Not only wonderful spiritual reading but a great book for group discussion
589085
Not only wonderful spiritual reading but a great book for group discussion.  Once again Henry Nouwen shares himself and lift the reader to do the same.
2522826
There is so much in this book thats for everyone, and not just for the stringent believer in the faith of the author.  Within these pages are ways of looking at the world that everyone, from Pagan to Agnostic can learn about getting in touch with their spirituality.  While the authors presentation is obviously incredibly Christian in nature, the ways of approaching spirituality are valuable lessons for those seeking enlightenment and a closer relationship with Divinity.  No matter what your faith, this book is decidedly worth the read.
458137
Jeff wrote a wonderful spiritual book about faith and spirituality.  I have read and used this book with a small group from my congregation.  The questions at the end of each chapter were quite helpful.
4536673
This is a great book of spirituality with a nearly musical presentation.
4633467
"Whether you are surrounded by trusted soul friends, or you are lonely and longing for deep-spirited friends, this book is designed for every woman who wants to grow in faith and friendship."

This was an incredible book to read, ponder, and try to apply to my life.  It's written by an author I have a lot of respect for - Dr. Leslie Parrot, a marriage and family counselor who has written many other books on her own, as well as books with her husband, Dr. Les Parrot.

I expected this to be a fun, light read, but it really was a lot deeper than that.  The book is set up to help us see our "spiritual journey in terms of four major landmarks: Quest, Calling, Crisis, and Communion".  Each of those areas were ones she came to after study, and she gave a lot of background on how she got there.  Some of it was borderline new age, talking about the Celts and their terms for things like "soul friends", but I still thought it was good.

I appreciated that the book was divided based on those four landmarks, but I also appreciated how she talked about how many of our experiences will have parts that are in more than one category.  Each chapter (including the preface, which she called the "invitation") ends with a section called "soul souvenirs", a couple of questions to help you dig deeper into what you just read.  With how much depth is in this book, the theologians quoted, the books that it references (and makes you want to dig out to read for yourself!), and the numerous Scriptures quoted, I think it would make an incredible book to read through with a book club or a small group.  I loved reading it on my own, but I do think I'd get a lot more from it if I was able to work through it with a friend.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for my honest review.  I was in no way required to write anything positive - all thoughts and opinions expressed here are completely my own.
2109623
Inspirational, good group discussion book. Another for a friend
4844073
Ruth H. Judy's book, Where My Soul Lives, does a great favor to those of us interested in contemporary spirituality that embraces the gifts of the Christian religious tradition but is no longer limited to a confining container.  Through her interviews with fifty people who see themselves as living their faith "outside the lines," alongside her own graced personal spiritual reflection, we get a rich exploration of spiritual life that often only spiritual directors/companions are able to witness.  Indeed, this would be a great resource for spiritual directors, pastors, formation educators, therapists, and all those who wish to accompany others in their spiritual journeys and psychologial maturity.  Where My Soul Lives does much to expand the boundary beyond the too simple "spiritual versus religious" paradigm and brings to my mind the developmental approaches to faith and spiritual life that does not reject what serves and supports through the church but is no longer restricted by earlier narrow institutional or dogmatic understandings.  Ruth Judy tells the stories of those who want their souls to stretch out into God's infinitely wide love and grace.
3952146
This book is a is not your typical "Religious" or "Christian" book that touts the perspective of the writer and what Jesus Is, Was or Will Be. It simply communicates in the "purest form" a set of messages that are so heart touching that it bypasses the mind in their comprehension.

The writers are just that, writers or messengers tuned into the Messiah and whom all of us can communicate or have dialogue with if we listen first with our heart and then process with our conscious mind. They boldly ask the questions and write the answers in this beautiful book. They took the time to tune out the world and tune into Jesus in a way that many of us just never took the time to do or if we did, did not dare to ask in private prayer or meditation these question of Jesus.

I read this more than once to comprehend all it had to offer, thought provoking and heart awakening. Thank you Jesus for choosing these 2 wonderful people to be committed to writing this book. Read it with your heart not your mind and it is transformational.
4781902
I found myself quickly immersed in the story of a beautifully written and deeply spiritual book. The development and depth of the complexity of each character and their relationship with each other is very engaging, honest, and easy to identify with. This story is a testament to the mighty work of God in every person's life, no matter how rejected and crushed one might be. Nicely placed and impactful Scriptures are peppered throughout the book. The author takes these Scriptures and reveals insightful spiritual truths and reinforces the principles of one's faith that must be relied on to resist and overcome the dark forces of this world. Ms Pryor reminds us of how important virtue is in having a life that is overflowing with love, forgiveness and hope. This Novel wonderfully communicates how suffering and the testing of our faith gives God his greatest opportunity to pour his grace into our lives and restore us, and serves as a message of hope and encouragement. This book will help many, especially young women, who are navigating the treacherous waters of life, by showing them a clear path to restoration and victory.  This book has great spiritual merit and is an excellent read!
3218127
I really enjoyed this book, and have been recommending it to others.  It is more than just a good read.  The author skillfully weaves Scripture in with her life story and provides questions and the 'whitespace' necessary for the reader to delve deeper into God's rest through contemplative meditation, prayer and journaling, so it is not the 'typical' Bible study guide.  I was an avid reader of the author's weblog prior to purchasing the book.  She is gifted in helping readers to see spiritual truths through Scripture, godly Christian counsel, and application.  The book is a good companion to the work represented in her blog.  Joining her blog community makes it even more interactive, fun and eye-opening on a regular basis, so I highly recommend joining faithbarista.com for fresh 'shots' of spirituality and photos (snapshots) as well. I'm looking forward to more encouraging and enlightening writing by this helpful and talented author.
3223096
I am not often moved to write a review of a book. However, The Journey That Never Was so enthralled me that I wanted others to read it, too.

There are a number of good Course related books with much valuable information, but not all are easy to read. DavidPaul and Candace Doyle have done an excellent job of making this an interesting, even compelling, read, as well as providing valuable tools for spiritual growth.

The book is written in in clear concise language. All through the book, the Holy Spirit answers specific questions in His own words as received by Candace and DavidPaul. Intersperced are alternating stories of each of their personal spiritual journeys. It is an easy read and one which never confused or bored me. Most importantly, it rang of truth through out.

I think the most important result of my having read this is that I have experienced a shift in consciouness, and a subtle shift in my experience of the Holy Spirit in my life. I feel enriched having read The Journey That Never Was. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in A Course In Miracles. We often refer to in our ACIM discussion group.
3323113
This  book is a wonderful, very enjoyable introduction to prayer as a very natural conversation with God and heightens awareness of God's presence in every moment of our day.  I have read it with a book group.  Every member gave it a wonderful rating.  I have also given it as a gift to 8 people all of whom thanked me for introducing them to a delightful author and a life enhancing book.
2051879
Great book: A group of 10 of us used Barbara's book as a discussion guide over a period of several weeks. It produced lively discussions, a lot of reflection, much conversation about the relevance of the content, and numerous comments that it was the sort of thinking we wanted to hear. I've recommended the book to numerous friends--as an individual read, as a group study guide, or as a framework for a class on personal beliefs and personal theology.
700043
The books questions provoke thoughtful discussions for a small group.  The inspirational Bible sections provide memorable word pictures that add value and understanding.
3339466
This is an amazing spiritual uplifting and enlighten Book. I would read this book written in allegory, the author's character " Miss much Afraid" the name gave a deeper understanding of how Fear is our enemy when we start our journey following " The Good Shepard ".  This book not only held my interest , I would be so moved with a deeper understanding of how things in our lives Henderson us on our journey, I would stop and allow the spirit to  open up a deeper understanding  of my journey. I loaned my book to many in community,knowing it would be a great blessing. I am now so proud to have this in my kindle library . It will be a great asset to your spiritual walk and your library.
3294230
This book contains transcriptions of talks given by a very unique spiritual teacher trying to help solve the modern problems we face.  These definitely are not your typical "New Age" pep talks, nor are they austerely "spiritual." In fact, Rama defines what might seem to be a new set of spiritual issues that people today identify with much more readily than traditional categories.  For example, instead of classic discussions of desire and aversion, Rama talks about "Storing Power" and "Seeing."  Instead of using the traditional framework of spiritual aspiration, he talks about "How to Make Friends with God."  Certain hot-button issues, both in contemporary social and classic spiritual circles, are taken on directly.  Sexuality is given its own talk, and the big issue for those who practice Zen--how long does it take to become Enlightened?--is tackled in "Instant Enlightenment."  The result is an exhilarating and refreshing take on how to try to become enlightened while living in the high-pressure urban world.  His explanations of subtle spiritual concepts as well as the psychological issues we all confront always have a sense of deep understanding.  He is also very, very funny, which helps immensely in putting yourself in perspective.  Overall, it is having someone who really is a master of Buddhism and made it work in modern life showing you how to do it too.
3319240
Don't read this book unless you are ready to be convicted and own up to your responsibility as a Christian!  I have read this book twice and am  reading it again (along with the Study Guide) with my church's women's Bible Study. It is a provocative book to study alone or with a group.  It lends itself to wonderful group discussions. Jerry Bridge's book, very practically written, is an aid to Christians in our understanding of God's grace on one hand and our obligation to live a life worthy of His calling on the other.