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Book Review: The Humble Life, by Michele Howe

How did Jesus live a life of humility? In The Humble Life, Michele Howe helps you walk with Jesus through the Gospels.

Take Up Your Cross

In just around 120 pages, this book gives short yet insightful devotions on humility. The book begins by looking at Jesus, is example of humility, and washing the seat of his disciples. I was amazed to see how Christ went all the way in terms of stooping in order to serve.

I was most moved to read that the humbled submit to God's will above their own. Christ calls his followers to take up their cross and follow him. I was encouraged to choose Christ in this contentment and disappointment, knowing that God’s plans are better and best.

Pointed and Practical

What I most love is how she ends each chapter with examples of the humble life in everyday life. She gives pointed and practical applications on how to exemplify humility before God, humility, before others, and humility of heart.

Interestingly, the book ends by declaring at the home for self sacrificial givers. Like the poor widow, I should not hold back when giving our lives to God. I am truly blessed to be a child of God. 

The Heart of Our Savior

This is my favorite book from Howe. It beautifully captures the heart of our Savior, and will compel you to live a life that is both happy and humble before him.

I received a media copy of The Humble Life and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: Incomparable, by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth

What makes Jesus so unique? In Incomparable, Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth takes you on a journey of 50 days with Jesus.

A Compelling Picture of Christ

Through short yet insightful devotionals, Wolgemuth takes you to the heart of Christ. She shows him as fully God and fully man, surprising us with his wisdom and grace. Perfect and holy, yet compassionate and kind.

This book is grounded in Scripture. Wolgemuth sticks to the Bible to show us who Jesus is. She doesn't wander away from what the text actually says. I was surprised at how we can have such a compelling picture of Christ through the Spirit's illuminating word.

Spend More Time with Christ

I was most moved to read of Jesus as a child. To think about Christ having to grow up just like everyone else made me wonder what he was like. I thought of my own children, thinking that Jesus was once their age. I hope to encourage my students and children to pursue God especially during their most formative years.

This book made me want to spend more time with Christ. Getting to know Jesus through Wolgemuth's words is incredibly inspiring. I am moved to worship and motivated to love him more, eager for the day when I can meet him face to face.

I received a media copy of Incomparable and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: Ask Pastor John, by Tony Reinke

What does the Bible have to say about ethics, theology, and everyday life? In Ask Pastor John, Tony Reinke presents John Piper's Bible answers to 750 of life's most important questions.

Biblical Wisdom Abounds

Based on the Ask Pastor John Podcast, this book categorizes, distills, and synthesizes 10 years worth of words. The book covers a lot of ground in over 500 pages, but Reinke keeps it moving by strictly presenting the meat of Piper's answers. Biblical wisdom abounds.

I am a fan of the podcast - I've listened to every episode. This book is an excellent representation of the material and magic that makes the podcast special. It is broadly accessible, but also able to niche down into specific topics. The Bible and politics, marriage and dating, exercise and food, entertainment and sorrow. There is something here for everyone.

Clear, Compelling, Christ-Exulting

I was personally interested in reading Reinke's Introduction: A Little History of APJ (and Why I Wrote This Book). It details the quick start of putting the podcast together. God's sovereignty is on full display. The book itself is a beautiful hardcover with the podcast logo embossed on the cover, making it a must-have for avid listeners.

Reinke calls his book a guide to the podcast. But it's also a guide to good, clear, Christian thinking. When you Ask Pastor John, you'll get compelling, Christ-exulting answers. This book is a landmark work for Piper and Reinke, and a flagship resource for those who want to desire God.

I received a media copy of Ask Pastor John and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: Gospel Life, by John Owen

How can Christians live out their faith? In Gospel Life, John Owen gives Christians biblical truth for growth and assurance in their walk with God. The book begins by defining faith, and Owen pays particular attention to acceptance. While demons can assent, they do not accept.

Walk Humbly with God

I was most moved to see Owen give truths about God himself as the object of our faith in order to strengthen it. His name, his nature, as well as his actions and dealings with us are explored. 

After showing how love binds everything together, Owen examines what it means to walk humbly with God. I was most challenged to see that reverence, obedience, and joy are elements of a proper walk with God — as well as submission to his grace and Providence. Our walk with God should be of great concern, for it gives him glory. 

Rest on the Rock of Christ

The book ends with a reminder to rest on the rock of Christ, and a call to die to yourself daily. Interestingly, Owen tells his readers to not be surprised by death. It is a bold way to end the book, but a triumphant one — because for the Christian, our death leads to eternal and everlasting life with Christ.

With an updated text for the modern reader, this book speaks loud and clear today. Encouraging and hopeful, this classic work by Owen will help you truly live out the Gospel.

I received a media copy of Gospel Life and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: What is Faith? by J. Gresham Machen

What does the Bible say about our belief? In What is Faith, J. Gresham Machen answers one of the most fundamental questions about the Christian Gospel.

Passion and Precision

Taken from the material of a course of lectures delivered at the Grove City Bible School in the summer of 1925, this book is is a brilliant work of passion and precision. Machen is serious about his subject matter, and the book reads as urgent and important.

The book begins by defining faith in God. Machen is thoroughly biblical, and persuades the reader that it is impossible to have faith in a person without knowledge of a person. He lands on the truth that "faith in God is simply theism: the belief, namely, that the universe was created and is now upheld by a personal Being upon whom it is dependent but who is not dependent upon it."

Know Your Need

I found Machen to be logical throughout. While faith in God is good, it is not enough -- for when we come upon a holy God we find our need for a Savior. Christ becomes our object of faith as our Redeemer from sin. Machen stresses the fact that the person who finds faith in Christ must know his need for Christ, and it is here where a relationship can form. It is through the Gospel, the cross of Christ, where he enters and touches our lives.

I was most moved to read that saving faith is acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ as he is offered to us in the gospel of his redeeming work. To think deeply about how God did not withhold his son was a wonderful and scary thought all at once for me. I marveled at the unfathomable love of God, while also horrified at God's hate for sin.

Credible Confessions

I was most challenged to read Machen's thoughts on "credible confessions" of faith. He writes that it should "be made much harder than it now is to enter the church," and he mentions both examination and instruction. Machen stresses the importance of creeds throughout the book. He says, however, that the church is not merely an educational institution, but the visible representative in the world of the body of Christ.

The book ends by examining the relationship between faith and salvation as well as faith and works, but ultimately arrives at faith and hope. He reminds that our faith is based upon testimony. And while we think it depends on strong faith to save - Machen makes it clear that it is God who saves even those who are weak in faith.

Our Good and Gracious God

This is a beautiful book, full of wisdom, compelling and clear. It will strengthen, encourage, and embolden your faith in our good and gracious God. Refreshing and invigorating, this tight and truth-filled book is a classic work that all should read and return to.

I received a media copy of What is Faith? and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: Gospel Ministry, by John Owen

How can the pastor best serve his people? In Gospel Ministry, John Owen addresses the minister and members of the Church.

Owen begins with a basic call for ministers to not be ashamed of the Gospel. He goes in detail on Paul's declaration in Romans 1:16. I was most moved to see that Paul is stating ownership of the Gospel, and that God is not ashamed of the work he does in the lives of his people.

Christ's Pastoral Care

I was most interested to read how a minister represents Christ to his church: as a prophet (preacher), priest (interceder), and king (ruler). Owen then goes on to explain the beauty of worship in the church, with a surprising emphasis on serving each other with spiritual gifts. Owen elevates the congregation to have ministerial capacities as well, and it is indeed a beautiful picture of the bride of Christ.

The book concludes with a chapter on how Christ offers pastoral care to his church. Readers will be persuaded with Owen's is optimism, and find encouraging refreshment. The church is championed, and Christ is exalted.

I received a media copy of Gospel Ministry and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: Sermons on Ephesians, by John Calvin

What did Calvin find captivating about God's redemptive work in Christ? In Sermons on Ephesians, John Calvin exposits the great book of Ephesians.

Preached on Sundays in Geneva in 1558-59 when he was 49 years of age -- this book is a significant part of Reformation history. While I have read The Institutes, this was the first book I can recall having read of Calvin's sermons. This series on Ephesians is exemplary.

Humility and Unity

Calvin is quick to comment on predestination in Ephesians 1, stating that "the Holy Ghost speaks it loud and clear." In Ephesians 2, Calvin calls his hearers to humble themselves, being bound to God by his grace, and in preparation for the good works that God would have them do. This theme of humility is repeated throughout, and I was struck by Calvin's constant application of it to his congregation.

Calvin speaks of enemies of the gospel during Ephesians 3, and I as a reader can't help but think about the opposition he faced in his own day. Ephesians 4 speaks of unity of the church body, and Calvin counts its importance especially in regards to humbling ourselves and holding fast to the head of Christ and his truth. To see Calvin cling to the Word with his work as a pastor was inspiring.

A Hallmark Work of Reformed Preaching

Living upright before men is discussed in Ephesians 5, and Calvin makes a memorable point by saying that as we are enlightened by the Lord, we should endeavor to give light to the unbelievers in this world. Calvin's exposition ends with Ephesians 6 and the Christian's armor to aid in perseverance. I am left with Calvin's hopefulness in the Lord - and Calvin's love for the church.

Written in a calm yet confident voice, this book transports you to the pulpit and pews of John Calvin. Straightforward explanation and insightful application are hallmarks of Reformed preaching -- demonstrated beautifully in this book. Calvin's work on Ephesians is of historical significance and remains wonderfully edifying.

I received a media copy of Sermons on Ephesians and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: Peace Over Perfection, by Faith Chang

How can Christians find rest when they struggle to be perfect? In Peace Over Perfection, Faith Chang guides you to enjoying a good God when you feel you're never good enough.

Life is Not a Math Equation

Chang is encouraging, and she understands the fears of Christian leaders. She says that godly leaders are often afflicted by perfectionist thinking, struggling to see the good that God is doing in their lives. God does not expect perfection, but growth. And true change — worth noticing and celebrating — comes from God's supernatural grace. We can be patient with slow progress because God makes everything beautiful in his time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

I was most moved to read about God's providence. Instead of wondering "what if," Chang calls us to take comfort in God's wonderful, gracious will. We can trust him as we seek to obey him. God can make even evil turn out for good. Life is not a math equation. Christians account for grace, and this allows us to look at our past not with regret - but with a sense of rest.

God Loves Sinners, Not Perfect People

Chang's book is bathed in the Bible. When explaining how Christian perfectionists can often know but don't feel God's love, she reminds us that God tells us who he is in Exodus 34:6-7: That God has a love for sinners, not perfect people. God manifested this love throughout the Bible, and Chang paints us a picture of Christ.

A natural storyteller, Chang uses illustrations from her own life. She speaks on everything from her relationship with her parents as a child to parenting her own children. She concludes with the thought of our future Sabbath rest and experiencing the glory of God. This is where the Christian perfectionist is headed. This is our future. And we don't get there alone. It is God who carries us.

The Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith

What makes this book exceptionally beautiful are the prayers in between the chapters related to each topic. By providing prayers for her readers, she gives words to help us interact with God in the tension we feel as imperfect followers of Jesus. Discussion questions are included, making this an excellent book for small groups, book clubs, or personal journaling. Esther Liu ends the book with an uplifting afterword on our worthwhile journey with Jesus.

Faith Chang is a natural storyteller, a gifted writer, insightful, and encouraging. In my anxious pursuit of perfection, Chang points me to Christ — the founder and perfecter of our faith — and his perfect love casts out my fear.

I received a media copy of Peace Over Perfection and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: The Real Church by Gordon J. Keddie

What can the contemporary church learn from Corinth? In The Real Church, Gordon J. Keddie gives a commentary on 1 Corinthians.

Devotional Commentary

Presented as a "devotional commentary," Keddie's book is rich in theological content and robust with application. With accessible and warm writing, Keddie goes through 1 Corinthians thoroughly with excellent insight.

I was surprised at the amount of topics covered in 1 Corinthians -- many relevant to my immediate contexts. In regards to Preaching: Manner and Message, I was reminded to speak like Paul as he "spoke straight from the shoulder in plain sentences for regular folk." He had a personal dimension of fellowship with his people, and he came to them as a friend and a fellow believer in Jesus Christ.

Faithful Exposition

On the great Love Chapter of 1 Corinthians 13, Keddie explains how even an outwardly highly gifted person may be inwardly exercising his gifts in a loveless way. "Gifts in the hand, so to speak, are not proof of grace in the heart." I was reminded that my service cannot be for myself, but it must be for my love of the Savior and his church.

This book will be a true companion for those preaching and teaching through 1 Corinthians, and trustworthy company for those who want to study the book in their personal or family devotions. Clearly written and theologically sound, Keddie's book is faithful exposition for the Christian and encouraging reading for the Church.

I received a media copy of The Real Church and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: The Book of Joshua, by Alabaster

The Book of Joshua by Alabaster is a stunning and vivid presentation of God's faithfulness to his people.

With warm visuals and "Courageous Orange" as the anchor color, this book is radiant throughout. The imagery especially made me think of the physical and practical challenges that the Israelite's faced, as well as the awesome displays of God's power they would have experienced.

An Epic Narrative and a Wonderful Reading Experience

While I am familiar with some of the individual stories in Joshua, reading the book as a whole was a wonderful experience. The text layout and the New Living Translation made the book feel like the epic narrative it truly is.

Reading this book made me feel grateful for the ways that God saves his children. It excited me to be strong and courageous. And it made me delight that God would so generously give himself to his people.

My copy of Joshua was complimentary through Alabaster’s influencer program. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: God Speaks, by Danielle Hitchen

What does God sound like? In God Speaks, Danielle Hitchen delivers a sounds primer for your young ones.

This Baby Believer board book is a delight! Starting with "My sheep hear my voice" from John 10:27, this book takes your children through Scripture using words of sounds. It is a brilliant way to think of our God and the wonder of his world.

A New Favorite for Our Family

My children enjoyed hearing the differences between the loud and the soft sounds. From the roar of rushing waters to describe God's voice in Ezekiel, to the gentle whisper of God's voice in 1 Kings.

The illustrations by Jessica Blanchard are some of her best. The rumble and thunder of God's voice in Job and the blare of the voice like a trumpet in Revelation are vividly displayed. This book is already a new favorite for our family!

I received a media copy of God Speaks and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: A Call to Contentment, by David Kaywood

How does the Christian faith have to say about being fulfilled in life? In A Call to Contentment, David Kaywood writes on pursuing godly satisfaction in a restless world.

Kaywood defines Christian contentment as freedom from dependence on desired circumstances that comes from God’s empowering grace to endure everything with rejoicing. At just around 150 pages, this book is a quick read that will reap great rewards.

Supernatural Strength

I was most interested to learn the five signs and symptoms of discontment: (1) Worry, (2) coveting, (3) grumbling, (4) unrighteous anger, and (5) unhealthy dwelling. Kaywood asks you questions of each one, and he helped me see blindspots in my own life.

Kaywood argues that in the Christian faith, true contentment is possible because Christ empowers his people by divine enablement, providing them supernatural strength to endure anything. He grounds his book in the Bible, and writes with wisdom.

Faithful and Fruitful

The middle of the book looks at areas where Christ can provide contentment: Money and possessions, pain and suffering, success and work. I was most moved to read about the connection between contentment and calling. It caused me to think realistically about how God has gifted me (and how he has not gifted me!) and if I am being faithful. Taking a cue from Tim Keller, Kaywood challenges us to be fruitful in our work.

The book ends with a look at God's providence, as well as practical rules for remaining content. After reading, I am thankful to God for his grace in my life but also motivated to grow in contentment. And with Christ's power, it is more than possible.

I received a media copy of A Call to Contentment and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: The Ten Commandments: For All God’s Children (A FatCat Book)

How can you teach your children about the law of the Lord? The Ten Commandments: For All God’s Children (A FatCat Book) is an excellent way to train your children in the way they should go.

Look and Learn

Another worthy entry in the FatCat Book series, my kids enjoy looking for cats and learning about God. What I loved most about this book is how it connects the Ten Commandments to Christ, showing how he fulfills the commands and offers forgiveness when we fail.

Fun and Engaging

With Easter coming up, this book would make a great gift for young children to show them more of Christ and get them started in the basics of God's Word. Fun and engaging, this book will teach your children that God's laws are for our good and for his glory.

I received a media copy of The Ten Commandments: For All God’s Children (A FatCat Book) and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: Delighting in the Old Testament, by Jason S. Derouchie

How does Jesus impact our study and application of the Old Testament? In Delighting in the Old Testament, Jason S. Derouchie helps you understand the Old Testament’s purpose in the Christian’s life today.

Christ's Kingdom Program

At around 300 pages, this is an academic yet enlightening book. Part 1 begins by showing how Jesus helps Christians interpret the Old Testament. Derouchie compellingly makes the case that the Old Testament writers knew their audience could not and would not understand the full meaning of their messages. The mystery of gospel salvation is revealed by and through Jesus Christ.

I was most interested in Part 2, where Derouchie explains the biblical narrative with the concept of a kingdom program that centers and culminates in Jesus. He highlights seven ways to see and celebrate Christ in the Old Testament, from considering the Old Testament's salvation-historical trajectories to using the Old Testament to instruct others. He uses the book of Genesis as a case study, with rich and rewarding results.

Promises and Law

Part 3 shows how Jesus secures every divine promise, making direct reference to why and how every promise is "Yes" in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20). It is a challenging section, with special consideration to the importance of correctly claiming Old Testament promises. This is a welcome push against modern prosperity teachers, while remaining hopeful.

The book ends with Part 4 showcasing how Moses's Law relates to Christians. The Law continues to impact us through Christ, who maintains, transforms, or annuls them. I was most moved with the conclusion that we can and should read the Old Testament Scripture through the light and lens of Christ, and that we have the ability to contemplate how Jesus embodies every ethical ideal from Old Testament law or wisdom. This was especially relevant and helpful to me as I am currently preaching through the book of Proverbs.

The Complete Picture

This book will challenge and change the way you approach and appreciate the Old Testament. It is a landmark work that will continue to guide and correct Old and New Testament interpretation. Come and see the complete picture of Christ.

I received a media copy of Delighting in the Old Testament and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: What Are Eyes For? by Abbey Wedgeworth

The What Are Eyes For? Board Book is a lift-the-flap board book by Abbey Wedgeworth to encourage your kids to use their eyes like Christ. I love the entire concept of this book and how we can use body parts like our eyes to worship God.

Through Eyes of Our Savior

Wonderfully illustrated by Emma Randall, this book is an engaging and delightful. I was most moved to share with my children that we can look up to God while also looking around to the needs of others in this world. Help your children see through the eyes of our Savior!

I received a media copy of What Are Eyes For? and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: What Are Ears For? by Abbey Wedgeworth

The What Are Ears For? Board Book is lift-the-flap board book to help your kids hear like Jesus! It's a beautiful way to show the connection between listening and obeying God.

God Hears Us

Emma Randall's vibrant illustrations are wonderful. I was most moved to share with my children that God hears our prayers as well. This book is a great way to explore our bodies and how God created us to worship him.

I received a media copy of What Are Ears For? and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.

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Book Review: God's Big Promises Easter Sticker and Activity Book

This fun activity book is based on God's Big Promises Bible Storybook -- a book that I read with my children every night. Featuring over 60 stickers and 16 pages of puzzles, games, and other activities -- this book took their interaction with God's Word to a whole new level!

Enjoy and Engage

I especially loved being able to share with my kids about the thief on the cross, and that they can have eternal life with Jesus if they believe in him. The book also makes mention that Jesus is in Heaven, and I was happy to talk about our everlasting home. Enjoy this book with your children and engage with God's Word together!

I received a media copy of God's Big Promises Easter Sticker and Activity Book and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.