Book Review: "Love: Written in Stone" by Philip Carlson, MD

I recently received a complimentary copy of the book "love: Written in Stone: Finding God's Grace in the Boundaries He Sets" by Philip Carlson, MD from Bethany House Publishers as part of their book review program. The opinions below are my honest opinion of the book.

This book is written by a physician in Pasadena who is also the senior pastor of a church. The book talks about different subjects in life from nutrition and family relationships to the environment. He answers the basic question of whether or not God wants us to be happy and live the good life. Some people look at the Bible and see nothing but rules and legalism, but Philip uses scripture to back up why our God does want us to live a happy and fulfilled life. He gives a basic outline for following God's guidelines to bring about wellness in our lives. I enjoyed the book considering it was written by a doctor who is taught to look at scientific research as evidence for believing something. I like how he uses scripture to back up what he is saying. It isn't just another self help book, but one based on God's Word.

Book Review: "Desert Gift" by Sally John

I recently received a complimentary copy of the book "Desert Gift" by Sally John as part of the Tyndale Publishers Book review program. The opinions listed below are my honest opinion of the book.

This is the story of Jillian Galloway, an author and speaker on the subject of marriage. Her first book is a huge success and she is on many radio shows and speaking events. She encourages many women in their marriages and speaks and writes mostly on how to communicate with your husband. The sad thing is her husband of 24 years decides to give her some terrible news right before they are supposed to leave on a trip together to promote her book: He wants a divorce. She is in shambles and tries to continue promoting her book while inside feeling like a hypocrite. She is staying with her sister and brother-in-law and trying to figure out this news. The story is one of hope in the Lord even in our times of troubles. She must lean on Him to help her through this. This is another wonderful book by Sally John. I have read others and they never disappoint!!

Book Review: "Money Secrets of the Amish" by Lorilee Craker

I recently received a complimentary copy of the book "Money Secrets of the Amish: Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving" by Lorilee Craker from Thomas Nelson Publishing as part of the Booksneeze book review program. The opinions listed below are my honest opinion of the book.

Today's economic recession has effected everyone in some way or another. Lorilee Craker had some income issues as well and noticed that the Amish people were still thriving and surviving in this recession. She did research and found great pointers and ideas from this recession-proof people that we can all learn from. In this book, she talks about how we need to "use it up, wear it out, make do, or do without; rethink your gift giving; repurpose, recycle, and reuse; and eat like royalty for a peasant's pittance." I really enjoyed this book and I think we can all learn some great financial principles from the Amish people. My favorite chapter was "Operation De-spoil the Kids." I feel like my kids are so blessed and they don't even know it. They always seem to say, "I want this toy." I enjoyed the pointers to help raise thankful and content children in today's "give me what I want" society. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in ways to save money and be more resourceful with what you have.