CHRISTIANBOOKS

The Challenge of Jesus

While many seek out Christian books to simply reinforce their own established ideas, I love to find an author who reveres Scripture, but does not shy away from sharing what is often uncomfortable.

The first portion of the book establishes the case for Christians to pursue the historical exploration of Jesus. I think this illustrates that the book was written in the late 20th century before most Christians saw the value of history and the Bible. Today, it is not foreign to hear preachers using history to illuminate Scripture. I was a bit bored by this justification, but it was logically sound.

Son of Hamas: A Gripping Account of Terror, Betrayal, Political Intrigue, and Unthinkable Choices

“Son of Hamas” by Mosab Hasson Yousef is a gripping autobiography of a man who is caught between his own morality and what is expected of him by his community. Mosab is the son of a Hamas leader who is caught and jailed by the Shin Bet (Israel’s internal security services). After gaining his trust, the shin bet asks Mosab to work for them, as a double agent, which he did superbly.

Telling Yourself the Truth: Find Your Way Out of Depression, Anxiety, Fear, Anger, and Other Common Problems by Applying the Principles of Misbelief Therapy

While in the military we are required to know how to navigate over land to evade the enemy or to find an objective. We are told how to use existing landmarks, symbols on the map, compass directions and existing trails. This book is a valuable collection of map directions taking us on a trail to a truth based life free from mental ailments and ultimately sin.

The Power of a Praying Husband

This book is too good. I wish I had found it sooner but thank God I have it now. Two more chapters left but I already sent my estranged wife a copy of The Power of A Praying Wife. I had not realized how differently genders think and feel and how this distinction is tied to our specific roles. Stormie feels the analogy of being from different planets should better be described as being from different galaxies. Nevertheless, she helped me to get inside the head of my spouse more experientially, gaining insight for understanding. That experience alone will drive a man to his knees!

The Pursuit of God

This book should be considered both a classic and an ever-relevant devotional. Sadly, White Dog Publishing chooses to disparage the values of the book by stating that Tozer would have taken different positions if he lived today. And warns parents not to let children read it without advising them that Tozer’s morals are out of date. “Parents might wish to discuss with their children how views on race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, and interpersonal relations have changed since this book was written before allowing them to read this classic work.” Hopefully, parents will advise their children that while commonly held views may change, truth is eternal and not changed by whether or not we accept it. Read this book. It can be used of God to breathe fire into the spark of our faith.