BOOK REVIEW: WHY SALLY CAN'T PREACH by Jacob Tanner

 WHY SALLY CAN’T PREACH by Jacob Tanner a book I purchased because I do not believe women should hold positions of authority in the church and a Pastor that I listen to recommended it. The bottom line: I do not recommend this book despite my decision to not read the entire book. 

1 Corinthians 15:11 (KJV) 

11  Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. 

Why did I not like the book? Let’s begin with the title and go over two definitions: can’t and preach. 

CAN’T- “can’t is a contraction of two terms can and not, can being a verb and not an adverb; it indicates an inability too

PREACH- The term “preach” is a verb and it means to proclaim.

The title of this book indicates that Sally is unable to proclaim. Yes I am being technical because his book is an attempt at being technical. Unless, Sally is a mute she is able to proclaim the word thus the title of the book becomes an indication of the tone in which this author will take. 

This book is ONLY 89 pages yet I struggled to read much of it. I read his statements and biblical justifications and then had to retreat and pray. 

At the end of chapter one on page 30, the author states: “Woman has a rank.” Are we talking about a home, a church or the military? He added: “Man has a rank” and he determines that the ranks were given by God. 

I skimmed through a few more pages and gave myself permission to stop reading this foolishness.

I believe that women should not have positions of leadership in the church and believe this is God’s way of establishing order in the church. He, God the Father, also set Jesus as the Head of the Church not man, yet he washed the feet of His disciples. The church is not about rank but purpose; the home is not about rank but maintaining order.

 If a woman stands in the pulpit and proclaims God’s word is up to the church, you don’t need a title to speak the truth. If a man wants to listen to a woman, that is his business. Yes, I believe Scripture is clear about men and their positions in church however to ignore the fact that there were many women of influence in the old and new Covenants and declare them to complete silence, except in taking care of children and talking to other women, is a misrepresentation of the word. 

Sally can preach if she wants to she does not need to be a Pastor, Bishop, or Elder to do so. If Sally’s husband says it is OK, and her church leader says it is OK, then Sally can stand at the pulpit and proclaim God’s word. She is still under authority and that is what, I believe, Scripture requires. 

Judges 4:4-6 (KJV) 

4  And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time. 

5  And she dwelt under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in mount Ephraim: and the children of Israel came up to her for judgment. 

6  And she sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedeshnaphtali, and said unto him, Hath not the LORD God of Israel commanded, saying, Go and draw toward mount Tabor, and take with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun? 

NOTE: Years ago I read this book entitled: Ten Lies the Church Tells Women, I wouldn’t recommend that one either. 

Written by Marsha L Floyd

BOOK REVIEW: SPURGEON AND THE PSALMS published by Thomas Nelson

 

Charles Spurgeon was a Preacher born in the United Kingdom (1834 to 1892). He was known as the Prince of Preachers.

Of his many sermons, he tackled the Book of Psalms, one by one.These messages were included in written form, in the periodical entitled: “The Sword and the Trowel” over a twenty year period. “THE TREASURY OF DAY is the compilation of these periodicals which is now classified as a commentary, seven volumes total, with the last book completed around 1886.

Thomas Nelson has extracted parts of Mr. Spurgeons works in SPURGEON AND THE PSALMS as part of the Thomas Nelson Maclaren Series.  Subtitled: “The Book of Psalms with Devotions from Charles Spurgeon”. 

I loved the presentation of the book. I received a complimentary copy (yes, I give honest reviews) that has a beautiful black leathersoft (TM)  cover. Presented in a classy red and black enclosure (form fitting box that allows the book to slide out of the top. It is giftable- I made up a word! The marketable features include: space for you to write your thoughts and readable font.

So, what do I think of it?  I am sure Spurgeon preached from the King James Bible and this book uses the New King James, a plus for some, a big disappointment for me.

Another personal quirk about this book: The note section is in the back and if I was going to take notes: 1) I would prefer the space be near the chapter and 2) it would not be enough pages.  

Admittedly, I did not read every Psalm, I picked 3. I read Psalm 23, 119 (my favorite) and 103. Each meditation I liked. I actually checked out Spurgeon’s actual commentary on Psalm 119 and it was very extensive- I did not read it all. The exert utilize as a devotional was, in my opinion appropriate and  profound. 

“Doctrines that we teach to others we should experience for ourselves.” 

The big question is: Would I purchase this book for myself? No.

Would I purchase this book as a gift? Yes.

I like Spurgeon and I do think this is a great tool to use if you are studying the Psalms. I am a King James fan, and would lead to having the King James version of the Bible to coincide with Spurgeons comments.  Had Thomas Nelson used the KJV I may have purchased it. As it is, I think this will be one of my give aways- I said may be! I may keep it!!!

     Written by Marsha L Floyd.

WATER FOR THE ROSE by Wayne Luthi

 I had to think about this seventy-seven page book of poetry, WATER FOR THE ROSE by Wayne Luthi. I actually read most of it over 2 weeks ago and enjoyed it. My notes were more than words but, I thought it would be unfair to the reader because this book of poems is meant to be savored not devoured. Thus I took a pause and revisited the poems, from the lens of a poetry lover and not a book reviewer.

WATER FOR THE ROSE is a collection of introspective poems that is better appreciated in the calm of the day and not the hustle and bustle of life. Don’t read it on your way to work, read at the end of your day with a nice beverage. 

The poems are emotion driven. A friend and I read one poem together, “walk with me together” - what a unique experience. This one poem lead to a discussion about relationships. 

The poems in the book WATER FOR THE ROSE are thought provoking, eclectic, and sensual. These poems appeal to the essence of the reader thus they are subject to interpretation.  The poems are conversational, perfect for a book club. It is also great book to read out loud if you are lounging on the beach with a friend, listening to jazz and drinking wine. 

My autograph copy of WATER FOR THE ROSE by Wayne Luthi would be sitting on my coffee table if I had one but because I don’t it will be on my book shelf in a place with all of the other books I recommend.

   Written by Marsha L Floyd 

LOSING IKE TO GOD and How God Comforted Us by Indira Onwuzurike

 

This is a very easy to read biography/ semi-autobiographical book which celebrates the life of a young man who died at the age of 18. It is 360 pages with mostly words from those who were impacted, positively, by the young man known as Ike, pronounced Ee-kay.   Ikechukwu was the first born child to Nigerian parents who lived in Michigan, he loved the Lord God and lived his life accordingly.

Unlike most biographies or autobiographies this book reads more like a testimonial than a from life to death story. It begins shortly before his mother learned of her son's death which leads to her responses, which included prayer, and emotions. I would say about 70%, more or less, of the book is testimonials of others and there are quite a few pictures. 

It is important to note that the family has created a foundation on behalf of their son WWID Foundation, The monies earned from the sell of this book go directly to the non-profit charitable organization. 

I admit to skipping over much of the testimonials, which is how I read the book in a day and absorbing the biographical part. I was very much interested in how this mother endured the sudden loss of her first born child.  Her emotions were pure and detailed, as a mother who lost a child from a terminal illness I cannot imagine losing such a gift at such a blessed time- high school graduation. Yes, I cried.

THIS IS NOT A BOOK TO PURCHASE FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS LOST A CHILD RECENTLY. I feel this warning is important. As I stated above, my son died at the age of 28 but, he had a terminal illness and I was able to prepare for his death. I cannot imagine someone just loosing a child and someone handing this book to them- it will not help. BUY THE BOOK TO SUPPORT THE FOUNDATION and if a grieving parent wants to read it after seeing your copy by one at that time.

I would suggest that this is a good book to read as a church leader, grief counselor or support person for someone who has lost a loved one. 

The one thing, as a Christian, I did not like is the title: We do not lose our children to God. My son graduated from earth to eternity and will always be a part of my life; he is not lost, I will join him again someday.

written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review. 

JACKSONVILLE JUDAS by Sue Andrews

 I will start by saying: It wasn’t who I thought it was! JACKSONVILLE JUDAS  a novel by Sue Andrews is a great murder mystery. That is really all you need to know. But because Amazon likes reviews to be more than 50 words and most reviewers like at least 200 words. Let me elaborate...

In order for a murder mystery to capture the attention of the reader the first few pages absolutely must capture your attention- JACKSONVILLE JUDAS does. Next the reader must develop an emotional attachment to one of the characters and a disdain for another- it does and I did. 

A good murder mystery must appeal to a persons curiosity. The reader has to start telling the characters where to go and where not to go. The reader has to become suspicious of everybody- trust no one! And finally, the reader must know “who done it” anxiously reading to confirm his or her suspicions. As I said: I was wrong! 

I need to brush up on my murder mysteries. This book is an easy read, my complimentary print copy was 270 pages- just enough for a weekend novel. I know you will enjoy this book, I am letting my daughter read my “signed” copy but I am getting it back!  Happy reading!

                                     Written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have done so. #OutskirtsPress 

JOURNEY INTO WHOLENESS by Bob Searle

 My first impression of JOURNEY INTO WHOLENESS by Bob Searle: This is a compilation of ideas from other individuals to validate a personal opinion. My conclusion after reading this: Let me tell you about the book first.

 In his introduction the first sentence reads as follows: “Recognizing, understanding, and responding to spiritual movements within one’s life can cause disappointment, discouragement and despair.” I ‘think’ would he means is: Life sucks sometimes and the sooner we realize that the better we will be able to cope. That first sentence accurately, in my opinion, reveals the tone of this entire 34 page booklet (I received a PDF copy). 

If that sentence does not motivate you to want to read this book then try the chapter titles: “The Classical Way of Faith”, “Desolation and Consolation”, “Dark Night of Sense and Spirit”, “Depression”, “Spiritual Direction” and “Conclusion.”  The booklet, which actually ends on page 27,  also contains 2 appendixes and a bibliography. 

I am sure the author shared the purpose of his writings but it got lost in my mind somewhere between Chapter 4 where he sited the ideology of Stanley W Jackson and Chapter 5. On page 21 of chapter 5 he advises pastors/ chaplains the following: “While a working knowledge of depression can help the pastor/ chaplain, he/she needs to reclaim his/her “art of arts” of spiritual direction practiced throughout the centuries.” 

Perhaps if you are a free spirited, ideological intellectual you might love this book. If you love Bible based teachings on life, you will definitely hate it. 

Many words of this 21 page booklet are dedicated to the thoughts of other individuals. Which lead me to conclude: If you suffer from depression, do not read this book. 

Note: According to Amazon this book is 46 pages, it is not. Unless you count the cover pages, the blank pages, the table of contents and such. 

                                                               Written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have done so. #OutskirtsPress 

OH TO BE 108 AGAIN by James K Wagner

 

It has been a while since I agreed to read a book from a independent / self published author and “OH, TO BE 108 AGAIN” by James K Wagner was worth the wait and the risk. 

Years ago my nephew asked my grandmother, his great grandmother, on her 100th birthday: “Grandma, what did you do to live so long?” Her response was simple: “I loved the Lord and I minded my business.” This was true. 

So what does this story have to do with the book OH, TO BE 108 AGAIN? It’s just my way of introducing the wisdom found in this book which is a compilation of wisdom one finds among the elderly. In particular, it is the wisdom accumulated by James K Wagner, Minister and author who lives in a retirement community and interacts with men and women of various ages.

I recommend this book to everyone, I wish young people would read it. I would suggest anyone who has a book club read this and take your time discussing each chapter and contemplating the questions at the end.

The 175 page book, (my complimentary copy is a paperback) contains 15 chapters, 4 appendixes, notes, and recommended reading. Each chapter is introduced with an introductory quote, a question, followed by words of reflection and concludes with questions to consider. For the serious student of thought there are bullet points within the chapter.

For those weary of expert theological opinions, presented by best selling Bible teachers, this is not like that. I stopped reviewing “Christian” books because they were more opinion than theology, my opinion. The Christian aspects, which I believe are the foundation of the authors writings, are present but not in your face, thus a non-Believer could read and appreciate this book.

I am going to read OH, TO BE 108 AGAIN, this time for my own personal enrichment. As a rule I read a book quickly in order to get the book up in a timely fashion. I can see me reading one chapter at a time, one week at a time so that I can ponder the wisdom found. 

                    Written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have done so. #OutskirtsPress 

SEWING TO SELL by Virginia Lindsay

How do I sell locally and on line is the question, SEWING TO SELL by Virginia Lindsay has some of the answers. It is “The beginners guide to starting a craft business”, a book I purchased in 2019, glanced at in 2020 and am now taking seriously.

To date, I have given away more crafts than I have sold mainly because I make money in other ways. But making stuff cost and I do not have a credit card or an unlimited supply of money. I have been asked on more than one occasion by people willing to pay: Do you have a website? My answer has always been no.  So what does this book have to offer?

SEWING TO SELL talks mostly about what to make and how to make it. In the appendix is the administrative stuff like taxes and setting up a business but it is just an overview. 

This book simply gives the reader the encouragement to know that she can make money making things like grocery totes. The “but” is: you have to have an inventory. 

This book was exactly what I needed, an overview of selling what I make. I did not want a big 300+ page manual of setting up a business from beginning to the first customer- that would be overwhelming. Somethings you can just google. 

                                                                                                  Written by Marsh L F Randolph

This book is part of my personal reading library. The review is my honest unsolicited opinion.

GOD IS MY CEO by Larry Julian

 

If you are looking for Bible study material for business men and women then look no further than GOD IS MY CEO by Larry Julian. 

Originally published in 2001 I discovered this book when listening to a YouTuber who happened to mention it as a book he read for personal growth and development. 

GOD IS MY CEO- Following God’s Principles in a Bottom-Line World is a collection of anecdotal stories from successful business people on how their faith guided them. 

The chapters are entitled: Purpose, Success, courage, Patience, Leadership by Example, Yielding Control, Servant Leadership, Love, Priorities, and Redemption. The last chapter is: Timeless Wisdom from Twenty Leaders.

What makes this book suitable for Bible study is not just the chapter titles but what is within each chapter. The reader will be presented with: an issue, a solution, a conversation/ a few testimonies, and a conclusion. In addition there is a Discussion Guide. 

I appreciated this book and gave one to a business associated. I really believe that this book has a lot to teach even if you are not a Christian but especially if you are. In a time in which integrity seems to be optional it is good to know that integrity works. 

                                                            Written by Marsh L F Randolph

This book is part of my personal reading library. The review is my honest unsolicited opinion.

TRADITIONAL BAKING (THE FOSFIRE AMERICANA LIBRARY)

You only have to read one American  FOXFIRE series to become addicted, if you love the history of everyday Americans. I read TRADITIONAL BAKING (eBook) and I am looking for more. Apparently, there are all kinds of ways to obtain the knowledge in the series TRADITIONAL BAKING is part of a topical breakdown of these works.

Foxfire was/ is a high school program in Georgia dedicated to collecting the wisdom and knowledge of the elder members of the Appalachian culture. First published in 1970, the original series of books included 15 volumes. The topics include everything from cooking, natural health remedies, hunting, crafting, and other everyday activities.

I purchased this book because I have always been curious about the American culture as it pertains to everyday living. In addition, I want to learn how they cooked. 

The recipes are as detailed as you can get them if you were asking your grandmother or great grandmother: How do you make that? You get the ingredients but not oven temperatures or length of time to cook. 

This book dedicates a lot of space to the art of churning butter. Anyone who knows me knows that I see this as a challenge. I now want an old fashioned churner. 

FOXFIRE- TRADITIONAL BAKING barely took an hour for me to read. I spent a lot of time appreciating the pictures and imagining myself churning butter. 

                                      Written by Marsh L F Randolph

This book is part of my personal reading library. The review is my honest unsolicited opinion.

THE BOOK OF HOUSEHOLD MANAGEMENT by Mrs Isabella Mary Beeton

 If there was ever a book that needed to be on the best seller list but will not ever be it is THE BOOK OF HOUSEHOLD MANAGEMENT by Mrs Isabella Mary Beeton. It was first published in 1861, the fact that her marital status is acknowledge date the book.

Here is what the book promises to deliver: “Comprising information for the MISTRESS, HOUSEKEEPER, COOK, KITCHEN MAID, BUTLER, FOOTMAN, COACHMAN, VALET, UPPER AND UNDER HOUSE MAIDS, LADY’S MAID, MAID-OF-ALL WORK, LAUNDRY-MAID, NURSE AND NURSE MAID, MONTHLY, WET, AND SICK NURSES, ETC. ETC.

ALSO, SANITARY, MEDICAL, & LEGAL, MEMORANDA; WITH A HISTORY OF THE ORGIN, PROPERTIES, AND USES OF ALL THINGS CONNECTED WITH HOME LIFE AND COMFORT. BY MRS. ISABELLA BEETON” 

This book is no longer copyright protected, and I doubt if any woman or man would want to use it in their modern lifestyle motivation writings, was published by S. O. Beeton in 24 monthly parts between 1859-1861. Samuel Orchart Beeton was a publisher and husband to Mrs. Isabella. The British author reflects the priorities and protocols of a woman in that time.

As modern mankind moves further away from social etiquette I find myself seeking more of it. I appreciate old books that discuss household management, personal appearance and relationships. 

The wisdom shared back then would benefit many today. In terms of women getting together amongst themselves Mrs. Beeton writes: 

“IN CONVERSATION, TRIFLING OCCURRENCES, such as disappointments, petty annoyances, and other ever-day incidents, should never be mentioned to your friends.” 

In other words: don’t tell your friends your business!

As it relates to the household management, I don’t know anyone who has a “Footman” or a “Monthly Nurse” but we all have people who serve us. Bus drivers, urgent care nurses, fast food restaurant cashiers and so forth, we have expectations of these people and we should treat them with respect. Common courtesy is an ongoing theme for most of the books I read from this period, 1800’s. 

I know not everyone will read this book because they just don’t care but for the few that do there is plenty to learn from it. I have the FREE ebook version of THE BOOK OF HOUSEHOLD MANAGEMENT but you can purchase a print copy.

                                                                                        Written by Marsh L F Randolph

*This book is part of my personal reading library. The review is my honest unsolicited opinion.

IT'S TIME TO SUBSCRIBE!

As I discover more vintage books I will be sharing them Don't miss out. I do not post everything on Facebook!

THINGS MOTHER USED TO MAKE by Lydia Maria Gurney

THINGS MOTHER USED TO MAKE by Lydia Maria Gurney  -A Collection of Old Time Recipes, Some Nearly One Hundred Years Old and…is a compilation of information originally published in “Suburban Life”  and was complied to produce manuals. Originally published in 1914 it is now  public domain and I was able to download it as a FREE ebook via Amazon. 

I am drawn to “vintage” reading material, as well as historical re-enactments, thus I was drawn to this book. It is not that I excel in cooking or  housekeeping that I wanted to read this book but I just want to know how they did it.

The title of this book, THINGS MOTHER USED TO MAKE, may draw happy childhood memories to some and for those who desire to cook from scratch it may create a desire to hunt for those lost recipes. If you are one of these individuals then this book will serve as a motivator. 

THINGS MOTHER USED TO MAKE is not like todays detailed cookbooks, it assumes the reader has some culinary skills and needs just the basics. For example:

BREADS:Coffee Cakes

“When your dough for yeast bread is risen light and fluffy, cut off small pieces and roll as big as your ginger, four inches long. Fold and twist to two inches long and fry in deep fat. Serve hot with coffee.”

I did not find a “yeast bread” recipe but I did find a “White Bread” bread recipe. 

This book is more than just recipes, the  Appendix contains many tips on how to manage a household. In the section HOUSEHOLD HINTS OLD AND NEW FOR HOUSEKEEPERS YOUNG AND OLD, the first tip reads:

“Plan your work, then work your plan.”

When I read this I laughed out loud, really I did! My oldest sister is known for saying this, I thought she came up with that expression herself. 

This information was provided during a time in which women took great pride in maintaining there home with an understanding that we, women, were not born to know how to “Make Starch” or “The Proper Way to Sweep a Room”. 

From a historical perspective and a practical living viewpoint this book is a gym. It is a quick read with amusing antidotes. If the opportunity arises I might buy a print copy.

                                                              Written by Marsha L F Randolph

CHRISTIAN MODESTY by Jeff Pollard

 

Man did I open a can of worms!  CHRISTIAN MODESTY- the Public Undressing of America by Jeff Pollard is exactly what this advertises. I purchased this ebook because I am very much interested in dressing modestly and was wondering why the church does not promote it.

“How many of today’s preachers were “raised on TV”? Pinpoint accuracy might be difficult, but one thing is certain: it is quite difficult to fine one that has not been influenced by Hollywood, whether he grew up with a TV or not? [Chapter VII The Impact of Meida, paragraph 1]

The above statement is found midway in the book, the author actually takes the reader from Genesis where God clothed the man and woman to what we see today. I found the sentences I quoted intriguing because it states an obvious concept: Not dressing modestly is normal. 

Without rambling on and on and quoting the entire book to you I can summarize what I discovered by simply saying the way women and men dressed today was presented in such a manor that most Believers do not realize far from Genesis  they have strayed. 

One of the things the author pointed out: Women would not think it appropriate to go outside in their bra and panties yet they will walk around in a thong bikini; men are no different.

I recommend this book to everyone particularly Christians and church leaders in particular. My only regret is I purchased an ebook and not a print book.   

                                                          - Written by Marsha L F Randolph

This book review is part of my own personal reading collection, it was not a complimentary copy as many of the books I review are. 

HEADCOVERING THROUGHOUT CHRISTIAN HISTORY by David Phillips

 I learned of this book HEADCOVERING THROUGHOUT CHRISTIAN HISTORY through YouTube.  As I listened to the author David Phillips I knew I had to get the book because I had made a decision to cover my head.  Note: This book is only available in ebook format only on Amazon.

HEADCOVERING THROUGHOUT CHRISTIAN HISTORY  - The Church’s Response to 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 by David Phillips is more than what I had anticipated. This is a very detailed report of the history of the church and how men and women presented themselves in the house of God- the church. 

The author shares the thoughts of various men and some women throughout history as it pertains to attire in the church. The first opinion is that of Clement of Alexander (150AD- 215AD), a quick look at Wikipedia reveals he is a very significant figure within Christianity. Century by century the author shares the thought upon how women are to present themselves in church.

In this chronological and systematic approach the reader will be able to come to his or her own conclusions regarding head coverings. The transitioning will become apparent to everyone even if you have a minute historical knowledge. The book concludes by sharing places where head coverings are still practice.

The book answered all of my questions and more. I do cover my head and I don’t mind it. I have no problem with those who do not cover their head.  - written by Marsha L F Randolph

THE AMERICAN FRUGAL HOUSEWIFE by Lydia Francis Child

 

THE AMERICAN FRUGAL HOUSEWIFE by Lydia Maria Francis Child; published in 1833 is now a public domain book meaning there is no copyright protections on it.  I downloaded this  ebook for 99 cents  from Amazon because I am interested in how our ancestors lived, particularly women. 

I am interested in how women managed money, how women dressed, how they maintained the household and so forth.  Not many women today care how they did it back then because, in their eyes, women did not have equal rights- I beg to differ. If you study Scripture and you think about the contents written in this book the reader will understand  how very equal women were- equal but with different task to perform. 

THE AMERICAN FRUGAL HOUSEWIFE contains tips for the young wife on how to manage her household, particularly if you were not wealthy. 

In the 1800’s there was a need to properly preserve foods. This book would have been an asset to the young lady whose mother had not taught her the ins and outs of running a household.

The book contains such recipes as: Egg gruel, Gruel, and Calf’s foot Jelly! None of these things seem appealing to me but it is clear that the theme of the book is: let nothing go to waste! And as you read you will discover this is a true assessment.

In the introduction the author presents her no nonsense approach to running a household, many mothers and fathers today would object to her writings:

“Nothing should be thrown away so long as it is possible to make any use of it, however trifling that use may be; and whatever be the size of the family, every member should be employed either in earning or saving money.”

Continuing in the introduction Lydia Maria Francis Child writes: “A child of six years old can be made useful; and should be taught to consider every day lost in which some little thing has not been done to assist others.”

I could go on and on about this book. Many people would read it from a historical perspective, I think people should read it from a now perspective. One of the last two chapters are: HOW TO ENDURE HARD TIMES and there is also HOW TO ENDURE POVERTY I want a hard copy. Once upon a time in America people did not have the government to help them I believe we were better because of it. 

THE AMERICAN FRUGAL HOUSEWIFE by Lydia Maria Francis Child is both a historical look at the life of a woman in the 1800’s and the transfer of wisdom as many of us try to return to our GOD designed attributes. 

You will not appreciate this book if you are in pursuit of breaking the glass ceiling. You will love this book if you appreciate all things female.  - written by Marsha L F Randolph 

HALLEY'S STUDY BIBLE- NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION

 

The New International Version of the bible is not my first Bible of choice, though I do have a few copies. But, I love the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION HALLEY’S STUDY BIBLE. 

As a #BibleGatewayPartner, I received a complimentary copy of the New International HALLEY’S STUDY BIBLE in exchange for an honest review but when I started going through the Bible I forgot to write my review! I also forgot that I was not a fan of the NIV Bible translation. (SMH) 

I have owned a Halley’s Bible Dictionary for years. Unfortunately someone has borrowed it indefinitely, this Bible makes up for the loss. 

I love the charts, the pictures, and the words of Yeshua marked in red.  I also appreciate the ribbon that helps me mark a page, though I wish there were at least two. The font is perfect, easy on the eyes, something exclusive to Zondervan. But what I really love is the comments, notes- whatever you want to call them.

HALLEY’S STUDY BIBLE, N.I.V.,  is what a study Bible should be: a combination of factual data and commentary brought together to help the reader learn. 

When HALLEY’S STUDY BIBLE arrived in the mail I was meditating on 1 JOHN 5:14-15 

1 John 5:14-15 New International Version (NIV)

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.

The comment for these particular verses read as follows: 

5:14-15 according to his will. The key to knowing that God hears is to pray this way. 

This is what I believe and I was glad to see that my understanding was correct. 

After that I began using the HALLEY’S STUDY BIBLE for more studies, which is why I forgot to post a review. 

There are informational nuggets throughout this Bible which makes it well worth owning. For example: In relation to Psalm 84 there is a nugget entitled: God’s House”  I loved the picture of the “Interior of houses with painted walls in Ephesus.” (page 1614 2 John of my Bible) In the book of Revelation you will find a discussion on THE FIRST BEAST- Revelation 13:1-10. 

If you are looking for a study Bible for a gift or for yourself this is a good one. 

From time to time I give away the Bibles I obtain for review but this one is a keeper! 

If you like this post and think others should know about this Bible please share. Thank you 
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                                                                                                         Marsha L F Randolph

QUILTING by Jennifer Fulton

QUILTING by Jennifer Fulton was and is exactly what I need to understand the process of quilting. The writing paired with the images make understanding the process easy. 

I am glad that I have made a few quilts because I can tell you that this book is everything a person needs if he or she is going to start quilting- by hand or by machine. The writer keeps it simple.

It is not difficult to navigate the chapters if you want to skip to a specific style of quilting like: appliqueing. If you do not want to use the sewing machine QUILTING will walk you through the steps to hand sewing.

I would say that QUILTING IDIOT’S GUIDES -As Easy As It Gets, is the very first book you should get if you want to learn how to quilt or there are some skills you need to work on.

Did I mention there are lessons to help a sewist master a particular technique and projects that you can do?

QUILTING is worth the investment.
      Written by Marsha L F Randolph

CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW: I AM PRETTY by Je'Quita Zachery Johnson

I was asked by a Facebook friend to review his wife's book, I have been so reluctant to review any book lately that I almost said no. The fact that, like many self published authors, I would have to purchase my own copy of the book was also a deterring factor. Never-the-less, I ordered I AM PRETTY by LeQuita Zachary Johnson, illustrated by Chasity Hampton, it is a children's book.

First impression: What a beautiful cover, and great illustrations. n order to properly review a children's book, I believe, you must read it to a child.  I read I AM PRETTY by JeQuita Johnson to a 3 year old.

I enjoyed reading the book and the three year old sat quietly listening, not really asking questions but commenting on the images she saw. The one thing that bothered her was the little girl got in the swimming pool without taking a bath! LOL!!! After I finished reading the book to the three year old she grabbed the book and went off to her spot and began reading it to herself. This is how you know the book is good.

I AM PRETTY by Je'Quita Zachary Johnson is a great book for little girls, particularly girls of color.  It is not an in your face 'you're the bomb' kind of book but one of affirmations. The author gently allows the little girl to appreciate who she is even though she does not look like someone else. The author also reminds, ever so gently, that being pretty on the inside is more important than outside appearance.

I am keeping my signed copy of I AM PRETTY but I will be purchasing a copy as a gift for my great niece due in 2020. I have already begun recommending this book to other mothers and grandmothers. Yes, the little girl I take care of will be getting this book for Christmas.

I AM PRETTY by JeQuita Zachary Johnson is available via Amazon, I would strongly suggest you ORDER YOUR COPY NOW.  Unfortunately, Amazon stocks a limited number of books, this time of year print on demand companies are bombarded with printing books- YOU WILL GET YOUR BOOK please make sure you get it in time to put under the tree.

                                                                                                      written by Marsha L F Randolph

DEAR MOM by Denise Guidice

I am glad I had the opportunity to read DEAR MOM- A Guided Journal As We Go Through This Journey In Our Grief by Denise Guidice. I was asked to review this book because I am a book reviewer, I am glad I am the one reviewing it because I am a mother who lost a son.

Every one goes through the grieving process differently, this ‘journal’ will help the bereaved walk through the process at her own pace.  Even though this book was written from the perspective of a person of faith, those who do not believe will benefit from it.

DEAR MOM could be easily be entitled: Dear Son, Dear Daughter, Dear Aunt or any other loved one who has graduated from earth to eternity. Although the book is written from a feminine perspective  I believe that anyone experiencing a loss, male or female would benefit from the words found on each page.

The format is simple: A Topic, a Scripture(s), a letter / note to Mom which expounds upon the emotions and thoughts the bereaved may be experiencing and a place for the reader to write his/her thoughts.  There are 44 (if I counted correctly) “Topics” which revolve around the emotions a person experience, triggers.

Triggers are things that happen that remind you of your loss: Christmas, family gatherings and other memories. The Bible verses included are words of comfort to let the reader know that He sees and knows. In no way does the author suggest that your feelings are not real. Having experienced the loss of her son she would not dare.

My story includes the loss of a son and a mother within 30 days of each other, both who had terminal illnesses. It is because of my dual losses that I can tell you that it is not just a child that we miss.

If I could I would place copies of this book in every church store and recommend that every leader of people read this book. I most certainly recommend anyone who has experienced a loss read DEAR MOM.

                                                    written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.

FROM MONK TO MONEY MANAGER by Doug Lynam

I am excited! I have been a Tax Preparer for about 20 years and by default have talked to many people about their personal finances. I have been in private practice for over ten years and financial consultations has been a key part of what I do. I have read many books from a variety of authors including the well known ones, taken classes and attended seminars. I do not say lightly: FROM MONK TO MONEY MANAGER by Doug Lynam is the very best book on money I have ever read (which includes the one I wrote)

“Money has caused me so much stress, anxiety, and hardship that giving my own finances attention triggers all the horrible memories and experiences I’ve had” Page xiii FROM MONK TO MONEY MANAGER

It is an ongoing theme I see in my practice, among my friends and family as well as myself. I hate with a passion the word budget, I choose to use the term “spending plan” to make managing my own money palatable.

FROM MONK TO MONEY MANAGER goes beyond what most books on financial planning, financial help, budgeting, whatever you want to call it, does. This book hears you! The author understands what you are going through.

FROM MONK TO MONEY MANAGER by Doug Lynman discusses money, the need for it as well as sharing a practical approach Believers can have regarding financial planning.

The information in this book covers every area of finances a person needs to know: retirement, estate planning, giving, maintaining a lifestyle and even bankruptcy.

I will be recommending this book to my clients. I find it interesting that most of the information in this book I know but it is not only what he says but the way he says that makes the information digestible.

- written by Marsha L F Randolph

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

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