Though Christians the world over make yearly preparations for Lent, there s a conspicuous lack of good books for that other great spiritual season: Advent. All the same, this four-week period leading up to Christmas is making a comeback as growing numbers reject shopping-mall frenzy and examine the deeper meaning of the season. Ecumenical in scope, these fifty devotions invite the reader to contemplate the great themes of Christmas and the significance that the coming of Jesus has for each of us not only during Advent, but every day. Whether dipped into at leisure or used on a daily basis, Watch for the Light gives the phrase holiday preparations new depth and meaning. Includes writings by Christoph Friedrich Blumhardt, Sylvia Plath, J. B. Phillips, Friedrich Wilhelm Foerster, Henri Nouwen, Bernard of Clairvaux, Kathleen Norris, Meister Eckhart, St. Thomas Aquinas, Karl Rahner, Isaac Penington, Madeleine L Engle, Alfred Delp, Loretta Ross-Gotta, William Stringfellow, J. Heinrich Arnold, Edith Stein, Philip Britts, Jane Kenyon, John Howard Yoder, Emmy Arnold, Karl Barth, Oscar Romero, William Willimon, Johann Christoph Arnold, Gail Godwin, Leonardo Boff, G. M. Hopkins, Evelyn Underhill, Dorothy Day, Brennan Manning, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Romano Guardini, Annie Dillard, Martin Luther, St. John Chrysostom, Giovanni Papini, Dorothee Soelle, C. S. Lewis, Gustavo Gutierrez, Philip Yancey, J. T. Clement, Thomas Merton, Eberhard Arnold, Ernesto Cardenal, T. S. Eliot, John Donne, Gian Carlo Menotti and Jurgen Moltmann."

Many people did not grow up in a Christian home, and many more do not consider their childhood experience a good model. Robert Wolgemuth presents this inspiring, practical book for people who want to have a Christian home.

So, what's so great about a Christian home? There's redemption. There's forgiveness. There's hope. Laughter and genuine happiness. There's discipline and purpose there. And there's grace . . . lots of grace.

"The Most Important Place on Earth" covers eight answers to the question "What does a Christian home look like?" It's filled with stories and practical ideas that will convince any reader that a Christian home is not an elusive stereotype. It's something that really can be achieved. And it's something worth having. You'll see.

A collection of blessings for the people, sadnesses, artefacts, special occasions and journeys of our lives. It also explores the tradition of blessings including biblical and Celtic, and offers ideas and resources to encourage readers to write blessings of their own with suggestions for how to organise a blessings workshop. Ruth Burgess, who is also co-editor with Kathy Galloway of "Praying for the Dawn: A Resource Book", leads liturgical workshops which often include 'blessing-writing'. She aims in this book to pass on her experience and knowledge.

Elmer Towns's Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough has become must-reading as this powerful spiritual discipline of fasting has seen a revival among followers of Christ. Now Towns digs deeper into one of the most popular forms of fasting today, the Daniel Fast. With an emphasis on a healthy, simple diet, the Daniel Fast is named after the prophet Daniel who participated in a partial fast for spiritual purposes. Daniel was taken captive into Babylon when he was sixteen years old. The Babylonian king wanted the young prophet to help him administer his rule over the captive Jews--and he wanted to "Babylon-ize" Daniel, to make the young man of God more like him. The first step the king took in his campaign was to provide a sumptuous feast to tempt Daniel--food fit for a king-- basically fattening comfort foods. In response, the prophet refrained from the king's table, choosing instead to eat only vegetables and to drink only water. He honored God over the king. Dr. Elmer Towns introduces readers to the spiritual, physical, and mental basics of the Daniel Fast, coaching them through either a ten-day or twenty-one-day period of renewal, and he includes original Daniel Fast recipes created by executive chef John P. Perkins. Dr. Towns addresses practical questions, such as what to eat and when, as well as how to pray effectively. Readers will learn how to encounter God during their fast, how to worship through self-discipline, and how to pray for specific answers. They will also explore the role of weeping, repentance, and spiritual warfare in their life of faith. Daniel is a model to God's people of someone who chooses spiritual nourishment over bodily satisfaction, in The Daniel Fast for Spiritual Breakthrough, God's people can learn to follow his example.

With over one million copies sold, New York Times bestseller The Circle Maker is a must-read for revolutionizing your prayer life. Get ready to experience new breakthroughs, knowing that bold prayers honor God and God honors bold prayers. Do you ever sense that there's far more to prayer than what you're experiencing? Are you praying over your impossible dreams and greatest fears? Do you feel like something is holding you back in your prayer life? It's time you learned from the legend of Honi the Circle Maker. When his land was drought-stricken in ancient times, Honi ha-M'agel drew a circle in the sand, stepped inside it, and wouldn't budge until God answered his petition for rain. Honi's story transformed author Mark Batterson's own experience with prayer and inspired him to document his journey to praying more powerful prayers in The Circle Maker. Sharing inspiring stories from modern-day circle makers as well as his own experiences, Mark imparts the timeless wisdom and encouragement you need to: Discern God's will for your life Uncover your heart's hidden desires Pursue God-sized dreams Connect with God in fresh ways Deepen your faith and your relationship with prayer Draw prayer circles around your family, your community, your challenges, and your dreams This updated and expanded edition of The Circle Maker also includes new insights about the ways that God answers prayer along with stories that add convincing proof to the reality that God is able to do exceedingly far greater than all we could ask or imagine. Learn for yourself that drawing prayer circles around our dreams isn't just a way that we accomplish great things for God--it's a way that God accomplishes great things in us.

Satan is not out to get you to follow him; he's out to get you to ignore him. When we spiritually zone out, doze off, fall asleep, we are forgetting that we are in the middle of a war--and Satan loves it this way! He loves to convince people he doesn't exist. But Satan is real. He is an actual enemy of our soul. He is waging a real war against us. And we need to wake up and get in the fight. If we fail to do this, we do so at our own peril. In this five-session video Bible study (streaming included), bestselling author Jim Cymbala shows participants how to: Recognize the spiritual wars around them. Understand the enemy's plots against them. Develop practical strategies for fighting back. As believers in Christ, we have been given everything we need to stand strong and take the fight to the enemy. As we do, we will recognize, as the apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians, that God "gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:57). This study guide has everything you need for a full Bible study experience, including: The study guide itself--with discussion and reflection questions, video notes, and a leader's guide. An individual access code to stream all five video sessions online. And the physical DVD. Sessions and video lengths: Know Your Enemy (17:56) Overcoming the Attack on Your Faith (16:40) Resisting the Attack on Love (18:27) Pressing Through the Attack on Your Calling (19:18) Fighting Through the Attack on Prayer (20:09) Watch on any device! Streaming video access code included. Access code subject to expiration after 12/31/2026. Code may be redeemed only by the recipient of this package. Code may not be transferred or sold separately from this package. Internet connection required. Eligible only on retail purchases inside the United States. Void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Additional offer details inside.

When Robin Oake's son, Special Branch officer Stephen, was killed by a terrorist while on duty, a press conference was called. A journalist asked, 'Mr Oake, what do you think about the man who killed your son?' and received a startling reply: 'I don't know the man or the circumstances but from my heart I forgive him.' Another journalist said, 'What? ' and our response may be the same. But in this powerful and moving book, Robin shares his story and the reasons for his amazing forgiveness. Using examples from his long experience in the police he explores the 'why' and 'how' of forgiveness - even in extreme circumstances.

This Design for Discipleship Bible study leader's guide for the revised DFD series provides the information needed to conduct a successful Bible study on sharing the essential truths of discipleship with others.

Do you have the courage...the faith...the fire?
Loving the world like God does involves extreme sacrifice. Living the passionate, courageous life Jesus challenged us all to live also has radical effects, demonstrated in these 366 true accounts of fellow believers from around the world:
A Christian claims the names of God at knifepoint-- and lives to tell about it . . .
Prayer revives a coma victim, in defiance of village witch doctors . . .
A former Muslim finds forgiveness in the Jesus she denied . . .
Prayerwalking college students lay a foundation for spiritual revival in West Africa . . .
If you're bored with your comfort-fit Christianity, if you're ready for God to shake you awake, then take the challenge. Find out in these pages what on earth God is doing in your generation . . .and discover your role in making a difference in the world.

After posting selfies in her Sunday best for fifty-two consecutive weeks during the pandemic, octogenarian Dr. La Verne Ford Wimberly became a viral sensation during Easter 2021, appearing everywhere from the Washington Post to CNN to Fox News. "People from all over the world have said my Sunday selfies and words of encouragement have blessed and inspired them. Who would have thought photos of an eighty-two-year-old church lady in a hat and Bible verses could do such a thing?" On March 29, 2020, when her church switched to online services because of coronavirus, Dr. La Verne Ford Wimberly couldn't imagine watching the service in her robe. So, she did what she's always done; she put on a beautiful outfit, matching hat, and accessories and got ready for church. Dr. Wimberly, a self-declared social media junkie, thought "it would be fun to snap a selfie and post it on Facebook with a scripture verse and an inspirational message. I'd let folks know I was ready for worship and encourage them to do the same. This was my way to brighten their spirits--and mine--and stay connected during a time of sudden isolation and despair for many people." Underneath her "crown" and church finery is a wise, warm, and witty octogenarian who's still committed to the same values she learned in childhood: faith in God and country, devotion to family, keeping a positive attitude, a life of service, thinking before you act, living life to the fullest, and the golden rule. As a career educator who faithfully and lovingly served students, their families, and her community for decades, encouraging and uplifting others is part of Dr. Wimberly's DNA. In My Sunday Best, you'll be cheered by the stories and lessons from a life well-lived and find yourself asking, How can I inspire someone today and encourage myself too?

Stunning on its own or paired with The Passion Translation New Testament (Peony design), this beautiful journal gives you the opportunity to study the Scriptures in more depth and express your thoughts in the space provided. Be encouraged and refreshed as you spend time pondering God's Word! Key Features: - Removable half-jacket - Beautifully designed end-sheets - Perfect gift for communion, confirmation, Easter, and more. - Binding: Imitation Leather - Pages: 160 - Publisher: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC - Faux leather - High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. - Heat debossing - Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its colour, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. - Smythe-sewn binding - This high-quality sturdy binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the binding. - Interior paper - This uncoated, wood-free paper is of premium quality and thickness, allowing you to capture your thoughts and plans without concern of ink bleed-through. - Elastic band - The coordinating elastic band ensures this book remains securely closed, keeping your secrets safe inside. - Ribbon marker - A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off. - Pocket - A stylish, sturdy interior pocket helps keep important items secure and hidden. - Size - This journal is the ideal size for carrying with you while also being large enough to creatively capture your thoughts and plans for the future.

Do you find it easier to face the day when you know God is with you? Max Lucado believes it is! In God Is With You Every Day, Max uses his signature reassuring and encouraging voice, paired with practical, relevant, and personal messaging, to remind you that God is with you every day. This 365-day devotional begins each week with a prayer and scripture, followed by six days of devotions and scripture for reflection. Weaving messages of comfort, grace, and encouragement, this book is wonderful for: Anyone who wants a fresh infusion of faith to start each day Those walking through difficult seasons of life such as loneliness, grief, or change People in need of courage to face each day God Is With You Every Day makes a great: Self-purchase for those needing an extra pick-me-up or Max Lucado fans Inspirational gift for friends and family walking through a tough season, experiencing loss, or overwhelmed by life's challenges

Jesus Will Show You the Way Forward Today's headlines shout of modern plagues, social tensions, economic crises, and rampant depression. Many are asking, "What day is it on God's prophetic calendar?" Trusted Bible teacher and pastor Dr. David Jeremiah answers this question by opening up the Word of God to reveal what it has to say about the days in which we are living and offer hope to believers. In this ten-lesson accompanying study guide, Dr. Jeremiah deals with ten prophetic issues as current as the morning news. You will thread your way through problems that Jesus predicted-precursors of the Tribulation-and learn what steps you should take to navigate them. Even as the world collapses, you can be sure that the Lord is building His Church! You can say something, do something, pray something, preach something, and live by the convictions of Christ. Each lesson includes: An outline of the main subjects and Scriptures covered during the lesson. An overview of Dr. Jeremiah's teaching on the topic being studied. Application questions to help both individuals and small groups delve into the content and the Bible. A Did You Know? Section that adds a point of interest to the lesson. This is no time to be discouraged. Your risen and exalted Lord Jesus Christ-your enthroned Savior-knows the way forward. He will show you where to go from here.

"God Tells the Man Who Cares" is a book compiled by Anita Bailey of A.W. Tozer's editorials in the Alliance Life and Alliance Weekly magazine. The book starts in the beginning chapters with Tozer bluntly stating that "God has nothing to say to the frivolous man." This sentiment is carried on through the remaining chapters as Tozer urges the believer to be vigilant in his pursuit of God's voice in his life. A.W. Tozer reminds the Christian that stillness and meditation on the Spirit of God may be more spiritually profitable than the front of religion that is so prevalent in modern society. Stillness is the quality that is so often lost in the business of today's world. To be still and know that He is God is an old truth that is much quoted but rarely lived. Tozer's convicting voice will bring you to a new and humbling place in your relationship with the Lord. He invites you to lay your emotions at His feet. This book provides insight into the true nature of a servant's heart. Tozer examines many of the aspects of institutionalized Christianity and renews their worth, never allowing the service of God to become an artificial religion. This, he says, "is a disease of the soul, and can only be healed by the Physician of souls."

Share God's wonderful promises and timeless truths with even the youngest child through "Blessings Every Day." These simple devotions are written in a light, upbeat style that connects with the young child's experiences, and are further highlighted by short, whimsical rhyming poems or prayers.

El pastor Levi Lusko revela su lucha personal con la ansiedad, los pensamientos negativos y la duda de si mismo, y ofrece ayuda biblica a los lectores que libran sus propias batallas internas. En los deportes y en la guerra, los atletas y los soldados deben esforzarse por tener una ventaja mental para lidiar con exito con todo lo que encuentra. En tanto que el exito para ambos se define tipicamente como vencer a sus respectivos oponentes, la realidad es que su victoria nunca puede producirse a menos que primero ganen sus batallas internas. Yo declaro la guerra es una guia practica, para librar nuestra guerra interna, el conflicto contra el pecado que nos quebranta y llena nuestra vida de dolor y sufrimiento, y nos hace sentir a su vez debiles e ineptos. Con relatos personales de sus propias luchas con los terrores nocturnos, la ansiedad, el narcisismo y la duda respecto a si mismo, el pastor Levi dirige a los lectores a la esperanza y el poder que ofrece Dios en su palabra. Desde corredores de acciones, a mamas de futbolistas, a patinadores y hermanas de fraternidades, Yo declaro la guerra es para todo el que lucha contra la depresion, el temor, la ansiedad, el suicidio, los pensamientos negativos, la adiccion, la lujuria, el orgullo, los celos, el resentimiento, el abuso, la ira, la duda respecto a si mismo, los desordenes alimenticios, y/o las relaciones codependientes. El pastor Levi no ofrece una cura rapida ni una vida perfecta si se siguen los pasos prescritos, sino que mas bien ayuda a guiar a los lectores a como pensar correctamente a fin de que puedan vivir correctamente.

Doctors removed Jake Olson's left eye at ten months old. When he was twelve, after years of radiation and chemotherapy, the cancer took his right eye as well. That's when Jake's story really began.

When ESPN met Jake Olson, he was a twelve-year-old boy who wanted to spend his final weeks of sight with the USC football team. Jake's story became one of the most recognized pieces in the network's history, earning an award, instantly viewed by hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. But Jake's story didn't end with his final surgery or with ESPN--not by a long shot.

Now sixteen, Jake Olson dreams of becoming the first blind golfer in the PGA. How is such a thing even possible? How does that level of perseverance endure in someone with so many reasons to give up?

In "Open Your Eyes," Jake Olson tells more than his story. He reveals the ways of thinking, living, and praying that have kept him and his family triumphant in the face of their tribulations. Told with sincerity and humor in tandem with leadership coach McKay Christensen, "Open Your Eyes" is not just a heartwarming chronicle of the Olson family's struggle. Jake's story is a step-by-step lesson in perseverance and motivation from a young man who knows how to put the past in the past.From the USC locker room to the fairways of Pebble Beach, Jake Olson will inspire you, your family, and your team with bravery, ability, and faith. It is time to learn from this remarkable young man and open your eyes to a happier life.

In this 365-day devotional, trusted pastor Dr. Charles F. Stanley offers us assurance, comfort, and boldness in our relationship with Christ. How can we rest in the truth that God has a purpose for us--a purpose He promises to fulfill? How can we know we are following God's good and perfect will? In God's Purpose for Your Life, Dr. Charles F. Stanley shows us that God's plans for each of us are even more wonderful than we can imagine. Throughout this yearlong devotional, you will feel empowered to make godly goals and joyfully obey God's Word in all circumstances. Each day offers a Scripture reading, a thoughtful application from Dr. Stanley, and a brief prayer. Whether in a season of fruitfulness or a season of drought, you will love Dr. Stanley's wise, inspiring teaching as you discover day by day what it means to live a life of purpose.