Does God feel your pain? - H. Wayne House & William Grover

Christian Art Publishers

Wayne House (professor of biblical studies) and William Grover (teacher of language arts to handicapped students) skillfully interweave compassion, honesty, and scriptural counsel as they explore the issue of whether God shares in our human pain. They explore issues and provide readers with comfort and hope as they look at questions such as:

• Why does God allow evil in the world?
• Why does God permit pain in our lives?
• How can God be in control when Satan is at work?
• Why aren't prayers being answered?
• Is it possible to know joy even in the midst of pain?

Read this book to learn more about the greatness of God's love and mercy towards his children.

Live in God's Anointing - TD Jakes

Struik Christian Media

From the gift catalog of Struik Christian Media comes another glossy classic by TD Jakes, featuring excerpts from Anointing Fall On Me. TD Jakes gives you the keys to unlock the secret code to your ultimate destiny. Through the Holy Spirit you are capable of achieving more than you ever imagined. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things... (John 14:26). Bishop Jakes shares practical truths about God's glory and goodness that will carry you to new and exciting heights of splendor, hope, and love that only the Master could design especially for you. Take the first step into the rest of your life allow the anointing and power of the Holy Spirit to fall on you today!

Take Hold Of Your Dream - Jentezen Franklin

Struik Christian Media

Living your dreams isn't easy. It takes persistence and tenacity, along with belief and faith in yourself, in God, and in the message He has given you. Jentezen Franklin uses examples from biblical characters who knew the power of grabbing hold of the dreams and visions God gave them and not letting go until they came to pass. You will discover not only the unique dream God has already given you, but will also learn how to grab hold of the tools for turning your dream into reality. With full-color interior design and inspirational images.

COME OF AGE - The road to spiritual maturity by Angus Buchan

Angus Buchan always knew that life is but a vapour, like grass of the field, here today but gone tomorrow. But at the 2009 Mighty Men Conference on his shalom he came to the full realisation of brevity of life. What happened at that conference made him realize that we are not here forever, and that while we are here we need to make a difference. The one moment Angus was standing on the platform, preaching his heart out to the biggest crowd of men that's ever gathered for a conference in South Africa. The next moment he was laying in the grass, helpless, possibly due to a heart attack. Today he firmly believes that in the fifteen minutes it took to fly from the farm to the hospital, the Lord Jesus Christ healed him miraculously because of the effective, fervent prayers of righteous people all over the world. That weekend not only brought him to his knees, but also to maturity. He has come of age.

Come of age is the story of Angus Buchan's inspiring life and ministry, continuing from where Faith Like Potatoes left off. With his testimony he makes you rethink your own life. He inspires in you an unwavering faith in the power of God.

Life Overflowing - T.D. Jakes

Bethany House / Christian Art Publishers

Explore the Great Themes in the Book of Ephesians With Bishop Jakes Study the apostle Paul's epistle to the Ephesians chapter by chapter as Bishop Jakes teaches you what it means to have a life overflowing with God's power. Beginning with the incredible love God has for His children and the plans He has for you beyond your wildest dreams, T.D. Jakes goes on to explore true intimacy with God, the marriage relationship, and spiritual warfare. He includes all of the key teachings from Ephesians in this comprehensive book. Has God's Extravagant Love for You Changed Your Life?

Now's the time to fully grasp what it means to be loved by God, to open your eyes to the exciting and life-changing truths found in the epistle to the Ephesians. Your walk with God will never the same. T.D. Jakes powerfully teaches from the book of Ephesians, leading you into precious intimacy with your heavenly Father. You'll discover the "unsearchable riches" of what it means to live in total consecration to God. Here in one volume you have all the key teachings from Bishop Jakes' SIX PILLARS FROM EPHESIANS series:

1. Loved by God
2. Experiencing Jesus
3. Intimacy with God
4. Life Overflowing
5. Celebrating Marriage
6. Overcoming the Enemy.

When you rely on the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit each day, you will experience a life that's "exceedingly abundantly" above all you could ask or think. And once you've tasted this overflowing life, you'll never want to turn back.

Living Without God - Ronald Aronson

Review by John Andrew
Counterpoint / Horizon Books

Deviating from the somewhat conventional approach of atheist literature, wherein the author typically launches an overt diatribe against religion (usually Christianity), Aronson aims to afford the contemporary atheist (or secularist) a means to counter what he views as the problematic rise in spirituality in modern times and the absence of vision in modern atheism, as well as advice on how to lead a fulfilled life without God. Aronson's writing is eloquent and draws inspiration from the works of notable secular philosophers. However, despite the author's introductory assertions that he aims not to provide another "construct" or religion for people to subscribe to, from the Christian perspective it is difficult to view the book as little more than that.

Awakening The Kind Heart by Kathleen McDonald

Review by John Andrew
Wisdom Publications/Horizon Books

Awakening the Kind Heart's basic premise is to aid the reader in developing their "loving-kindness" towards their fellow man, by virtue of meditation on positive thoughts and words, and through adherence to principles which aim to negate hostile emotions. However, critical reading evinces that several of these 'revolutionary truths' are little more than convoluted rehashes of the laws which Jesus so succinctly paraphrased in His command; that we are to love others as we do ourselves. A myriad of Christian principles which antedate the ones expounded on in this book, such as the importance of guarding one's thoughts and words, and the power of the tongue, are similarly recycled (albeit peppered with Buddhist ideology). Save yourself time and money, and read 1 Corinthians 13 instead.

The Adolescent Storm - Meg Fargher and Helen Dooley

Review by Sharon Malan

One thing to know for sure is that this is a handbook in the true sense of the word. I initially felt as if I was reading an academic paper. However, as I progressed, I was met with some interesting case studies of real life issues that high school students face on a daily basis. This book not only provides insight to the world of the life of a teenager but creates an opportunity of understanding and guiding your adolescent through these years. I would like to suggest that all parents of adolescents read this book when considering the pressure that both parties find themselves under. I believe that the authors, HELEN DOOLEY (psychotherapist) and MEG FARGHER (ex-headmistress) have captured their experience in understanding adolescents in a unique way, which is ultimately to the advantage of parents of adolescents. Let's face it; school is not what it was like when we were once there.

Coach your child for life - Tanya van Zyl

Review by Sharon Malan
Christian Art

This book is just what the title says. The author gives us practical guide that is packed with ideas to not only help your children but also to build and maintain a strong relationship with children. I personally found this guide to be a logical and practical way of thinking that I know, yet I have failed to implement. Tanya has made the implementation of various scriptural principals in child rearing doable for me. There is also a CD included on which Tanya explains some key aspects. The CD contains some coaching conversations that you can listen to with your children. I now have the tools to raise children with an "I can" attitude who can look past a problem and move forward with goals. And, fear not! Tanya is right by your side helping you coach your child in setting these goals.

Her Mother's Hope - Francine Rivers

Review by Patricia Kruger
Christian Art

Her Mother's Hope is the long awaited novel by the best selling author Francine Rivers. This is a first part of a two part epic that spans across generations and continents which explores the bond and love, the unconscious feelings affecting behaviour, forcing growth and change between mother and daughter. Marriage and motherhood brings joy and heartbreak. Martha must give up her life long ambition, she submits to her husband and children, her long kept secret causes her daughter Hildarama to doubt her love. Hildarama wants to gain acceptance by trying to please her mother, she falls in love has children of her own. Her tough love towards her daughter Carolyn is misunderstood. Do not miss the second part "Her Daughter's Dream".

Hearing God’s Voice (Henry and Richard Blackaby)

Review by Natasha Videler
Broadman & Holman Publishers

Does God give specific guidance to individuals today? Does He speak beyond what He has already said in Scripture? The authors record Old and New Testament examples and masterly guide us on a revelatory journey of discovery. Topics include the Holy Spirit, the Bible, prayer, circumstances, discerning lies and false prophets. Each chapter concludes with a summary as well as questions for further reflection (if you really desire to practically apply and benefit from this book). Rich in content, many scriptures, very practical and filled with many picturesque examples that facilitate hungry reading.

What Darwin Got Wrong (Jerry Fodor & Massimo Piatelli-Palmarini)

Book Promotions / Horizon Books
Review by Waldo Malan

What do a professor of philosophy and cognitive science, and a bio-physicist/molecular biologist have in common? Well, for one thing, the fact that Darwin’s evolutionary theories have some major flaws. I found the fact that this study was conducted from a philosophical-scientific, as opposed to a Christian, point of view very interesting, especially since both authors are committed atheists! It seems to me a little like the ‘rocks crying out’ in a society where major role-players have for too long been silent.

The book is not about evolution vs. creationism, but in the conclusions that are reached critical flaws of evolution are apparent. Starting with an examination of the Theory of Natural Selection, the authors progress in detail through biological arguments that have arisen in light of contemporary research, through to a more philosophical conceptualization of nature. It is impossible to read this book in one sitting – there is simply too much detail. Personally I had to refer to dictionaries quite often, and I Googled quite a bit to stay with the writers! My obvious ignorance aside, this book is well worth the read, especially for those who are interested in refuting the evolutionary theories that have become mainstream science, despite the lack of apparent evidence required to verify these same theories. This work may well end up on recommended reading lists of leading universities and colleges.

LITTLE OXFORD ENGLISH DICTIONARY & THESAURUS

Review by Patsy Kruger
Oxford University Press South Africa (www.oxford.co.za)

This combined dictionary and thesaurus is small, compact and has a hardback for durability.
I was able to find the words fast and access information easily with the thesaurus entries side by side. The Little Oxford English Dictionary with a Thesaurus is a convenient book that will help with studies or to solve everyday language problems and puzzles. It has extra encyclopaedic material 40,000 words, phrases, and definitions with 65,000 synonyms. What I found to be a bonus is the informative 20 pages fact finder in the central section of the dictionary.

New Optimum Nutrition For The Mind (Patrick Holford)

(Piatkus) Jonathan Ball Publishers

Product Description

Patrick Holford's first major book, The Optimum Nutrition Bible, dealt with the effect of good nutrition for the body. Optimum Nutrition for the Mind concentrates on what good nutrition will do for the mind and offers the breakthrough we are looking for. We are all stressed and often feel tense or low. There is a massive escalation in the incidence of depression, anxiety, attention deficit, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia and other conditions. Optimum Nutrition for the Mind is the first definitive, readable and practical guide to solving mental health problems through nutrition - what you eat affects your mind. Step by step, and backed by the latest research and persuasive case histories, top nutrition expert Patrick Holford shows you how to use diet, supplements and specially devised eating plans to: - Increase your IQ and improve your concentration - Boost your memory and sharpen your mind, whatever your age - Improve your mood, banish mood swings and beat depression - Solve stress and anxiety and get a great night's sleep.

Reviews

An excellent book showing how food affects our mood. It also explains how feelings of depression can be lifted by changing your diet and how much food affects our behaviour without our realising it. The text is also helpful to people who want to look at this subject with more depth than some of the glib books that are available in bookshops. (Charles Anderson)

This was a very good read. I got the information I was looking for. I'll recommend it as a definite read. (Joy Miller)

Very interesting but not easy to follow. If you dip in and out it can be confusing. Bought this book to help lift depression and the advice is good…if you can stick to it. (Anita McSkimming)

My Simple Faith (Sean Bastable)

Review by Waldo Malan
Reach Publishers

The book is subtitled “and why some tortoises drive Ferraris,” which I must admit piqued my curiosity. So I carefully opened the book early one morning in the office and then had to battle the rest of the day to get back to work! Yes, this is one of those “un-put-downable” books that come around once in a blue moon. I have decided to add this one to my selected list of re-reads and gifts. Why? Sean Bastable captures the essence of God through the telling of real, everyday experiences. His unique way of telling his story made me rethink, re-evaluate and re-discuss many things I’ve come to take for granted. God on His knees before me? Just that picture got me bawling (not quite the ‘manly’ thing to do, but by this stage in the day I couldn’t care less). Also, while at times I felt voyeuristic in experiencing life (again) through the eyes of another, Sean has the rare gift of drawing the reader into his world, making them experience every feeling, nuance, atmosphere, reasoning and conclusion. I for one also need speed down the road in a purring, growling Ferrari with Luigi in the seta next to me. Oh yes, I did finish reading the book in one sitting, and yes, you must get your own copy. Miss this one at your own loss. And just by the way, if you don’t know it already, God loves you.

To purchase your copy of My Simple Faith… and why some tortoises drive Ferraris for R119, including postage in South Africa, visit www.mysimplefaithbook.com, or email your details directly to contact @mysimplefaithbook.com When you place an order online 10% of the selling price will be donated to one of five charities listed on the website. In March, the first donation of R1,000 was made to Stella Pre-primary, a school for under-privileged children from the informal settlements in the Cato Manor area (Durban). My Simple Faith is also available at Adams bookshop (031 201 5123)

Everyone Communicates, Few Connect (John C Maxwell)

Review by William Nicholas
Struik Christian Media

This book, like all the preceding Maxwell offerings is full of incredible wisdom, and the account of years of experience. What would make this book even better is if the successful application of all it contains came banded as a simple capsule to be taken after reading the book. Maxwell does (as he always does) make things a little easier by focussing on a single aspect – this time it is effective communication and how to really connect with people. His books are always an easy read, despite the knowledge overload and information transfer. It is a book to be enjoyed by Maxwell followers and non-followers alike. One simply cannot but be amazed at his prolific output; Everyone Communicates, Few Connect is a worthy addition to any library.

Unmerited Favour (Joseph Prince)

Review by Alta Smith
Christian Art Publishers

This book is not written to make you feel good about life or yourself. Joseph Prince comes and shares God’s word and promises with you in a way that will let you ask yourself the question “God’s grace and favour is so amazing, why do I still want to keep going back to condemnation?
He let’s you discover in God’s word that you have already access to His grace (favour) and that Jesus has accomplished everything on the cross for us. He shows you that grace was there from the beginning until Moses went up on the mountain to receive the Ten Commandments and then condemnation starts - until Jesus died on the cross for us. Then God’ grace (favour) was given to us free because of His love for us.

This book was a live changing experience for me. I have never read a book that explains God’s grace (favour) so clear. Joseph Prince keeps taking you back to God’s word. This book is a blessing from the first page to the last. It will bless you, your business and you relationships. It will make you see that God has a plan and a purpose for your life and that His grace (favour) is free. Joseph Prince is also the author of Destined To Reign and is the senior pastor of New Creation Church in Singapore with over 16,000 members. He is always reminding us that we are greatly blessed, highly favoured and deeply loved by God.

Angelology (Danielle Trussoni)

Review by Dawid van Lille
Penguin Group SA

Geeta Sharma Jensen of the Journal Sentinel writes that Danielle Trussoni's “gorgeous writing, fantastical imagination and familiarity with biblical and mythological texts are on splendid display in "Angelology," her first novel.” This novel is really an adventure story filled with battles between good and evil, a treasure hunt and some very relevant social commentary about class differences. That having been said, I found the story incredibly filled with details that detracted for me somewhat from the ‘real action’. So if you are looking for a fast-paced thriller, this is not the one for you. A thriller (albeit fantastical) it is, but somehow with it’s strong mythological overtones borders on science fiction. But, Danielle Trussoni has a gift for evoking amazing atmospheres and describing in tremendous detail the places and spaces that surround her characters. It is well written but may find more fans among those who treasure information over pace.

Abigail (Jill Eileen Smith)

Review by Patsy Kruger
Christian Art Publishers

Abigail one of the most admirable woman in the bible, a rich and evocative second installment to the The Wives of King David trilogy written by Jill Eileen Smith, filled with unexpected dramatic twists, turns and tender moments. The story in biblical times with both depth and drama brings David and Abigail in a believable and convincing vivid life story with such clarity and emotion that you feel as if you are sharing their experiences written with passion and multidimensional characters. With skill honed by years of historical research the author crafts the story in a way that takes us deep into the heart of King David and into the heart of a woman determined to follow God’s will, no matter the cost to her or to the man she loves.

The Jewish Study Bible (Adele Berlin et.al)

Oxford University Press South Africa (www.oxford.co.za)

PUBLISHER'S RELEASE

The Jewish Study Bible is a one-volume resource tailored especially for the needs of students of the Hebrew Bible. Nearly forty scholars worldwide contributed to the translation and interpretation of the Jewish Study Bible, representing the best of Jewish biblical scholarship available today. A committee of highly respected biblical scholars and rabbis from the Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism movements produced this modern translation. No knowledge of Hebrew is required for one to make use of this unique volume. The JSB uses The Jewish Publication Society TANAKH Translation, whose name is an acronym formed from the Hebrew initials of the three sections into which the Hebrew Bible is traditionally divided (Torah, Instruction; Nevi'im, Prophets; and Kethubim, Writings).

Reviews

"The Jewish Study Bible encompasses a monumental assembly of critical learning and acumen, representing the achievement of an entire generation of Jewish scholars. The commentaries are not only erudite but purposeful and theologically alert. A heroic undertaking, brilliantly conceived and executed with panache." Jacob Neusner

"Serious students of Judaism will want to have a copy of this outstanding and surprisingly affordable study Bible, which stands in the tradition of Oxford's great study Bibles." Publishers Weekly, Religion Bookline

"Another superb holiday gift, especially appropriate for non-Orthodox Jews, is The Jewish Study Bible from Oxford University Press, which finally stands alongside the many verse-by-verse commentaries for Christians. This work also is recommended for serious-minded Christian readers." Associated Press