Review of God Never Gives Up on You - December 2023

 God Never Gives up on You

by Max Lucado

Reviewed by Pat Beaty

In his usual conversational tone, the author demonstrates the truth of the book's title by utilizing the story of Jacob and Esau in the Old Testament. "Like (Jacob), our spiritual walk follows a crooked path...our failures are great, but God's grace is greater." The reader will find much more of himself in this work. We are all flawed.

In this typical Lucado effort, you may find yourself. The language of the book is enjoyable. One of the author's usual inserts, aside from the main topic of this book, is a section on prayer. The reader may find this not only interesting but helpful. I recommend that you read this.

Happy reading, Pat

Review of Shepherds Abiding - October 2023

Review of 

Shepherds Abiding

(A Christmas Story)

By: Jan Karon

Review by: Pat Beaty

In this book, some of the characters speak with an Appalachian dialect and it makes it interesting to read.

It’s the story of a little town named Mitford - full of unique and interesting characters that sometimes remind one of people one knows.

There are several interactions between local characters and the author and one should find this fascinating. (Please note that the local Father, who might be called the protagonist, is not a relative but a Reverend.)

One caution I urge you to observe is please do not read the ending of this book first - the surprise and joy will be worth the wait.

Many of you who love to read are already familiar with the Mitford series. It is felt that you will enjoy this one as much or more.

Happy Reading!

Pat

For other reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.net

Review of Safe in the Shepherd’s Arms by Max Lucado

Safe in the Shepherd’s Arms

By Max Lucado

Book reviewed by 

Pat Beaty

When I picked up this book, it immediately took me back to when I first heard of the Lord as a child at a small church in Shawanee, Tennessee. We lived with my Grandma Lula and attended Shawanee Methodist Church. The church was an old wooden building that could hold 25 people and my daddy led the choir. 

There I was taught that the Lord is my shepherd and this book illustrates that as it points out the many times in the Bible, both in the old and new testaments, that God is mentioned as the shepherd and we as his sheep. Despite its small size, his book was remarkable and I strongly recommend that you read it. 

Happy Reading, Pat

For more reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.com

June 2023

Review of Too Busy Not to Pray (Slowing Down to Be with God) - February 2023

 Too Busy Not to Pray (Slowing Down to Be with God)

By Bill Hybels

Reviewed by PatBeaty

This book is talking entirely about prayer. However, this does not lessen the clear messages that the author wants us to receive. He appears to discuss almost every facet of prayer and discusses them in an open and understandable fashion. The reader will not only benefit from the author’s discussion of these facets but he will be able to use them in his own growth as a Christian. 

This book has impressed me a great deal and I readily urge you to read it. 

Happy Reading, Pat

For more reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.com

Review of Surprised by Suffering - December 2022

 Surprised by Suffering

By R.C. Sproul

Reviewed by: Pat Beaty

I was “surprised” at how much I enjoyed this beautifully written book. I shouldn’t have been because Rev. Sproul is a popular Christian author. The book contains the names of many recognized figures who suffered for the faith. This book covers a large area of study but “no one's teaching on the subject to life after death exceeds that of Jesus of Nazereth.”

Please do not avoid Appendix A: “Questions and Answers on Death and the AFterlife.” It is hoped that you will read this fascinating work. It is a wonderful endeavor.

Happy Reading, Pat

For more reviews, go to PatBeaty.blogspot.net.

Review of You Were Made for Love - October 2022

You Were Made for Love (Embracing the Life You Were Meant to Live) 

October 2022

review by: Pat Beaty

Don’t you just want to be loved? Did you know being loved is critical? Does anyone really love you? Don’t you want to know the answers to these questions? You must read this book!

“You and I were made for love. God created us with a deep need to be loved as well as a tremendous capacity to give love. We function best, live most happily, experience the greatest satisfaction when we know we are loved… why is it then, that so few of us ever do?”

This book does a great job answering this vital question as well as many others. The ones that were intriguing to me were: who is God? Why did he choose to make us? It’s not because he was lonely and needed us. And how can we relate with the God who is love?

This reviewer was impressed by how uplifting the work is. This book is very helpful as a reference resource on God’s transformational unconditional love and is highly recommended as a resource for every Christian. This book, besides being enjoyable, is felt to be a wonderful contribution to our Christian heritage.

Happy Reading! Pat 

Four more reviews go to Pat beaty.blogspot.com

Review of Traveling Light - June 2022

Traveling Light (Releasing the Burdens You Were Never Intended to Bear)

by Max Lucado

Review by Pat Beaty

This book is beautiful, and its beauty comes from the 23rd Psalm on which it is loosely based. Max Lucado masterfully takes each phrase of the beloved Psalm and uses it to help us understand why we don't have to carry so many burdens. We can travel light. The Shepherd watches over us (the Lord is our shepherd) and He provides for us (I shall not want) and so on.

One thing that stood out to this reader is the idea that we must be careful not to carry the baggage we don't need. Examples of this excess baggage are the burden of self-reliance, the burden of a lesser God, of weariness, worry, the grave, loneliness, shame, doubt, and homesickness (for heaven).

In summary, "The lesson is this: Meet today's problems with today's strength. Don't start tackling tomorrow's problems until tomorrow. You don't have tomorrow's strength yet. But you do have enough for today."

Happy Reading, Pat

For more reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.net.

Review of The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers - April 2022

 Gentle and Lowly

The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers

by Dane Ortlund

Reviewed by Pat Beaty

If you are a Christian, you will be surprised and delighted with what you find in this book. It is about the glory of the character of Christ. The author explains, "The heart drives all that we do. It is who we are." Can you imagine anyone running out of appropriate adjectives and descriptive phrases in his characterization of our savior? No, neither can I and the writer is quite accurate and biblical as he informs his readers of the beautiful acts and mannerisms of our beloved Son of God. 

The author also refers consistently tot he Holy Word, and he mentions the names and, often, the accomplishments of past Christian leaders as he defines our savior's heart.

There is so much in this writer's picture of Christ that the reader will be astonished, as was I, as he peruses this page. This I promise you.

Happy Reading, 

Pat

For more reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.com

Review of "Does Prayer Change Things?" by R.C. Sproul

Does Prayer Change Things?

A Booklet by R.C. Sproul

Reviewed by Pat Beaty

This booklet, although small, has six chapters and boy, are they impressive reading. From the Place of Prayer, the author's first chapter, to the Power of Prayer, the final chapter, this essay is dynamic to Christian readers. The booklet is chock-ful of examples of how prayer changes things. The reader will find this beautiful offering quite comprehensive and erudite and yet easy to understand. One reader tells me that her fondness for this work is derived from how the author goes phrase by phrase through the Lord's Prayer and applies it to our prayer life. It also helps her to understand how prayer is so intimately vital to her relationship with her God. 

The author recounts endless examples of how people prayed in the Bible and how they were positively and negatively answered. "Prayer, like everything in the Christian life, is for God's glory and for our benefit, in that order."

You will benefit from reading this booklet! Prayer changes things.

Happy Reading, Pat

Previous reviews can be read at patbeaty.blogspot.com

February 2022

Review of How to Finish the Christian Life

How to Finish the Christian Life

Following Jesus in the Second Half

by Donald W. Sweeting and George Sweeting

Reviewed by Pat Beaty

First, it is felt that my remarks should begin with an open admission: There is no way that this book can be adequately described without your actually reading it. Yes, it is actually that impressive! Whatever your faith or background is, this book will help you go through the second half of your life as an effective, growing Christian.

Okay, you have decided you will read it. The first thing you must do is read the introduction. This is absolutely necessary. In it they give their backgrounds as they share the fact that they are father and son. The son convinced his father that this topic was a missing piece in today's Christian literature. The authors cover many of the crucial issues that we encounter in this time of our lives and it is felt that the book will improve your perspective on this portion of existence as a Christian.

This book impressed me so much that I strongly urge you to read it.

Happy Reading, Pat

For more reviews go to patbeaty.blogspot.com

December 2021

Review of Mess-i-ology by George Verwer

 Mess-i-ology

(The Mystery of How God Words Even When It Doesn't Make Sense to Us)

By George Verwer

Reviewed by Pat Beaty

"Put simply, messiology is the idea that God, in his patience, mercy and passion to bring men and women to himself, often does great things in the midst of a mess." The autho0r explains this term more fully and in more detail as you read on in this wide-ranging and thoughtful book. You, the reader, will recognize immediately that this essay is a personal account of much of this missionary's successes and failures in h is life as a missionary.

The whimsical titles of the chapters of this book are intriguing, and contain surprisingly deep insights. The chapter titles include "Fire Extinguishers, Books, and Proverbs", "The Church, Missions, and Hollywood", "Moaners, Complainers and Negative Thinkers," and "If You Don't Want to Get Hurt, Don't Play Rugby" and other creative headings.

It is felt that the overriding theme of this work is that God is able. "For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen." Romans 11:36

It is felt that you will benefit greatly from reading this book.

For more reviews by Pat, go to patbeaty.blogspot.net.

November 2021

Review of The Church in Babylon by Erwin Lutzer

 The Church in Babylon

(Heeding the Call to Be a Light in the Darkness)

by Erwin W. Lutzer

Review by Pat Beaty

Readers, as you begin your journey through this excellent book, I want to encourage you to start your trip by reading the endorsements under "Praise for The Church in Babylon". It is my promise that this will help you even more than you think as you read this thought provoking work. 

And please don't put this essay back on the shelf when you read that he is Pastor Emeritus of the Moody Bible Church in Chicago, where he has served for 35 years, and has a number of university degrees. You will be surprised at how much you agree with this noted Christian, and how much you agree with his outlook on today's society. 

Lutzer challenges us to grow in our understanding of social issues and calls us to love and share Christ with everyone. This is not only right but also righteous. Trust me, this book is wonderful and you will thoroughly concur with what he says. 

For more reviews by Pat Beaty, go to patbeaty.blogspot.net

Review of You Are Never Alone by Max Lucado

 You are never alone (Trust in the Miracle of God‘s Presence and Power) 

by Max Lucado

Reviewed by Pat Beaty 

The theme of this book is the title of this book. The authors intent is easily determined as the reader begins this work. You will be intrigued by the way the author expresses himself. Of course, if you are familiar with my previous reviews, you are aware that this essayist is, far and away, one of my favorite Christian writers. The author writes as if he was sitting beside you, as he conversationally explains what he wants to say.

For those of you who are prone to easily become discouraged you will find this work is filled with encouragement - and yes, joy. You will very easily discover why I am so delighted with it. This book is filled with references to the Holy Bible, as well as some personal comments that are fascinating. 

It is felt that you will be blessed if you read this book. 

Happy reading, Pat 

To access the names of other reviewed books by other Christian authors go to patbeaty.blogspot.net

June 2021

Review of Forgotten God - April 2021

 Forgotten God 

(Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit) 

by Francis Chan 

Review by Pat Beaty

Dear brother and sister in Christ, who or what do you picture in your mind when you think of the Holy Spirit? My reason for using the pronoun “what” will become obvious as you read through this remarkable book. The more accurate pronoun is “whom”. The author states that “without him people operate in their own strength and only accomplish human – size results.” 

I was surprised by how many times the Holy Spirit was mentioned in the Bible  - as noted by this writer. He gives the biblical quote and then explains it. A special part of this treatise is his highlighting of several Christian who exemplify lives filled with the spirit.

The final chapter is entitled the supernatural church. It details the fact that churches can make a difference only in the strength of the Holy Spirit. The Christian examples that this writer discusses are Francis Schaeffer, Joni Eareckson Tada, a Dave Phillips, Esther Ahn Kim, and others he knows more personally.

The Holy Spirit is God, as is the Father and the Son, and there is beauty in the authors description of the Spirit and his work in the Word of God. I highly recommend this book to you.

Happy Reading, Pat

For other reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.com 

Review of What is the Gospel?

What is the Gospel? 

by Greg Gilbert

Review by Pat Beaty. 

This book is small, almost tiny, in size but it contains more life-giving content than many volumes of much greater tomes. Christian reader, what is your answer to the question in the title of this book? One reviewer of this work has stated that the author “clearly answers the most important question ever asked.“ 

The book itself has numerous references to the Holy Bible, and the writer pronounces that “the local church is far more important to the Christian life than many Christians realize.” 

The reader will find numerous biblical references in the scripture index at the end of this wonderful essay, and you will be impressed by how often the gospel is described or referred to in the Bible’s wonderful books and pages. Finally, as I am certain you have guessed, it is strongly felt that you will benefit from reading this little essay, and its value will grow in your mind the further along it’s pages you go. 

Happy reading, Pat

For other reviews, go to: Patbeaty.blogspot.com

Review of Stages of the Soul

 Review of Stages of the Soul - God's Invitation to Greater Love by Nancy Kane

Reviewed by: Pat Beaty

Dear Christian: How far along are you in your journey to mature in Christ? This book is a beautifully written multi-faceted attempt to illustrate this glorious venture in five stages (steps). The stages represent periods of time in a Christian's lifelong effort to be transformed into who Christ wants them to be. She describes the many hurdles a believer has to cross and the many times we fail in this lengthy journey but emphasizes that the goal is worth all the pain and suffering.

The author is careful to include in this essay multiple references and quotations from the Holy Bible as well as appropriate events from notable other writers and educators to illustrate the points she makes - and you will find that what she says is accurate and believable.  (I feel that I must mention here that Mrs. Kane's writing even caused me to pause during my reading and think back to my own stages of the soul). 

You will most certainly find that reading this book will be a most wonderful and compelling experience; and, believe me, it is crying out for a place on your bookshelf.

Happy Reading!

Pat Beaty

For more reviews, check out patbeaty.blogspot.com.

December 2020

Review of What They Meant for Evil

What They Meant for Evil

By Rebecca Deng with Ginger Kolbaba

Reviewed by Pat Beaty

Have you heard of the lost boys of Sudan? This book was written by a lost girl of Sudan. It is an autobiography by a woman who spent most of her life in fear; but also in prayer. Many people and organizations have praised this author and her book, but my reaction to much of it was a memory of my parents’ and family’s love and kindness to me when I was a small child. The love they, and God, engendered in me is very much like her reaction to her experiences in her own family circle. However, hers became dramatically different as she began to grow up.

This treatise is her story of her own experiences of deep love and heartbreaking sorrow, as well as relentless personal trials that ended in bright hope and personal victory over evil and fear.  Readers will applaud her and wonder at all she endured, but it is evident that the real victor of this tale is God, who was present in every moment of her life.

You, the reader, will find yourself involved in every portion of her journey. You will be transplanted in your imagination to the small village where she grew up and into the frightening happenings in which she was involved. This author acknowledges that she is a Christian and that God has been with her continually throughout her eventful life.

Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!

Pat 

For more reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.com 

Review of: God's Grace in Your Suffering

God's Grace in Your Suffering

by David Powlison

Reviewed by Pat Beaty

A pastor whom we all know and love lent this book to me, and I knew it was going to be good because he told me he had put his name in it and wanted it back! I'm uncertain if I have overused these adverbs in the past in my zeal to get you to read books that I endorse, but here goes: I most “wholeheartedly” and “enthusiastically” recommend this book to you. It is hoped that you will not only read it, but that you will place it on your shelf for later re-reading. It is indeed impressive.

This book shows that God is at work even when life is hard and that God's grace is always available to us. The author uses Scripture, stories and the words of the hymn “How Firm a Foundation” to remind us of God's presence and faithfulness. He “brings an experienced counselor's touch to exploring how God enters into our suffering, helping us see God working in our own particular struggles...”

This remarkable book is both well-written and well worth your time. My hope is that this book will gove you the joy it has given me.

Happy Reading!

Pat

For other reviews go to Patbeaty.blogspot.com.

August 22, 2020

Review of Betrayed by Stan Telchin

Reviewed by 

Pat Beaty

The story you read in this brief book of 139 pages is delightfully written, but it as a serious undertone. I will admit that I giggled and laughed at various places throughout my reading, but a good amount of this was due to the joy I felt at the real happiness of the happenings.

The plot concerns a Jewish father, mother and two daughters. The action of this very action packed book begins when one of the author's daughters arrives home on a break from college and announces she has come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah. The title of the book becomes clear when the father-author announces to himself, "I've been betrayed! And by one of my own children!" From this point on, the script takes on activity and movement almost on its own - or so it seems.

To his credit, the father begins to read and study Jewish and Christian history as well as Biblical accounts of Jesus, as he strives to discover the truth. The reader will enjoy his accounts of his own and his wife's background as well as his descriptive feelings and mental wanderings.  He is so tense and nervous at first that he isn't sure who to ask, what to think, or what to do! However, in his frantic search for answers, he reads the prophecies and finally comes to a decision.  In the meantime, Mrs. Telchin and their other daughter have come to a decision themselves. 

In my hope that you will read this well-written and thought provoking story, I am hesitant to tell you the ending. 

Just a hint: Be certain that you read "A Look at Some Prophecies" at the end of this work. You will find it fascinating.

Happy Reading, 

Pat

For other reviews, go to patbeaty.blogspot.com. 

Review of The Biggest Lie in the History of Christianity by Matthew Kelly

The Biggest Lie in the History of Christianity

By Matthew Kelly

Review by Pat Beaty

Comprised of 114 pages, this work is hardly the "biggest" one on any reader's shelves. However, our Lord is God of truth and beauty and both of these words continuously came to my mind as I read this riveting book. It is strongly felt that your reaction will be identical as you peruse the pages of this unusual work.

This author meets you, the reader, "where you live". In other words, not only does his conclusions on the subject of one's personal Christianity make sense, it also makes one aware of his own version of himself. For instance, he says, "the thing is, our deep yearning isn't for momentary pleasures; it is for lasting happiness in a changing world...we cannot control every situation."  He goes on to talk about "Holy Moments" which is the actual theme of this writing. It is not about he time you spend in the sanctuary of the church. It is the multiple times that occur to you or that you incur every single day. For instance, it is the little things we do for people, often strangers, every day that do not require a lot of effort on our part but which really assist the other person and further Christianity.

It is felt at this point, that we should point you toward the answer to the question you had when you first read the title above. It is: Holiness is Impossible. "Transforming people one at a time is at the heart of God's plan for the world."

Happy Reading, Pat