Book Review: Sun Stand Still by Steven Furtick

I just completed Steven Furtick's book "Sun Stand Still," which released last summer. I purchased the Kindle version of the book for a small group study (FTC disclaimer).

This book revolves around the concept of "audacious" prayer, which Furtick (pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina) says is missing among the Christian lifestyle in America today. His primary example is based on the story of the Israelite battle against the Amorites that is recorded in Joshua 10.

During the course of the battle, as the sun was beginning to set, and the enemy was getting away, Joshua prayed to God to hold the sun and moon in their places in the sky. God heard the prayer and did not allow the sun to set until the enemy had been destroyed.

Those types of bold prayers seem to be missing from Christian prayers today. Instead, we ask God for things that don't really tax the abilities of the creator of the universe. Things like generic protection, blessings, and the like.

Furtick does a good job encouraging the reader to be faithful in their prayers, and to pray expecting God to do something. He even addresses those situations when God says "no" to our audacious prayers.

The book has been a good read for the men in my small group, and I think you will enjoy it as well. But, as Furtick notes at the end, don't just read it to soak the information, then do nothing with it. He wants to see the reader change the way they approach God in prayer.

For the most part, I would give this book an above average rating. It cuts to the heart in some areas, and is very challenging. Definately a suggested read.

Book Review: Knockout Entrepreneur by George Foreman

I first learned of this book when Dave Ramsey interviewed George Foreman on his Fox Business television program, so when the chance to read this book came up, I jumped at it. Foreman is best known for two things: boxing and grilling. He has become one of America's best pitchmen and entrepreneurs, and in this book he shares his perspective on latching to innovative ideas.

In this book, George Foreman utilizes his boxing career (both stints as world heavyweight champion) as analogies for the business world. While this book isn't heavy hitting with new insights, George does offer his perspective on how to conduct general operations of a business, and how to look for the great opportunities around us.

If you're looking for leadership insights, so some secret to success that no one else has access to, you won't find those here. Instead, this book reads more like a series of advice columns, and addresses everything from honest and integrity to personal presentation and the team you surround yourself with. And, not to be left out, George relays his great dependency on God for success.

This book is a good read for anyone involved in either starting or running a business. You won't get great secrets, but there are a ton of simple things to do that can lead to success.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Book Review: The Principle of the Path by Andy Stanley

Our destination in life doesn't just occur by accident. That's the gist of this book by Andy Stanley, the pastor of North Point Community Church based in Alpharetta, GA.

Andy draws from a lifetime of experiences, his own and those of his acquaintances, to point out that the paths we choose always lead to a certain end. He suggests that if we can consider the destination we want to arrive at, we can then choose the right path to get there.

For the longest time I have wanted to get my hands on some of Andy Stanley's material, primarily for its leadership value. However, this book isn't really packed with leadership insight. Instead, this book's value comes in pointing out what seemed to be the obvious. I think most people will read this book and easily recognize the truths that Andy brings forth. The challenge is to accept the truths and live by them.

Being 35-years-old, I found myself wishing this book had been handed to me 17 years ago as I left high school. The high schooler and college student is best suited for this book. The older you get, the less interesting this book becomes.

Book Review: Fearless by Max Lucado

I have always been a fan of Max Lucado's writings, and when word surfaced that his newest effort was entitled "Fearless," I had a hunch that this book was going to be a timely one. My assessment was dead on.

In a world that seems to be spinning out of control at times, fear is at an all-time high. We're fearful of the next stock market hiccup, illness or pink slip. But, Lucado encourages us through example and scripture that hope is right around the corner.

Fearless is an emotion-packed book that I imagine most people can relate to. Personally, I saw myself, and the people around me in several of the chapters. Fear can be an intimidating foe. It can cripple the strongest men, keep people from a good night's rest, and is the leading cause of economic instability.

Yet, we don't have to live in a constant state of fear, especially those who are Christ followers. Jesus paved the road to end the epidemic of fear. More than once, He encouraged those around Him not to be afraid.

Part of the journey of faith Christians make involves overcoming the obstical of fear and worry. I highly recommend "Fearless" as a must read for anyone who is going through frightening and difficult times.

For a sneak peak at the book, click here.