Humble and Inspirational
585055
I truly enjoyed this book from beginning to end.  What an inspirational person from a great family.  I look forward to reading the continuation of this great story.
1426164
An account by two tremendously courageous people who held strong in their religious convictions against extremely difficult circumstances. This is an inspiration in that not only do the Burnham's follow God's teaching of love thine enemies, they practiced it. Facing uncertainty everyday during their ordeal, including possibility of death, they held fast.  I recommend this book to everyone and thank Gracia Burnham for reliving her tale. In a small way, it will make me a better person and offer me inspiration to accept life's hardships.
930688
Having seen Billy Graham as a young man, I now find him as a very old man.  His courage is still evident, He looks at life and faith again, this time through the eyes of man who has lost his beloved wife, and who is aware of his physical decline. He gives words of comfort and inspiration through this book to others who may be feeling their age and health. I admired him for what he wrote, and took courage from it.
2281384
Just recently received this book and I am happy I ordered it.  Kerry's journey is inspiring and it challenges me to be a better Christian and human being.  Perfect for Lenten reading and inspiration for what to DO, not what to GIVE UP.  And there is so much we can do out there in the world.  Even the smallest act of kindness can make the difference in another person's life.  Love this book!
4841093
I had the great pleasure of spending a few hours with Josiah Viera and his lovely mother, Jennifer, a few years ago.  Josiah is a powerhouse in a frail, little body. He has more energy and exudes more positive vibes than almost anyone else I've ever been around.  Makes one wonder what could possibly be so wrong in life if this young man - who could be wallowing in self pity but has chosen not to play victim - can show us all just how wonderful and precious life can be.  I've been looking forward to reading this book for months and was not disappointed.  Recommend to all and especially to those who need a dose of inspiration.
2095516
I would like to thank Dorrance Publishing Company for giving me a complementary copy of this book to review.

The subtitle "Touching Stories of Faith and Encouragement", certainly describes this book.  This book consists of ten stories of life experiences of Mrs. Max. The first one is when she was in sixth grade and the last was on her 50th wedding anniversary. I enjoyed each and everyone.  Mrs. Max was a teacher for 30 years and has a heart for people.  She is the type of teacher each of us wants our children to have. Her stories were inspirational.

This is a short book that can easily be read in one sitting.  I enjoyed reading it.
4965589
This is a small book (less than 200 pages) but it is packed full of inspiration.  It is about the life and teachings of Swami Abhutananda, also known as Latu Maharaj, who was a direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna.  Latu was a servant of one of Ramakrishna's disciple who was singled out by Ramakrishna for his spiritual potential.  He eventually became an attendant to Ramakrishna in his teen years and a life long disciple.  He was known for his one-pointed dedication to Ramakrishna and his instruction to him.  He was a simple and a very dedicated disciple.

What I liked about this book is the simplicity of it.  Latu didn't achieve great things in the world like his brother disciple Swami Vivekananda.  His life was a much quieter one, a much more internal one.  His greatness lies in his interior life and his utter dedication to God-realization.  He didn't let anything stand in his way in this regard.  He was very bold and his devotion was powerful, yet he was humble and gentle.  Reading his life gives motivation for the spiritual life.  His straightforward teachings cut through the resistance of the mind and goes directly to the heart.

If you are interested in the lives of saints, spirituality or the Ramakrishna tradition, this book is worth reading and Swami Abhutananda's life and teaching is worth contemplating.  His life and story is a rare find!
4543241
This book by the very humble St. Faustina is very inspiring as you listen to the words which Jesus spoke to her. You feel like you are learning more about the mind and heart of Jesus.
2473768
I have just finished reading this book and it truly humbled me. Here I was thinking of myself quite highly and doing the "right" things. When measured on some simple outlines with great real life examples I had to admit that I was truly lacking and in desperate need for a refocusing of my commitment to God and His plan for me, my character and the influence I have on the people around me.
I highly recommend this book!
3082348
Through this book Mr Schlimm shares the many lessons we all need to learn and be reminded of, from Sister Augustine, a woman of rare beauty of spirit, soul and understanding of life. Sisters words of constant learning, faith and thankfulness are all inspiring. Her message of remembering it is in "God's time," needs to be remembered and lived daily.
1106916
Not only did this wonderful woman share her heart, her youthful strength, energy, and faith with communities in Ethiopia and Ghana as a missionary with her husband and children; she shares her memories of those years in this wonderful little book.  And in doing so, she touches our hearts as well, and reminds us that God is ever ready to answer our needs in ways we could never foresee. Sweet, humble, inspiring, poignant, funny, and deeply moving. I want to hug her and all of the wonderful people she wrote about.
1461655
"Will you consign yourself to a little life or will you be great for God?" That question continuously haunts readers as they pour through the pages of David Shibley's new book Great for God: Missionaries Who Changed the World. It places readers firmly at the crossroads of having to determine whether the life they are living is enough or whether there is a deeper, higher purpose to which God is calling them.

Great for God is more than a collection of stories about twenty-three heroes in the faith. This book inspires, even compels, readers to consider their own life in light of what they're reading. Shibley said the most difficult part of writing the book was to determine who to include, but he did a good job balancing his selection of familiar stories with some that are lesser known. If anything, readers may have wished for stories about more unknown missionaries.

One of the threads woven throughout is the absolute resolution each person had regarding God's call on their life. Although human like us, there seemed to be an extra measure of Spirit determination which gave them the strength, courage, perseverance, long-suffering, focus, steadfastness - or whatever they needed - to face the odds and march right over them. How inspiring to even consider that possibility - that we might also embrace that kind of life-consuming purpose. And that's one of the things that makes this work something readers can connect with - although these are spiritual giants in every sense of the word, Shibley does not hide their flesh with its weaknesses, struggles, and streaks of stubbornness.

An easy and enjoyable read (each account can be read in ten minutes), Shibley frames the accounts with just enough background for readers to get a sense of the motivation, but not so much as to bog down the story. He focuses on the actions, mindset, and any quotations that might have revealed attitudes. One of the commonalities readers may begin to notice is how many of these faith heroes were raised by believing parents. Although not a pre-requisite for missionary work, it certainly seems God used this relationship to plant His seeds early in life.

In many ways, this book is like reading a modern-day Bible where we get to see brief snippets into what God has done in the lives of His people over the last few centuries. As readers ponder these stories, yes, they will be encouraged by the commitment of these people, but I'm guessing they will be moved in greater ways as they witness how God laid the groundwork, opened the doors, and aligned the situation so that at just the right time...the call came and was received. I'm guessing that will encourage many readers to ponder how long God has been up to something in their lives, and to stop and take notice of that.

And if Shibley accomplishes nothing else with his book, it will have been enough.

(I was given the Kindle version of Great for God: Missionaries Who Changed the World to read in exchange for my opinion and review.)
32138
This was a great read on inspiration and motivation.  The author uses examples from his life to show us how ordinary people impacted him.  These were people he grew up with, people from his college days, from his work, his business, and just from pretty much anywhere.  He shares stories about moments when he thought he knew everything just to realize that he still has a lot to learn.

The author lays it out with utmost honesty, his failures, misunderstandings, and his cockiness at times.  Then, tells us how the people he met taught him to come back from failure, how to undo misunderstandings, and how to be humble.  He doesnt tell anyone how to do anything.  What he does is remind us that we are human and we will often make mistakes but that we should not be too hard on ourselves and keep trying.  His examples teach us that we should ask questions and talk to the people around us because they too have gone through many things in life and can help us in our troubles.

I found the author to be intriguing.  Hes a strong-willed person and never gives up.  He persevered and had this need to keep learning and keep finding answers.  I believe that was the hidden message behind this book.  He doesnt tell us who to be, but rather, he shows us by showing how he overcame many things.

This is a book that everyone should read.  Its short and written simply so that its easily understandable. It can also be used as a reference for those moments when life just isn't going the way you had hoped.
4526781
This is a wonderful source of both encouragement and challenge.  It will remind you of how fortunate you are, regardless of your life's circumstances.  But it challenges you to move forward with greater determination to face all of your tomorrows with greater enthusiasm and forgiveness.
3039934
I enjoyed reading Mondays with My Old Pastor by Jos Luis Navajo.  I found the book to be inspiring.  The book reveals intimate moments between the writer and his aging/dying pastor during his weekly visits.  The baton is being passed from one "man of God" to another.  I believe we need to place a more deliberate focus on the wisdom of our elders.  This book beautifully portrays that concept and the great commission found in Matthew 28 ... to go and make disciples of all nations.

The reader will enjoy the many stories told by the old pastor.  These stories feel much like the parables found in the New Testament that Jesus told.  One specific lessons deals with writing the names of those who have offended you down so you can pray specifically for "your enemies".  This type of forgiveness can change the world.

I work in a large Methodist church.  I found that many of the stories told and lessons learned apply to all who desire to serve God.  This book is not just useful to inspire local pastors who might be discouraged.  It is also a challenge to all of us to be Disciples of God.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
543917
This book shows how men of courage and faith can make an extreme difference in the world.  It is very uplifting and encouraging.  It makes you want to make your faith in Jesus real and alive by stepping out with the gifts that He gave you to help mankind.  A great read.
1701355
Fr. Cajetan Mary da Bergamo (1660-1753 AD) has written a masterpiece of the spiritual life, based on those key words of Jesus,"Learn from me because I am meek and humble of heart." (Mt. 11:29).  I have read many other works on how to attain the virtue of humility, but this one is truly a classic version which has been a constant bedside companion for over 20 years.  Since this virtue of Christian humility is so foundational and yet so elusive, I have found that weekly or even daily recourse to "Humility of Heart" serves as pointed salutary reminder of the evil of pride as well as a heartfelt encouragement to follow the Lord Jesus on his way of humility and suffering.
  Fr. Cajetan writes, "It is only by the measure of thy humility that thou canst hope to please God and save thyself, because it is certain that God 'will save the humble of spirit.' (Ps. 33:19-- page 60).  Indeed, frequent recouse to this humble book will lead the reader to daily pray, "Jesus, meek and humble of hear, make my heart like unto thine."