The End Of Me: Audio Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio

Narrator Thoughts: This Narrator was very good. He was clear and calm. A good listen. While he doesn't have the same passion in his voice as some narrators I've listened to, I thought he did a good job of reading the book. 

Book Thoughts: Once again, Kyle challenged me in my faith. I think this book, more then any of his others challenged me. 

Coming to the end of me has never been easy, but I can agree with him and say that when I come to the end of me, that is when Jesus' power can begin. It reminded me of the good that comes from coming to the end. 

By following in His footsteps we die to ourselves and our way of doing things. The chapter on humility especially hit home. It challenged my pride and reminded me of what I needed to be doing. 

This is definitely a worthwhile listen.

You can buy this on Christian Audio, Amazon, or Christianbook.com

Seeing In The Dark: Audiobook Review

I recieved this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts: While not an author read book, I thought that this author did a very good job of reading this book. Her voice is very pleasent. Like a happy grandmother reading a book to you. 

Book Thoughts: Frist I want to say that I didn't finish this book. I listened to the first three chapters. 

I  thought that Nancy made some good points and was encouraging. As I continued to read the book I found myself agreeing with her on most points. 

Still I felt like the book lacked good structure. I felt like she would begin a thought and then get sidetracked with another point. Like I said they were good points, but I felt like it wasn't organized well. 

Overall I think that the style of the book was not one that speaks to me. I wasn't finidng it worth continuing, but maybe that was just me.

You can buy this on Christian Audio or Amazon. 

Nobody's Cuter Than You: Audiobook Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts ~ I always like author read books. They add so much more to the book than anyone else could. Melanie has a nice clear voice with a beautiful southern draw. Living through these events, she is able to add a special tone to this reading. It was a good listen. 

Book Thoughts ~ Friendship is one of the things that is near and dear to my heart. 

I enjoyed hearing her stories and advice about friendship. It is so important to cultivate deep lifelong friendships. Her humorous and heartfelt storytelling drove this home. Her ending advice in the appendixes was very good. 

One thing that I didn't like was how hard she was on social media. I understand that it can become a substitute for the real thing. I understand that many people don't cultivate deep real friendships anymore. However I also have used Facebook to connect and stay in touch with many friends that I never would be able to. I think it's wrong to assume that social media is a killer of all friendships. It is a tool. You can use it for harm or good. I choose to use it for good. 

She does tell many heartwarming stories about her friends. However I would have like to have heard more about her salvation story. How it impacted the friendships in her life. How God moved the hearts of her friends. 

Despite some of the things that we might disagree on personally, Melanie is a good storyteller and a good speaker. She helps you to remember those good childhood friends, your daring high school friends, and the beauty of the friends that you have made now that you are an adult. This book did remind me of the great gifts I have in my circle of friends. 

You can get this book on Amazon and Christian Audio.

The Holy Bible: Audiobook Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review. 

Narrator Thoughts: To be honest I found this narrator rather flat. His voice was very rich and deep. Perfect for reading the Bible. Yet his voice lacked the emotion and beauty found in the scriptures. I will give him that his voice was very nice and kept me listening for a while. Maybe it was just me, but I felt like it left some to be desired. 

Book Thoughts: Obviously it goes without saying that I am a deeply devoted Christian and as such, the Bible is very precious to me. I enjoy audio Bibles, but this one didn't measure up to some of the others that I have read. For me one of the things that makes any audio Bible is the music and sound effects. Two things that were sadly lacking in this audio Bible. It felt like there was something missing. The narrator was fairly good, but on the whole I felt it lacked quite a bit. 

To get a copy of The Gospels or to see another review, Please go to Christianaudio.com or Amazon.com. 

Ordinary: Audiobook Review

I received this audiobook courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts: He had a good voice for reading this book. It was calm and steady. Although I would have liked to have heard a little more emotion, it was read well.

Book Thoughts: this is one of the best books I have listened to in a while. It dovetailed with what God has been teaching me.

In this book Tony makes a good case that God calls us to live ordinary lives for God. It's not in doing the huge amazing things that we change the world. It's in doing the simple everyday things in the love and spirit of Christ. Loving those that God calls us to love. Taking care of the hurting. Strengthening the weak.

For me this book was a call to love and serve in normal life. Stop looking for something big to do. Look at the little things that God has already given me to do and do them in love.

I was very challenged by the chapter on advocacy. Speaking up is not one of my strong points. But God calls us to speak up for the oppressed and voiceless. We who have a voice are called to speak for those who have none. To me this means that I need to remember those who can't speak and speak for them. God is helping me find my voice. It's not easy, but worth it.

This is an excellent and challenging book. I was encouraged and challenged by the message.

You can buy this book on Christianaudio.com, Amazon.com, and CBD.com 

Tortured For Christ: Audiobook Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review. 

Narrator Thoughts: Normally even when you are listening to a book about people in a different country, most narrators don't adjust their voices for the place where the author came from. I thought that Alex did an amazing job of speaking distinctly and speaking in a German, Russian, or Romanian accent depending on the place in the book. It was very good. He gave a depth and meaning to the book that was very helpful. 

Book Thoughts: I had heard about this book for many years. Now I know that the reports were not exaggerated. I found this book challenging and convicting. 

It clearly details the struggles and tortures of the underground church around the world today. It exposes the communist party and how their "churches" are nothing more than a front to hide the fact that there really is no religious freedom. 

I wouldn't recommend this for younger readers because of some of the graphic content. All true and very powerful. 

This is very powerful book. It reminded me of my suffering brothers and sisters around the world. I need to pray for them and help them. 

You can buy this book on Amazon or Christian Audio    

Chose Love: Audiobook Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts: Another author read book that was fantastic. Stormie does an excellent job of bringing the pages to life. The emphasis and passion that she gave to this book were very nice.

Books Thoughts: From the first chapter I found Choose Love to not only be an informative book about the love of God, but also a call to love God and others. As I listened I my soul was  not only impressed with a sense of how much God loves me, but also a sense of how that compels me to love others. When you have been loved, you cannot help but love. This book was very encouraging to me. It reminded me of the Father's love for me.

The only thing that I didn't like about this book was that at one point she said that if your earthly father was abusive it is very hard for you to understand God as your loving Father. While I know that this is true, I also know that blaming others for our struggles is not the answer. Awakening to the reality of His love is a struggle no matter what your childhood looked like. But letting God and His love come in and heal us from the scares of the past, that is the real key. Again this is just my personal thought.

Through personal experiences and stories, Stormie shares her heart about the love that has captured it. At the end of each chapter she had prayers and verses tying in with what she talked about in the chapter. I found them very refreshing.

You can buy this book on Christian Audio or Amazon

Audiobook Review: Praying For Your Prodigal

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts ~ He had a rich and deep voice that brought this book to life. It almost felt like the author himself was reading it. The book was read with such tenderness and passion.

Book Thoughts ~ This short, yet wonderful book was so helpful to me. Even though I'm not waiting for a prodigal I found this book extremely encouraging. The letters from parents of real prodigals at the beginning of each chapter gave a touch of realism and hope. Kyles thoughts and musings inspired me. His honest and gentle style is encouraging. At the end of each chapter there is a prayer, each one is beautiful and honest.
That's one of the things I liked most about this book. Kyle was honest about pain, the hope that we have, what we can do, and letting God take care of our prodical.
I would highly recommend this book.

You can also buy this book on Amazon and through Christian Book Distributors.

Love Walked Among Us ~ Audiobook Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review. 

Narrator Thoughts ~ Once again I was treated to an author read book. It always adds an extra demention to the book when the author can add his or her own touch to the book. I enjoyed hearing this author read his book with emotion and passion. While it wasn't the most perfessional I've heard and at times I felt they could have done a better job of editing. Still I think the soulfulness and beauty of the author reading it was worth it. 

Book Thoughts ~ The title of this book was intriuging to me. The past few years God has been showing me how to trust in His love and love others in the same way. Sadly though, lately I had been slipping into the habit of being selfish. This book challenged me to the core. Through personal struggle and looking at the life of Jesus, Paul shows how we can love like Jesus. After I was halfway done with the book, I noticed my perspective was changing. I started to notice others needs. Instead of getting upset, I would try to see it from their perspective. Instead of confronting a friend about an issue, we sat down and I gently told her what I was seeing cause a rif in our relationship. We cleared the air and we were both built up. When I chose to lift her up and see things through her eyes, the result was the deepening of a relationship. 

This book was so good at just showing how Jesus loved and showing how we could love in the same way. I love Pauls mix of honesty and story. It was exactly what I needed to hear.

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn to love like Jesus loved and loves. 

You can buy this audiobook at christianaudio.com or amazon.com 

Here Is Our God - Audiobook Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts - I thought that both of the narrators did a wonderful job of making the chapters come alive. I liked how it would alternate between the two of them. It added a nice freshness and depth to the narration. Besides both of them have very melodic voices. It made it a very enjoyable listen.

Book Thoughts - I greatly admire and enjoying reading books from the authors that worked together to write this book. This work was beautifully put together and very refreshing. Each bringing their own thoughts and encouragement to the table was uplifting. So many of the chapters hit it home for me. The chapter on the Holy God was very good. How God is God. He is worthy of praise and worship. Yet he chose to reach out and love us. Through story and scripture the writers encourage you to live for God and dwell on Him. It's a wonderful listen for anyone.

You can find this audiobook on Amazon & Christian Book

Audiobook Review: Taking God At His Word

I received this audiobook courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts ~ Steady and calm. His voice was perfect for this book.

Book Thoughts ~ I had listened to Crazy Busy a few months ago and really enjoyed it. To be honest when I started this book I was expecting a book that would stir me on the same level.
It did make me want to read my Bible more. To listen to what God was saying and not always take other peoples word for what was said.
However I felt like sometimes he went off on a theology discussion and lost me. I could see what he was saying, but I felt like he followed rabbit trails at times.
Overall I felt the book was a good reminder to dig into our Bibles, but not as good as his last book.

Audiobook Review: A Loving Life

I received this audiobook courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.  

Narrator Thoughts - While he had a wonderful and passionate subject to talk about, he didn't put as much passion into his voice. I felt at times he came across as flat and just saying the words. He did well on reading at, just not as much passion as I would like. 

Book Thoughts - I really enjoyed this book. It wasn't anything that I hadn't learned before, but the reminders and the way he presented the information were encouraging. 

He explains how eastern people would have thought about this story and then meaning of the Hebrew names. It adds a whole new dimension to the story. 

In an age of disposable relationships and the talk of love as a feeling, it's refreshing to hear love talked about as a covenant. True love gives itself away without any strings attached. Love continues no matter the season. Inside of committed love, we thrive. 

Ruth shows us how when we lose our lives, it's then that we really start to live. By following her example, we too can grow and thrive inside of true love. 

You can get your own copy of A Loving Life by Paul E. Miller on Christian Audio or Amazon.  

Prepared For A Purpose: Audiobook Review

I received this audiobook courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts - This woman did an excellent job reading this book. Her southern African-American accent blended beautifully with the story to life for me.

Book Thoughts - I thought this would be a tough book, but I wasn't prepared for how tough. However I found Antoinette's story inspiring. Her life is a testimony to what God can do though you if you make yourself available. She let God work through a broken marriage, a life falling apart, a son with chronic health issues, and a suicidal heart to prepare her for the place she needed to be.

It reminded me that the challenges and struggles that I am facing right now, are going to be used by God to bless and encourage others. The hardships will be redeemed.  

Keep going. What you do is making a difference. If you are drowning in heartache and doubt, know that God is right there with you. He will see you through this.

You can buy this book on Amazon and Christian Audio.

Grace Abounding To The Chief Of Sinners : Audio Review

I received this audiobook for the purpose of writing a review. 

Narrator Thoughts: His voice was perfect for this role. Steady, yet full of emotion. As I listen he made the book come to life. Almost as if the real John Bunyan had invited me into his living room and was sharing this with me. I enjoyed it very much. 

Book Thoughts: This was such an encouraging book for me. I've struggled with doubts of my salvation and fears about being close to God. To know that even those that are considered leaders in the church, have struggled and overcome fears, doubts, and attacks of the evil one. 

In this book, Bunyan express his heart and struggle. He opens up about his deep inner thoughts and how God calmed him and gave him peace. He takes the reader on the journey of healing that God brought about in his life. It's an encouraging and refreshing book. 

I liked one expression he would us in from time to time. "God dropped a thought in my head."  

The only thing that was a slight drawback was that in was still in it's old english. I had to pay attention sometimes to understand what he was saying. But it did give me a good feel for the author and the times in which he lived. 

If you would like a copy of this audiobook check out Christian Audio or Amazon

Crazy Busy: Audiobook Review

I received this audiobook courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts ~ This narrator did an excellent job of bringing this book to life. I so enjoyed his calm and rich voice as he read this book. It was a perfect match.

Book Thoughts ~ Hands down, this was the best book I have ever read about business. I like staying busy, but I also complain about that more than I should. As I read this book I was challenged and encouraged in my journey.

It helped me to remember that even Jesus couldn't meet every need. He had to say no to some people.

I also loved how Kevin dealt with our attitudes behind business, not how to tame your schedule. I felt so much guilt and strain falling off my shoulders. I realized how much unnecessary pressure I put on myself.

I had become very bad about bringing volunteer work home, not focusing on family when I was home, and not paying attention to friends. This book helped remind me to live in the present.

This was an excellent book and I would recommend it to anyone struggling under the weight of a crazy busy schedule.  

To Live Is Christ: Audiobook Review

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review.

Narrator Thoughts: I have heard Matt Chandler preach several times. The narrator did a pretty good job of conveying the message, he didn't convey the passion that Matt and Jared put into the book. It was good, just not as good as it could have been.

Book Thoughts: I enjoyed this book in many ways. It encouraged me to look to Christ and not focus on myself. His thoughts about finding everything that we need in Christ was reaffirming everything that God has been teaching me. They weren't new thoughts, but I liked the passion and presentation of this message. All-in-all a great book.

To get your own copy of To Live Is Christ, To Die Is Gain visit Christian Audio or Amazon.

The In-Between: Audiobook Review

By Rose H. 

I received this book courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review. 

Narrator Thoughts - I always have preferred books that are read by the author. They can read their own works like no one else can. This books was no exception. I enjoyed his style and his voice. I felt like I was sitting in his living room and he was sharing his life with me. 

Book Thoughts - This book came at the perfect time for me. For the past few months I have been struggling with what God wanted me to do next. I was trying to force things to happen and make some of my dreams a reality. Through this book and the help of some friends, I realized that I could just rest in where God had me for now. I didn't have to try and make things happen. I could just rest in what God had already given me. 

In this short and well written book, Jeff invites you to embrace the "in-between" time. Enjoy the simple days and moments of our lives. Because it's in them that we are really growing. We are learning who we are and where we should be. It's in living and enjoying these seemingly boring lives that we really find fulfillment and peace. 

If you are struggling with what God wants you to do next or feeling stuck, this is a perfect book for you. 

You can find this title on Amazon or Christian Audio.   

What Happens When Women Say Yes To God: An Audiobook Review

By Rose H.

Narrator Thoughts – I thought this woman did a wonderful job of bringing this book to life. With a good mix of emotion and clarity she read this book and put her heart into it. I thoroughly enjoyed her.

Book Thoughts – I was so excited when this book came up for review. A few months ago I read Unglued and was so encouraged by it.

This book was also so encouraging. I love how real Lysa is and how much she opens her heart. She’s so real and I’m encouraged by that. This book made me feel like Lysa came alongside me and encouraged me.

With stories, quotes, and verses this book blends together in a beautiful story of surrender to Christ. When we say yes to His leadings, great things happen. All that He has becomes ours and all that we are becomes His. I enjoyed her encouragement to test the thoughts that come to us. Many times I want to run ahead and do whatever I feel, but God does call me to see what His plan is. I’m thankful for people like Lysa to be real with us and encourage us to say Yes to God.

And I love the cover. It’s so pretty.   

You can buy this audiobook here, http://christianaudio.com/review/product/list/id/31601/

Next Generation Leader: Audiobook Review

By Rose H.

Narrator thoughts – I can’t say much either way. He had a good voice and it was easy to understand him, but it didn’t seem like he very passionate about this topic. Overall it was fairly good and he delivered the book well.

Book thoughts – I liked many of his thoughts on leadership. His thoughts on honing in on your strengths and making sure you live out your priorities were encouraging. Today it’s so easy to get sidetracked. So easy to crave power and fame and lose what is most valuable to you in the process. Yet we aren’t super human. We can only do so much. Focusing in on your strengths and letting others take care of the rest is incredibly liberating.

On the other hand because of the spiritual journey God has taken me on, I don’t think that the church system is the primary place where God works. I’m not saying that all of us are called to leave the church, but not all of us fit into that system anymore. For me I feel God is leading me into some leadership positions that extend beyond the church system. Sometimes it seemed like that’s the only leadership position he thought a Christian could have.

So while overall I felt the book was fairly good and I was able to glean some encouragement. I would recommend this book to anyone who is going into ministry or church leadership. It will help get you started on the right track. 

To Explore this title, follow the link http://christianaudio.com/review/product/list/id/30185

Stop Asking Jesus Into Your Heart: Audiobook Review

I received this audiobook courtesy of Christian Audio for the purpose of writing a review. 

Narrator Thoughts - Tom Parks does the perfect job of reading this book in the matter-of-fact way that it is written. His clear and simple way of speaking provided the perfect framework for this book. It was a perfect choice. 

Book Thoughts - As someone who has doubted they have saving faith, I really enjoyed this book. Greear spells out the truth so clearly that I found my faith refreshed and my soul encouraged. It's all about resting on the finished work of God, not what we do. "Salvation isn't about completing a ritual, it's about consummating

  a relationship with God." - J. D. Greear. He also explored each scripture that some pastors use to threaten people with losing their salvation. He looked at them in the light of all of what Jesus taught and God's nature. It put my mind at ease about some things that I had heard preached.

If you would like to learn how to get your own copy of Stop Asking Jesus Into Your Heart, stop by ChristianAudio or Amazon to get one.