All That the Locusts Have Eaten Author Interview and GIVEAWAY!

About the Book

Book: All That the Locusts Have Eaten: God’s Redemption Through Loss and Heartache

Author: Chuck Carr

Genre: Narrative Nonfiction, Christian Inspirational

Release date: August 22, 2020

Are you suffering from loss? Confused? Do you feel like the world is set against you? Inspiring, this dynamic narrative non-fiction read tells the true story of how one man journeyed from the pit of despair to the purpose filled life God intended him to live. Mingled with poetry, scripture, and literary allegories, this artistically crafted masterpiece is sure to breathe life into even those in the deepest struggles.

Chuck Carr was raised on a farm by Christian parents and attended church each Sunday. Right after graduation, he married his college sweetheart and lived a life of fulfilled dreams.

Until it all fell apart.

In the true story of All That the Locusts Have Eaten, Chuck recounts how tragedy after tragedy struck his life, nearly destroying him. Depressed, desolate, and devastated, Chuck leaned into his faith in God to find answers.

Interwoven in this raw and personal account, Chuck shares intimate journal thoughts and asks hard-hitting questions designed to make the reader think. In a hero’s journey applicable to us all, he reveals how he found restoration after years of heartbreak, and how God put his life back together.

All That the Locusts Have Eaten will encourage readers who have suffered any type of loss. If you have struggled with overwhelming difficulties, you are not alone. Like Chuck, you, too, can discover hope for the future once again.

Click HERE to get your copy!

About the Author

As a former youth pastor, Chuck Carr has influenced hundreds of people throughout his life. Author of The Convergence, Navigating Grief, All That the Locusts Have Eaten, and Wonders In The Deep, he desires to help others live effectively despite hardships, as his testimony proves that sufferings can be changed into blessings. Losing a spouse in 2008, he strives to help those hurting from the same pain. While working on the family dairy farm, a life altering accident in 2018 left him with a traumatic brain injury, and his vision and life goal has been refocused to help others heal from devastating traumas. Now remarried to a woman of shared life goals, he has chosen to live with purpose despite his injuries, being an inspiration to others. He currently continues writing books and blogging and can be found at www.Chuck-Carr.com.

More from Chuck

Sometimes life hits you unexpected, and when it doesn’t let up, you might feel a bit bewildered. That was me, when time after time I kept getting up, only to get knocked right back down again. I couldn’t understand why bad things kept happening to me, a good person, a good man. I was doing things the right way, so I thought. I married a God-fearing woman. I was using my life for God’s purpose. I had devoted my life to teaching the next generation as a youth pastor. Everything should have been smooth and easy, right? Amid a dark storm, nothing seemed easy. Why hardship hit so relentlessly was a mystery to me. Things didn’t seem fair. And when nothing made sense, I was reeling, searching, and found myself on the backside of the wilderness screaming to a God who only seemed to have a deaf ear turned my way. Sound familiar? In this book, I take you on a great journey to find answers when most answers seemed bleak, if not non-existent. Take God’s hand with me, he’s there, I promise. I’ll show you how his voice is so clear and distinct, even when we have trouble seeing which way is up. All That the Locusts Have Eaten is a testament to how God can bring us through, and that, in unexpected ways.

Author Interview

When/how did you decide to become a writer?

Well . . . I wish I could tell you that I’ve always been an inspiring writer, but unfortunately, sometimes in life we need a bit of prodding.  My writing journey began through injury.  In 2018 I was in a severe accident in which I was confined to a chair nearly 24/7 with a traumatic brain injury.  Being a very active individual prior to my accident, it was hard to handle the instant change to sitting still all the time.  No more were the days of kayaking, bicycling on rails to trails, and adventuring through unknown territories.  I had to sit in silence all day due to the inability to handle stimuli.  I couldn’t handle visitors and became very lonely.  To make a long story short, the change was severely hard to handle, taking a giant toll on me emotionally and psychologically.  After about six months out my double vision stopped and my eyes adjusted enough that I started reading a little again.  It was a big relief because it was something I could do and enjoy.  I read a book by Joni Eareckson Tada, who also suffered an accident that left her disabled, and it started a new journey for me.  I soaked up the words she spoke of.  I saw how God could still use her, and it dawned on me: if God could still use her, then God could still use me!  I was still confined to a chair almost all day, but what better time to do something with myself than the present.  My mind began to think . . . what can I still do?  And so began my writing journey.  It was slow at first.  I had to learn to type again.  But I had a lot of time.  And the journey was exciting.  Over three years later, I’m writing books, doing a blog, and making every chance count to inspire people.  That’s what God does best.  He takes impossible situations and creates beauty out of things nobody thought possible.  I’m just one living example of how true Romans 8:28 is.

Who was/is your biggest inspiration?

I already mentioned how and why I started writing, but I never would have gotten into that mindset if it wouldn’t have been for my wife.  Her eyes saw possibilities when all I saw was hopelessness.  When I was sitting on a couch in despair, she could see a dream budding in my heart.  “You’ve always wanted to write a book,” she would say.  “What better time to write it than now?”  And she was right.  There was no better time.  Not only was it healthy for me to have a goal and a positive direction to point myself towards, but she could see beyond the now, and knew that there was something bigger in everything than just what I initially saw in an accident.  Not only did God use her to accompany what he was doing with Joni Eareckson Tada’s message, my wife’s voice would be the support to get me off the ground and into the writing world.  I will forever be grateful for what she did.  A whole ton of hurting people are being blessed with books and words because of her persistence.  Thanks, Faerie.

Are you a plotter or a pantser?

Definitely a plotter.  I’m not sure how other author’s keep things straight when they are constructing their books in their heads, but with a disability involved, I am extra sensitive to my need for planning.  It’s actually quite funny.  I laugh at it when I do author talks at book signings.  I am in a very distinguished group of people that get to enjoy his own book again over and over.  “Sometimes I forget what’s in there,” I tell them.  “And I’m like, woah!  That’s good stuff!”  It’s fun to have the ability to read a book over again and enjoy it multiple times.  It is also frustrating for someone who tends to have trouble keeping all their notes together, so I’ve come up with a great system of book plotting to chart things out.  It works great, and I use it all the time now.

Do you have a favorite or special place to write?

Definitely outside.  It’s sort of funny, maybe, especially if you drive past me and wonder what I’m doing.  When I was able to start driving again, I instantly took advantage of it.  I spend a lot of time parked in my truck soaking up nature.  It’s my source of refreshment and replenishment I guess, as God’s creation tends to restore my creative spark.  You’ll find me parked in my pickup on a hilltop, beside a creek or river, in a field, or lost in a forest.  Sometimes I drive to a state park and work on a picnic table.  Sometimes I take a chair and enjoy the sunshine.  I let the beauty of what God has made to inspire me for what I write, as a well to draw from when I need to be in touch with the creative side of myself.  Yes, I have a desk at home . . . but I’ll take my coffee to go, please.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse, or is there a particular Bible story that really resonates with you?

Who doesn’t resonate with David, taken from the sheepfold but moved to places he never thought possible?  A humble boy who had the ear of God in the lonely hills of Judah, a song, a pen, he spoke his heart with melody and prose.  And one day, that faithful boy was called on.  A giant was faced, a soul was faithful with what he had been trained and with.  And with all quality facetime that David had spent with his Creator, Goliath wasn’t as big of a giant as one might think.  So, my head injury.  God is taking me places I never thought possible.  He’s doing things I never thought doable.  Other people are being blessed, healed, and strengthened with what God is doing in me, with me, and through me.  I’ll take it.  It’s all good.  That’s what All That the Locusts Have Eaten is all about.  I’m a living testament to what Romans 8:28 says when it defines truth plainly: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, May 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 24

Simple Harvest Reads, May 25 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, May 26

For the Love of Literature, May 27 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, May 27

deb’s Book Review, May 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 29

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 30

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 31

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 1

Beauty in the Binding, June 2 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 3

Splashes of Joy, June 4

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, June 5 (Author Interview)

Miriam Jacob, June 5

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Chuck is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card & signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/1df1b/all-that-the-locusts-have-eaten-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Man of Purpose and Power Spotlight

About the Book

Book: A Man of Purpose and Power

Author: Dr. Myles Munroe

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Devotional

Release date: June 6, 2021

Best-selling author Dr. Myles Munroe offers daily practical and biblical advice for men. Based on two of his most popular books, Understanding the Purpose and Power of Men and Understanding the Purpose and Power of Women, this 90-day devotional will help you truly understand your God-given purpose and power as a man.

Each day’s reading includes teaching and encouragement, a Scripture reading from both the Old and New Testaments, and a thought for the day to draw you closer to God the Father and His purposes for you. Explore the nature and role of men as God intended, addressing such issues as: What does the Bible really teach about men and women? What does it mean to be male? What are the purpose and design of the man? How is a man uniquely different from a woman? What is a man’s role as a husband and father? What are a man’s sexual needs? How are men and women meant to relate to one another? How can a man build a better life for himself, his family, and the world?

Through this devotional, you can strengthen your relationship with your heavenly Father as you discover how to fulfill your destiny and potential as an integral part of His eternal purposes.

Click HERE to get your copy!

About the Author

Dr. Myles Munroe (1954–2014) was an international motivational speaker, best-selling author, educator, leadership mentor, and consultant for government and business. Traveling extensively throughout the world, Dr. Munroe addressed critical issues affecting the full range of human, social, and spiritual development. He was a popular author of more than forty books, including The Power of Character in Leadership, The Purpose and Power of Authority, The Principles and Benefits of Change, Becoming a Leader, The Purpose and Power of the Holy Spirit (formerly titled The Most Important Person on Earth), The Spirit of Leadership, The Principles and Power of Vision, Understanding the Purpose and Power of Prayer, Understanding the Purpose and Power of Women, and Understanding the Purpose and Power of Men. Dr. Munroe was the founder and president of Bahamas Faith Ministries International (BFMI), a multidimensional organization headquartered in Nassau, Bahamas. He was the chief executive officer and chairman of the board of the International Third World Leaders Association, president of the International Leadership Training Institute, and founder and executive producer of a number of radio and television programs aired worldwide.

More from Myles Munroe

Best-selling author Dr. Myles Munroe offers daily practical and biblical advice for men. Through this devotional, you can strengthen your relationship with your heavenly Father as you discover how to fulfill your destiny and potential as an integral part of His eternal purposes.

Blog Stops

Inklings and notions, June 17

Artistic Nobody, June 18 (Spotlight)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 19

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, June 20

Texas Book-aholic, June 21

Simple Harvest Reads, June 22 (Spotlight)

For Him and My Family, June 23

Fiction Book Lover, June 24 (Spotlight)

deb’s Book Review, June 25

For the Love of Literature, June 26 (Spotlight)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 26

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, June 27

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, June 28 (Spotlight)

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 28

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 29

Blossoms and Blessings, June 30 (Spotlight)

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Whitaker House is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card and a copy of the book!!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10db0/a-man-of-purpose-and-power-celebration-tour-giveaway

Chain-ged Author Interview and GIVEAWAY!

About the Book

Book: Chain-ged

Author: Casey Cassady

Genre: Non-fiction/Christian Living/Transformation

Release date: May 4, 2021

Casey Cassady is a young woman who, through Christ, overcame a lifestyle of partying, alcohol, promiscuity, toxic relationships, rejection, shame, guilt, regret, and probably anything else you can think of. Now free, Casey is using her new life, new future, and new passions to help other women and girls find their way out of the brokenness and bondage they were never meant for. Determined to live freely from her past, she uses poetry, prayer, and the word of God to draw us deeper into the healing process.

Chain-ged: Finding Freedom in Christ through Poetry, Principles, and Prayer is an artistic, soulful, and authentic work that teaches who God is, His character, and why He can be trusted with our fractured souls. Casey shows that as you grow spiritually and surrender to God, He will help you find your way to live a deeper revelation of who you are and the beautiful future ahead of you. Each chapter presents a poem, principle, practice, and prayer designed to help you work through your thoughts, emotions, new knowledge, and how you might respond.

The process of healing and growing into who God intentionally created you to be is not an easy journey. But the more you are able to surrender to God and allow Him to transform your mind, your heart, and, ultimately, your life, every step forward with Him, the good and the not-so-good, will be worth it in the end.

Click HERE to get your copy!

About the Author

Casey Cassady is a born-again believer in Christ, author, and poet who is passionate about helping others to find hope, healing, and wholeness through her poetical testimony, wisdom, and gift of exhortation. Chain-ged is the first book of what she hopes to be many in her Finding Freedom in Christ book and poetry series. Some of the poetry in this book has been brought alive into spoken word format on her YouTube channel so viewers can connect with her through the shared experiences that we all, unfortunately, go through. Casey is currently pursuing a master’s degree of Christian Ministry with Oral Roberts University and resides in Fresno, CA.

More from Casey

“Chain-ged: Finding Freedom in Christ through Poetry, Principles, and Prayer” is a women-focused, Christ-centered book that will take you on a poetic, authentic, and practical journey of spiritual growth and healing. Each chapter’s testimonial poem, biblical teaching, prophetic prayer, and practice section are themed to focus on various roles that God has in our lives: God is Father, God is Son, God is Spirit, God is Creator, God is Savior, God is King, God is Healer, and God is Lover.

I wrote “Chain-ged” to demonstrate a sense of relatability to readers; and to provide readers with the tools, knowledge, and wisdom needed to gain freedom in Christ. This freedom is found as identity in Christ is discovered. It is then that hope, healing, and wholeness comes, and purpose may be lived.

Readers will be able to benefit from both spiritual and practical aspects. For example, there is content that discusses the importance of having conversations with the Holy Spirit, and what that can look like. Other chapters focus on relationships (both romantic and familial), and others focus more on the importance of community, mentorship, accountability, and healthy decision-making processes.

I truly want readers to know the things that I wish I would have known sooner – most of which I had to “learn the hard way”. If I can be used by God to help redirect people onto the path they were created for, I will be confident that I am living in my calling.

”Wounded Warrior” Spoken Word Video: https://youtu.be/DSxoqbUZJ-A

“Expired” Spoken Word Video: https://youtu.be/Lu37qH-qyJ8

Author Interview

When/how did you decide to become a writer?

I have always been a writer, ever since I can remember. I grew up writing poetry, songs, and even funny stories just to make other people laugh. But I hadn’t seen myself becoming an Author or professional writer until recently – probably in 2018. Prior to 2018, I was comfortable with a plan to work at an 8 – 5 job until retirement and figured I would just write for fun on the side.  But God then placed a handful of divine contacts into my life who encouraged me to take my writing more seriously. I could finally grasp the vision of being used through my writing, as a career. I began the “planning and brainstorming” part of my book that year (which I probably could have done without), and finally sat down to start writing the book in the beginning of 2019. It took me about a year to write it, and a little over a year to go through the self-publishing process with “The Sophos Group” publishing.

What drew you to the time period that you write about?

“Chain-ged” generally focuses on the time period from before I found my relationship with Christ, to having and building that relationship.  I chose to focus on that time period because I know that many people are in a place that I was in – a life of sin, bad-decision making, lukewarm and/or hypocritical Christianity, and do not know how to get to a deeper place in their walk with Christ. They need hope, healing, and wholeness through discovering who they are in Christ. Although I feel as though “identity” is a never-ending journey, I want my book to provide readers the tools and knowledge that I have gained from my experiences of brokenness so that they can find freedom in Christ and begin to live more according to the Word of God (although imperfection is expected). These tools, and this knowledge, can allow readers to learn how be “unstuck” in their walk in Christ, and bring them more fully into their destinies.

Describe your book in five words.

Finding Freedom in Christ Jesus

Do you have a favorite Bible verse, or is there a particular Bible story that really resonates with you?

“Do everything in love” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

It may be easy for some to read the Bible (especially the Old Testament) and think of God as a “punisher” or that he is a God of “revenge”.  In reality, He is a God of Love, and a God of Justice. His authority approves of justice, with an ultimate goal of love. He truly desires a relationship with us, and eternal life with us, and loves his followers, and sinners alike (with the desire for all sinners to be Saved).  He allows things to happen so that we may experience His love through miracles, through prayer, and through seasons of healing, prayer, and blessing. He ALWAYS does everything in love, as should we as followers of Christ.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

1. God can use your gift of writing to the level of your willingness; and there is no limit to what God can do.
2. It is normal to have days that you don’t feel like writing, and if you need to take a break, then that’s okay. Be kind to yourself.  But on a general level, you must also be consistent and intentional about making time to write. There will never be the perfect time to write a book (or anything else), so you must consciously make it a priority.
3. If you believe that a writing career (or writing something, such as a book) is a God-given calling/assignment, you must perceive and approach it as a responsibility.
4. There are people out there who are desperate to read your words and hear your voice, even if they aren’t aware of that. God has given you a gift for a reason. Never be afraid to use it. You are impacting lives, challenging the status quo, and changing the world.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 24

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, May 25

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, May 26

For Him and My Family, May 27

Texas Book-aholic, May 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 29

Rebecca Tews, May 30

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 30

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 31

deb’s Book Review, June 1

Inklings and notions, June 2

Artistic Nobody, June 3 (Author Interview)

Cats in the Cradle Blog, June 3

For the Love of Literature, June 4 (Author Interview)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, June 5

Susan K. Beatty, Author, June 6 (Author Interview)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Casey is giving away a gift basket containing a hardback copy of the book, $50 Amazon gift card, and a copy of “Prayer C.H.A.T. Journal” Prayer Journal by Jessica A. Brown!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10c94/chain-ged-celebration-tour-giveaway

In His Presence Spotlight and GIVEAWAY!

About the Book

Book: In His Presence

Author: Dr. E.W. Kenyon

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Prayer

Release Date: December 11, 2020

Here, at last, is a real solution to the prayer problem!

In His Presence by E. W. Kenyon is not about who others were and what they did in prayer, but about who we are and what we can do in prayer. It lifts the curtain to the Holy of Holies and reveals our ability to enter in and stand before the presence of God.

In this book, you will discover that God’s ability is available to every one of His children. You will be challenged to climb the heights and sound the depths of tremendous spiritual realities, including the authority of the name of Jesus and how to use it.

In His Presence has been a challenge and blessing to countless multitudes all over the world. It removes the mist surrounding the prayer life, leading us out of spiritual mysticism into the true light of life.

This is your invitation to open the door…enter…and stand in the Father’s presence!

Click HERE to get your copy!

About the Author

Dr. E. W. Kenyon (1867–1948) was born in Saratoga County, New York. At age nineteen, he preached his first sermon. He pastored several churches in New England and founded the Bethel Bible Institute in Spencer, Massachusetts. (The school later became the Providence Bible Institute when it was relocated to Providence, Rhode Island.) Kenyon served as an evangelist for over twenty years. In 1931, he became a pioneer in Christian radio on the Pacific Coast with his show Kenyon’s Church of the Air, where he earned the moniker “The Faith Builder.” He also began the New Covenant Baptist Church in Seattle. In addition to his pastoral and radio ministries, Kenyon wrote extensively. Among his books are The Blood Covenant, In His Presence, Jesus the Healer, New Creation Realities, and Two Kinds of Righteousness.

More from Whitaker House

In His Presence by EW Kenyon is not written about what others were and did, but about what we are and can do! It is a lifting of the curtain and a revealing of the holy of holies and our ability to enter it and stand in the presence of the Father. In His Presence is a discovery of the fact that God’s ability is available to every child of God. This is your invitation to open the door…enter…and stand in His presence, in the presence of the Father!

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 7

Texas Book-aholic, January 8

Inklings and notions, January 9

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 10 (Spotlight)

deb’s Book Review, January 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 11

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 12

Artistic Nobody, January 13 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

For the Love of Literature, January 14 (Spotlight)

Ashley’s Bookshelf, January 15

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, January 16

Sara Jane Jacobs, January 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 18

Vicky Sluiter, January 19 (Spotlight)

Mary Hake, January 19

For Him and My Family, January 20

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Whitaker House is giving away the grand prize package of a $20 Starbucks gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10533/in-his-presence-celebration-tour-giveaway

At Heaven’s Edge Review and GIVEAWAY!

About the Book

Book: At Heaven’s Edge

Author: Andrea Jo Rodgers

Genre: Christian Nonfiction

Release Date: October 1, 2015

Veteran EMT Andrea Rodgers has helped hundreds of people in their most vulnerable moments.
Some of the victims faced their mortality head-on and cried out to God for help. Many experienced fleeting but life-changing connections with their first responders. Often these crises became unexpected sources of inspiration.
Now Rodgers shares brief, real-life stories of heroic courage in the face of fear. In times of intense suffering, she has repeatedly witnessed signs of God’s quiet intervention and healing presence.

• A man is resuscitated after Rodgers was able to repair a defibrillator–with her teeth!
• Several bystanders help rescue a young girl who is accidentally buried alive in sand.
• Rodgers also experienced some lighthearted moments, including the time she arrived at the scene of a crime only to find herself in the middle of a mystery dinner theater.

Experience the miracles, the life-and-death drama as you look at life from heaven’s edge.

Featured on the Catholic Corner Television Show, Telecare TV, Domestic Church Media, and Shalom World.

Click HERE to get your copy! 

About the Author

Andrea Jo Rodgers is the author of award-winning Christian middle grade fiction as well as inspirational adult nonfiction novels. She holds a clinical doctorate in physical therapy and specializes in women’s health, orthopedics, and lymphedema. She has served her community as a volunteer emergency medical technician for over thirty years, responding to more than 8,200 first aid and fire calls. She lives on the east coast with her husband, two children, and their two fur babies.

 

More from Andrea

I’ve always loved writing. In fact, I wrote my first “book” when I was in the first grade. It was about how my mother and brother rescued an injured baby duckling from our town’s lake, so I suppose writing about rescues has been in my blood from a young age.

Several years back, my son and I were in a terrifying elevator accident that event made me step back and take a close look at my life. I thought about my relationships with God, my family, and my friends. I also thought about my goals and my dreams. The accident inspired me to start writing.

I decided to write about my experiences as a volunteer with my town’s first aid squad. I hoped that people might be inspired or comforted by my stories. When I was finished the first draft, I thought that it needed something to pull it all together. That’s when I decided to explain the source of my inspiration for writing the book by including my own 911 call.

When I first joined the first aid squad, I was seventeen and was just starting my senior year of high school. I’ve been a volunteer EMT ever since. Over the years, I have served in many offices, including Captain and President. Currently, I’m the Lieutenant, a trustee, and treasurer of our foundation.

During my time with the squad, I have been fortunate to witness some utterly amazing things. At Heaven’s Edge: True Stories of Faith and Rescue describes inspirational and memorable first aid calls from my early years with the rescue squad, from my school years when I spent summers working as a beach cop through my first years as a physical therapist. Some of the stories in the book are what I would consider to be miracles, some are sad, but faith-filled, and a few humorous. I invite you to join me in experiencing what it is like to serve as a first responder.

My Review

Prior to reading this book, I was not familiar with volunteer first aid squads, at least not by that title. I find it fascinating that some emergency service workers are volunteers and go through training but perhaps not formal schooling. In all areas of the population, but especially in more rural and undeveloped areas, these squads are vital in initiating life-saving measures until they can get the patient to the hospital. Many times, lives are saved thanks to the early efforts of EMTs.

An interesting and poignant collection, At Heaven’s Edge by Andrea Jo Rodgers is a collection of true stories by the author, pointing toward divine intervention and the sacred beauty of life. Each case involves the author; Rodgers has served as a volunteer EMT for over 30 years, and she holds a clinical doctorate of physical therapy, the former accomplishment being the basis for this book. As a result, readers are treated to firsthand accounts as well as the author’s thoughts in the moments of a rescue and those of the patient(s) involved in the case. Not only that, but in most cases, the ultimate outcome for the patient is shared, which naturally enhances the reading experience and whets one’s interest.

Each chapter is titled and opens with an epigraph in the form of a Bible verse. These are all steadfast reminders of who God is and of who we are in Him; some of the pairings with the chapters, though, did seem slightly haphazard and not entirely fitting to the chapter’s context. Included also in each story is the dispatcher’s message to all of the volunteers, telling them where to go and what type of emergency was occurring. These details augment the authenticity of At Heaven’s Edge, but nonetheless, I am glad that Rodgers also tells some of the sadder stories that did not have the desired happy ending, all while remaining inspirational and always pointing to the Lord as the ultimate Healer. While I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this book for those with an aversion to the medical field, this is a clean read in the traditional sense and also in the sense that there are no graphic details. Readers who enjoy Chicken Soup for the Soul and have an interest in either medicine or EMTs will doubtless be inspired by these stories of faith, hope, and resilience in the face of medical emergencies.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

My rating: 5 stars ♥♥♥♥♥

Blog Stops

Ashley’s Bookshelf, October 3

Texas Book-aholic, October 4

For Him and My Family, October 5

Stories By Gina, October 6 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, October 6

Inklings and notions, October 7

Sodbusterliving, October 8

For the Love of Literature, October 9

Simple Harvest Reads, October 10 (Author Interview)

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 10

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 12

Beauty in the Binding, October 13 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, October 13 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 14

Sara Jane Jacobs, October 15

Spoken from the Heart, October 16

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Andrea is giving away the grand prize package of signed copies of At Heaven’s Edge: True Stories of Faith and Rescue and On Heaven’s Doorstep: God’s Help in Times of Crisis-True Stories from a First Responder as well as a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10198/at-heaven-s-edge-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Other 3:16s Review and GIVEAWAY!

About the Book

Book: The Other 3:16s

Author: Malinda Fugate

Genre: Christian Living

Release Date: May 12, 2020

”For God so loved the world . . . “

Many of us could finish that sentence in our sleep. John 3:16 is a beautiful Scripture that neatly and simply sums up the message of the Gospel. But what do all the other 3:16s in the Bible have to tell us?

The words of the Bible weave a tapestry of love, particularly the love that our Heavenly Father has for His children. But a love so deep and so wide cannot be contained in one memorized phrase. It takes multiple authors of sixty-six individual books to begin to explore the mystery of God’s care for us.

The Other Three Sixteens by Malinda Fugate examines each third chapter and sixteenth verse in the Bible and invites a fresh, new perspective to help readers uncover surprises or remind them of forgotten truths of a faith that has become routine.

Through Genesis to Revelation, we can soak in its depth, wonder at its intricacies, and be moved at how much the Lord truly does lavish upon us. Together, we discover God’s love under the weight of Eve’s sin in the garden. It’s there in front of Moses, burning in a bush that is somehow not consumed. God’s love sits in the dark with Job, rebuilds a wall with Nehemiah, and encourages a young pastor named Timothy. Together we will find a deeper understanding of the way our Heavenly Father cares for each of us today.

Click HERE to get your copy! 

About the Author

Malinda Fugate grew up in children’s ministry. Now, after two decades of dedicated volunteer service, she now serves full-time as the Children’s Education Director at a church in Southern California. Malinda studied communications and theatre at Azusa Pacific University, then worked behind the scenes at the Los Angeles Salem radio stations, including The Fish and KKLA. Her writing includes The Other Three Sixteens, Bible Time for Active Kids, commercial copywriting, various faith-based stage and screen plays, as well as co-producing A Single Girl’s Guide To, a lifestyle blog and web series. Her lifelong study of God’s Word continues to reveal more about the Lord every day. She lives by the beach with her pup, Yoshi.

 

More from Malinda

It’s the first verse many of us memorized in Sunday School and perhaps the most familiar to any Christian: “For God so loved the world….”

In one sentence, we celebrate the incredible love of God and the amazing gift of salvation that Jesus gave through the cross. John 3:16 is a beautiful Scripture to keep in our hearts and minds.

Of course, John did not assign chapters and verses when he penned his gospel. Those were added later to help us reference as we study. Yet, years of reciting John 3:16 have etched these lines into our brains, making it an easy combo to remember. What if we looked at the other 3:16 verses in each book of the Bible? What treasures would we unearth hidden in our well-worn pages?

We find Adam and Eve in their last days in a garden paradise, dealing with the consequences of a terrible decision.

There is a young boy training to be a priest who suddenly hears the audible voice of God.

A king’s cup-bearer journeys to his homeland to lead a massive construction project despite adversity.

We sit next to Job in his darkest days, crying out to God for answers.

We meet a young pastor named Timothy, experience miraculous healings, and witness the baptism of Jesus Himself.

Most of all, in every verse, we discover the immense love of God. We learn that it cannot be contained simply in one phrase; such a great love is too full of rich detail. Most of all, we find that His love is alive and active in our very own lives, right this minute.

My Review

A unique approach to studying the Bible, Malinda Fugate’s The Other 3:16s considers the universally-known John 3:16 and the Bible’s resounding message of love and explores the third chapter and sixteenth verse of the other books of the Bible that have them. She bases her analysis on the fact that God is love and that He has an overwhelming love for all of His children. Proceeding in order, she begins with Genesis and moves through both the Old and New Testaments, ending with Revelation and John. Not only is this logical and easy to follow, but I love that she includes the Old as well as the New Testament. The former tends to be written about less often, and it is challenging reading. I am impressed with the effort that the author has put into the organization and presentation of this book.

The Other 3:16s offers the big picture of the Bible in the form of a continuing narrative related by the author. As such, it can be read as one would a regular book, or it can be used as a devotional. This latter option is bolstered by the discussion questions that the author has graciously provided at the end of the book; they are merged with a Bible reading plan and formatted into either 6-or 10-week time spans, although this could be adjusted to the reader’s preference. Along these same lines, Fugate has arranged each chapter to discuss a book of the Bible. The verse corresponding with chapter 3 verse 16 is written out, and then she explains the setting and historical background, which is so important of any writing, but especially to a text as sacred as the Bible. In order to gain an understanding of the Lord and His workings from the earliest times through the book of Revelation, it’s necessary to have at least a basic knowledge of the individual Bible books and also be able to put them together as one cohesive narrative. Also, Fugate ties in the most-often-quoted verses from the Bible book from which they come, which is also helpful in bringing everything together. With an e-book copy, when I pulled up my notes section to read the passages that I highlighted, I was surprised and delighted to find that each one had the Bible book noted above it.

Speaking of the content itself, aside from a few isolated instances, this nonfiction book follows Scripture and provides information and clarification about the historical and cultural milieu, which helps readers to more fully understand what is transpiring and how it is significant. This, in turn, draws readers closer to the God who “welcomes questions from His children when they come from humble, reverent hearts.” I appreciate that Fugate acknowledges the tough questions that we all ask at some point, the answers to which we will probably never fully know on this side of eternity, concluding that we simply need to trust God because He always has everything under His perfect control, and His plans for His children are always for our good and for His glory. And so, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

My rating: 5 stars ♥♥♥♥♥

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 4

Texas Book-aholic, September 5

Inklings and notions, September 6

deb’s Book Review, September 6

For Him and My Family, September 7

Hebrews 12 Endurance, September 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 9

Artistic Nobody, September 10 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Ashley’s Bookshelf, September 11

Sara Jane Jacobs, September 12

For the Love of Literature, September 13

Mary Hake, September 13

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 14

Lights in a Dark World, September 15

Splashes of Joy, September 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 17

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Malinda is giving away the grand prize package of A John 3:16 glass water bottle and a signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/fffc/the-other-3-16s-celebration-tour-giveaway

Back to God Book Review and GIVEAWAY!

About the Book

 

Book: Back to God

Author: Tim Witte

Genre: Nonfiction

Release Date: January 27, 2020

 

Back to God: The Journey of Hope through a Broken World is a timeless, grace-filled message from the Bible to bring us back to God.

Sometimes we long not for escape but to find our way in the midst of the questions burning in our minds. Who can I trust? Do I have meaning? What hope do I have?

In a society where nothing is permanent, technological advances increase our sense of vulnerability, and relationships come and go, we long for one unchanging element in which we can trust and rest in wholeheartedly without fear. We long for hope. Author Tim Witte conveys just that with Back to God, offering foundational principles from the timeless truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ:

• the message of unfailing hope that meets us in our broken world
• a promise from the only one who cannot lie and who will not fail
• a powerful word from God to bring us back to God

Back to God is neither academic nor profoundly apologetic but is a truthful, down-to-earth dialogue filled with illustrations that will resonate with readers who long for true answers from the Bible for life’s biggest problems.

 

Click HERE to get your copy!

 

 

About the Author

 

 

Writer and veteran Bible teacher Tim Witte holds a bachelor’s in Bible and Greek from Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee, and studied computer science at Austin Peay State University. He lives in northern Indiana with his wife of thirty years. They have three daughters, two sons-in-law, and two grandsons. Tim enjoys teaching Bible classes at his church, woodworking, barbecuing, and spending time with family.

 

 

 

 

More from Tim

 

If I Should Die Before I Wake

Next to a chainsaw, the most dangerous tool you could find in my hand is a rhyming dictionary. The good news is I have not touched a chainsaw for months. The bad news is I recently dusted off New Rhyming Dictionary and Poetry Handbook. My subject is prayer so maybe, with much prayer, I can do more good than harm.

A Child’s Prayer

Writing Back To God made me reflect on the people and events God used in preserving my life and leading me to faith in Christ. Though I did not have a clear understanding of the gospel as a child, my parents laid a good foundation with biblical truths about God and myself. One of my earliest memories is of my Mom stooping beside my bed and having me repeat this prayer:

Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep;
If I should die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take.

That nightly routine and the words of that little prayer helped establish a Godward orientation to my life. Not every child receives that. I learned some vital truths at a very young age:

• I learned I could pray to God. What a concept! Many PhDs have not figured that out.
• I learned I was not ready to go to sleep until I had said my prayers. I don’t speak of praying in that way now; it sounds more ritualistic than personal. Yet, it conveyed the priority of praying to God.
• I learned that God could protect me, but I should not presume upon that protection. I should ask for it.
• The third line presents the possibility of death. It would have been bizarre and borderline cruel if, night after night, my mother had said, “Now remember Timmy, you might die in your sleep. Good night!” However, prayer is serious business, and I can talk to God about the scariest stuff.
• Additionally, I learned my eternal destiny was not to be taken for granted; it was to be a matter of prayer. Ultimately, God would decide where I ended up.

As one would expect, my prayers became more varied and improvised as I matured. For most of my adolescence, I continued a somewhat sporadic pattern of prayer at night.

Gospel-ignited Prayer

However, the time came while in the Army when I ceased to pray. I recount some of this in Back to God. My life was a sinful mess. The last thing I wanted to think about was what happens “if I should die before I wake.” For prayer to be possible one has to have hope, but I was hopeless. Prayer would only be reawakened in me when another soldier brought me God’s message of hope.

Interestingly, my evangelist started the conversation by asking, “Tim, do you know where you would go if you died tonight?” From there, he proceeded to share the gospel of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. That prompted me to read the Bible, and particularly the book of Romans. I was overwhelmed by the astonishing message of God’s grace. Then the flame of prayer was reignited when I read, “For ‘everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved’” (Rom. 10:13). God heard my cry that day, and now I have the Holy Spirit dwelling in me and teaching me to cry, “Abba! Father!” (Rom. 8:15).

So recited prayers can be powerful tools for instructing small children about themselves and God. Such prayers may help them form a daily habit of praying. However, only the gospel has power to kindle the eternal flame of prayer in our hearts.

A Responsive Prayer

You may want to take cover now as I am about to wax poetic. Understanding the role that prayers can have in teaching important theological truths and the necessity of the gospel to ignite prayer in the heart, I recently composed a responsive bedtime prayer for my daughter and son-in-law to use with their young sons. I patterned it after the prayer my mother taught me, but I filled it with gospel hope.

Child:
As I lay me down, I pray,
Thank you Jesus for this day.
By your grace forgive my sin,
Make me true and clean within.

Parent:
Holy Jesus guard your sheep,
For you died our souls to keep.
Keep us trusting in your grace,
Till we see you face to face.

 

My Review

Concise and engaging, Bible teacher and author Tim Witte’s “Back to God: The Journey of Hope Through a Broken World” provides an overview of the Gospel for both believers and unbelievers alike. Particularly this year, with the increasing chaos and turmoil of the pandemic and the internecine political climate in America, works of nonfiction such as “Back to God” speak to the tumult within our own hearts and remind us of the proper object of our focus. As Witte writes, “The only reliable path to follow on our journey back to God is the one he has laid out for us in the Bible.” He goes on to provide a detailed description of the story of salvation, explaining how it began in the Garden of Eden and culminated in the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus. While his writing is relatively easy to understand, I think that it might be overwhelming for someone who is not a Christian to try to read it on their own. In this case, I would highly recommend reading it with someone who is a knowledgeable Christian. As for Christians who read this book, I still recommend reading it with at least one other person so as to discuss each chapter along the way and to strengthen their own faith.

Overall, I think that “Back to God” is worth the read. While short, this is not a book to hurry through. I would encourage readers to read the book slowly and deliberately in order to truly grasp the Gospel message. Witte, I am pleased to say, makes liberal use of Scripture verses along with various studies and resources, leaving them at each footnote for easy reference. This enhances the book’s credibility and, anticipating possible argument, rises it above simply being one man’s interpretation or beliefs. Something that caught my attention brings to mind the fact that God is so incredibly merciful in His desire to save us from our sin and rebellion: “Man’s soul is already immortal. Eternal life is the infusion of spiritual life into the soul that has been dead from birth. It fits us for communion with the eternal God.” One issue that I did have with the text, however, was in the chapter entitled is “A Higher Mountain,” in which the author states that Jesus was a prophet and that He became divine by being raised from the dead. Both statements are false; Jesus was not a prophet, and He didn’t become divine by dying because He was already divine. Elsewhere, Witte makes clear these points, so perhaps I am misinterpreting his intentions with this incident. Throughout the book, Witte makes use of contemporary lead-ins before transitioning into the Biblical point upon which he is expounding, and I appreciate this as a way not only to hopefully draw more readers in, but also to demonstrate how the Bible never ceases to be relevant.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

My rating: 4 stars ♥♥♥♥

 

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 27

For the Love of Literature, July 28

Artistic Nobody, July 29 (Author Interview)

Inklings and notions, July 30

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 31

Simple Harvest Reads, August 1 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, August 2

My Devotional Thoughts, August 3 (Author Interview)

deb’s Book Review, August 4

For Him and My Family, August 5

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 6 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 7

Mary Hake, August 8

Blossoms and Blessings, August 9 (Author Interview)

God is Love, August 9

 

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Tim is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/fe35/back-to-god-celebration-tour-giveaway

 

6 Hidden Behaviors that Destroy Families Spotlight and GIVEAWAY!

 

About the Book

Book: 6 Hidden Behaviors that Destroy Families

Author: Dr. Magdalena Battles

Genre: RELIGION / Christian Living/Family & Relationships

Release Date: June 9, 2020

 

Families are complicated.
There is no such thing as a perfect family…or an easy family. We all make mistakes that hurt or disappoint our family members, and we’ve all been hurt or disappointed by those we love.

 
Within our human makeup is a deep and basic need for healthy family relationships. Family was designed to provide us with love, a feeling of belonging, a shared history, traditions, comfort, affection, quality time, feedback, learning, and a safety net. When our family fails to provide for these needs, we feel a deep sense of loss.

 
6 Hidden Behaviors That Destroy Families by Dr. Magdalena Battles addresses the top conflicts in extended families that cause relationships to become strained, disjointed, or broken. These hidden behaviors are: criticism, gossip, lack of inclusion, deception, refusing to accept differences, and a failure to apologize and forgive. Dr. Battles provides practical tips and solutions based on research, biblical principles, and her own observations of what has worked in families.

 
Most families have some dysfunction, causing pain, damage, and division. While every family has problems, what really matters is how we deal with those issues. Are we working in a way that heals and resolves problems, or are we allowing them to fester, divide, and explode, causing tremendous damage to our relationships? Families are always in a state of change, and they are a work in progress. But they can function in a way where love, support, belonging, and kindness are exemplified and practiced.

 
Doing nothing about our family conflicts often contributes to the problems. The healing in your family can begin with you. To have a family that is loving and supportive, you need to be part of the solutions and healing. You just have to take those first steps! It is a process, but the result will be happier lives and more fulfilling relationships.

 

Click HERE to get your copy!

 

About the Author

 

Dr. Magdalena Battles is a writer and conference speaker whose specialties include parenting, child development, family relationships, domestic violence, and sexual assault. She shares her real-life experiences and professional insights on her website, LivingJoyDaily.com, and on Lifehack.org, where she was named one of their top writers. She is also the author of Let Them Play: The Importance of Play and 100 Child Development Activities (September 2019). Dr. Battles earned a bachelor’s degree in child psychology and a master’s degree in professional counseling, both from Liberty University, and a doctorate in Clinical and Academic Psychology from Walden University. She has also completed post-graduate studies on “Technologies in Education” at Harvard University. While she may seem all business, in her spare time, she enjoys camping with her family, visiting national parks, reading nonfiction, decorating, organizing, shopping, spending time with extended family, and incubating/raising Silkie chickens. She is also an active volunteer in her community and church. Dr. Battles and her husband, Justin, reside in Texas, where they are raising their daughter, Brielle, twin boys, Alex and Charlie, a dog named Max, and a Silkie chicken named Marshmallow.

 

More from Magdalena

While every family has its problems—some minor, some major—what really matters is how we deal with these issues. Are we working to heal and resolve the conflicts, or are we allowing them to fester, divide, and explode, perhaps causing irreparable damage to our relationships? The six hidden behaviors that destroy families are described as “hidden” because we often ignore, deny, or cover up our family issues. The family unit is a living organism, never remaining the same. Sometimes, it is healthy and working well, and other times, it is not as healthy or functional. All it takes is one person to start a trend of love, compassion, and support that can change generations to come.

 

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, July 11

 Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 12

Artistic Nobody, July 13 (Spotlight)

Inklings and notions, July 14

For Him and My Family, July 15

A Baker’s Perspective, July 16 (Spotlight)

deb’s Book Review, July 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 18

Simple Harvest Reads, July 19 (Spotlight)

Ashley’s Bookshelf, July 20

Mary Hake, July 21

Through the Fire Blogs, July 22 (Spotlight)

Captive Dreams Window, July 22

Splashes of Joy, July 23

For the Love of Literature, July 24 (Spotlight)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Magdalena is giving away the grand prize of a $20 Starbucks gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/fe58/6-hidden-behaviors-that-destroy-families-celebration-tour-giveaway