Jesus Christ ~ 12 Days of Christmas Blog Party

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Party, hosted by Faith Potts!

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Jesus Christ- Lord of lords, King of kings. Immanuel. God with us. 

Jesus came to earth as a tiny baby; grew up, and gave His life for you- for me, for all of us. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16.

God loves you so much, that He sent His only Son to earth for you- for all of us. He sent His Son, who died on a cross to pay the price for our sins. He rose from the dead, and defeated death! When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, and ask for forgiveness for our sins, He cleanses us, and washes us white as snow. We are His. Jesus loves you so much! The miracle of His life is incredible! Hallelujah!

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Head over to Faith's blog to learn more about the blog party! Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! :)

Light of the World ~ Jesus Christ ~ Happy Hanukkah!

Around 167 to 160 BCE a group of God fearing, zealous Torah keepers, the Maccabees, revolted against wicked Antiochus- the Greek king. The Torah was outlawed, God's Temple was destroyed and defiled. The Greeks put their false gods into God's Temple. Jews who read the Torah and followed it were put to death. It was horrible. 

One brave priest, Matthias, chose not to worship the Greek gods. He tipped the false god off its pedestal, and said, "Whoever is for God, follow me!" Matthias and his sons, along with many others, went to war against wicked Antiochus. Judah Maccabee, one of Matthias' sons, became the leader of the Maccabees. "Maccabee" means hammer. Although the Maccabees were outnumbered 6 Greek soldiers to 1 Maccabee, the Maccabees won their freedom with God's help. 

After they defeated the Greeks, they cleaned God's Temple and rededicated it to Him. They lit the menorah (seven branched lampstand) that God told them to make and put in the Temple. God told the priests to keep the menorah light burning- it was never supposed to go out. Although they didn't have enough oil, the oil kept burning for eight days until the new purified oil was ready. Another miracle!

God saved His people!

Hanukkah was a fight for religious freedom. A fight for the right to worship God in their own way. A fight to read the Bible. 

John 10:22-23 says, "Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon's Colonnade." "Festival of Dedication" is another name for Hanukkah. Jesus celebrated Hanukkah!

During the Festival of Lights, (another name for Hanukkah) we light the menorah, which was in the temple long ago. "Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."' John 8:12. Jesus is the Eternal light of the world. Jesus' Light cuts through any darkness- He is the Light of the world. 

Hanukkah is about the light defeating the darkness. It's about a fight for religious freedom- and the Maccabees won. Let us pray for a miracle- and that the darkness will be completely revealed. "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:5.

Happy Hanukkah!!! 

Thanksgiving ~ Give Thanks

"It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to your name, O Most High." - Psalm 92:1

"I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, I will glorify your name forever." Psalm 86:12 

"I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations." Psalm 57:9 

All throughout the Bible we are commanded to give thanks to God. Giving thanks is so important! As we celebrate Thanksgiving, which all started with thanking God, it is so good to remember the beginnings. 

In this thanksgiving season, let us not forget to thank the Creator for all He has done for us, and all He has given us. Specifically the gift of salvation- eternity with Him. 

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Stop the Rain ~ Blog Tour!!!

Kassie Angle's newest book, Stop the Rain, is releasing today!!! While I haven't read this novel yet, I am super excited to read it! I've loved Kassie's past books, and if you would like to read my reviews, click here and here!

Synopsis

He left his entire world in Iraq. So why did the war follow him home? 

Harley Keane and his best friend Nigel were just kids when 9/11 rocked their world and changed their lives forever. When they're finally old enough to join the Army, all their childhood dreams seem about to come true. But war wasn't supposed to be like this. A kid's dream isn't supposed to become a living nightmare. Fellow soldiers aren't supposed to bleed out in front of your eyes.

Back home, safe, and unwounded, Harley feels anything but. Why would God spare him when so many others were taken? Why won't the nightmares stop, even when he's awake? And how long can he hide the truth that threatens everything he has left? When Harley's invisible scars refuse to stay hidden, will he let anyone close enough to help? And how do you go on with life when "okay" isn't okay at all?

Kindle // Paperback // Goodreads

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Author Bio:

Kassie Angle is a teenaged Christian author, cowgirl, therapy dog trainer, stereotypical INFJ, and Army girl to the core. Her first love, i.e. debut novel, O to be Like Thee, swept her unexpectedly into the world of indie authors. She tries to use her stories to fill the silences in literature, helping more people understand the world of the Army and showing how God heals the broken-hearted. You can find her and more of her writing at 

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There is also a giveaway! Doesn't this book sound so good?!?! Head over to Kassie's website to hear more! :)

"It Will Be Okay" ~ Storybook

This is a timeless book has an awesome message. It's a story picture book, but I think everybody should read it. :) It doesn't matter your age, this book is so good for everyone to read!

Synopsis 

In a dusty shed, on a rickety shelf, hidden in a cozy packet, lived a tiny seed.

Day after day, Little Seed watched as the Farmer came into the shed. The Farmer's strong hand would reach into the packet, and He would say, "I have a good plan for you," each time He selected a seed.

Little Seed knew the Farmer was good and kind, but he did not want to leave his home. 

Little Seed liked living inside the cozy packet on the rickety shelf in the Farmer's dusty shed.

He did not want to go. 

Review

The age range for this book is 1 to 100! ;) This book has such a timely message for any age.

This book is about Little Fox and Little Seed. Little Seed and Little Fox are facing fears, changes, and brand new things. They discover that God is with them and will help them get through the rough times. God is like the Farmer. The Farmer always tells the Little Seed, "It will be okay." "...the Farmer is good, and the Farmer is kind, and He was always watching over them." 

What I really liked about this book was the message in it. There are things in life that we don't want to do, we don't like it, or it's change. However, God wants to lead us towards something new.

In the end, "it will be okay." Trust God- it will be okay. 

Happy Sukkot! Feast of Tabernacles!

"On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the produce of the land, you shall celebrate the feast of the LORD seven days. On the first day shall be a solemn rest, and on the eighth day shall be a solemn rest. And you shall take on the first day the fruit of splendid trees, branches of palm trees and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days. You shall celebrate it as a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It is a statute forever throughout your generations; you shall celebrate it in the seventh month. You shall dwell in booths for seven days..."  Leviticus 23:39-42

The Feast of Tabernacles looks back on the forty years when the Israelites wandered in the desert living in shelters or tabernacles. They were to be reminded of their forefathers disobedience, but that even in their wanderings, God was in their midst. God commanded the Hebrews to build booths or shelters to live in during this feast to remind them of the time in the wilderness. 

Jesus is the ultimate tabernacle or dwelling place of God in human flesh. God Himself is our rest through a personal relationship with Jesus. This feast reminds us of God's provision in the wilderness, and in times of rest. We are to rest in Him, and dwell with Him.

Happy Sukkot!!!

*Some of the information is from "Celebrating Jesus in the Biblical Feasts" by Dr. Richard Booker. Highly recommended!!*

Yom Kippur ~ The Day of Atonement

 "And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 'Now on the tenth day of this seventh month is the Day of Atonement. It shall be for you a time of holy convocation, and you shall afflict yourselves and present a food offering to the LORD. And you shall not do any work on that very day, for it is a Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the LORD your God.'" Leviticus 23:26-28

The day of Atonement was a day of national cleansing and repentance from sin. It was on this day that God judged the sins of the entire nation of Israel. 

As Christians, even though God has forgiven us of our sins, this does not mean that we do not need a continuous cleansing in our daily lives. We must judge our sins daily for the purpose of maintaining fellowship with Jesus. The blood of Jesus purifies us so that we can have continuous fellowship with Him. 

"If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we will have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:6-9

"If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

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I would encourage you to check out The Return by Jonathan Cahn. "National Day of Prayer and Repentance". Check out the website: https://thereturn.org/

*Quite a bit of the information is from "Celebrating Jesus in the Biblical Feasts" by Dr. Richard Booker. Highly recommended!*

Happy Yom Teruah/Rosh Hashanah!

 "And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Speak to the people of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall observe a day of solemn rest, a memorial proclaimed with blast of trumpets, a holy convocation. You shall not do any ordinary work, and you shall present a food offering to the LORD." Leviticus 23:23-25

The main purpose of the Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah, or Yom Teruah in Hebrew) was to announce the arrival of the seventh month in order to prepare the people for the Day of Atonement, which was ten days later. (I'll have a post on that next.) On the Feast of Trumpets, they blow the shofars extra long and extra loud throughout the day. The type of trumpet that were blown were ram's horns. In Hebrew, the word is shofar. God used trumpets in the Bible to communicate with His people. To the Hebrews, the sound of the trumpet represented both the voice of God and the might of God in warfare. 

One way Yeshua (Jesus) fulfilled this feast is that Jesus is the Comamander of the army of God. (See Revelation 19:11-16.) "Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people, and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David, as He spoke by the mouth of HIs holy prophets, who have been since the world began, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us."  Luke 1:68-71. Jesus defeated us from the enemies of our soul. When Jesus died for us, and rose again, He defeated satan. Jesus defeated death! 

The Feast of Trumpets relates to the believer's spiritual warfare. We need to learn to live in the victory of Jesus as the "Horn of our Salvation." 

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Ephesians 6:10-12. Our armor is Jesus Himself. The believer's armor is simply Jesus in us living His life out of us; His victory over satan becomes our victory. This armor, as a description of the Lord, shows us how to live a victorious life and enter God's rest. 

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*Quite a bit of the information is from "Celebrating Jesus in the Biblical Feasts" by Dr. Richard Booker. Highly recommended!!* *Picture from "Restore Israel" Facebook*

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Happy Rosh Hashanah!!! Happy Yom Teruah!!!

Kate Winfield on the Oregon Trail by Peter Marshall ~ Book Review

About the Book:

Kate Winfield on the Oregon Trail is the dramatic story of a teenage girl's moral courage in confronting danger, disease, and death while taking part in the greatest human migration in world history. In 1843, Kate is among those 300,000 Americans who will journey up to thousands of miles to the Oregon Territory in search of a better life. Through perilous river crossings, blistering heat, choking dust clouds, freezing nights, and the tragic passing of her mother, Kate matures emotionally and spiritually and begins to dream of becoming a medical missionary to the Indians. But that dream is challenged when a typhus epidemic threatens to wipe out the entire wagon train. 

About the Series:

The Crimson Cross series is inspired by a mysterious silver and ruby cross, a precious relic of the Holy Land. In each volume it is passed on to a young person who has proven to be worthy of it. As they play a crucial role in dramatic moments of America's history, the characters face difficult choices and challenges--not unlike those confronting today's youth. 

Review

Kate Winfield on the Oregon Trail was an absolutely incredible book! The historical content and accuracy were awesome. The specific wagon train in the novel is one of the first to make the trek to Oregon. The train faces many hardships- crazy river crossings, dangerous terrain, and a horrible epidemic. I really liked Kate. She was a strong young woman, who stood up for what she believed in, and trusted God. 

The adventure, life lessons, and stories were what made this book so awesome. I also really liked how the end turned out with Kate's dream of becoming a medical missionary. 

If you would like to learn more about the Oregon Trail, pioneers, and life back in the 1840s, I highly recommend this book! Definitely one of the best pioneer/Oregon trail books I've ever read!

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Have you read this book? Any other pioneer/Oregon trail books you really like? Comment below!

Praying Mantis & Giant Hornets

Giant hornets, also known as killer hornets, are quite nasty. However, have you heard of the insect that can kill the giant hornets? Praying mantis. The praying mantis grab hold of the giant hornet, and then suck its brains out. (It's disgusting.) What fascinates me is the fact that a praying mantis can kill something that can instill so much fear. Giant hornets can be horrible. Praying mantis can kill them. Isn't this interesting? What instills so much fear into some people can be killed by a praying mantis.

 

This got me thinking. Although things in life right now can seem overwhelming, difficult, and impossible- remember to pray. Pray that God will help you get through whatever it is you're going through. Praying is powerful. Pray God will give you strength, courage, wisdom, and His peace. Trust in Jesus. Pray.

John 14:27 says: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."

Books for Horse Lovers

Today I'm doing a post on books I've read that are horse related. Here is a list of some great horse books: non-fiction and fiction.

Joey by Jennifer Marshall Bleakley 

Joey is such a sweet story about how much a horse can make a difference. Highly recommend! Read full review here. 

Horses and Friends Series by Miralee Ferrell

If you love suspense, good clean mysteries, and horses, this series is an awesome choice! :) Read full review of the series here.

Winnie the Horse Gentler Series by Dandi Daley Mackcall

If you like stories about broken and abused horses finding loving homes and healing, this series is incredible! Full review of the series here.

Circle C Adventures Series by Susan K. Marlow

These novels are full of adventure, horses, and family. Highly recommend! Read full review of the series here.

Past Darkness by Laurel Woiwode

A story of hope, forgiveness, the power of music and of God's grace. Full review here.

Starlight Animal Rescue Series by Dandi Daley Mackall

This series is not just about horses, but also about cats and dogs. Recommend this series for 14+, due to some of the topics- (the topics were handled well). Read full review here.

Circle C Milestones Series by Susan K. Marlow

It was so fun to continue to read more about Andi. ;) I highly recommend this series, too! Read full review here.

You and Your Horse by Dandi Daley Mackall

A fun, non-fiction horse book full of awesome tips! Full review here.

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This is for all you horse lovers out there. :) Have you read any of these? Which were your favorite? Do you have any others you've enjoyed that I didn't mention? Comment below! :)

"Stop the Rain" Cover Reveal!

Coming November 11, 2020

A PTSD awareness novel – no one fights alone

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I have read Kassie's other two novels, O To Be Like Thee and Tattered Wings, and they are really, really good!! Looking forward to her next novel, Stop the Rain. Today is the cover reveal for Stop the Rain!! :)

Synopsis

He left his entire world in Iraq. So why did the war follow him home?

Harley Keane and his best friend Nigel were just kids when 9/11 rocked their world and changed their lives forever. When they’re finally old enough to join the Army, all their childhood dreams seem about to come true. But war wasn’t supposed to be like this. A kid’s dream isn’t supposed to become a living nightmare. Fellow soldiers aren’t supposed to bleed out in front of your eyes.

Back home, safe and unwounded, Harley feels anything but. Why would God spare him when so many others were taken? Why won’t the nightmares stop, even when he’s awake? And how long can he hide the truth that threatens everything he has left? When Harley’s invisible scars refuse to stay hidden, will he let anyone close enough to help? And how do you go on with life when “okay” isn’t okay at all?

Cover Reveal!

Awesome cover, isn't it?!

~Quote~

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Author Bio

Kassie Angle is a teenaged Christian author, cowgirl, therapy dog trainer, stereotypical INFJ, and Army girl to the core. Her first love, i.e. debut novel, O to be Like Thee, swept her unexpectedly into the world of indie authors. She tries to use her stories to fill the silences in literature, helping more people understand the world of the Army and showing how God heals the broken-hearted. You can find her and more of her writing at 

Super excited for this release!!! I love the way Kassie writes, and can't wait to read this book! <3 Head on over to Kassie's website to hear more!

Enjoy the Little Things ~ Repost

This is a post I wrote about two years ago, that I thought could use a revision and a repost. (Thanks Brooklyne for the idea of a repost!) ;)

Sometimes, especially as we grow up, (or get older), we get busy, and we lose track of all the little blessings God sends us in our lives. I've noticed in my own life, I sometimes lose track of what matters most. Like when your brother draws you the most adorable picture, your sister leaves a note on your nightstand, a favorite flower in bloom- whatever is special to you. We sometimes seem to overlook or ignore these special moments.

God gives us blessings, and often times they are what we call "little blessings." Don't loose these moments. You'll never get them back. Instead of worrying and stressing, focus on the good things. The special things, the meaningful things, the things that you look back on as being some of the most special and best moments of your life. We don't want to look back and realize we wasted so many precious moments. 

Don't let life pass you by. Sometimes when life gets overwhelming, we just push ourselves to get through the day, week, month, even year. Enjoy the moment! Even if life is hard right now, enjoy the little things, because when you look back, you'll wish you did. Focus on what matters most. Jesus, family, close friends, a favorite animal or plant- cherish them all. Cherish the little moments- the little things.

Take a moment to thank Jesus for your many blessings. :)

source: Pinterest

Beyond the Smoke by Terry Burns ~ Book Review

Synopsis 

When Bryan Wheeler's parents are killed by Comanche raiders, he wonders how he will survive without them. With a few supplies, two guns, and his mother's Bible, he sets out to create a new life for himself in the western wilderness. During his travels he meets new friends, including an eccentric trader, a Texas ranger, and an orphan girl. But enemies lurk in the West, too, forcing Bryan to make difficult choices to survive. 

Review

This was not the typical, trendy western romance novel; which I really appreciated! It was full of quirky moments, and narrow escapes. The plot line was unique, and just when you would think that things were coming to an end, a new twist would throw you for a loop. ;) The story line was fascinating! I especially enjoyed Professor Harold Donovan. He went to Harvard University, but had a "wandering foot" as he called it, and he spent his time making herbal concoctions that helped people with various ailments. He had a huge vocabulary, compared to Bryan, whose vocabulary was small. Bryan was the main character. I liked his personality and how he stood up for what was right, even if it was difficult. 

If you're looking for a unique western-themed read, this book is a great option! 

Shavuot ~ Pentecost

Today's post is about Shavuot- or, as it is often called, Pentecost. Most people know about the Pentecost after Jesus ascended into heaven, and the Holy Spirit came. However, have you heard of the first Pentecost? (Or in biblical Hebrew, Shavuot.) Shavuot is a feast ordained by God that occurs 7 weeks after Passover (see Lev. 23:15). Shavuot is when God gave the Israelites His Word on Mount Sinai; over three thousand years ago. Shavuot is a celebration to reawaken and strengthen our personal relationships with God by rededicating ourselves to study and observe God's Word. God revealed Himself to Moses and the Israelites on Mount Sinai. His people heard His voice when He gave them the Ten Commandments, and they promised to obey the commands (Exodus 24:7). The Torah includes the first five books of the Bible. Now, today, we rededicate ourselves to studying and observing the whole Bible.

Passover freed God's people from physical bondage, however, when the Torah was given on Shavuot, it freed us from our spiritual bondage. Also, historically, on Shavuot, the one main thing the Israelites did was the presentation of a wave offering to the Lord- two loaves of bread with leaven. By doing this, the Israelites were showing that they trusted God for their food and for the harvest. 

Many years later, after Jesus died and rose again, He sent the Holy Spirit- on the day of Shavuot (Pentecost). On the day of Pentecost, all the believers were in an upper room. While they were sitting in the upper room, "divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each of them." (Acts 2:3). They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues, or languages. Jesus fulfilled Shavuot by sending the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4). An important thing to keep in mind is that the apostles spoke in tongues (languages) people that were there knew. The Bible also says that when publicly speaking in tongues there needs to be an interpreter. Jeremiah 31:33 says: "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people." This verse was fulfilled on Pentecost, when Jesus sent the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 8:10 and 10:16 state the same thing. God has written His Law and His Word on our hearts. Yeshua fulfilled Shavuot. 

I encourage you to read the passages mentioned and dig more into it yourself. It is so incredible! Happy Shavuot!

The Torch Keepers by Hosanna Emily - Book Review

To celebrate The Torch Keepers' second birthday, I decided to re-post my review of this incredible book! This book is absolutely amazing, and I highly, highly recommend it! 

Synopsis

The King's blue flame quivers as a new fire arises, and Kadira must hold fast to his torch. It's destiny; she's a torch keeper.

A fiery revolution sweeps across the kingdom of Erkeos, and each person must choose a side. Kadira, a girl set apart to serve the King, finds her city engulfed in the Liberation's emerald flames. Her blue eyes mark her as the enemy, and she flees from death. It stalks her anyway. When she meets Rekem, the Liberation warrior sent to kill her, she rebels against the King's ways. Two armies collide; indecision isn't an option. As hearts and lives hang in the balance, Kadira and Rekem could bring destruction or liberation to the entire kingdom. 

Reveiw

The Torch Keepers is an amazing book! I've been looking forward to reading it ever since I discovered Hosanna's blog, which was well over a year ago. :)

Kadira, the main character, struggled to understand the King, struggled to understand that he had a purpose for her life. Her story was a story of sadness and rebellion, but also of redemption. 

Father and Gamma, who were like a father and a grandma to Kadira, were both so sweet. I also really liked Emyir; I loved her passion for the King. She was probably my favorite character. Rekem was a hard character to like. I was hoping his story would end differently. Like many people do, he was searching for meaning in life.

This book is about on-going battles between two sides- the Liberation, which is run by the Prince, (who seems to represent Satan), and those on the King's side (who represents Jesus).

This book has spiritual lessons sprinkled throughout, which I really appreciated. One of my favorite parallels between our lives and what was portrayed in the novel was the torch keeping. People are set apart to be torch keepers for the King- they keep the King's bright blue fire burning in each town. We are also supposed to keep our torches burning in our hearts. Another interesting thing, the Liberation (the evil side) take the King's fire and turn it into green fire- which in the book represents evil in a way. The Liberation took what was good (the blue fire) and twisted it into evil (green fire). The Torch Keepers is a book I think many people need to read. 

Overall, I recommend this book for readers 14+. Nothing is described in great detail, but there are deaths, wounds, and the Liberation does horrible things. I would definitely recommend this book!

Have you read The Torch Keepers? What were your thoughts? :)

Dawnlight by Kacy Barnett-Gramckow ~ Book Review

Synopsis

Inspired by the mysterious events of Matthew 27:52-53: "...and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people  who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs after Jesus' resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people."

Amid first-century Jerusalem's political and religious unrest, Elisheba loses her husband, Joseph. Though she is mourning, Elisheba must fight to protect herself and her young son from the schemes and deceptions of others who wish to control her fortune and her future. While Elisheba defies her enemies, her husband's closest friends must decide what they believe--and risk death. When another tragedy strikes, an impossible miracle shakes their lives--and their world is forever changed...at Dawnlight. 

Review

This book was so good, and so well written.  

I loved how the author points out that Jesus was called Rabbi Yeshua. Rabbi means teacher, and Yeshua is the Hebrew name for Jesus. Benjamin, Eran, Stephanos, Andronikos, Kore, Joseph, Elisheba- they were all wonderful characters! There was a wide array of characters; even more than I mentioned above.

Dawnlight is about Jesus' death and resurrection. There is way more in the book than just His death and resurrection, but those are two of the main things. The way the author portrayed Jesus was absolutely amazing! His passion and love for everyone, came out so well in this book. So many Biblical stories about Jesus' life are in this book. It pointed out what Jesus thought about women and children. In first-century Jerusalem, women and children were not valued very much at all. Jesus valued the women and the children. He loved them and valued them as much as He loved and valued the men. 

Dawnlight immerses you in the Jewish culture- it helps you see Jesus' life and death in a whole new way. This book is fiction, so don't take everything in it for fact. However, it definitely gives you an idea of what life might have been like in first-century Jerusalem.

Favorite quotes: "He grinned at Benjamin from beneath His prayer shawl." and, "...the Rabbi Yeshua, Master Iesous, lives."

The Spring Feasts! ~ Book Review

The Spring Feasts are here! I highly recommend reading Leviticus 23, which talks about the Feasts of ADONAI. Yeshua fulfilled the Spring Feasts through His death and resurrection. It paints a beautiful picture. 

This is a post on an amazing book that I highly recommend. Celebrating Jesus in the Biblical Feasts by Dr. Richard Booker is an incredible book! I highly recommend it. It gives amazing insight into the Feasts.

About the book:

Unlock the prophetic significance of the Biblical Feasts 

The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, "Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, theses are the appointed feasts of the Lord that you shall proclaim as holy convocations; they are My appointed feasts." - Leviticus 23:1-2, ESV

The Feasts of the Lord have powerful and prophetic significance to God's people, both Jew and Gentile. Each feast is a picture of Jesus the Messiah and represents one of the seven phases of spiritual development in your life! In this intriguing and biblically sound study, Dr. Richard Booker takes you on a revelatory journey through the Bible showing you how the ancient Biblical feasts are relevant for your spiritual growth today. 

Get life-changing revelation about the significance of:

- Passover

- Unleavened Bread

- First Fruits

- Pentecost

- Trumpets

- Atonement

- Tabernacles 

From the new birth found in Passover and the Crucifixion, all the way to entering God's rest found in the Feast of Tabernacles and the Second Coming, you will discover how the Seven Biblical Feasts powerfully impact your faith journey with the Lord.

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The Biblical Feasts are so beautiful. I highly recommend digging into them yourself!

Pesach ~ Passover

Today is Pesach. (Passover).

The story of Passover (Pesach in Hebrew), is in the book of Exodus, chapters 1-15. Yahweh's people were slaves in Egypt. Pharaoh was the evil king in Egypt. He decided that there were too many Israelites, (also called the Hebrews). Also, Pharaoh was afraid that the Israelites would join together, form an army, and join Egypt's enemies to take over Egypt. This was not the Israelites' plan, but Pharaoh believed it. He forced the Hebrews to work long hours of grueling labor. He also ordered the midwives to kill all the Israelite baby boys. It was horrible and devastating.

One courageous Israelite mother, hid her baby boy in a reed basket in the river. Pharaoh's own daughter, the princess, found him while she was bathing at the river and adopted the baby boy. She named him Moses.

After a chain of events, Moses fled to the wilderness, where he met his wife and her family, got married, and raised sheep for many years.

Later, after Moses had spent many years in the desert, Yahweh called him to go to Pharaoh with a message from Yahweh, saying: "Let My people go!" Pharaoh's heart was so hard, and so stubborn, and he wouldn't listen. So, Yahweh sent plagues. The Nile river was turned to blood, enormous amounts of frogs, gnats, flies, all covered the land.  The livestock died, boils and sores covered every single Egyptian, hail, locusts ate all of the Egyptian crops, and darkness covered the land. Still, Pharaoh wouldn't listen. He wouldn't let God's people go.

The last plague, was the death of every firstborn male. However, all the Hebrew people, they obeyed God's decree- by putting the blood of a lamb on their doorposts. God was the Hebrews protection. He crossed into their homes through the blood-covered doorposts. The word Pesach means to come under the protection of God. When the angel passed their houses at night, the angel passed over the Hebrews' homes. The Hebrew firstborns were safe. All of the Egyptian firstborns- livestock and people, died.

Just as the blood of the lambs on the doorposts allowed God to come into the Hebrews' homes, Yeshua's blood that covers us allows God to come into our hearts.

This is also where the name of this Feast, Passover (Pescah) comes from. The angel passed over the Israelite's homes.

Pharaoh finally let God's people go; he wanted them gone. The Israelite's didn't have any time for their bread to rise so they could bake it, so they took unleavened bread. (Unleavened means it has no yeast.) The Egyptians gave the Hebrews gold, silver, and fine clothing and told them to get out of their land as fast as possible. The Egyptians were terrified.

The Israelites left Egypt, but then Pharaoh changed his mind, and went after them. Pharaoh took his horses, his army, and his chariots, to fight the Israelites. The Israelites were terrified. The Sea of Reeds (also known as the Red Sea) lay before them, and Pharaoh's army was coming behind them- they had nowhere to run. Moses, the leader, said: "Don't be afraid! Stand still, and see the salvation of ADONAI, which He will perform for you today. You have seen the Egyptians today, but you will never see them again, ever!" Exodus 14:13.

Moses stretched out his hand, and the sea parted, and the Israelites walked through on dry ground! Adonai split the sea! Yaweh made the Egyptian's chariot wheels quit working, so it slowed them down even more.

Once all of the thousands of Israelites had passed through, Moses stretched out his hand again, and the waters crashed over the Egyptians. Yahweh's people were saved! He rescued His people! And later, through the Israelites, came a Savior who saved us all- by taking our punishment, our sin, and dying for us all. Then He rose again, and defeated death!

God told the Israelites to celebrate Passover yearly. A reminder of their rescue out of Egypt, God told His people to eat unleavened bread every year, to remember. Also on Passover, we search our hearts for any sin.

Just as the blood of the lamb on the Hebrews' doorposts saved their firstborns from death, Yeshua saved us from our punishment of death from our sins. Yeshua became the Passover Lamb- thus fulfilling Passover. Yeshua was crucified on the same day and same hour as the lambs on Passover. Isn't it incredible how detailed our God is?! (Luke 22-24 is just one of the Gospels that tells the story of Yeshua's death and resurrection.)

The story of Passover (Pesach) is beautiful and amazing! God's mighty hand was working through it all. Even when the Israelites didn't trust Him, He still loved them. When bad things happened to the Israelites, God turned it into good. He can do that for us, too.

I think it is important to celebrate Pesach. Yeshua fulfilled the Feast of Pesach. He died for our sins. Yeshua loved us so much, that He died for us. Yeshua is the Passover Lamb.

Queen by R. J. Larson ~ Book Review

Synopsis 

Fantasy inspired by the Book of Esther... 

Bel-Tygeon, the fallen god-king of Belaal, has bowed to the Infinite and accepted life as a mortal. Now he is desperate to return to his kingdom. Hunted by his enemies, he accepts refuge among the Eosyths, at the bidding of Serena of Clan Darom. But Serena and her family are also Bel-Tygeon's enemies, and he must conceal his true name and royal rank from them--even when he realizes that Serena is the woman he has sought for years. The woman he loves. The woman he longs to proclaim as his queen. Yet she can never be his. 

Serena of Clan Darom wants nothing more than to protect her family and save her people, the Eosyths, from their enemies. She cannot afford to fall in love with a madman. A stranger. Yet honor dictates that she must shelter Ty and protect him with her life. Will one act of kindness destroy everything she's worked for and believed? 

And how can the unknowable Infinite, worshipped by her lord-father, ever help her in their struggle to survive? 

Child of Dust, are you My servant?

Review 

Another awesome book by R. J. Larson!

I enjoyed the setting, which was mainly in the rugged mountains where the Eosyths live. The Eosyths are a group of people who live off of the land, stick together, and support each other. Their way of life is simple, but rich in morals and standards. 

The characters were awesome! My favorites were little Miyna (she was adorable!) and Ayden. Ayden and Miyna were two of Serena's little siblings. 

The Biblical themes were great, and were woven throughout. Throughout the novel you can see the Infinite's hand through it all. This book has some of the story of Esther in it, along with King Nebuchadnezzar, among others.

I would encourage you to read some of R. J. Larson's works. Although they are labeled fantasy, they aren't full of a ton of fantasy. Also, the messages are really good. I'd suggest starting with the Books of the Infinite series. Here are my reviews of the books from that series: Prophet, Judge, King. :) I would recommend the Books of the Infinite series for 13/14+, and I would recommend Exiles (review here) and Queen for 14+!

Happy Purim! ~ The Story of Esther

Happy Purim, everyone! For those who don't know what Purim is, I'll explain it in this post. :)

Many people know of the story of Esther, and how God used her to save her people. However, have you heard of the Purim festival discussed in the Book of Esther? Purim is a Jewish feast celebrating ADONAI delivering them from Haman's wicked plot to destroy all the Jews.

"Mordecai recorded these events and he sent letters to all the Jews throughout the provinces of King Ahasuerus, both near and far, urging them to celebrate the fourteenth and fifteeth days of Adar every year as the days when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into celebration. These were to be days of feasting, celebration and sending presents of food to one another and giving gifts to the poor."
Esther 9:20-22

What is so cool about the book of Esther, is although ADONAI's Name isn't mentioned in the book of Esther, you can see how He delivered His people. You can see ADONAI's hand through it all.

Here is a great music video of a song called Esther's Song. :)

I encourage you all to read the book of Esther yourself1 :) Happy Purim! 

Rangers Lead the Way! ~ Blog Tour ~ Review & Author Interview

Kassie Angle, author of O to Be Like Thee, is releasing her second book! Tattered Wings is an incredible story!!!! Today I have a book review and an author interview! :)

Synopsis

Some scars can’t be seen. And some can’t be hidden.

Layla Trent’s life is pretty much perfect, except for the little matter of a dog of her own—and maybe a brother. So why does a random nightmare of a princess dress, a hospital, and a stranger who’s definitely not her daddy feel more like an aching wound? And can a broken, glassy-eyed puppy somehow help her release the pain she didn’t even know she was carrying?

Corporal Andrew Reyes has proven he has what it takes to be the best—a US Army Ranger. But when a double tragedy rocks his world, his resolve is shaken to the core. What’s left for a man to live for when he’s lost everything he ever wanted to be? And is the sudden appearance of a teenage girl with a three-legged dog a cruel joke or a divine appointment?

Some scars can’t be hidden. But some don’t need to be.

Goodreads // Amazon // Paperback

Review

Tattered Wings is an awesome book! After reading Kassie's first work, O to Be Like Thee, I was excited to hear she was coming out with another book. 

Tattered Wings is a book about hope. It is a book full of trials and triumphs. I liked how God was woven throughout the book- although I felt like there could have been more.

Layla, Andy, and Andy's siblings- they were all awesome! My favorite was Andy's best friend and battle buddy, Isaiah. Isaiah's story was really good, and his love for God and people really showed through. The characters were pretty in depth, which I really enjoy!

I loved the therapy dog aspect of it! Ranger was amazing. He was so attentive, and he understood what people needed- whether it be a hug or a nose bump. :)

This book shows how even when we are battered and scarred, God can still heal us and use us. Never give up!

*I received a free e-book in exchange for review.*

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And now, for the author interview!

What inspired you to write Tattered Wings?

Brad Paisley’s song “Stubborn Angels.” That was literally it. I was kind of mentally making a music video of it in the car one day and got this picture in my head of a double amputee running with a three-legged dog…and decided I wanted to write a story with that scene in it. It was a wild ride from there—but that’s what started it.

What are a few things God taught you while writing Tattered Wings?

The biggest one is definitely, don’t give up. That’s kind of one of the underlying themes of the story, and I never expected to learn it myself like I did. At first I didn’t want to write TW because I was still so attached to my first book—but God would not let me give up, and I’m so thankful for that. And sort of tied to that, sort of not, would be to let your own stories change you, too. If you believe God gives you the stories He does, you have to be willing to believe He does it for a reason.

What is the main thing you want people to take away from your book(s)?

Ooh, that’s dangerous to make plural! XP From Tattered Wings, well…to never give up. *heart eyes* To respect working dogs, to understand that our soldiers and families go through more than meets the eye. That God brings people together for a reason. You never know who’s trying to make a hero proud. From O to be Like Thee…never. ever. forget. Sacrifice is too important to let go unremembered. The least we can do is remember and honor.

Favorite book of the Bible?

Psalms!! (Although I also love Nehemiah…) David and the other psalm writers just pour their hearts out to God without reservation. They aren’t afraid to tell God when they’re going through a tough time and don’t understand what He’s doing. And they aren’t afraid to praise Him with abandon. Reading Psalms is so comforting and encouraging all at once.

What is the silliest/most embarrassing thing you did when you were a kid?

Okay, now I’m embarrassed all over again. XD This is the first one that came to mind… Once when we were traveling we were on an early morning flight and all the other passengers were quiet and mostly asleep, but I was all hyped up about flying, even though it was far from being my first time. As soon as the plane lifted off the runway I shouted at the top of my lungs, “IN THE AIR!” All the other passengers came to life laughing…and I was very quiet the rest of the flight. It might not have been so bad if I’d been like, four… I was nearly eleven. X’D

What is your favorite hobby?

I want to say writing, but that’s sorta more than a hobby at this point. XD So writing aside, running or
horseback riding…changes frequently, depending on which one I’m doing on any given day. X’D Also, that’s kind of fun that you’d ask, since the kids in Tattered Wings *might* love running too and I got such a kick out of writing my run scenes… <3 And somehow horseback riding gives me some of the same thrill as running.

Since Tattered Wings has a therapy dog in it, is the dog based on your own personal dog?

I can neither confirm nor deny. ;) Yes, all the way. To be honest, I had to change so many places where I’d called Ranger my own dog’s name—Thunder—by accident. The only difference is that Thunder has all four legs…plus, Thunder’s still in training as a therapy dog. So storyline-wise, it’s not our story to the letter, but personality-wise and everything else, Ranger is Thunder, and Ranger’s therapy-dog-training scenes are definitely strongly based off Thunder’s. It was a really fun aspect to write into the book.

Thanks for the interview, Kassie!

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About the Author

Kassie Angle is a teenaged Christian author, cowgirl, therapy dog trainer, stereotypical INFJ, and Army girl to the core. Her first love, i.e. debut novel, O to be Like Thee, swept her unsuspectedly into the world of indie authors. She tries to use her stories to fill the silences in literature, helping more people understand the world of the Army and showing how God heals the broken-hearted. You can find her and more of her writing 

Exiles by R. J. Larson ~ Book Review

Synopsis

For daring to trust their Creator, Araine and Nikaros are swept from their homes into a foreign land...slaves to their enemies. 

Araine Khalome of ToronSea, follows the goddess Atea. But Araine secretly questions Atea's power as a goddess. Wrestling with her spiritual doubts, Araine finds old scrolls containing verses that come alive, beckoning her soul. Within these words, Araine senses the presence of the Infinite, the despised Most Ancient God, enemy to all Ateans, and she's captivated--secretly risking her life to read the Books of the Infinite. 

You are forever in My sight...

Betrayed and condemned, Araine is swept away to the kingdom of Belaal, where she is swiftly apprehended and marked as a slave. Caught up in the lethal political and religious struggles within Belaal, Araine joins forces with another slave, Nikaros, a hostage and exiled son of an Eosyth Lord. As they fight to survive the antagonistic royal court, Nik and Araine soon realize that they must also protect the despotic god-king who has enslaved them. 

But the god-king, Bel-Tygeon, has plans of his own. 

Child of Dust, are you my servant? 

Review

This was an incredible book! Larson does a wonderful job of drawing Biblical themes and concepts into her novels, which is definitely my favorite aspects of her novels! God is portrayed beautifully in her novels.

This book shows the cost of following God. It shows that even in persecution- will we choose to follow God or the world? My favorite analogy in this novel was when Araine finds the Infinite's word, (God's Word) and starts reading it, the words look like they are on fire- a golden, beckoning fire. It was a beautiful analogy of how we should view God's Word- alive and powerful. 

The characters were great! I enjoyed getting to learn more about the Eosyth people (a group of mountain dwellers in the series). I liked how Araine was willing to stand up for what was right, even if it meant she might lose everything. Grumps, Araine's grandfather, was a fun character, and he was also passionate about what was right. 

This was an incredible book! Larson does a wonderful job of drawing Biblical themes and concepts into her novels, which is definitely my favorite aspect of her novels! God is portrayed beautifully in her novels. Definitely recommend this book to readers 14+!

Realm of Thorns by R. J. Larson ~ Book Review

Synopsis

A fading empire's strife heralds an approaching Dark Age.

Khelqua, the crown of the Syvlande Empire, has been destroyed. The royal house of Khelqua lies drowned beneath a prophesied destruction of its vast river valley, leaving an ocean of dead waters. Khelqua's ancient royal lineage now rests with two siblings, who have lost their family, their fortunes, and the realm that defines their existence. 

Their chosen destinies stir hope and danger for countless generations to come...as the Syvlande Empire becomes mere legend. 

Review

I really enjoyed this book! As always, R. J. Larson's book amazed me! :)

The characters were so different and interesting. My personal favorite was the fiery Torena. She was a teacher for the royal family of Khelqua, who taught the children and teens the Eternal's Word. "Eternal" is the name they use for God. I loved Torena's personality! She firmly took a stand for what is right and what is wrong. I also liked Eliya and Valo.

As always, R. J. Larson does an incredible job of weaving Biblical messages into her writings. The allegories woven throughout are amazing. The way Yeshua was described was beautiful! 

You can see hints of the Books of the Infinite and Realms of the Infinite series in this book, which was awesome! I highly recommend this book for ages 14+!

Avad: Work and Worship

Today I'm focusing on the Hebrew word, "avad." The Hebrew word "avad" means "to serve." However, not only does it mean "to serve", it also can mean "to work" and "to worship." So what exactly does this mean for us?

Colossians 3:23-24 says, "Whatever you do, work at it from the soul, as for the Lord and not for people. For you know that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as a reward. It is to the Lord Messiah you are giving service."

Our work and worship of our Creator should go hand in hand. We shouldn't separate worship on Sunday morning from our day to day lives. Our entire lives should be focused on worshiping Yeshua, everything we do should be an act of worship to our Creator.

Information from Listening to the Language of the Bible by Lois Tverberg with Bruce Okkema.

Favorite Books of 2019

Today, I'm doing a post on my favorite books of 2019. (These are not in order from favorite to least favorite. It's just a collection of my favorites.) So here we go! ;)

The Prophetess by Jill Eileen Smith: This one was awesome! It's the first novelization of Deborah that I've read that I actually really enjoyed! Click here to see my full review. 

Warriors of the King by K. Dennis Chambers: Incredible!! One of the best allegorical fiction books I've read! Click here to see my full review!

Realm of Thorns by R. J. Larson: I've really enjoyed R. J. Larson's writings, and this one was no exception! I liked how Larson continued with the background of the Books of the Infinite and Realms of the Infinite series.

Judah's Wife: A Novel of the Maccabees by Angela Hunt: This was a fascinating read! Click here to read my full review!

Breaking Cover Michelle Rigby Assad: Definitely ranks as one of my top favorite books! This book was so interesting, and it was really cool to see how both men and women's strengths are needed in the CIA and other areas.

Listening to the Language of the Bible by Lois Tverberg: An informative book that does a wonderful job of taking you back to the Hebrew context!!!

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There are my favorites of 2019! What were some of your favorite reads of 2019?