Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Recent reads

I've read some good books in the last few weeks (a couple of worthless ones as well).

The Appeal by John Grisham. This is Grisham's latest novel and he once again relies heavily on the American judicial and political system. There's enough truth in this work of fiction to, at the least, raise some eyebrows. I found the book difficult to put down and very disturbing. It's a great plane or beach read.

Facing Your Giants by Max Lucado. I think I've read every book Max has published. This is one of his best. Giants is a study of the life of David with wonderful, practical life application. Max may be the king of word-smithing--unfortunately at times even to the point of distraction. Definitely recommend.

The Sky Isn't Visible From Here by Felicia C. Sullivan. I picked this book up on a whim from the new release section at Borders. Sullivan's book is her own life memoir. It was especially meaningful to me as I continue to delve further into understanding the damage that is done to so many children. Sullivan is an extremely skilled writer. Once again, I found this book hard to put down. It is not for the faint of heart.

Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby. Though this is really a workbook--it takes twelve weeks to complete--it is worthy of review. This was my second time to go through Experiencing God (the first time was about ten years ago). I was pleasantly surprised to find the same incredible depth of meaning as the first time I went through the study. Blackaby's workbook is very self-probing and has the potential to bring about incredible life transformation.

Read any good books lately?

10 Comments:

Blogger April said...

Blue Like Jazz - Donald Miller - absolutely FANTASTIC book

What's So Amazing About Grace - Phillip Yancey - very good book to help you get a handle on how much God loves you and how much you need His grace in your life!

I've read the two above at least twice each. A new one I've been reading that has totally lit a fire under me is:

Starving Jesus: Off the Pew, Into the World - Craig Gross and JR Mahon

1:41 PM  
Blogger jcubsdad said...

Post Rapture Radio by Russell Rathburn... a little irreverant at times in regards to the church, but it brings about some good critique of the church.

Science and Sensibility by Kenneth Laidler. A little bit hard to follow at times, and he is not from the Christian worldview, but it is a good read.

Einstein by Walter Isaacson. FASCINATING read about the life and times of Einstein. A little long in spots, but it is worth finishing.

3:25 PM  
Blogger OneManMajority said...

I Became a Christian and All I Got Was This Lousy T-shirt by Vince Antonucci

Book Description
Many people find themselves asking, "Is this it?" "We all read about the life Jesus describes and are painfully aware that our lives don't match his words," says Vince Antonucci, a disarmingly funny and edgy pastor. Raised by a Jewish mother and abandoned by his professional poker-playing father, Antonucci found Jesus at age twenty after studying the New Testament. When he finally went to church, he was disappointed to discover a "boring, stale religion." Through provocative storytelling and raw honesty, Antonucci unearths the life Jesus lived and wants us to experience, challenging us to move past spiritual boredom into a faith that's exciting, beautiful, and powerful. Recommended for all Christians thirsty for a fresh perspective on Christianity.

LOVE IT!

7:54 PM  
Blogger Greg Nettle said...

Hey Ryan,

Vince is a friend of mine and he's the real deal. He sent me a copy of his book. I plan to start it today. Thanks for the review.

g

6:25 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Quiet Strength - Tony Dungy
I read the book thinking it would be about football, but found out it is really about putting your faith in God and trusting that he will provide. Excellent Read.

Mike

1:17 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen - it's a short read but very thought provoking. Much to consider for church leaders!

6:58 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Our Thrive group is doing the Experienceing God study right now (but we're moving at a much slower "study" pace). This is my first time through it and there have been amazing revelations of the truth in it. I'd encourage everyone to go through this as well.

PS - may I ask, how many minutes or hours per day would you guess that you spend reading?

3:35 PM  
Blogger Greg Nettle said...

How much time do I spend reading everyday? Hmmm, very good question.

I read early in the morning--typically Bible and other studies. While I'm brushing my teeth I read periodicals. If I'm waiting on someone or on something . . . I have a book with me. I read every night before I go to sleep. And, a lot of my teaching preparation involves reading.

I'm guessing about 2 hours per day.

g

4:53 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I have to admit I was wondering that same question....How much time do you spend reading? I LOVE to read ..and was curious how you got so much reading done...KUDOS to you that is GREAT!!

I do not attend Rivertree on a regular basis though many family and friends do. I am a member of Jackson Friends but I Love your ministry and appreciate your sermons and book recommendations. I recommend your site to many people as I feel it in itself is an AWESOME ministry!

Thank you for your service to God and the ministry you have.

I just finished 90 minutes in Heaven and found it very interesting...I am also VERY SLOWLY reading Randy Alcorn's book "HEAVEN". I am really not very far
reading it just bits at a time as I think it is HEAVY reading but very thought provoking.

8:20 AM  
Blogger smallspiralnotebook said...

Greg,
Thank you so much for your kind words; much appreciated! Your review made my day.
Warmly, Felicia
www.feliciasullivan.com

9:29 AM  

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