Beyond Suffering Bible, NLT

The Beyond Suffering Bible, published by Tyndale in the New Living Translation, aims to encourage readers that in the midst of extensive, ongoing struggle, God offers an infinite, glorious hope.

Included along with the Biblical text are:

• Devotionals written by Joni Eareckson Tada, a woman who has been paralyzed since 1967.
• Profiles of others who have experienced disabilities or filled a role as a caregiver.
• Notes and articles by professionals who help those with disabilities.
• Study notes interspersed throughout the text that accentuate what the Bible says about suffering.
• Introductions to each book of the Bible that give background information as well as synopsis.
• Topical reading plans on suffering, disability, and healing.
• Reference resources: A NLT Dictionary/Concordance, maps, and a dedicated space for notes.

My thoughts:

A good blend of experiences from Joni, other people, and doctors provided authenticity and a well-rounded view of dealing with prolonged suffering. Ongoing suffering is not something the Christian world addresses frequently (at least in my experience) and there is a crucial, wonderful message that the authors really tried to bring out – God's heart for the afflicted. His tender mercies to the disabled. His protective hand in each life.

The book introductions were perfect for both those new to faith and those who are not. I found them simple to understand as they highlighted basic information and deeper themes of each book, some of which I'd not previously known or noticed.

I requested to review this book with the intention of giving it to a family member who is serving as caregiver to her husband. My expectations were met and exceeded. I recommend the Beyond Suffering Bible: Where Struggles Seem Endless, Gods Hope is Infinite to anyone struggling with disability or acting as caregiver on a regular basis to another person.

Watch a video from Joni Eareckson Tada about the Beyond Suffering Bible.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Thirty Days in the Land with Jesus by Charles H. Dyer

[My note: As I looked through potential books to review one night, my husband browsed with me and said that he'd like to read this book. I told him that he'd have to review it. So, without further ado, here is his review:]

Thirty Days in the Land with Jesus by Charles H. Dyer is a devotional that is also a historical and geographical lesson about Israel. I have heard Dr. Dyer on the radio and was interested in this book. It covers thirty days going through different sites each day as if the author was guiding you on an actual tour. It takes the reader through very familiar biblical names, and some not so familiar, and attempts to put you into the stories by describing the scenes.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book At the end of each chapter (or day) it challenges the believer and asks the non-believer to make a choice about accepting Christ.

One of the things that stood out to me were the photos. Most of the images I had formed about those places were way off from how they actually appear. After reading and viewing this book, I now have a different approach to the Bible.

Therein lies the double-edged sword for me. In my mind, I made many of these places larger or more grand than they actually are. So, in some ways it was disappointing to see how small they actually are. But it also is an encouragement to see that God would use small things in the world's eyes to do mighty things.

So, back to the photos: I'm not sure if the author intentionally used only a few, in many cases only one for each site or not. In any case, they left me wanting to see more, and hungering to go set foot on these monuments of my faith. And, who knows, maybe when I get there, these places will be as large as I imagined them.

So, kudos to the author for whetting my appetite for the Holy Land, and I would recommend this book for those who want to experience Israel without the means to make a physical visit. And also to those who are looking for a good devotional to draw closer to God.
 

Reviewed by Andrew Arrant for Beauty in the Binding Blog.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Designed for Devotion: A 365-Day Journey from Genesis to Revelation

Biblical study is a lifelong apprenticeship for the dedicated Christian. Although no book can replace studying the Bible itself, Designed for Devotion: A 365-Day Journey from Genesis to Revelation offers a companion-of-sorts to the reader who desires to increase his or her knowledge of the Bible and dedication to God. In Designed for Devotion, Bible teacher Dianne Neal Matthews comprehensively explains the main stories, people and teachings of the Bible. Additionally, she provides relevant historical background, Old and New Testament Scripture correlations and practical applications for the reader to implement.

I used Designed for Devotion: A 365-Day Journey from Genesis to Revelation by Dianne Neal Matthews as a supplement to my regular Bible reading. I think new believers will find the book especially helpful as it hits all the major Biblical events, people and lessons. I liked that Bible references were given along with each devotion. There were a few stories that I was not familiar with and it was good to be able to go to the Scripture and see exactly what it said. Believers with more knowledge of the Bible can also benefit from reading Designed for Devotion. Like most devotional books, to receive the greatest benefit and impact, the lessons must be read slowly and seriously. Each entry is less than a page long, so there were times it was almost too easy to breeze though. However, serious, thoughtful reflection on these lessons and the corresponding Scriptures will certainly lead any believer to new discoveries and lessons.

Read an excerpt from Designed for Devotion: A 365-Day Journey from Genesis to Revelation by Dianne Neal Matthews here.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

My First Handy Bible

My First Handy Bible: Timeless Bible Stories for Toddlers, written by Cecilie Olesen and illustrated by Gustavo Mazali, provides an overview of the Bible's most popular stories from Genesis to Revelation. Each story is summarized in a few sentences. Just enough of the story is introduced that younger readers can easily understand without being confused by details. The Biblical reference for each story is given on the page so that older children and their parents can explore the story more deeply if they desire to do so. Bright, sharp colors effectively catch the attention of children and solid-board style construction provides durability needed by toddlers.

I enjoyed reading My First Handy Bible: Timeless Bible Stories for Toddlers to my five month old. The book is rated for ages one to three and my child didn't have the ability to comprehend the stories, but the illustrations did catch her attention. I liked how the Bible reference for each story is included on the same page as this could facilitate further discussion, especially with an older toddler. I was pleasantly surprised that so many stories were included. The latch that holds the book shut and the handle for carrying it are great. Even at this age, my daughter was able to grasp and touch different parts of the book. Also, the sturdiness of this book is great for a child that doesn't yet understand that pages are made to stay in a book. :)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Scandinavia Publishing via the B & B Media Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."