Power in the Parables

John MacArthur has demonstrated, once again, why many consider him to be one of the strongest Bible teachers of the modern age.  In the recent book Parables:  The Mysteries of God's Kingdom Revealed through the Stories Jesus Told, he unpacks these parables and offers the explanation that is often missed.  Far too often we fail to consider the surrounding context that unlocks the teachings that Jesus was offering for those listening.

One of our greatest errors in Scriptural interpretation is using our modern culture to glean the meaning of the parable.  As MacArthur shows, that cultural bias leads to incorrect interpretations and applications.  For instance, the parable of the widow and the unjust judge does not make as much sense until you understand the Jewish and Roman judicial structure as well as the legal mandate to care for the helpless widows.  Further, the court system of that day was made for men; so, a woman advocating for herself in court means that she had nobody else to assist her.

MacArthur considers several parables:  (1) Good Samaritan; (2) Hidden treasure in a field and pearl of great price; (3) the Sower; (4) Pharisee and publican - my personal favorite of the book; (5) Two servants, ten bridesmaids, and the talents; (6) the Unjust judge; and (7) Lazarus and the rich man.  You can see that the author combines several into one larger discussion and, when you read the book, the understanding why becomes clear.  Chapter 8 is an interesting read - I'll leave it at that.

Great book that helps unearth meaning behind these parables.  I highly recommend it. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Black Earth Shines a Light onto a Dark Subject

Black.  Earth.  Two words that stand alone but have multiple constructs in meaning.  For instance, "black" can reference a color, have racial overtones, indicate a style of cooking (e.g. blackened shrimp), or darkness.  "Earth" can reference our planet of habitation, dirt, or the physical realm.  When you take these distinctive words and combine them, they completely change.  I believe Timothy Snyder knew exactly what he was doing when he coined the title of this book:  Black Earth - The Holocaust as History and Warning.

Here is a warning for you -- this book is not for the faint of heart or the intellectually lazy.  Why not for the faint of heart?  The topic of the Holocaust is difficult partly due to the origination of the term "genocide" to describe the horrific events.  Snyder includes some of those (e.g. Nazis tossing babies into the air to shoot them like clay targets...chilling described on page 190) but attempts to avoid those gruesome specifics.  Why not for the intellectually lazy?  The author digs into the intellectual rationale used by the Nazis to create a Judeo-bolshevik myth that served multiple arenas -- political, physical, spiritual, racial, and social -- in gaining collaboration from others to murder the Jews.  This myth became the primary reason (not anti-Semitism) that individuals participated in the killing of the Jews even when they were not forced to do so and could have opted out without consequence other than peer pressure.

In short, the Judeo-bolshevik myth was Hitler's way to solve problems.  Everything he believed that led to the Holocaust was rooted not in statehood but in race.  Additional countries were not needed for empire building but to sustain and help purify the Aryan race.  His utilized politics to further advance his race-baiting in strokes that created murderous consequences for the Jews.  As Germany occupied areas formerly held by the Soviet Union and discovered mass graves due to Russian savagery, the Germans cast the Jews as collaborators.  They took their property, adorned them in Soviet flags, and had them march to the Soviet anthem.  Why?  He forced an identification of the Jews with Russian actions, so the local populace would blame them and willingly understand the need to exact revenge.  The odd part is that many of the individuals now killing the Jews were the actual collaborators with the Soviets in the earlier killings.  Thus, the Judeo-bolshevik myth was the tool to move the Holocaust into its advanced stages of mass killings rather than one off shootings.

With a background in philosophy and intellectual history, this book took an approach that I greatly appreciated.  Snyder pulls back the veil so that our modern world can catch a glimpse into how this could have happened.  His final chapter -- "Conclusions for our World" -- is strong and powerful; yet, I even believe he could have stretched it further in application.  This book is not your normal approach to the Holocaust; however, it offers a fresh and engaging perspective to a terrible time.

A worthy read of a time that we cannot forget so as to prevent it from ever occurring again....


To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I am offering this disclaimer:  I received this book from the Blogging for Books program in exchange for this review.

Churchill's Trial....not an error

Before I launch into the review, please allow me to be upfront -- this is NOT a Christian book even though it is put forward by a "Christian publisher."  The closest it comes to having anything redemptive is in the secondary title of the book where is uses the word "salvation."  The book is policy review of Churchill's life based on conservative principles and uses any opportunity to highlight the need of free government in America. 

Arnn is clearly a scholar and, at times, makes connections beyond what the average person will access.  He is masterful in his writing and logical in his thinking.  This book is not a detailed biography of possibly the greatest British prime minister.  What he has produced, however, is an overview of certain parts of Churchill's life that drive home his (Arnn) philosophical views.  Please do not misunderstand that last statement -- I am not questioning Arnn's scholarship because he and Churchill would agree on many things.  My point is simply this:  I am curious as to how Churchill scholars (or even the Churchill Society itself) would speak to this book by Arnn.

I did appreciate the fact that it was a different approach on Churchill which, as Mark Levin put it, is "rare."  The focus is not so much on historical events -- they merely serve as the backdrop -- but upon the writings, speeches, or actions of the famed leader.  The book is a good, fast read and does offer some interesting insights and lessons.

Whether or not to get this book depends on what you are seeking from the life of Churchill?  An understanding of the World War 2 years?  Find another book.  A detailed biography of the man?  Find another book.  Insights into conservativism and intellectual thought of the man?  This is probably your book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Slow to Judge...a fast-paced and convicting read

David Capes has written a book that will absolutely hurt you to read.  Slow to Judge:  Sometimes its Okay to Listen starts with a focus on a phrase that Solomon used in requesting wisdom from God -- he wanted a "listening heart."  That phrase serves as the foundation for the rest of his book; and if that is not convicting enough, he hits your hard when he discusses pride.  That chapter hammers (and I mean hammers) you as it exposes the reason we are so quick to judge others -- our pride as manifested in the desire to be right or superior to others.  If we are going to have any type of conversation with others, it cannot be a debate (which is prideful).  Instead, we need deep, abiding relationships that come through humility, love, and grace.

 Capes shares his own growth in this area by a radio talk show involving him, a rabbi, and a father.  He makes a wonderful statement that he uses later on -- we can agree to disagree but we cannot ever become disagreeable.  That phrase becomes critical when he discusses "toleration" as used in the modern world, and it is not true toleration.  He offers a critical point that toleration really has a hidden agenda -- protecting my beliefs and my power at the expense of yours.  This section was hugely important as it exposes the agenda of the left and right -- neither side is really interested in listening to the other because they just want their way (uh, isn't that pride?).  It is much easier to throw around words like "bigot" or "prejudiced" rather than stopping to really understand the position held by the other person.

The last two chapters were somewhat strange in my opinion.  I've already let someone borrow this book and will need to go back through them because I, honestly, did not understand what he was trying to there.  As I did not comprehend them on the first read, they seemed to weaken the overall strength of the book.  He did not have a great deal of Biblical exegesis but he had sufficient Biblical explanation to give you an "aha" moment on certain passages.

Considering all the name-calling and stereo-typing of Christians that is occurring in our modern world, this book offers a refreshing read on how to counter-act those trends. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Scholarly Work that Requires Some Knowledge Base

Before ever reading the information on the back about the author's background, the book itself reveals that Andrew Gant is a musician and scholarly expert on this subject.  His work - The Carols of Christmas: A Celebration of the Surprising Stories Behind Your Favorite Holiday Songs -- is scholarly and requires a musical background to understand much of what he digs into.  Since I do not have that background (while in college, I struggled to make it out of Introduction to Music which was required for my major), I found much of the book to be meaningless to me; and that led to a lower rating of the book.

For those of you that absolutely love this book, please understand that these are my opinions based upon my knowledge base.  I am not a musician but am a lover of history, so I assumed this would be a treatise that I would greatly enjoy.  My hopes were that this examination of Christmas carols would be similar to Stephen Nissenbaum's Battle for Christmas; however, excluding the more narrow scope by Gant, the accessibility factor and seamless construct are the major differences.  As another example of accessibility for a reader, the author includes multiple Latin phrases to make a point about the origin of some language in a song; yet, the English translation is missing.  That omission leaves a reader wondering exactly the point the author is attempting to make.

The book does have neat stories and some interesting tales about the differences in these Christmas carols across nations and cultures.  He raised and answered some interesting questions about what are "carols" for the Christmas season.  For instance, consider "Jingle Bells" and "O Christmas Tree."  Neither one mention Christmas nor are they about the Christ child - now, you may want to argue the last one, but I simply say read that chapter and you will understand.  I did learn several things from this book, so it does have some value in it.

If you have a strong based of musical knowledge and love to know stories behind songs, then this is THE book for you.  I simply do not have that foundational knowledge, so reading this was a struggle for me. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Through a Man's Eyes -- True Perspective

In all honesty, I was looking for a book to blog about when this one popped up.  I really did not want to get it, but it seemed interesting; so I requested it.  Through a Man's Eyes:  Helping Women Understand the Visual Nature of Men offered a true perspective of the battle for the mind that men fight on a daily basis in our highly sexualized culture.

The authors lay out a clear and reasoned case of what is going on in the male mind in order for women to better understand their visual wiring.  They did not draft this book so that people can reference men as "jerks" or "perverts" but to afford women the opportunity to really understand.  Numerous times throughout, wives share their inability to comprehend the male mind because both genders are wired differently.

The last few chapters of the book break down into a specific focus:  here is a response that moms should have and here is a response that a wife should have.  The strength of the home is the strength of the church and the strength of the church is the strength of the nation.  Clearly, we are struggling nationally and it can be traced back to the homes.  Women have an opportunity to help teach the next generation about purity in thought and deed while also reinforcing it with the men in their lives today. 

Women, get a copy so that you can understand what is going on in the minds of your husbands and your sons.  You need to know; and as the G.I. Joe cartoons I grew up watching closed with...."and knowing is half the battle."

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received this book for free from the Blogging for Books Publishing Group for this review.  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 25:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BELIEVE Storybook: Think, Act, Be Like Jesus

If you are a Christian and are not having a regular period of time to teach your children your beliefs, then you must start doing so right now.  This book by Randy Frazee is a good first step.  It does have its issues, which I will outline below, but something is better than nothing.  I will be using it with mine when we finish what we currently have.

The book is highly colorful and well laid-out for children.  The authors and illustrators select specific content from the Old and New Testament to teach how to "think, act, and be like Jesus."  They present a condensed version of the Biblical content, offer the passage (which I would encourage you to read to your kiddos), present key questions on the attributes of God, state Jesus as the answer, and conclude with a "Believe" section.  Time and effort have been put into this work to break down some of the complexities of these passages for smaller children.

Here are a couple of issues that I have:

1. "Storybook" -- we, as Christians, need to be careful with the language that we use.  Often, we talk about Bible stories with our children; however, we need to be more intentional with our language.  Our modern culture views the Bible as a collection of moral stories -- nothing more and nothing less.  If we believe the Bible is true, then we should not reference its contents as stories.  You may be thinking that this is overboard, but I do not.  If we teach creation as a story and a child hears at school that creation is a story but evolution is science, then have we prepared them to deal with those questions of faith?  I use that as an example and could provide others as well, but for the sake of time will not.
2. The key ideas are written as "I can" statements.  Once again, we need to be careful here.  All that we have from God is through His Son Jesus Christ.  We did nothing to earn His love.  We did nothing to earn His grace or mercy.  God provided it freely.  To reinforce those facts, those statements could be reversed to put the emphasis where it rightly belongs.  Here are 2 examples:  "I have the power through Jesus to control myself" should become "Jesus gives me the power to control myself" OR "I can deal with the hardships of life because of the hope I have in Jesus" should become "Jesus is my hope and strength to deal with the hardships of life."

All in all, this is a good resource.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Unoffendable was Uninspiring

Brant Hansen's book Unoffendable was something that capture my attention.  He speaks of making one change that will make all of life better and that change is relinquishing any right to anger.  He argues that righteous anger does not exist and giving up that right to anger is what gives you the "most healthy, simplifying, relaxing, refreshing, stress-relieving, encouraging things we can do."  I looks from other reviews already posted that I will be the sole voice of dissent here.  Oh well...


Before you jump to any conclusions, I am not making the case for being angry.  I had a temper as a child and it almost cost me my life as, in anger, I stuck my hands trough a glass door.  I still bear the scars from that experience, so I understand the evil side of anger.  The Bible is clear in that explosive anger dishonors God, damages our testimony, and destroys relationships with others.  We are in agreement on that point; however, Hansen's book falls short of proving in a systematic and Biblical fashion that Christians are to never be angry.

Here is an example:  Hansen points to Jesus' anger in throwing the money changes out of the Temple.  Quite correctly, he points out that Christians use that as an example -- well, if Jesus was angry, then we can so be as well.  Hansen deals with this issue through slight of hand by saying something along these lines -- "you see, yes, Jesus could be angry because He can do lots of things that we cannot.  Like what you may ask?  Oh, how about create the world and rise from the dead.  Since we cannot do those things, we should not focus on other things that He does either."

What's the danger there?  Simple -- Jesus showed compassion, feed the hungry, went to the outcasts, exhibited humility, experienced pain, etc.  We must be careful in flippantly throwing out elements of Jesus' existence that clearly reflected His deity as reasons to avoid our humanity.  Anger is a human emotion that cannot be avoided.  I think the problem that Hansen misses is the realization of its innate humanness.  Anger, alone, is not a problem.  If it lingers and is acted upon, then it becomes wrong as bitterness forms.

Hansen refuses to deal with situations like Moses, in Exodus, being angered at Israel for creating the golden calf.  He threw down the tablets containing the Ten Commandments but nowhere do you see God rebuking him for that anger.  What about Paul who stood toe to toe with Peter over the issue of Gentile believers in Galatians 2.  I am sure that anger was involved here but, once again, we do not see God condemning him for his actions.

Again, I am not making a case for Christians to be angry; yet I am saying that Hansen fell short.  He offered lots of stories, examples from his radio show, and nice thoughts of his own.  What was missing, however, was a detailed exegesis and consideration of the totality of Scripture.  Since that aspect was lacking, I am left wondering at the veracity of his arguments.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Leadership Lessons from a SEAL Leader

Before moving forward, I am an avid reader of leadership books and am a sucker for anything that relates to the military and/or special forces.  So, when I saw the title The Navy SEAL Art of War, I jumped on it.  Rob Roy's book cover was uninspiring, so I made an immediate assumption.  Remember the adage "don't judge a book by its cover"?  Well, I should have because I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.  It will be added to my professional reading shelf and, quite frankly, it was not going to be prior to reading it.

This review is a deviation from my normal focus on Christian books.  It does have some profanity laced throughout, so bear that in mind going into it.  If such language will be offensive to you, then I suggest you avoid reading it.  Now, to the details of this modern-day leadership book written in the format of a Sun Tzu Art of War....

The author has more than 50 "chapters," and I use that term loosely.  Most of them are 3-4 pages of material but many others are only 1 page.  These are shorter musing that jump right into the details and he does not waste any time in dancing around the topic.  When you get this book, please read it with a specific situation in mind -- could be professional or personal life.  My advice is offered so that the tenets within can make a difference.  We, far too often, read a book just to read and the application is what creates the change that can produce success.

Here is a critique that I do have though -- pages 16 and 17 deal with lots of "I've" done this or "I'm" still doing this or "I've" used this or "I've watched" this happen.  This part is referenced particularly due to the section the author had on humility.  He says on pages 100 and 101 that "precious few details of my many SEAL adventures" have been omitted from the book  and "that's by design."  He goes on to say that SEALs are not "braggarts or glory hounds."  The two sections just seemed to lack cohesion.  Stop.  I am NOT saying that this guy is prideful or a braggadocio.  The lack of congruence was troubling to me and cutting that information in the introduction would have removed any sort of question from my mind.

It's a good read and an enjoyable one.  Remember,  "the first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit.  The second is to look things in the fact and know them for what they are." 


Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received this book for free from the Blogging for Books Publishing Group for this review.  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 25:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

A Special Book about Special Operation Forces

 

Legend by Eric Blehm is a fast-paced read filling with in-depth character analysis, historical context, and amazing story-telling skills.  This particular era was one of secret missions into Cambodia that were being driven by politicians, and you will see how that plays out on the date that serves as the primary subject of the book.  If you are unfamiliar with the author, I stumbled upon his work through the book Fearless about a Navy S.E.A.L.  I loved that book and, quite frankly, I love this new book Legend just as much. 

This newest work focuses on the Vietnam era and the amazing story of MSG Roy Benavidez and the events of May 2, 1968.  Before getting to that life-changing day, Blehm provides significant biographical information about Roy, which offers insight into how he made his decision on that fateful day.  As he was taught from a child -- when you know someone needs help, you just go help them.  That is exactly what he did in heroic fashion saving the lives of at least 8 men.  Although, he would be quick to tell you that he was no hero - the heroes are those that never made it back.  Yet, the fact remains that his story is one of humility, hard work, honor, and heroism.

I do not want to spoil the story for you in this review, but I will saw this much - that day in May started like any other for Sgt. Benavidez.  He was able to hear that some men were in a tough fire fight - some men that were his friends - and when a chopper was head out to attempt extraction, he jumped on board.  Now, mind you, he was not assigned to that chopper nor did he have his normal load (rucksack with ammo, grenades, or even his weapon).  He went in with only a knife and a medical kit.  As the chopper tried to find the men to resupply them with ammo, they realized they could not get to them.  That's why Sgt. Benavidez made the critical decision to jump from the chopper and into the battle when that Huey was there to try and remove men from the battle.  I will stop there but will offer this one final tidbit -- his actions led to his receipt of the Medal of Honor.

If you love history and stories of amazing encounters in combat, this is a must read.  His call sign - Tango, Mike, Mike - has become synonymous in special forces circles referencing the need for courage during conflict.  Please, read this book about an amazing American and see what is possible through the selflessness of one individual.


Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received this book for free from the Blogging for Books Publishing Group for this review.  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 25:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

An Encyclopedia of Leadership

John C. Maxwell has put together what I call and "encyclopedia of leadership" in his culmination of the 101 series -- Complete 101 Collection:  What Every Leader Needs to Know.  If you are looking for an in-depth authoritative source, then this is not your book.  If, however, you are seeking something that offers solid information on many topics, then this is your book. Maxwell admits that in his opening section, so he does not mislead you in any way.

The book itself is 612 pages of text, so it is a rather large book.  The topics considered are as follows:  attitude, self-improvement, leadership, relationships, success, teamwork, equipping, and mentoring.  Each topic is approximately 70 pages in length divided among 8 or so chapters.  The format and structure permits a reader to digest the material and to notice the how the topics are interconnected.  For instance, attitude is the foundation of self-improvement and equipping others is the primary goal of mentoring. 

This book will be a solid addition to your leadership section.  I would also suggest that you may give this to others as a gift for their personal and professional growth.  Most importantly, get a copy for yourself and wrestle with the thoughts contained in its pages.  And, if you want to know more about these topics, Maxwell is proud to offer you other books on those topics as well.  : )


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

An Interesting History of the Cubs and Wrigley Field

Disclaimer:  this book is a deviation from my normal considerations of Biblical or theological works.  Well, on second thought -- maybe not.  I am a die-hard and "religious" Cubs fan, so I guess it does...at least somewhat...stick with my focus on religious works!!  : )

George F. Will has written a nice little history of the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field -- A Nice Little Place on the North Side:  A History of Triumph, Mostly Defeat, and Incurable Hope at Wrigley Field.  If you are a Cubs fan, or even just a baseball fan, then this is a must read.  Will has a tremendous ability in the written word, and I am jealous of his talent.

Now, let's get right to the point -- if you are looking for a chapter-based book that has a logical order of grouped ideas, then you will be disappointed.  Will has a logical order but he is all-over-the-page on some of the history of the ballpark.  I have the reputation of being the "walking encyclopedia of worthless information," and I can honestly say that this book will help me retain that reputation.  There are some absolutely wonderful nuggets of baseball records.

Some other things that you will keep with you -- the mental image of Al Capone sitting at a Cubs game, a Cubs manager that hated Ernie Banks, the impetus behind the famous outfield ivy, and the "myth" of Babe Ruth's famous called home run.  I'm not going to spoil that one -- get the book and see for yourself.

A good read that will be lots of fun for you.  I encourage anyone to pick this up and enjoy!


Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received this book for free from the Blogging for Books Publishing Group for this review.  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 25:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Just Another Bible...Not a Study Bible

As the title of the blog says, the NIV Proclamation Bible is just another Bible.  Having seen the comment by Timothy Keller -- "there are many study Bibles, but none better" -- I had extremely high hopes for this Bible.  Unfortunately, I was disappointed.

The Bible is a hardcover, which is not a problem, and I love the deeper hue of the outside cover.  The print is sufficiently large for my aging eyes.  The book has about a page or page and a half introduction for each book and that is written by various contributors.  It also includes solid and colorful maps along with a cross-references and a word-based concordance. 

This new Bible lacks word studies or context boxes within the text, which is something I would expect from a study Bible.  Other than the 10 doctrinal or theological essays prior to the actual Biblical text, this NIV Proclamation Bible is sorely lacking in study tools.  Also, my personal preference of Christ's words in red was not found in this study Bible either.  The connection to the Proclamation Trust was never fully divulged, so that has left me wondering.

With all of that said, I'm not sure how this is considered a proper study Bible.  If you are looking for a study Bible, there are better candidates out there for you to expend your hard-earned money upon.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Not a Bad Read, But....

If you have read the book American Sniper by Chris Kyle, then you are familiar with the story of Ryan Job.  Kyle goes through that story in-depth and how the SEAL team rallied around for the medical evacuation.  Ryan, despite the gruesome wound and pain, would leave the battlefield under his own power so that his brothers in arms could fully fight against the insurgency.  The wound would cost him his eyesight.  Later on in that book, Kyle would have a cursory mention of Job's marriage and his unfortunate demise.

This book, A Warrior's Faith by Robert Vera, picks up where Kyle's book left off.  It unveils some of Job's accomplishments in mountain-climbing and adjustments in daily life.  The author is good at capturing real life moments with all their humor -- wait till you read about the mall shopping experience -- and he has a cleverness about him.  For instance, he speaks of his fascination with the book of Job, how God tested that man's faith, and the irony of this Navy SEAL's experience -- another man named Job!  He goes on to tell more of the story regarding Job's death due to a medical mistake and how the family responded to this situation.

The book is a pretty quick read.  It also has some solid passages in the book dealing with servant leadership and offering thought-provoking quotes like this one by poet Mary Oliver on page 165 -- "What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"  Despite those positive issues, I just did not thoroughly enjoy the book.  It was okay, and I struggle to articulate why.  Look at the words on the back cover, and I did not see how they matched the text I read -- "Ryan Job didn't just live his faith.  He lived it ruthlessly."  I do not doubt the veracity of those statements; however, the book did not dwell upon them enough.  His faith was mentioned in passing without much else regarding detail.  If the author spent as much time with Ryan in training and hiking these mountains, then more detail should have been there.

When I finished reading the book, I struggled with the title -- A Warrior's Faith.  The book appeared to be more about the author than the SEAL Ryan Job.  He seemed to invoke that he was part of the "extended family" of the SEALs and named dropped just about any of them there were associated with the book/movie American Sniper. The storyline regarding the medical mistake that led to Job's death was all about the author's intuition and his role in making it right.  Even the conclusion of the book, which the author says was four years after Job's death, makes the case that this book was more about the author than the SEAL.  It provides an awkward story entitled "Another Blind Guy" that has no connection to Job at all.

Please do not misunderstand me -- I know that Ryan Job was an American hero.  He suffered on a foreign battlefield to keep us here at home safe.  I just think the author missed out on a grand opportunity to make the story about the SEAL rather than the author's experience with the SEAL.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

It Just Might be a Must Read (and that's from a Cubs fan)

For purposes of full disclosure, I am a life-long, die-hard hard Chicago Cubs fan.  Anyone following baseball knows the intense rivalry between my beloved Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals.  With this book being by Mike Matheny, who is the manager of the Cardinals, I must dislike him a great deal.  As much as I have tried to in reading this book, I simply cannot.  Again, if you understand the depth and magnitude of that rivalry, you will comprehend just how much I enjoyed this read.

The Matheny Manifesto originated after the author retired from baseball and was approached by some parents who wanted him to coach a kids' baseball team.  Before taking them up on their offer, he drafted a 5 page letter that outlined his concerns with youth sports, his expectations for them as parents, and his goals for the team.  Needless to say, this letter went viral and sparked a "movement" within the youth baseball ranks.

In reality, the book is divided into two phases -- the problem and better way for youth sports then the keys to success that surfaced during that experiment.  Matheny will be quick to tell you that these principles were "old school" and "Mid-western values" with "Biblical roots;" however, he will not be as quick to tell you that they are exemplified by him.  Since the world does not offer many examples of individuals, even in youth sports, focused on teaching, the manifesto resonated with many folks.

Throughout the book, he shares personal examples from his childhood, high school/college days, minor league work, and work in the big leagues.  He does this with a sense of humility sharing his successful moments as well as those of failure.  If this book is an accurate representation of the man, and I have to believe that it is, then no wonder he was hired as such a young manager for the Cards.

As a Cubs fan, I looked for ways to absolutely smash this book, but I just could not.  I thought I had found the area.  He professes to be a Christian but quickly says he will not shove that down the throats of others.  I thought:  "Aha, he doesn't want to offend anyone, so he is bowing to the realm of political correctness."  Well, that disappeared when I read chapter 10:  Stand your Ground (faith - the 4th key to success).  Right in the middle of this chapter, he spells out the "Romans Road" that shares the need and way for a journey to Christ.

Simply, this book is a delightful read.  It has wonderful lessons for those coaching and refreshing takes on leadership.  As my subject says, the book is a must read.  I've added it to my list of "You Need to Read in Order to be Educated List" because of its simplicity and pop culture appeal.

In making a Cubs fan somewhat tolerate or begrudgingly like you, to that I say:  Bravo, Mike Matheny.  Bravo!


Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received this book for free from the Blogging for Books Publishing Group for this review.  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 25:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Leadership Handbook -- It Truly Can Be

If you are interested in reading The Leadership Handbook:  26 Critical Lessons Every Leader Needs by John C. Maxwell, do a quick scan of your personal or professional library.  If you find the Maxwell book Leadership Gold, then do not get this book.  The former titled book was previously published as the latter book, so they are one and the same.  Nothing having a copy of the latter title, I have grabbed this version and enjoy reading through it.

This Maxwell book is no different than any of his others.  I will list several points to further define that aspect:  (1) he continues to be quotable with his ever-present one-liners that stick with you, (2) he constantly references laws or components of his other books to drive you those ways, and (3) he puts forward ever-practical advice regarding leadership.  You do not find anything earth-shattering in my above points; however, you must understand something here -- Maxwell readily admits that we already know many of these things.  He is not necessarily trying to teach you something new as he is trying to come alongside you, as a friend, to inspire you to implement what you already know.

The book, as its title suggests, is broken down into 26 "lessons."  These are very short chapters that you can breeze through quite quickly, but RESIST THAT TEMPTATION.  What we need to do is slow down and work methodically through them.  Having the knowledge is great, but the application of that knowledge is what shows wisdom (and thus makes you a better leader).  Maxwell suggests that emerging leaders read one chapter each week for 26 weeks, and he suggests experienced leaders to take two weeks per chapter -- one week for you and one week to mentor someone else about that lesson.

I, as an experienced leader, am taking a slightly different approach - sort of a hybrid of his suggestion.  I am taking this book one lesson a week and focusing on that lesson throughout my work week.  To do so, I write the title of the lesson at the top of my Passion Planner (see http://www.passionplanner.com for more information) where it asks for "This Week's Focus."  My goal is to implement the lessons weekly and then reflect back in the Passion Planner section "Good Things that Happened."  My team knows that I am working through this book and its principles, so I will have informal discussions with them about its influence in my leadership.  Once I have finished all 26 lessons, I will go back and take several team members systematically through these lessons.

Maxwell hammers home some major points for leaders to know and understand as you go through this leadership-improvement process.  I am not putting all of them below, but did want to highlight a few of my favorites from the introduction:  (1) leadership is the willingness to put oneself at risk, (2) leadership is being dissatisfied with the current reality, (3) leadership is taking responsibility when others are making excuses, (4) leadership is the ability to submerge your ego for the sake of what is best, and (5) leadership is, above all, courageous.

At my title suggests, this book can truly become a handbook if you choose to enact the necessary steps for it to produce personal and professional change.  I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in improving as a leader.  One final thought -- be sure that the change you implement affects your personal life primarily?  Why?  If you change personally, then professional change is guaranteed -- the opposite is not true.

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”

Just Another Dime a Dozen Leadership Book

Leadership books are a “dime a dozen” in the modern day.  By that statement, I imply that nothing is truly novel because the ideas are merely repackaged into a different format.  Fairness is Overrated:  And 51 other Leadership Principles to Revolutionize your Workplace, by Tim Stevens, is another one of those books.  I am not saying that the book cannot help you become a better leader (because it can); however, the volume does not have revolutionary thoughts that distinguish it from any other.

Stevens divides the book into four major sections:  (1) be a leader worth following, (2) find the right people, (3) build a healthy culture, and (4) lead confidently through a crisis.  If you have read any amount of leadership books, those major headings reveal why I consider this book one of those that are a “dime a dozen.”  Within those major section headings, the author has written short – and I mean very – chapters that are easily digestible.  This format is a positive in that the ideas are easily accessible but it is also a negative in promoting the tendency to read through them quickly.  At the end of each chapter, a couple of discussions or application questions are applied.  If you are going to use this book to bring about change in your leadership, then the power rests within those personal applications.  

The namesake chapter is number 38 and begins on page 152 – “Fairness is Overrated.”  He does argue quite forcefully and correctly that fairness should not be a priority.  Why?  Listen to these short sentences – “We make decisions based on priority, not fairness.  We filter discussions through our mission and values, not whether it is fair” (page 153).   Very true!  Our world, with its bent toward social justice, struggles with being unfair; however, Stevens is right in his statement.

While the author is quotable, again, this book is a “dime a dozen” without anything spectacular; so that is why I rated this book as I did.  I also struggled with his background as a pastor and the lack of focus on God's expectations of leadership (rare quotes from Scripture or even mention of God or Jesus).  If you apply what you read from it, then changes will occur in your leadership; so if that is what you are seeking (and you will not breeze through it too quickly), then it might be a good book for you. 

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLookBloggers.com review 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.”