no firefighter on earth will extinguish! -- The Right Reverend Ken Clarke * Former Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardash *

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Book SynopsisThe truth that Christians live by is that the best life possible is one that's lived in the presence of God; a life that is up close and personal with the mighty creator who made everything. Becoming a Christian isn't just about being saved from something but for something. The moment you say 'yes' to Jesus, you start out on the greatest adventure of your life and you discover something utterly priceless; a life lived side by side with God forever. Are you ready to RISE to that challenge?

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Book SynopsisRhonda Watson models how to remember God during times of physical suffering. Packed full of poetry, songs and Bible quotes, this beautiful devotional guide helps readers face failing physical powers with honesty, and focus on the character of God, the source of our hope. 'My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you.' Diagnosed in 2008 with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), Rhonda Watson is rapidly losing her speech, mobility and other physical functions. In desperation she turned to the only true source of hope and comfort - God. This honest and powerful book helps fellow-sufferers recall in times of trouble the character of God - who walks with us along the path of suffering and holds us in our pain. Choosing not to focus on her own debilitating condition, Rhonda provides devotions and reflections which have helped her, and will encourage the reader to hold on to trust in Jesus. With space for journaling, this book is ideal for anyone coping with disability and failing physical powers.

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Book SynopsisWill you rediscover my pilgrimage route? The question is addressed to the author, a 54-year old Danish architect, while under a meditation. This is the beginning of a 2000 km long pilgrimage route, which the Virgin Mary is said to have walked. THE TEACHINGS OF THE VIRGIN MARY is an account of both an inner and an outer journey with the Virgin Mary as an inner travel guide. Without any special qualifications, the author set out on a hard and fatiguing journey. The down-to-earth explorer was sorely tried and was confronted with less than friendly spiritual forces who tested and developed his commitment as a pilgrim. THE TEACHINGS OF THE VIRGIN MARY is a deeply personal report about a human, who set out on a journey to try to understand his own role in the world. The book is illustrated with the authors own maps and sketches.

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Book SynopsisThis Easter book is not about easy answers. The words of Jesus from the Cross are difficult and challenging. And yet the fact that they emerge from a situation of human agony gives them huge relevance for our times. And the God whom Jesus addresses from the Cross remains at the heart of humanity and continues to weep with us.

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Book SynopsisFor years J John and Mark Stibbe have recorded the most offbeat, shrewd and hard-hitting material they have come across in the course of their study and travel. With remarkable generosity they have agreed to share this selection with the rest of us. There's a new diet that is all the rage. You can eat all you see of everything you don't like. On the sixth day, God created the platypus. And God said : "Let's see the evolutionists try and figure this one out." Advice to fathers over 40: keep an open mind and a closed refrigerator. We do not stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing. There's a new remedy on the market for baldness. It doesn't grow hair but it shrinks your head to fit what hair your head has left. Education is forcing abstract ideas into concrete heads.

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Book SynopsisNew research into the liturgy of Anglo-Saxon history, with important implications for church history in general. The essays in this volume offer the fruits of new research into the liturgical rituals of later Anglo-Saxon England. They include studies of individual rites, the production, adaptation and transmission of texts, vernacular gospeltranslations, liturgical drama and the influence of the liturgy on medical remedies, poetry and architecture; also covered are the tenth-century Benedictine Reforms and the growth of pastoral care. It will be valuable for anyoneinterested in later Anglo-Saxon England as well as medieval liturgy and church history.Trade ReviewA rich and timely collection which offers many important new analyses of liturgical texts and their relationship to practice and theology. * THE YEAR'S WORK IN ENGLISH STUDIES *A valuable addition to our knowledge of liturgical manuscripts and practices. * TOEBI NEWSLETTER *Part of the value of a study of this kind is the different disciplinary approaches taken by the various authors.their learning deepens our understanding of Anglo-Saxon liturgy and the history it embodies. * REVUE D'HISTOIRE ECCLESIASTIQUE *Table of ContentsIntroduction - Helen Gittos The Roman Psalter, its Old English Glosses and the English Benedictine Reform - Mechthild Gretsch Making the Liturgy - Susan K Rankin Rending the Garment and Reading by the Rood: Regularis concordia Rituals for Men and Women - Joyce Hill Rites for Public Penance in Late Anglo-Saxon England - Sarah Hamilton The Chrism Mass in Later Anglo-Saxon England - Christopher A Jones The Veneration of the Cross in Anglo-Saxon England - Sarah Larratt Keefer The Rites and Ministries of the Canons: Liturgical Rubrics to Vernacular Gospels and their Functions in a European Context - Ursula Lenker Cross-Referencing Anglo-Saxon Liturgy and Remedies: the Sign of the Cross as Ritual Protection - Karen Jolly The Sign of the Cross: Poetic Performance and Liturgical Practice in the Junius 11 Manuscript - Catherine E. Karkov How much can Anglo-Saxon Buildings Tell us about Liturgy? - Ritual and Drama in Anglo-Saxon England: the Dangers of the Diachronic Perspective - M. Bradford Bedingfield

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Book SynopsisAn examination of the papal adventus ceremony, deriving from the ritual reception performed for the ruler in antiquity, and the changes it underwent during the century. This book examines the character and significance of the adventus ceremonies which were accorded to medieval popes and for which there is much evidence in the twelfth-century sources. The papal adventus, hitherto unstudied in anylanguage, retained the framework and much of the familiar symbolism of the ritual reception performed for the ruler in antiquity. During the twelfth century it was performed for popes with unprecedented frequency, providing, in particular, a vital part of the papal accession ritual. On such occasions adventus represented a demonstration of consent to rule, a sense that was expressed through traditional idioms evoking the triumph of the ruler. But the meaning of the ritual altered towards the end of the century as a result of the breakdown of relations between the papacy and the Romans, and the adventus provided an opportunity for the Romans to express their own agenda wherein consent meant the right of acceptance or veto by the people. Dr SUSAN TWYMAN teaches in the Faculty of Continuing Education, Birkbeck College, London University.

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Book SynopsisWhat are the sources of true Christianity? Tradition or Scripture? Experience? How far should our interpretation accommodate modern knowledge? Some take refuge in fundamentalism, others in emotion, many are leaving the Church. But there are others, called here "Tomorrow's Christian", who struggle to bring together in a meaningful way traditional Christianity and a contemporary, nourishing understanding and expression of it. 36 short chapters sum up the characteristics of Tomorrow's Christian. One who is questioning, ecologically aware, global, evolving, non-theistic, balanced, right-brain, scriptural, prophetic, peace-making, forgiving, empowered, Jesus-following, seeking, free, discerning, post-modernist, meditating, mystical and others. Ideal for discussion groups, and all individuals looking outside their churches for a way to live as Christians.Trade Review'An inspiring and multi-faceted vision of "Tomorrow's Christian". The layout with many short chapters makes the book easy to read and digest. I enjoyed reading this book immensely. I find it stimulating and encouraging.' Philip Sheppard, Christians Awakening to a New Awareness 'The author has given an insight into what future Christians will believe, feel, think and hope... and a whole lot more besides. Based on the values of Jesus of Nazareth, the book fast forwards several decades, making it clear that "Tomorrow's Christians" will be much more like Jesus than most of those who have lived in the last 2000 years. Those who have already given up on the Churches will be greatly uplifted by this forward-thinking book.' Frank Pycroft, ONE for Christian Exploration 'For those of us who may despair at the present state of the Church, we look for books that give a clear line without false shortcuts to popularity. There are those like Adrian Smith who have not their wish to proclaim the Gospel clearly and in communion with the Catholic elements of the Churches. Here he gives clear expositions of the desirable attitudes and aspects of Tomorrow's Christian. This book is not for those who want a quiet life. You will be challenged to become a much better and more exciting person to be with! ' David Storey, The Modern Churchpeople's Union

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Book SynopsisThis book has its roots in a very traditional understanding of God. In theological jargon, it's about God's omnipresence; God being everywhere. Because God is everywhere, we are, wherever we are, in God. It shouldn't, therefore, be difficult to believe in God. We don't have to struggle to get our head around impossible questions. We are already in God; so belief isn't like taking an exam, it's like taking a bath. We need to learn to relax and let ourselves be revived in God's presence. But looking more closely at what we find ourselves to be in, (including life, luck, love and person) the implications for our understanding of God are shocking and revolutionary. Here is a radical orthodoxy to give confidence to those who have given up on the fundamentalist expressions of faith that dominate the church today. Liberals are true to the heart of orthodox Christian doctrine on God. They are here encouraged to find their voice, demonstrate the deep roots of their faith, and above all, enjoy it.Trade ReviewThis little book is destined to become a spiritual classic... For those who have been put off by propositional Christianity, this is the perfect antidote. A wonderfully refreshing and invigorating reading of Christianity. Nigel Leaves, author of Odyssey and Surfing on the Sea of Faith Stephen Mitchell is so entertaining that you don't at first realise how subtle he is. He's out to change the way we think - and to show that religious thought is still very much alive. Don Cupitt, Emmanuel College, Cambridge This is a bold and innovative new way of writing anthropology from a theological perspective... I highly commend it to thoughtful Christians, and indeed members of all faiths and none currently struggling for a viable philosophy for 21st century living. Dr David Hart, India Secretary Thiruvananthapuram, World Congress of Faiths "A penetrating, powerful, incisive exploration of what it really means to believe in God." John Shelby Spong, author of The Sins of Scripture

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Book SynopsisThis book presents a new perspective on the message of Jesus, and how it can be applied to the modern world. It looks at how we can tap into our creative consciousness to create a brighter future. The human race is reaching a point of spiritual crisis - it is crying out for a new vision and a new order for the world. This volume shows that we have already been given this vision - more than two thousands years ago. "Creative Christian" looks at how this vision can be applied to our ever-changing, multi-cultural society. The author shows that within each and every human being is a creative power that is strong enough to change the world for the better. This stimulating and insightful volume focuses on how we can develop this power and that by doing so, the vision of Jesus of Nazareth is still as applicable today as it was 2,000 years ago.Trade ReviewEnlivening and stimulating, the author presents a new approach to Jesus and the Kingdom he spoke of, in the context of the evolution of our Universe. He reveals its meaning for us of the 21st century. Hans Schrenk, Lecturer in Holy Scripture and Biblical Languages, Middlesex University. This book is a real appetite-whetter in its great scope and clarity. It succinctly gathers together the process and development of Science, Religion and Spirituality. Most importantly, it identifies the deep shifts in perspective that are taking place as we move towards globalisation. We are encouraged to "turn the key" and tap into the depth of our creativity through meditation. A truly inspirational vision for now and the future. Mary Jo Radcliffe Chair of The Guild of Pastoral Psychology and founder of "Coping with Change"

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Book SynopsisMore pubs, clubs and bars per square mile than almost anywhere else in Europe. Hundreds of thousands of young people, intent on having the best holiday possible. The beautiful island of Ibiza is often derided for the shocking scenes of excess, violence and incapacity that inevitably result. 24-7 Prayer took up the invitation, God's call to go to the party island and pray. So Brian and Tracy Heasley went. For seven years, they walked and prayed around the walls of the San Antonio. And most nights, joined by young volunteers, they walked through the town, chatting to clubbers and offering prayer. Thousands said yes. Some knelt, some put their hands together, some shared deep worries and concerns. They helped people home, looked after those in danger of being robbed, and befriended all kinds of people, from bar owners to prostitutes. The familiar T-shirts of 24-7 Ibiza came to be regarded as a fourth emergency service. Brian and Tracy's story will inspire you to pray and show God's love for your own community as you seek to express the gospel in whatever situation he has placed you.

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Book SynopsisStand is a call to really live. To live out your Christian life - standing on the truth of who God is and who you are in him. Standing on the reality of what he's done. Standing firm in battle. Standing up for others and being prepared to stand out. In the steps of Mere Christianity and The Fight, Karl Martin re-tells and re-frames God's ancient call to discipleship and witness for a new generation, keeping Jesus firmly at the centre.

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Book SynopsisAmbition - the desire to be the best - is one of the passions that fuels Western Society. Many of mankind's greatest advances have been achieved through ambitious men and women. And yet the cost is often a trail of neglected families, discarded friendships, and compromised values. In this profound and wise discussion, RT Kendall argues that God does not call us simply to suppress all ambition. In fact it is often that very same trait which he uses to motivate a man or woman to do his will. Our God-given ambition must become God-oriented, so that a love for the Glory of God eclipses our all.

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Book SynopsisTucked away in the book of Numbers, amid instructions on wave offerings and haircutting, set in the ring of God's call to his people to be set apart for him, we find a sparkling diamond: God's gift of shining blessing, given to a weary people wandering in the wilderness. God blesses those who don't deserve it, through those who don't deserve it; again and again he chooses to bless. He is preparing his people for life in the Promised Land. And he is blessing them - us - to be a blessing to all people.

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Book SynopsisA profound invitation to get to know the God of forever, Kate Patterson explores what it means to be 'eternally minded', keeping our eyes on the one whose eyes are on us. Eternity unveils the freedom that being eternally minded brings, enabling us to live fearlessly, knowing that God is making us more and more Christ-like as we journey with him.

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Book SynopsisImagine having to phone that friend to congratulate them on their new job - rather than posting a 'like' on their timeline. Or imagine writing a letter, finding an envelope and a stamp, walking to the letterbox and waiting a week for a reply - instead of firing off an email. How quickly life changes. The communications technologies that now permeate our every waking moment open up endless possibilities: we can do things more quickly, we can do things more efficiently, we can do more things. And yet there is a down side - our time absorbed in social media and sifting through shopping choices; a quarter of working hours spent in unproductive online activity. And more sinister implications: loss of privacy, anonymity, the undisclosed harvesting of personal details by commercial and government organisations. Ultimately, the reality of communications technologies is that either we will master them or they will master us. In this incredibly helpful book, Guy Brandon unpacks the practical and spiritual significance of our technological choices and encourages us to use communications technologies in a way that aligns with our faith and calling, and makes us more faithful, more human and better at relating to one another.

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Book SynopsisThe remarkable story of one gutsy contractor's determination to end poverty in Africa. Grant Smith is not a visionary or an enthusiastic missionary. He's a problem solver. When confronted with the desperate problems of poverty he witnessed in Africa, he did the only thing he knew how to do--business. Business that would provide jobs and pay people enough so that they would not have to rely on charity to send their kids to school, so that none would be forced to live in a tin shed without water, electricity, sewerage, or dignity, fighting off the threat of pneumonia every time it rained. His venture led to a great challenge: become the biggest house-builder in Kenya. Both humorous and realistic, Smith tells of his successes and failures with projects as diverse as growing oil crops, a road-building scheme, house building, and selling old gas pumps. With faith in God's provision--and a little bewilderment--Smith wrestles with difficulties that every entrepreneur knows too well: finding investment funding only to lose it again, acquiring trustworthy business partners, confronting bribery and bureaucracy, corruption and culture. He is not the biggest house-builder in Kenya (yet!), but Smith has stumbled on a near-miraculous way of unlocking long-term financial provision for local Christian charities. For those who dream of making a difference for communities affected by poverty, this story is inspiring and thought-provoking. It encourages readers to see how ordinary people have been created for a purpose and have the potential to facilitate miracles. The Accidental Social Entrepreneur is a real challenge to consider how we might use the gifts and resources we have been given by God to change lives.

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Book SynopsisFive days a week. Or six. Thirty, forty, sixty hours. 90,000 in a lifetime. An abundance of creative possibility. So much more than a means to a mortgage, our work is a gift from God. And he wants to see us flourish in it all, doing what we were made to do: creating value, building homes or businesses, teaching primary schoolers or training pilots, stitching up minor injuries or serving macchiatos. Being everyday servants and witnesses in the world he entrusted to each of us, giving glory to the One who made us and gave us work to do. And yet, how many of us feel equipped, spiritually? Prayed for? Prepared for the opportunities and the challenges, the joys and the trials? In this innovative, compelling, often funny, story-filled book, ex-adman Mark Greene explores what the Bible has to say about contemporary work. From dealing with the boss, to being the boss; from working with competitive co-workers, to the challenges of working alone, here’s an empowering, tried and tested guide towards a more fulfilling and fruitful working life. A special 25th anniversary edition of a contemporary classic that’s stood the test of time and has been joyfully revised and updated for the times we’re in.

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Book SynopsisAfter 30 years of being a disciple, Simon Ponsonby began to reflect on whether he was amazed by Jesus, or whether he had lost his first love, having a relationship with Jesus that was predictable and dutiful. Did Jesus still amaze him or just employ him? ISBN 978-1-910012-18-5 As he reflected on this question, Jesus drew near to him, and Simon began to write a poem about Jesus, marvelling again at who he was and what he had done. Amazing is a touching and inspiring poem about just how amazing Jesus is - the perfect devotional for mediating and reflecting on Jesus, to help meet with him right where you are. Illustrated with the author's photographs, which position amazing truths in a stark and contemporary setting, and drive their message home all the more, this simple, honest and moving poem is a wonderful gift to help others to encounter the amazing person of Jesus too.

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Book SynopsisA meeting in a restaurant in Eastern Europe is suddenly interrupted by secret police. Public artworks are installed in a Guatemalan town to confront injustice perpetrated by gangs and government. A ministry begins in the Solomon Islands where none existed before. All this is the work of students, young people the very age the disciples were when Jesus entrusted his ministry to them. Drawing together incredible stories from every region of the globe - from North America to Romania, from movements with official recognition to those persecuted to the point of being driven underground - Campus Lights bears witness to the way that student mission is flourishing around the world today. In his journalistic, engaging style, Luke Cawley recounts how students are taking risks to share their faith, continuing the legacy of Jesus' young disciples as they went out into the world and changed nations. Far more than a book on student mission, Campus Lights will inspire all leaders, encouraging them to take risks for the kingdom in their own context, and showing how students and young people can be catalysts for change in our world.

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Book SynopsisA thundering from the skies? An inner knowing, a quiet certainty? The God of the Bible is a God who speaks, who spoke the world itself into being; his word is powerful and it will accomplish what he sends it to do. Our God promises to speak to us, to be found by us when we seek him with all our heart. But how? What is God’s voice actually like? So often, in our noisy world, we struggle to listen, to recognise when he’s speaking. Can we really expect to ‘hear’ him today? Yes, we can, argues Bill Cahusac, our Father God loves to communicate with us, and it can be as natural to encounter his voice at a football match or the supermarket checkout, as it can be in a church or a prayer room. This beautiful book explores important and difficult questions surrounding prophecy. Vulnerable, funny, and entirely relatable, Bill takes us on a journey of his experience. Hearing that gentle whisper, he says, comes from spending time with God in his word and in worship.Table of Contents1. Home 2. Closer than a brother 3. How wide and long, how high and deep 4. Be ready 5. Rushing waters 6. God-breathed 7. Written in the sky 8. Seeing visions and dreaming dreams 9. Great and unsearchable things 10. The still small voice and thundering 11. Learning to bear the weight of privilege 12. Pray, practise, and persevere 13. Strengthening what remains

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Book SynopsisHow can working parents live wisely with God at the centre, learn to be still and know him, while juggling demands of family and career at today's hectic pace? Katharine Hill draws on a wealth of experience from advising government, working with families and bringing up her own, to help you flourish in your calling and walk closely with the Lord.

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Book SynopsisGod has given us Christ, the greatest gift of all time. Through the Bible, we discover that he also gives each of us a special gift. Our growing relationship with God involves finding out what our gift is and using it in every circumstance God places us in. For through our special gifts, God blesses others - both inside and outside the Church. This warm-hearted five-session course, which may be used during Lent or at any time of the year, draws on the skills Olivia Amartey learnt as a senior leader in the NHS. This was God's training ground for her. Despite facing numerous crises, Olivia found herself developing flexibility, wisdom and the grace to maintain a sense of fun amid the topsy-turviness of life. Now she invites us to embrace the adventure we are all on with Christ, as we look, in turn, at: The generosity of God; Discovering our gift and responding; Being with Jesus and becoming fruitful; When things go wrong, and ways of staying on track; and It's all good - how God changes everything. The course book is accompanied not only by a CD/audio download but also by a video, filmed on location by Monkeynut in an enchanting Georgian country house. Olivia Amartey is joined in discussing the themes of The Gift of Christ by scriptwriter Paul Kerensa, and author and spiritual director Amy Boucher Pye. COMPLETE LIST OF THE GIFT OF CHRIST PRODUCTS Course book including transcript of video and access to video/audio downloads (paperback 978 1 91584 331 9) Course book including transcript of video and access to video/audio downloads (eBook 978 1 91584 333 3, both ePub and Mobi files provided) Participants' book including transcript of video: pack of 5 (paperback 978 1 91584 332 6) Participants' book including transcript of video (eBook 978 1 91584 334 0, both ePub and Mobi files provided) Audio book of discussion to support THE GIFT OF CHRIST (audio digital download 978 1 91584 335 7) Audio book of discussion to support THE GIFT OF CHRIST (CD 978 1 91584 336 4) Video of discussion to support THE GIFT OF CHRIST (available only via the publisher's website)

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Book SynopsisAn edited collection of teachings from Vineyard’s National 20s-30s conference, The Cause to Live For. This book offers readers a chance to delve and dwell deeper in the incredible teaching offered at CTLF over the years, inspiring and equipping a young generation in the counter-cultural ministry of the kingdom today.Table of ContentsForeword – John and Debby Wright Transform Nations - Jen Rankine Be a History Maker – Andy Smith Growth, Health & Forgiveness – Chuck Freeland Valuing what God values – Jay Pathak Responding to the present – Jay Pathak Fear or Faith? – Jay Pathak Worship and Justice – Ben Cooley and Martin Smith Remember the Poor – Miriam Swaffield Go anywhere, do anything – Dave Miller

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Book SynopsisAn all-new inspirational colouring book from chalk artist Shannon Roberts, 'Chalk it Up to Grace' features your favourite uplifting Bible verses and reminders, such as: Sweet words are like honey to the soul (Proverbs 16:24); Have faith in God's timing; Love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:8) and many more! Shannon combines her beautiful chalk art with Scripture in this unique, chalkboard-themed colouring book. Every page is designed to help you reflect on the beauty of Scripture and bring it to life through colouring.

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Book SynopsisIncludes the story Rescued by Ruby—now on Netflix!The bestselling and beloved Godwink series returns with a charming, dog-focused collection of “joyful” (The Washington Post) stories, all of which provide plenty of hope, encouragement, and laughter. With delightfully uplifting stories and enthralling prose, DogWinks is the perfect gift for dog lovers of all backgrounds. Featuring several never-before-published and true stories about coincidences and divine intervention, DogWinks is an inspirational and entertaining book that illustrates the overwhelming power of faith and how miracles can change our lives and those of our canine companions.Trade Review"Joyful...These stories will make you want to give your pup an extra biscuit and a hug." —Washington Post

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Book SynopsisUnfortunately, in the world many people fail to experience the freedom and healing power of God's grace. Even Christians too experience judgment rather than the love that is the vital essence of Christian life. This work reveals how to embrace God's acceptance, forgiveness, and care and have that knowledge forever transform the way you live.

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Book SynopsisFrom pastor and New York Times bestselling author Timothy Keller comes the perfect gift for the Christmas holiday—a profoundly moving and intellectually provocative examination of the nativity story Even people who are not practicing Christians think they are familiar with the story of the nativity. Every Christmas displays of Baby Jesus resting in a manger decorate lawns and churchyards, and songs about shepherds and angels fill the air. Yet despite the abundance of these Christian references in popular culture, how many of us have examined the hard edges of this biblical story? In his new book Timothy Keller takes readers on an illuminating journey into the surprising background of the nativity. By understanding the message of hope and salvation within the Bible’s account of Jesus’ birth, readers will experience the redeeming power of God’s grace in a deeper and more meaningful way.

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Book SynopsisA wry, fictional account of the life of Christ by the Winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, Illuminated by ferocious wit, gentle passion, and poetry (Los Angeles Times Book Review). For José Saramago, the life of Jesus Christ and the story of his Passion were things of this earth: a child crying, a gust of wind, the caress of a woman half asleep, the bleat of a goat or the bark of a dog, a prayer uttered in the grayish morning light. The Holy Family reflects the real complexities of any family, but this is realism filled with vision, dream, and omen. Saramago's deft psychological portrait of a savior who is at once the Son of God and a young man of this earth is an expert interweaving of poetry and irony, spirituality and irreverence. The result is nothing less than a brilliant skeptic's wry inquest into the meaning of God and of human existence.

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Book SynopsisWhen painful or frustrating circumstances invade your life, it’s easy to wonder why. Why does life so often seem unfair? Why doesn’t our all-powerful God stop the pain and suffering-not just for you-but for all His children The truth is, we live in a fallen world filled with fallen people, and we cannot escape hardship and pain. Somehow difficult times are a part of God’s plan and they serve His purposes. In this six week study you’ll examine what the Bible says about suffering and why God allows it. Through the stories of many who persevered through times of testing, you’ll discover how to find joy even when life seems unfair. You’ll learn how to handle loss while glorifying God in the midst of your pain. And you’ll find the peace that comes from trusting in the One whose strength is made perfect in your weakness.

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Book SynopsisAre you ready to accept a challenge that could dramatically change your life? The Weekly Prayer Project invites you to journal, pray, reflect, and connect with God using a 52-week guided prayer journal. You''ll learn to pray with intention and explore the different types of prayers found in the Bible, with journaling prompts that guide you to reflect on God''s work in your life.The Weekly Prayer Project is: Full of variety of prayers—from prayers of gratitude and thankfulness to prayers of lament and intercession Perfect for a beginner in faith and prayer life, but thought provoking enough for someone already familiar with prayer A unique prayer journaling format designed to help you focus and organize time for prayer A perfect companion for individual worship, Bible studies, and small groups Each week includes: A biblical theme to focus on A short but imp

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Book SynopsisAs a mom, you always want to give your best to your family. The Better Mom Devotional will help you focus who you are becoming rather than what you are accomplishing. Find freedom from mom-guilt, the myth of perfection, and the endless to-do list of motherhood, and step into your greatest adventure yet: becoming The Better Mom.

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Book SynopsisLiving God’s Word is your pathway to read the Bible as it was meant to be read: as God’s Great Story. Authors J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays invite readers to see how their faith journey relates to the big picture of the Scriptures as they explore the entire Bible through broad themes that trace the progression of God's redemptive plan.

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Book SynopsisWhat if God is saving the best for last?Of all the books of the Bible, Revelation is the one that mystifies and unsettles people the most. From numerical signs to monsters, the book of apocalypse in the Bible can be difficult to wrap our minds around, but the message that Revelation really brings is hope.In this six-session video Bible study (video streaming included), Bible teacher and author Margaret Feinberg digs into John''s Revelation to show us how the final book of the Bible reminds us of God''s power and promises during times of great suffering and persecution.This study guide has everything you need for a full Bible study experience, including: The study guide itself—with discussion and reflection questions, video notes, and a leader''s guide. An individual access code to stream all six video sessions online (you don''t need to buy a DVD!). Scripture memory cards and coloring pa

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Book SynopsisIn this six-session video Bible study (streaming included), New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst offers a safe place to share your disappointments, fresh biblical insight to get you through painful situations, and life-giving perspectives for living between Eden and eternity.Life often looks very different than we hoped or expected. Some events may simply catch us off guard for a moment, but others shatter us completely. At times like these, it''s easy to feel disappointed and disillusioned and to wonder about the reality of God''s goodness.So what do you do when God''s timing seems questionable, his lack of intervention hurtful, and his promises doubtful?Lysa understands this deeply. But she''s also discovered that our disappointments can be the divine appointments our souls need to radically encounter God. In this video Bible study, Lysa invites small groups and individuals into her own journey of faith. With vulnerability

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Book SynopsisIn this eight-session video Bible study, Anne Graham Lotz shares how to develop a personal and intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit drawing on her rich biblical knowledge, and, even more so, on her personal journey with the Holy Spirit.

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Book SynopsisDo you ever feel left out, lonely, less than loved? Most of us have. Many of us do now... Sometimes you simply need to be reminded how loved you really are—that every day, with every breath, you are loved with such precision that every hair, every molecule of you is known, counted, invited, and welcomed. This six-session video study guide (video streaming included) is that reminder. Best-selling author and speaker Lysa TerKeurst will walk you through the Holy Land in order to come closer to Jesus'' words that will help you enter a place of healing and new perspective. You and your group are invited to: Explore the roots of rejection and learn practical ways to process your pain in a safe space. Dwell on the majestic declarations of God''s love in the Bible. Discover a deep assurance of your adoption into Christ''s family that leads to new life. Be a part of this biblical learning process of living loved.

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Book SynopsisDrawing heartbreaking beauty out of the simplest of details, Ann Voskamp invites you into her grace-bathed life of farming, parenting, and writing---and deeper still into your own life.Trade ReviewAnn Voskamp invites us to slow down, to learn how to live the full life of eucharisteo (with grace, thanksgiving, joy) regardless of circumstances. With lovely word pictures inspired by everyday life in her family and on her farm, she writes about her struggle to live joyfully amid sin and sorrow and suffering. * WORLD Magazine *

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Book SynopsisSpeak, by popular blogger Nish Weiseth, is a book about the power of telling our own stories and hearing those of others to change hearts, build bridges, advocate for good, make disciples with grace, and proclaim God’s kingdom on Earth today.

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Book SynopsisWhat if the mess of your life is where God is about to do his best work?Life can be a tangled mess. Luke Lezon''s mess came in the form of alarming health issues, transforming him from fun-loving and God-fearing to angry and hopeless. As Luke''s health deteriorated for months without answers, the stress of not knowing suddenly spiraled into a mental and emotional breakdown. As a pastor, he wasn''t supposed to struggle with life''s mess - but then maybe we''ve been wrong about the mess all along. As Luke learned, you are not made of the mess, you are made through it.If you''re feeling lonely or less-than, ashamed of where you''ve been or anxious about where you''re going, this is a message crafted just for you: God is never afraid of a mess. He''s never run from some dirt and blood. In fact, the mess is exactly where he does his best work. If we believe that God created us from dust and redeemed us through the blood of the cross, we can trust h

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