Excellent testimony to fighting spirit
923454
A well written account of the heroism of the American fighting man, but only a fellow warrior can fully understand the pain of loss of comrades and the pride of an American fighting man.
2850437
Joyce Schneider takes you on a journey of her most personal struggles with life and her most profound finding of her spirit.  She shares her pain and then rebuilds her life with the acceptance of God and His miracles of truth, love, and the powers to heal.  Her honest approach to her life's struggles sparks hope and lights a path to all of us who have experienced life's turmoil. It is a wonderful testimony of finding peace in a world plagued with pain and suffering.
584686
My Sunday School class went through The Forgotten God, a chapter a week, and this book was great. This is the only Francis Chan book I've read, but it packs a powerful punch.

Chan challenges the reader instantly, calling our attention to the painful absence of the Holy Spirit in our everyday lives and actions. His simple and straightforward way of writing is not "in your face," but written with conviction and personal struggle.

With life stories and Biblical backing, Chan makes it clear what the Bible is telling us about the Spirit: we have neglected Him and we need Him in our lives. This book is not classically charismatic or extreme, but it is challenging of your typical comfort levels, declaring that if you're not uncomfortable and feeling awkward from time to time, then you likely are away from the Spirit.

Overall, I found this book amazing. It's enlightening and full of hope, and I feel like I've grown in my Walk some by applying the message. If you're looking for a book to challenge your Christian faith, Francis Chan's The Forgotten God definitely is it.
234389
The first word in the title inspires me.  FIGHT.  Struggle is real in this life, no matter what.  We are imperfect creatures living in a fallen world.  Tragedy, disease, terror, and turmoil lurk around every flip of the calendaror so it seems.  The weapons in one's arsenal are crucial when it comes to life's battles.  In Fight Back with Joy, Margaret Feinberg walks the reader through a journey riddled with shock, pain, uncertainty and gut-wrenching honesty.  Diagnosed with carcinoma in her early thirties, Margaret finds herself drafted into a war she never expected to have to fight.  Upon digesting the news, she looks at her husband, Leif, and says, "What if we fight back with joy?"

And so it begins.

In January, I was honored to be a break out speaker at a conference where Margaret headlined. Prior to the conference, I had never read one of her books.  But, the compelling talent she has in weaving  a story coupled with the intentionality of her words walked me into the line where I stood to receive my autographed copy of Fight Back With Joy.

God's timing is perfect, and it just so happens I picked the book up five months later, during a time when I desperately needed to hear Margaret's heartfelt message. (I downloaded it on Audible too.  A bonus is Margaret is the reader and it is simply fantastic to hear the book in her own words.)

Regardless of what fight you are in, this 211 page book is one you want in your arsenal of weaponry.  If you are a highlighter, you will want to use an exorbitant amount of self-control.  Margaret is a wordsmith, crafting sentences like an artist perfects a masterpiece.  Every syllable carries weight and drives a powerful message into the heart of the reader.
3804505
"Soldier's Heart" is powerful and vivid account of Sgt. Lee Burkins' (ret.) experiences during the Vietnam War and his battle to regain his humanity after it.
"Soldier's Heart" pulls no punches as Burkins takes his readers from the rotten jungles of South East Asia to the V.A. physiatrist's couch in Hawaii. At times graphic and always intense this book pulls you into the realities of war and doesn't let go.
Burkins does not only addresses the issues of anger, frustration and abandonment that many veterans feel but offers practical and sound advice that applies veterans and anyone looking for ways to overcome mental, emotional, and physical wounds.
This book is a must for all modern warriors.
Isaac Kamins
Martial Arts Instructor. San Francisco, Ca.
2047075
I am a student of spiritual warfare and the paranormal. I registered and attended one of Dr. Appleby's two-day spiritual warfare workshop & deliverance event. I was immediately taken by his warm and relaxed demeanor, his faith and his professional approach to the subject. As I  heard him speak, my spirit responded to his words and a deep desire to speak to him further. I thought that I simply wanted to talk to him about the subject matter but God had a different reason. As I spoke to him, he opened my eyes, heart and spirit to the fact that I needed spiritual deliverance. I consented to this and at that two-day event. Dr. Appleby led me through a spiritual deliverance session that has opened me to the freedom to live a more meaningful existence for God and His work. I feel sanctified and empowered by the name of Jesus to go further on this path. I made a decision to purchase his book, "It's Only A Demon."

The book itself is a masterful work of devotion to God's ministry, love for humanity and a deep love for the field of Christian counseling (& deliverance). I can testify to the validity of the detailed points and issues raised by the author. The subject matter of spiritual warfare and deliverance (exorcism) has come out of the closet these days. However, while many out there like to fan the flames of paranoia, fire and brimstone, and paint the issues with a Hollywood-esque stroke, David Appleby looks at the person who is suffering. He also brings in the love that the Lord has for all of us. Dr. appleby focuses on the need to be free from pain and evil of demonization. That comes across in a vivid, engaging and respectful manner in his book. One can feel the love that he has for the God-given work of spiritual deliverance.

The book consists of a detailed overview of the scriptural basis of the clash of God and satan (nature of Godly goodness and demonic evil), the manifestation of spiritual warfare, and the spiritual deliverance process. In regards to the deliverance process, Dr. Appleby is clear that this is not set in stone and based on the Lord's leading and years of professional experience in the field. The sections are preceded by personal stories of former sufferers of demonization (demonic influence over one's life). These spiritual victors were freed through the God-blessed spiritual deliverance ministry work of Dr. Appleby. I would also add myself to that growing group. These stories are heartfelt, jarring, moving and will speak to the reader. I deeply enjoyed this work of love and victory over the demonic forces that destroy so many lives.

Finally, his title is a reflection of how Christians should see demons. They are a nuisance, a hinderance, and a pestilence that seek to destroy the faithwalk, testimony, ministry and lives of believers.  This book and teaching will help you battle and eliminate these demonic forces from your life.

I highly recommend this written work and hope that David Appleby will write another that focuses on the impact that his work has had on former victims of demonization. For me, it has set me firmly on the path of spiritual deliverance ministry work.
4190714
War Stories.  We all have them, be they from school, the playground, work, or the battle ground.  Yet seldom do we hear of truths unstretched of the magnitude Chaplain Cash presents in this account of the 1st Battalion 5th Marines Regiment's push into Bagdad, as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Seldom if never has this generation heard of God's dramatic intervention in battle apart from the like stories of the Old Testament.
One former war fighting commander told me once upon a time that the chaplain has a vital role concerning the heart, spirit, and pulse of a military organization - and so this book portrays.  Chaplain Cash not only details the sequence of battle for liberation of Iraq in 2003, but also addresses the many lives and testimonial stories of the First Battalion Fifth Marines in battle, as well as anticipation for battle and the concern of families back home.  He also weaves his own personal encounter with God through Jesus Christ, and his growth from dealing with a brain tumor to becoming a U.S. Navy chaplain, entrusted with the sacred stewardship of these Marines.
LT Cash does not enter into the political or national scenes, rather stays true to his beliefs, his task at hand, and accurately accounting how God in His providence at this point in time heard the prayers of those concerned from the field, from the villages, to across the world and intervened in a specific cause of righteousness on earth, concerning both the Iraqi people as well as the fighting forces.
A marvelous portrayal and inspiration of how God continues to be involved toward His own agenda, drawing all people to Himself through His indescribable love, and how through Him, we have a table set in the presence of even our enemies - and through the  fog of battle.
Don Carmichael, author, Warriors of Peace, Devotions for the Daily Battles of Life
3076380
Resiliency is the Army's new watchword. No matter how resilient a Soldier is, every deployment has trying times, for the men of the 4th Battalion 31st Infantry, Operation Iraqi Freedom was extremely trying. In these pages, the unit's Chaplain, Jeffery Bryan, has provided his personal perspective on both what it means to minister to men in combat, and what it takes for each to 'soldier on' in spite of loss and tribulation. As a member of the unit at that time, I too bear the emotional scars of the losses we faced. This book has been a great touchstone in my healing and I have faith that Jeff's words will be a help both to other Soldiers who face the ghosts of their deployments and to anyone seeking an honest perspective of the trials of combat.
3972213
WOW, what a beautiful testimony!!!  The author (Christine Sheetz) has given great insight on applying the word of God and standing on her faith in God and His miracle working power for her healing.  Purchase a book and one for a love one or close friend, who's been knocked down and wants to get back up to receive their healing and deliverance.  There is healing in her testimony, don't miss it.
2136576
"Igniting Furious Love" is filled with stories of the amazing things that God does through us when we relinquish our fear to Him and step out in faith. Darren Wilson has compiled the articles by the nine speakers participating in the Furious Love Event which took place in Monroe, Michigan during April of 2011.

The reader is challenged to respond to the:

* Call to being Jesus' disciple
* Call to see and use the power God makes available
* Call to focus on Jesus
* Call to a worldview that includes spiritual warfare

Darren's message is bold.  Each contributor included in this compilation presents a powerful model or concept that goes beyond the teaching and trends established by traditional theological norms, but always with openness, documented with scripture, promoting a relationship with Christ as Savior and Lord, and committing to love and acceptance of the individual.

The candor revealed in the prayers at the end of each chapter are awesome, intimate, and open recognizing the magnitude of God's greatness. As with Darren's earlier book, this openness resonates with me.

"Igniting Furious Love" goes beyond a life of reason to discovering one's destiny by stepping out in faith committed to being centered on God's will. A powerful presentation of spiritual potential.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review purposes. The opinions expressed are my own.
383485
I was fortunate enough to read the first and final versions of Jeremiahs Book. As his journey from novice rower to Olympian, the development from first time writer to published author was repleat with growth, introspection and reflection. Too often we as sports fans deify our heroes and heroines. Jeremiah fills the gaps between our assumptions and the truth about competitive and personal growth and success.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and have recommended it to my coaching peers and athletes. The truth of Jeremiahs journey is powerful stuff, and well worth the time spent reading it. For current athletes with a dream, it is a sobering reminder of the sacrifices necessary to complete the journey, for fans, it is a testimony that our heroes are not cardboard cutouts, but bleed and succeed and fail like all of us.
2037561
This is good reading as Ottenad paints the picture of the war between the spirit and the flesh and his fight to draw closer to his God.

Ottenad does an exquisite job of weaving feelings of anguish and entrapment affected his job loss; thus,  the journey on the Camino. Soulfully, through Ottenads eyes, his readers discovery bits of oneself and ones need to continue our search for the Lord in lifes dramatic situation.
Through Ottenads emotions, we learn the need to become alert to our own spikes in the rhythm of life for buried within are untapped longings and passions that need to rise to the surface.  Finally, the reader sees Ron fight for  vital relationships  as he fights for his souls release and relief.  All in all he teaches us to appreciate a healthy community for this is - The Way. Thank you Ron.
2469552
At a time in my life when I thought there could be no hope, no God, and little goodness - when I had seen such cruelty through my profession that I despaired at the horrific reality of man's evil soul - Frankl's book was a beacon of generosity of spirit and unwavering belief that there is meaning in all experiences.  Frankl's highly personal account of war crimes and his practical logotherapy that resulted deserves careful reading - he earned that respect with blood - and for military or law enforcement professionals who are burdened with the worst of humanity, Frankl offers mature understanding and legitimate hope for us all.  David R. Bannon, Ph. D.; author "Race Against Evil."
2800383
This book open even more the understanding about the spiritual battles that me as Christians encounter every day.
The testimonies and spiritual events lived by Pastor Roger Arroyo and his wife during his ministry, bring a new beginning into my live as believer.  Every chapter brings full vision and spiritual advises to all who are committed to serve the Lord in Jesus name.

I'm pleased to recommend this book, to all new  Jesus Christ followers.  And to those  who haven't removed their hands from the plow. As well for those who are thinking to hang the sword.

This book along with the Holy Spirit and the Bible on our side, will boost the soul of many. Not discarding that our wrestling is against authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness. Ephesians 6:12
4761166
Morning Sun's early life is hard to imagine for most of us.  In life's journey we all come up against trials and are wounded, but to endure such abuse at an early age is devastating.  However, as hard as it is to read about her brutal young life, it is more to realize the victory and restoration Christ has given her.  This testimony is powerful.  What is wonderful is that Morning Sun shares what the Lord has given her for healing and living life beyond woundedness to abundance.  This is a read no one should miss!
2309519
The spiritual assets of honesty, gratitude, acceptance, hope, faith, forgiveness, and love come alive with Maurer's own raw addiction admission and the diverse testimonies of others, not just survivors but champion warriors in the midst of traumatic life experience.  Fast paced and inspiring, the book is a salute to human strength, resilience and the power to change.
2174135
Sometimes, deep in the quiet of prayer, I am overcome. I am overcome for people. The warfare is deep and embedded in the human experience. God uses this struggle to direct our lives. I thought the author of Xealots really touched on this with great accuracy. It is funny that he described us as Holy Spirit X-Men, but also completely on par. Through the Spirit, we are supernaturally enabled to accomplish things in warfare that cannot be accomplished by the flesh. It is great and beautiful to align your life with the Spirit as far as you can do so aligned with God's word.

The first three quarters of the book were amazing. I was encouraged and edified in them. The last quarter section was a bit iffy. When the guy started quoting Jayzee, I raised an eyebrow, but still understood the point. He spoke of certain revivals that I'm not sure about and used some cheesy language at the end. I still could pick up on his desire to convey divine impressions in our lives. It was a good read. It encouraged me to stay the course and realize that the things that we endure are to draw us to Christ for the glory of God. I was reminded of how often God has chosen small groups to impact the world for the Kingdom. He has more often drawn people from the margins. I was encouraged that our failure is part of our humanity. It makes confession part of our natural rhythm in Christ. It makes us lean heavy on the the mercy of Christ. I have been reminded of the beautiful work of forgiveness. I have heard the call to keep affirming and communicating the message of grace. I loved this:

"When we forgive, we release the offender, we accept the betrayal, and we sacrifice ourselves--our sense of entitlement--for the sake of another...
We will be freed to live like the Father, giving unconditionally."