Forgotten God by Francis Chan

About the book:

Powerful. 

When was the last time someone used that word to describe you?

It doesn't make sense that Almighty God would have children characterized by fear and insecurity. He put His Spirit in us so we could be known for our power (Acts 1:8; 2 Tim. 1:7). Sadly, most believers and churches are known for talent or intellect rather than supernatural power. What's worse is that we're okay with it. 

Could it be that we've forgotten the One who distinguishes us from every religion and cult in the world? 

Through solid scriptural support and compelling narrative, breakthrough author Francis Chan returns us to the Holy Spirit as the Bible describes Him. He reminds us that we were not created and saved merely to survive our time on earth. Chan contends that we've ignored the Spirit and are reaping the disastrous results. 

It's time for the beloved church of Jesus Christ to reverse the trend of neglect. Let's pursue the Spirit-filled life of effectiveness God desires and we desire. 

Review

This was a powerful book on what the Holy Spirit can do! It will open your eyes to how we have neglected the Holy Spirit. There were glimpses of what it looks like to live a Spirit-filled life. 

I totally recommend everyone to read Forgotten God. We need to reverse the trend of neglecting the Holy Spirit, and listen to Him completely. 

About the author:

Francis Chan, bestselling author of Crazy Love and Erasing Hell, is the founding pastor of Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley, California. His speaking ministry takes him across the country and all over the world. When he is home with his wife and four children, he relaxes by surfing the Southern California beaches.

This Present Darkness by Frank E. Peretii

About the book:

"For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the world rulers of this present darkness..." (Ephesians 6:12, RSV)

Ashton is just a typical small town. But when a skeptical reporter and a prayerful pastor begin to compare notes, they suddenly find themselves fighting a hideous New Age plot to subjugate the townspeople, and eventually the entire human race.

Not since The Screwtape Letters has there been a novel with as much insight into spiritual warfare and the necessity of prayer. Fast-moving, riveting reading ranks with the best thrillers on the bookshelf.

Review

The power of prayer was so strong in this book. The spiritual warfare was so amazing! There were many battles in the spiritual realms, which was fascinating to read about! 

It was eye-opening, learning about the spiritual side of things going on physically. 

There were angel, demon, and human perspectives. My favorite perspectives were the angels' and Hank, the pastor. I also loved the angels' personalities. They were all so different. ;) Some were more laid back, others not so much.

This Present Darkness is one of the best spiritual warfare books I've ever read! 5/5 stars!

Lord, Help Me Know You by Shane Walsh

About the book:

 "Are you ready to know Him?

For many Christians today, faithfully serving the Lord feels more like a burden than a blessing. They attend church regularly and do everything they are "supposed" to do, yet they struggle with the same issues and sins for years and never really mature in Christ. They try their best to serve God, but often times, the walk proves too burdensome and they leave the body of Christ altogether. 

The simple truth is that many Christians never take the right first step with Christ. Sometimes, we focus so quickly on doing Christian things that we miss the purest intent of a walk with Christ; simply coming to know Him. After all, how can you love someone you don't know, and how can you fully give yourself to serving someone you don't love?

This book tells the story of one such journey. It is the inspiring story of one man's pursuit to know Christ, and Christ's faithful response to his prayer, "Lord help me know You." It is a story of redemption, restoration, and revelation. 

Through this story you will see that Christ desires to personally reveal Himself to all of us. You will find the key to a life of faithful service for Him and how to truly carry your cross with gladness. You will understand why Jesus says, "My yoke is easy and my burden is light."

If you are one of those Christians struggling to faithfully serve the Lord, this book will demonstrate one thing to you - He wants you to know Him more than He wants you to serve Him."

Review

This book was so good. I needed to hear what was in this book, at this time. It was so awesome! The truth in it was so inspiring and refreshing!

God's always there, to hold you, comfort you, teach you, and guide you. God wants you to know Him personally, as your best friend, more than He wants you to serve Him.

Lord Help Me Know You encouraged me, and challenged me in my walk with Christ. I totally recommend this book for anyone to read. It was incredible!

About the author:

"Shane's story is not unlike many Christians today. Growing up in church, he was taught that God was kind, loving, and always protected His children, but at a young age, tragic circumstances would wound Shane's heart beyond repair. He ran from God as fast as he could, but through some incredible experiences, God proved Himself faithful, and at 28 Shane had a personal encounter with the Lord that changed his life forever. He would come to know Christ, not through what he was taught, but by experiencing Him first hand. Since that time, Shane has been passionately committed to reaching others like himself who have known about God, but who have never known God. This book is the inspiring story of his pursuit to know Christ and Christ's faithful response to his prayer, "Lord, help me know You." It is a story of redemption, restoration, and revelation. This story might possibly change your entire perspective on the Christian life."