The Spirit of the Disciplines, Dallas Willard. San Francisco, CA: Harper & Row, 1988. Summary: Dallas Willard's classic work explaining why and how spiritual disciplines are vital for transformation into the character of Christ as his disciples. … [Read more...] about Book Review: The Spirit of the Disciplines
spirituality
Book Review: Spiritual Direction
Spiritual Direction: A Guide to Giving & Receiving Direction By Gordon T. Smith My rating: 4 of 5 stars Many longing for a deeper awareness of the presence of God in their lives have rediscovered the special relationship known as spiritual direction. One of the needs that have existed is for a readable and concise treatment of the nature of this relationship. Gordon T. Smith has given us that account in this 96 page book packed with both a theological basis for and practical explanation of this form of … [Read more...] about Book Review: Spiritual Direction
Book Review: Big Questions, Worthy Dreams
Big Questions, Worthy Dreams: Mentoring Emerging Adults in Their Search for Meaning, Purpose, and Faith Sharon D. Parks My rating: 3 of 5 stars This is one of the books that higher ed professionals have mentioned to me over and over again with regard to the interest in “spirituality” among college students. So, when a friend offered to lend me a copy, I accepted. For me, there were two significant areas of “takeaway” from this book. The first was Parks exploration of the developmental stage of “emerging … [Read more...] about Book Review: Big Questions, Worthy Dreams
Devotions: Beatitudes (8) —Persecution
You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom. Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don't like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses … [Read more...] about Devotions: Beatitudes (8) —Persecution
Devotions: Beatitudes (7) —God’s Peace Corps
You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family. -- Matthew 5:9, The Message Perhaps no other saying from Jesus needs attention as this one in our very dangerous and destructive world. World and area events point to the need for "peacemaking." What is a peacemaker? Can the ordinary believer be a peacemaker? The answer, says Jesus, is a resounding YES! The church group to which I belong actually has … [Read more...] about Devotions: Beatitudes (7) —God’s Peace Corps