Book Review
Book Review: A Praying Church by Dennis Gundersen
Probably a couple years ago now, I had mentioned that I might add book reviews to my blog which don’t apply directly to southern gospel music but that still might be of interested to my readers. I ended up not doing many but, as conferences are closed for at least another month, I am hoping to find time to highlight some books that I think are worth reading, starting with one that seems timely for today.
Second Chronicles 7:14 says, “If My people which are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal their land” (emphasis mine). Once again, I believe God is calling the Church back to Him, and we must begin on our knees.
In his book, A Praying Church: The Neglected Blessing of Corporate Prayer, Dennis Gundersen isn’t just calling individuals to begin praying; he is calling the Church back to corporate prayer meetings, and he explains how to do this effectively.
I believe the biggest reason many have stopped having gatherings of prayer is due to the fact that few people would come out for this. Much of this shows how calloused hearts are becoming, even among professing Christians, but part of the lack of interest is due to the fact that prayer meetings can be, quite frankly, boring. When individuals are on fire for the Lord and then they get together to pray, lives are changed, miracles happen, and folks are drawn ever closer to the Heavenly Father.
This book does not contain hoopla and magic formulas, but it does have some practical advice as to how to conduct a prayer meeting. If you have a heart for prayer, I encourage you to get this book. It can inspire you in your personal prayer life and might move you to start a prayer group even if it’s in your home. If you are a pastor or church leader, you should read this book. Let’s stop neglecting the act of praying together.
For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them. ~Matthew 18:20
Book Review: More Than the Music (Bill Gaither)
I debated on whether or not to call this a book review since it is as much about Bill as a person as it is about the book, but since the book was the inspiration for this post, I suppose it could fit into the “review” category.
I grew up listening to the Bill Gaither Trio and, although I have only ever met Bill briefly, I respect him. As I read his autobiography More Than the Music, there was very little that I did not already know but it was nice to hear Bill’s perspective on some of the rumors that have gone around in the last 40 years or so. I know Mr. Gaither is not perfect, and I don’t agree with him on everything, but I believe that he desires to please the Lord in the way he lives his life. I appreciated his honesty in sharing his struggles while giving glory to God for his successes. There were even times that he admitted that he wasn’t sure he made the right decision in some areas but he did what he felt was right.
As one acquires fame, it is easy to forget those who helped to pave the way for that acclaim. In 1993, Mr. Gaither chose to show honor to the southern gospel singers whose heydays had ended and who, in some cases, were struggling. He also created a renewed excitement for a genre of music that many did not know existed, and he continues to do so to this day.
I think what has impressed me the most though is his support of Gloria. I hardly ever hear him mention an accomplishment without prefacing it with “Gloria and I …” He is also quick to admit that he is not the greatest singer, but he knows how to find good singers and, when he does, he provides opportunities for others to hear those talents too. I expect there are more people singing today because of Bill Gaither than I realize.
Only God knows the heart but if I could summarize Bill Gaither by what I’ve seen, it would be a humble encourager. This book has reminded me of what I would like to aspire to as well.
Dealing With Stress
Stress is a killer. Everyone knows it and yet it is so hard to avoid at least some degree of stress. Although everyone deals with it, I think women tend to have a harder time than men do in keeping their emotions under control as they are surrounded by the high demands of life.
I am almost finished reading a book called Women and Stress, and it has been an encouraging reminder that I am not the only one who sometimes feels overwhelmed with things. The important thing is learning how to deal with stress. Although we have real issues that affect us, we still must handle them in a Godly manner.
God doesn’t want His children to be stressed out. Life is stressful but He will give grace if you lean on Him. If it’s a very stressful season for you, take time hourly to be quiet and draw near to Him. He is there with His arms open wide no matter how many times you need a shoulder to cry on.
Book Review: Created & Called
If you are a nurse or are contemplating becoming a nurse, you will like the new book written by Dr. Chelsia Harris: Created & Called. It is full of tips on nursing, reminding caregivers to treat their patients as if they were family. It also talks about the benefits that nurses receive and the blessings that come with taking care of others.
Having spent time with friends and relatives in the hospital recently, I think every nurse should read this book. Many do wonderfully; others seem to forget they are dealing with fellow humans.
One day, you may be that person in pain and suffering. Now is a good time to show love and mercy to others who are struggling with their health.
Book Review: You Don’t Cry Out Loud (The Lily Isaacs Story)
For years, I have heard bits and pieces of Lily Isaacs’ story (how she was the daughter of holocaust survivors and a cancer survivor herself), but I had never heard exactly how her parents escaped Hitler’s plans or that her father was an alcoholic while she was growing up. I am happy that New Leaf Press chose to release this amazing story of a Jew who eventually found Jesus and allowed Him to turn her life around. For those who are familiar with the Isaacs’ music ministry, you will enjoy learning more about the matriarch of this much-loved group. If you have never heard of her, you will still appreciate this amazing story. You will laugh with Lily as she talks about some of her childhood antics and you will cry with her as she talks about being shunned by her parents for becoming a Christian. Even if you are not a reader, you will want to get this book.
