Religion

2013 Word Guild Award (Academic) How does worship work? How exactly does liturgical formation shape us? What are the dynamics of such transformation? In the second of James K. A. Smith's three-volume theology of culture, the author expands and deepens the analysis of cultural liturgies and Christian worship he developed in his well-received Desiring the Kingdom. He helps us understand and appreciate the bodily basis of habit formation and how liturgical formation--both "secular" and Christian--affects our fundamental orientation to the world. Worship "works" by leveraging our bodies to transform our imagination, and it does this through stories we understand on a register that is closer to body than mind. This has critical implications for how we think about Christian formation. Professors and students will welcome this work as will pastors, worship leaders, and Christian educators. The book includes analyses of popular films, novels, and other cultural phenomena, such as The King's Speech, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest, and Facebook.

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Who is the Holy Spirit? How does he change our lives? How does he work in the world? These studies will help you examine these and other critical questions. The Spirit of God is eager to work in your life and draw you to God. Come and meet the Spirit. This revised Lifebuilder Bible Study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra 'Now or Later' section in each study.

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An essential biography of one of the Bible’s most powerful and inspiring booksExodus is the second book of the Hebrew Bible, but it may rank first in lasting cultural importance. It is here that the classic biblical themes of oppression and redemption, of human enslavement and divine salvation, are most dramatically expressed. Joel Baden tells the story of this influential and enduring book, tracing how its famous account of the Israelites’ journey to the promised land has been adopted and adapted for millennia, often in unexpected ways.Baden draws a distinction between the Exodus story and the book itself, which is one of the most multifaceted in the Bible, containing poems, law codes, rituals, and architectural plans. He shows how Exodus brings together an array of oral and written traditions from the ancient Middle East, and how it came to be ritualized in the Passover Seder and the Eucharist. Highlighting the remarkable resilience and flexibility of Exodus, Baden sheds light on how the bestowing of the Torah to Moses on Mount Sinai divided Jewish and Christian thinkers, on the importance of Exodus during the Reformation and the American Revolution, and on its uses in debates for and against slavery. He also traces how the defining narrative of ancient Israel helped to define Mormon social identity, the American civil rights movement, and liberation theology.Though three thousand years old, the Exodus—as history, as narrative, as metaphor, as model—continues to be vitally important for us today. Here is the essential biography of this incomparable spiritual masterpiece.

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In The New Testament In Its World acclaimed biblical scholar N. T. Wright draws on a lifetime of distinguished scholarship to provide a thorough overview of the New Testament for students, church leaders, and everyday Christians. Wright, along with prominent New Testament scholar Michael Bird, explores the history, literature, and theology of the New Testament with an emphasis on its relevance for Christians today. Beginning with an overview of how to read the New Testament, the authors then survey its historical background to orient readers to the world of Jesus and the early church. This is followed by an in-depth study of Jesus' inauguration of the kingdom of God through his life, ministry, death, and resurrection. The next section explores the life and theology of Paul, who continues to unfold the significance of Jesus' life and ministry, and applies these to the issues faced by the early churches. Wright and Bird survey all of Paul's letters, providing a compact commentary on each, while explaining contemporary scholarly discussions on Paul and his teachings. They then turn to the gospels, written after Paul's letters, followed by the general epistles and Revelation, explaining the background, critical issues, important teachings, and contemporary applications for each. This is followed by a description of how the New Testament came to be, guiding the reader through issues of textual criticism and canonization. A concluding section brings all of the previous threads together to encourage readers to consider how their personal story fits into the larger story of God's redemption narrated in the New Testament. Students of the New Testament will not only be equipped with all of the technical information needed to understand the New Testament today but will see it as one cohesive story in which they are invited to play a vital role through their own lives and circumstances.

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"Williams's masterful translation satisfies (at last!) a long-standing need. There are lots of good translations of Augustine's great work, but until now we have been forced to choose between those that strive to replicate in English something of the majesty and beauty of Augustine's Latin style and those that opt instead to convey the careful precision of his philosophical terminology and argumentation. Finally, Williams has succeeded in capturing both sides of Augustine’s mind in a richly evocative, impeccably reliable, elegantly readable presentation of one of the most impressive achievements in Western thought—Augustine's Confessions." —Scott MacDonald, Professor of Philosophy and Norma K. Regan Professor in Christian Studies, Cornell University

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An instant classic of contemporary spirituality, bringing together an engaging introduction to the Christian contemplative tradition for people inside or on the margins of the churches who feel drawn to the world of silent prayer. Martin Laird shows how silence and meditation can offer a remedy to many contemporary dilemmas and emotional struggles. Writing with great clarity, depth and authority, Laird examines the meditative methods and traditions found within contemplative prayer. He also explores the role of breath and awareness in the spiritual life, which, while usually associated with Buddhism, is also an ancient concern of Christian thinkers. Into the Silent Land brings together scholarship, pastoral practice and the author’s own personal experience. It offers new insights for the student but is especially intended for the non-specialist reader who feels drawn to the world of silent prayer and is looking to the Christian contemplative tradition for inspiration and guidance.

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The perfect first Bible for early readers.The NIrV Illustrated Holy Bible for Kids is a brand-new kind of Bible that allows kids ages 4–8 to read the full Bible without chapter and verse numbers and footnotes—study aids that are helpful for adults but can be very distracting for kids. This Bible presents the story of God’s people in a single column format with an extremely readable font. With nearly every turn of the page, children will encounter full-color illustrations and kid-friendly maps that illuminate the Bible story. For children who want to read on their own or with an adult nearby, this is the perfect first full-text Bible for kids who appreciate the power of story and of God’s Word.Features of the NIrV Illustrated Holy Bible for Kids include: Bonus full-color double-sided poster Over 750 full-color illustrations throughout Full-color, child-friendly maps Single-column text Easy-to-read Comfort Print® font The complete text of the New International Readers’ Version (NIrV) of the Bible, created at a third-grade reading level just for developing readers Vibrant and engaging cover

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Give the moms in your life a beautiful gift of encouragement, reassurance, and peace amidst uncertainty. Jesus Calling for Moms features 50 relevant devotions from Sarah Young's New York Times bestseller Jesus Calling®, to celebrate mothers and their love, comfort, and strength, offering timely, biblical truth. With 50 selections, you'll find devotions that speak to: the power of love the gift of strength courage in any season trusting Him during challenging times God's guidance and comfort joyous reasons to celebrate mothers and motherhood This beautiful compilation of devotions from Sarah's bestselling brand also includes: a new introduction and prayer for moms by Sarah journaling prompts and questions to encourage deeper growth space to write thoughts, prayers, and reflections stunning imagery complete Bible verses Whether a gift for your own mom or for a mom who means so much to you, this is ideal for Mother's Day, birthdays, Valentine's Day, and more. Jesus Calling for Moms will be a cherished favorite for years to come.Look for additional life-changing, life-giving books from Sarah Young including: Jesus Listens Jesus Always Jesus Today Jesus Calling

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In this landmark commentary, Craig R. Koester offers a comprehensive look at a powerful and controversial early Christian text, the book of Revelation. Originally written for Christian communities in Asia Minor, Revelation depicts scenes of cosmic conflict in which God, the creator of the world, overcomes the forces of destruction and makes all things new. This often misunderstood portion of the New Testament repeatedly surprises readers by warning that judgment is imminent, only to interrupt the visions of terror with messages of hope and redemption. Koester provides richly textured descriptions of the book’s setting and language, making extensive use of Greek and Latin inscriptions, classical texts, and ancient Jewish writings, including the Dead Sea Scrolls. While Revelation has often been viewed as world-negating, this commentary focuses on its deep engagement with social, religious, and economic issues. It also addresses the book’s volatile history of interpretation and its cultural impact over the centuries. The result is a groundbreaking study that provides powerful insights and sets new directions for the continued appreciation of this visionary religious text.

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A favorite of Tibetans and recommended by the Dalai Lama and other senior Buddhist teachers, this practical guide to inner transformation introduces the fundamental spiritual practices common to all Tibetan Buddhist traditions.The Words of My Perfect Teacher is the classic commentary on the preliminary practices of the Longchen Nyingtig—one of the best-known cycles of teachings and a spiritual treasure of the Nyingmapa school—the oldest Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Patrul Rinpoche makes the technicalities of his subject accessible through a wealth of stories, quotations, and references to everyday life. His style of mixing broad colloquialisms, stringent irony, and poetry has all the life and atmosphere of an oral teaching. Great care has been taken by the translators to render the precise meaning of the text in English while still reflecting the vigor and insight of the original Tibetan. A preface by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, insightful introductory essays, explanatory notes, and classic illustrations enhance this quintessential introduction to Tibetan Buddhist practice. This new edition includes translations of a postface to the text written a century ago (for the first printed edition in Tibetan) by the first Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche, and a new preface by the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. The notes, glossary and bibliography have been expanded and updated, Sanskrit names and terminology have been given their proper transliterated form, and the illustrations have been improved in quality and supplemented with new material.

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In its first thousand years—from the revelations to Muhammad in the seventh century to the great Islamic empires of the sixteenth--Islamic civilization flourished. While Europeans suffered through the Dark Ages, Muslims in such cities as Jerusalem, Damascus, Alexandria, Fez, Tunis, Cairo, and Baghdad made remarkable advances in philosophy, science, medicine, literature, and art. This engrossing and accessible book explores the first millennium of Islamic culture, shattering stereotypes and enlightening readers about the events and achievements that have shaped contemporary Islamic civilization.Jonathan Bloom and Sheila Blair examine the rise of Islam, the life of Muhammad, and the Islamic principles of faith. They describe the golden age of the Abbasids, the Mongol invasions, and the great Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal empires that emerged in their wake. Their narrative, complemented by excerpts of the Koran, poetry, biographies, inscriptions, travel guides, and even a thirteenth-century recipe, concludes with a brief epilogue that takes us to the twenty-first century. Colorfully illustrated, this book is a wonderful introduction to the rich history of a civilization that still radically affects the world.

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Take early readers on an adventure through God’s Word with the #1 Bible for kids!The bestselling NIrV Adventure Bible® for Early Readers gets kids 6-10 excited about God’s Word! They will be captivated with the full-color features that make reading Scripture and memorizing their favorite verses engaging and fun. Along the way they’ll meet all types of people, see all sorts of places, and learn all kinds of things about the Bible. Most importantly, they’ll grow closer in their relationship with God.This Bible includes the complete New International Reader’s Version (NIrV) which is written at a third-grade reading level and based on the accurate, readable, and clear New International Version (NIV). The NIrV is perfect for children learning to read and explore the Bible for the first time on their own.Over 10 million copies within the Adventure Bible® brand have been sold. The Adventure Bible is recommended by more Christian schools and churches than any other Bible for kids!Features include: Complete text of the easy-to-read New International Reader’s Version (NIrV) of the Bible Full-color design throughout – Makes learning about the people, places, and culture of the Bible even more engaging Life in Bible Times – Articles and illustrations describe what life was like in ancient days Words to Treasure – Highlights great verses to memorize Did You Know? – Interesting facts help you understand God’s Word and the life of faith People in Bible Times – Articles offer close-up looks at amazing people of the Bible Live It! – Hands-on activities help you apply biblical truths to your life Twenty special pages – Focus on topics such as famous people of the Bible, highlights of the life of Jesus, how to pray, and the love passage for kids, all with a jungle safari theme Book introductions with useful facts about each book of the Bible Dictionary/concordance for looking up tricky words Color map section to help locate places in the Bible 9-point font size

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Updated edition is even easier to read and better than ever to study and understandYou’ve trusted the Amplified® Bible to deliver enhanced understanding of all the rich nuances and shades of meaning of the original Bible languages. For this kind of in-depth study, no working knowledge of Greek or Hebrew is required—just a desire to know more about what God says in his Word. Amplified Bibles use a unique system of punctuation, italics, references, and synonyms to unlock subtle shades of meaning as found in the original languages.This updated Amplified Bible includes more amplification in the Old Testament and refined amplification in the New Testament. Additionally, the Bible text has been improved to read smoothly with or without amplifications, so that the text may be read either way. It’s the same feel and style of study material that you love, now with even clearer wording for deeper understanding.The smaller size of the Amplified Holy Bible, Compact is perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle. Whether you are headed to class, church, a coffee shop, or a trip around the globe, this Bible can travel with you.Features: Unique system of punctuation, italics, references, and synonyms to unlock subtle shades of meaning as found in the original languages Introduction explains the powerful study features in the translation, making the Bible easy to use Presentation page for gift-giving Ribbon marker 6.2-point type size

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Streams in the Desert is one of the most popular daily devotionals of all time. Now combined with Cowman's follow-up Springs in the Valley is an everyday morning and evening devotional. Readers will be encouraged by these short devotions that speak to the soul with the ageless truth of the Word of God.Streams in the Desert Morning and Evening includes: More than 900 pages of short, daily devotions Guidance and hope that encourage a deeper faith walk Wisdom and insight into God's character Scripture verses to strengthen the daily messages Beautiful cover with foil and a ribbon marker Streams in the Desert Morning and Evening is a beautiful gift for readers who want to start their mornings and wind down during their evenings by connecting their hearts to the One who knows it best.

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The ESV Compact Bible fits conveniently in your backpack or purse. This Bible will be a favorite of anyone who likes to take God’s word wherever they go.

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The ESV Study Bible, Large Print edition transforms the content of the award-winning ESV Study Bible into a highly readable, large-print type retaining all articles, 20,000 study notes, 240 maps and illustrations, charts, timelines, and book introductions.

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The Reformed tradition in the twenty-first century is increasingly diverse, dynamic, and deeply engaged in a wide variety of global and public issues, from the arts and business to immigration and race to poetry and politics. This book brings together the insights of a diverse group of leading Reformed thinkers--including Nicholas Wolterstorff, Makoto Fujimura, Bruce Ashford, John Witvliet, Ruben Rosario Rodriguez, and James K. A. Smith--to offer a contemporary vision of the depth and diversity of the Reformed faith and its global public impact.

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'a fiercely intelligent theologian and historian' - The Independent'Miranda gives us the confidence to sit and taste the Bible's profound and life-changing goodness.' - Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of YorkAs a vicar, Miranda Threlfall-Holmes is used to being asked to recommend a book on how and why to read the Bible. Filling the gap between popular Bible reading notes and more academic books, How to Eat Bread is the book she'd give to anyone wanting to explore the Bible as part of their faith. Its three main sections delve into the rich heritage of how Christians have read the Bible down the ages: From the Larder - ways that scripture itself uses other parts of scripture, or models and demonstrates different ways of reading Grandma's Recipe Book - historical methods of biblical interpretation Molecular Gastronomy - the insights and methods of modern theological hermeneuticsEncouraging readers to try out a variety of tried and tested ways of Bible reading, experiment with different ingredients and sample the results, How to Eat Bread is a refreshingly hands-on approach to understanding this ancient library of texts.'exhilarating and hands-on ... Miranda Threlfall-Holmes provides a fantastic guide' - Fergus Butler-Gallie

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A collection of 101 hadith sayings, this work is one of the most important and influential early collections of hadith qudsi. Falling into three categories, the first 40 sayings each have a full, unbroken chain of transmission that goes back to God through the medium of the Prophet Muhammad. The second category are sayings mostly taken from well-known written collections. The final section is drawn from similar books, with Ibn 'Arabi adding one extra hadith, orally transmitted. Comprised of a full introduction explaining the meaning of Hadith, the text stresses the importance of this tradition in Ibn 'Arabi's writing.

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The Re-Enchantment of the World is an interdisciplinary volume that challenges the long-prevailing view of modernity as "disenchanted." There is of course something to the widespread idea, so memorably put into words by Max Weber, that modernity is characterized by the "progressive disenchantment of the world." Yet what is less often recognized is the fact that a powerful counter-tendency runs alongside this one, an overwhelming urge to fill the vacuum left by departed convictions, and to do so without invoking superseded belief systems. In fact, modernity produces an array of strategies for re-enchantment, each fully compatible with secular rationality. It has to, because God has many "aspects"—or to put it in more secular terms, because traditional religion offers so much in so many domains. From one thinker to the next, the question of just what, in religious enchantment, needs to be replaced in a secular world receives an entirely different answer. Now, for the first time, many of these strategies are laid out in a single volume, with contributions by specialists in literature, history, and philosophy.

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For more than forty years this classic study has shown Christians how to minister to the people God brings into their lives. Instead of drawing on the latest popular fad or the newest selling technique, Dr. Robert E. Coleman looks to the Bible to find the answer to the question: What was Christ's strategy for evangelism? This convenient, portable format has an updated look for a new generation of readers.

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Over 900,000 copies sold! According to researchers, the vast majority--a whopping 75-98 percent--of the illnesses that plague us today are a direct result of our thought life. What we think about truly affects us both physically and emotionally. In fact, fear alone triggers more than 1,400 known physical and chemical responses in our bodies, activating more than thirty different hormones! Today our culture is undergoing an epidemic of toxic thoughts that, left unchecked, create ideal conditions for illnesses. Supported by current scientific and medical research, Dr. Caroline Leaf gives readers a prescription for better health and wholeness through correct thinking patterns, declaring that we are not victims of our biology. She shares with readers the "switch" in our brains that enables us to live happier, healthier, more enjoyable lives where we achieve our goals, maintain our weight, and even become more intelligent. She shows us how to choose life, get our minds under control, and reap the benefits of a detoxed thought life.

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The full text of the trustworthy New King James Version with robust study notes, vibrant full-color images, and dozens of study resources to help you grow deeper in your faith.The New King James Study Bible, Full Color Edition is a reliable guide for your journey into God’s Word. This beautiful full-color Bible provides a complete resource for study, including over 1 million words of custom content contributed by top evangelical scholars. Over 1,000 articles, notes, word studies, photos, illustrations, maps, and other tools, combined with the accuracy and clarity of the New King James Version, make this Bible a perfect choice to help you deeply engage and understand Scripture.Trusted by readers worldwide, the NKJV Study Bible has been recognized with the ECPA Platinum Award for selling over 2 million copies across translations.Features include: Beautiful full color throughout. Over 250 photos and illustrations of important places, artifacts, and pieces of art. Exclusive study tools that help you understand, appreciate, and live out what you read: Book introductions, book outlines, and timelines provide important and helpful background information, historical context, and content overviews. 15,000 Bottom-of-the-page study notes offer over 850,000 words of clear and compelling commentary. 345+ Word studies with Strong's numbers give insight into the meaning of the original Greek and Hebrew words. 150+ Bible Times and Cultural notes deepen understanding of the historical context surrounding Scripture. 110+ Articles to clarify and expand upon key concepts in Scripture. Indexes and concordances that are easy to use and make it easy to find what you are looking for: Concordance of over 6,000 terms with 37,000 verses. “Teachings and Illustrations of Christ” of over 400 subjects addressed by Jesus. “Prayers of the Bible” of nearly 100 prayers in the Bible, who prayed them, and what they prayed about. “Subject Index to Annotations and Features” Articles that offer tips and information to get the most out of your study of the Bible: “How to Understand what the Bible Means by What it Says” offers a four-step process for rightly interpreting the Scriptures. “Thinking about the Study of the New Testament” provides an introduction to the New Testament manuscripts. “The Geography of the Gospels” gives an overview of the major cities and regions mentioned in the Gospels. “The Bible as History” addresses the importance of reading each book of the Bible in its historical context. “What Is Theology?” defines theology and proposes that theology must begin with the gospel. Tables that provide helpful information at a glance: “Harmony of the Gospels” details the life and ministry of Jesus in chronological order showing where each event and teaching occur in the Gospels. “From Biblical Book to Contemporary Hook” provides the major theme, Christ-focus, implication, and helpful questions to prompt thinking and discussion for all 66 books of Scripture. “Parables of Christ” shows where you can find 39 parables in the Gospels. “Miracles of Christ” shows where you can find 37 miracles in the Gospels. “Prophecies of The Messiah Fulfilled in Christ” provides 43 Old Testament prophecies and where they have been fulfilled in the New Testament. “Monies, Weights, and Measures” 32,000 references linking to over 73,000 related passages and nearly 8,000 translation notes allow you to follow important words and thoughts throughout Scripture. 140+ Maps and charts throughout the Scriptures and in the back to show a visual representation of locations and themes in the Bible. Easy-to-read large 9-pt print size

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Why does our past pain continue to affect our present?Though many of us can point to patterns of brokenness in our lives, we don’t know why they're there. No matter how hard we work, we can’t seem to outrun the very things that break our hearts. That's because our everyday setbacks are rooted in our unaddressed wounds.In Why Am I Like This? seminary-trained, licensed trauma therapist Kobe Campbell helps us understand why it’s so hard to break these patterns as she offers us a deeper understanding of how our past shapes our present. With tender wisdom, rare vulnerability, and profound honesty, Kobe reminds each reader that they’re not alone, empowering them to step into healing with evidence-based, faith-filled coping skills and resources.In Why Am I Like This?, you will: gain an understanding of what trauma and healing really are, explore the roots of your dysfunctional patterns, learn how your trauma shows up in your everyday life, and find trauma-informed, faith-based coping mechanisms to heal your mind and deepen your intimacy with God. Kobe marries theological insight with therapeutic principles to give readers the tools and insights needed to begin their journey of restoration.

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In this book readers are led on a powerful and inspiring journey through the inner dimensions of a range of Islamic acts, including prayer, almsgiving, fasting, and pilgrimage. Consisting of a selection of writings by a great figure in Islamic history, Imam al-Ghazali, this book helps readers realize the benefits of the upliftment of their spiritual, social, and moral qualities. Al-Ghazali (1058–1111), a towering figure in Islam, was born at Tus, near Mashhad in Iran, in the early Seljuq era. He wrote a large number of works, of which his magnum opus was the Ihya' Ulum al-Din compiled during his period of retirement and contemplation.

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A breathtaking new collection of translations of poems by Rumi, one of the world’s most loved mystical teachers. Beautifully packaged and illustrated with Persian calligraphy, this is an ideal gift for every MBS reader. Jalal-uddin Rumi was born in what is now Afghanistan in 1207. His poetry has inspired generations of spiritual seekers, both from his own Sufi school and well beyond. His poems speak to the seeker and the lover in all of us. In recent years, interest in Rumi has skyrocketed, with perrfomances, CDs by Deepak Chopra, and filmed versions of his life all in the work. In these beautiful, simple new translations – 100 in all – his timeless appeal is obvious. Publication is timed not only because this is an ideal gift, but also to coincide with Rumi’s death day (the day he is celebrated) 17 December.

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Find hope amid anxiety through the spiritual practice of breath prayer in this beautifully illustrated and practical guide to connecting body, mind, and spirit during times of stress. Breath as Prayer will lead you through the practice and the proven health benefits of Christian breath prayer: intentional prayers centered around Scripture that focus our minds on Christ as we calm our bodies through breathing. Breath as Prayer offers: More than 80 breath prayers focused on Scripture, along with brief meditations Gorgeous original full-color illustrations A quick-start how-to guide to refer to as needed Guidance on how to implement a breath prayer practice The science behind breath work and prayer and why it works An invitation to reflect on the effect of breath prayers on your body With a beautiful foil-accented cover, Breath as Prayer is an ideal gift for: Anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, or fear Grief and anxiety support groups Prayer groups and prayer ministries Men and women looking for new avenues for connecting with God Teens and young adults dealing with stress and anxiety Adult baptism and confirmation God created our bodies, minds, and spirits to be intimately connected with one another. Purpose-filled breathing is one of the most effective, calming ways to integrate all aspects of who we are, especially during times of intense stress. Breath as Prayer invites you to the crossroads of Christian contemplative practice, Scripture, psychology, and science to deepen your faith, bring peace to your body, and discover a new reliance on Christ. Breathe deeply, lean into God's Word, and discover why every breath can be an invitation to pray.

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Pray. Trust. Ride: encourages you to stay in the saddle and ride through life with a looser rein. We live more fully when we can let go— even when all looks bleak and our brains scream, Hang on and do something! Do anything! Fix this! Stop that! The truth is, those problems that strangle our hearts are the sort of problems that we can’t fix. King Jehoshaphat understood that when he was boxed in by his enemy; at his most vulnerable moment, he leaned on God and let go of the outcome. Using this approach as her guiding principle, Lisa Boucher shares in this helpful guide how to lean on spiritual principles to help people live with less anxiety and strife, and how letting go allows us to accept that we can’t solve all our problems; we can’t save others from themselves; we can’t stop the inevitable from happening. What we can do is let go and trust that God has our backs.

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New York Times Bestseller“A touching series of essays in which Evans, with Chu’s invisible pen, explores how one might find a path forward in Christianity beyond conservative evangelicalism” -Eliza Griswold, The New Yorker“Evans died at 37, but a beautiful new book captures her brave outlook. . . . I could not help but notice the poetry in Evans’s prose. . . . What readers will find in these pages was someone deeply human: funny, irreverent, curious, wise, forgiving, nonjudgmental.” -Maggie Smith, The Washington PostA collection of original writings by Rachel Held Evans, whose reflections on faith and life continue to encourage, challenge, and influence. Rachel Held Evans is widely recognized for her theologically astute, profoundly honest, and beautifully personal books, which have guided, instructed, edified, and shaped Christians as they seek to live out a just and loving faith.At the time of her tragic death in 2019, Rachel was working on a new book about wholeheartedness. With the help of her close friend and author Jeff Chu, that work-in-progress has been woven together with some of her other unpublished writings into a rich collection of essays that ask candid questions about the stories we’ve been told—and the stories we tell—about our faith, our selves, and our world.This book is for the doubter and the dreamer, the seeker and the sojourner, those who long for a sense of spiritual wholeness as well as those who have been hurt by the Church but can’t seem to let go of the story of Jesus. Through theological reflection and personal recollection, Rachel wrestles with God’s grace and love, looks unsparingly at what the Church is and does, and explores universal human questions about becoming and belonging. An unforgettable, moving, and intimate book.

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Ziauddin Sardar, one of the foremost Muslim intellectuals in Britain, learned the Koran at his mother's knee in Pakistan. As a young student in London he set out to grasp the meaning of his religion, and, hopefully, to find 'paradise', his quest leading him throughout the Muslim world, from Iran to China to Turkey. Along the way he accepts that he may never reach paradise - but it's the journey that's important. At a time when the view of Islam in the West is so often distorted and simplistic, Desperately Seeking Paradise - self-mocking, frank and passionate - is essential reading.

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Learn to see God's remarkable works in the everyday ordinary of your life.Your remarkable life is happening right here, right now. You may not be able to see it--your life may seem predictable and your work insignificant until you look at your life as Frederick Buechner does.Named "the father of today's spiritual memoir movement" by Christianity Today, Frederick Buechner reveals how to stop, look, and listen to your life. He reflects on how both art and faith teach us how to pay attention to the remarkableness right in front of us, to watch for the greatness in the ordinary, and to use our imaginations to see the greatness in others and love them well.Pay attention, says Buechner. Listen to the call of a bird or the rush of the wind, to the people who flow in and out of your life. The ordinary points you to the extraordinary God who created and loves all of creation, including you. Pay attention to these things as if your life depends upon it. Because, of course, it does. As you learn to pay attention to your life and what God is doing in it, you will uncover the plot of your life's story and the sacred opportunity to connect with the Divine in each moment.

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A perfectly-sized NKJV Bible that’s easy to read and lightweight to take with you wherever you go.With a variety of unique and traditional cover designs available, this Bible is beautiful inside and out. Fitting most purses, laptop bags, and glove boxes, the NKJV Value Thinline Bible is a great choice to take with you on the go. Additional features include a finely designed new layout, the words of Christ in red, a reading plan, and full-color maps. Line-matched classic 2-column format Presentation page to personalize this special gift by recording a memory or a note Words of Christ in red help you quickly identify Jesus’ teachings and statements Reading plan guiding you through the entire Bible in a year Full color maps show a visual representation of Israel and other biblical locations for better context Ribbon markers for you to easily navigate and keep track of where you were reading Durable and flexible Smyth-sewn binding for years of use Easy-to-read 9-point NKJV Comfort Print

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Affordable and designed for outreach, the ESV Economy Bible, Large Print features the ESV text in 10-point type, a "Why Read the Bible" article, 40-day reading plan, and an explanation of the plan of salvation.

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