Meditation Books

What a wonderful book to reference. You look through the book to the page or pages that you are feeling that day, and get inspired. It's a book almost all women can relate to, and it's like a non-judgemental girlfriend's advice! Loving, spiritual, deep and thoughtful-you will feel better after reading it! and always have it close by....

SUe Patton Thoele, you have done it again, I love reading your books!!
You have brought such positivity into my life!!!
From feeling down to feeling empowered!!!

I fell in love with this book the moment I opened a random page to glance through it in a store. To be honest, I did not care much for the title, it sounded tacky to me then, but having read a few pages the smirk on my face faded away. Personally I myself am steel strong, but the images in the book brought to life memories and experiences of my mother, aunts and friends, who simply give, give, give. This book calls women for a pause to reflect and redefine lessons taught to us for centuries. The best aspect is its readability - one story, one example, one lesson at a time. I don't keep any bookmarks in it, but whenever I open it, I stumble upon what I just needed to hear that day - magical! Great book to gift.

My favorite book of Sue Thoele's is the very first one I bought- "The Woman's Book of Confidence". It was just what my slightly sagging ego needed, and it continues to provide much food for thought. Each time I come to a particularly good pearl of wisdom, I put in a book mark for easy future reference. This happened often. Pretty soon the thicker bookmarks were replaced with thinnner ones, but even then that book is fighting the battle of the bulge!

I keep this book and its sisterbook, "A Woman's Book of Courage", in my bottom desk drawer at work. From time to time, whenever I feel depressed, uncertain, insecure, I read passages from these books and feel immediately uplifted. My sense of confidence is restored, and I get back to work.

This book packs a punch. If you are talented at reading between the lines this book is even better. While it is mostly an overview the specifics are mind boggling. Make it a companion for a month and watch what happens.

Thanks so much for this excellent book. It is one of the best books about the practice of this Way on WHOLE day. I don't practice Dzogchen but it is easy to see that the quality of teachings of this book are superior. One of the best books of practical Buddhism that I have read.

The simple way to expose the deepest matters and the humility and high knowledge shows the great level of practice of the author and the importance of this Tibetan school. Helpful to any Buddha follower. Excellent purchase. Recommended 100%.

This is one of the best books I have ever read on Tibetan culture and religion. It is clear and concise. It is extremely informative, revealing practices that have been kept secret, for some unknown reason, for centuries. A great book!

His Holiness the Dalai Lama writes, "This book will be of great help to readers wishing to find a clear explanation of the Bon tradition, especially with regard to its presentation of the teachings of Dzogchen."

Indeed! *Wonders of the Natural Mind* is a treasure trove of information --- appropriate for any level of practitioner. Here's an excerpt from the back cover of the book:

*Wonders of the Natural Mind* is a presentation of Dzogchen as taught in the Bon tradition. Dzogchen has begun to be familiar to Westerners principally through the teachings of the Nyingmapa school, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and other Tibetan teachers residing and teaching in Western countries. In *Wonders of the Natural Mind*, the author presents the Dzogchen teachings based on the *Zhang Zhung Nyan Gyud*, the fundamental Bon text. The book gives an epitome of the main points of Dzogchen, its relation to the various systems of Bon teaching, and the author's personal reflections on the practice of Dzogchen in the West.

Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, a Lama in the Bon tradition of Tibet, presently resides in Charlottesville, Virginia. He is the founder and director of The Ligmincha Institute, an organization dedicated to the study and practice of the teachings of the Bon tradition. He was born in Amritsar, India, after his parents fled the Chinese invasion of Tibet, and received training from both Buddhist and Bon teachers, attaining the degree of Geshe, the highest academic degree of traditional Tibetan culture. He has been in the United States since 1991 and has taught widely in Europe and America.

Recently, in the West, a number of books have appeared on the subject of Dzog Chen. This is the first book to describe the Bon-Po point of view of these high teachings. This pleases me greatly. They are derived from the Zhang Zhung Nyan Gyud, which is the most essential within the Bon-Po Dzog Chen.

Lama Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche has been trained in this lineage since he was fourteen by the Venerable Lopon Sangye Tenzin and the Venerable Lopon Tenzin Namdak. From the early days on, he has shown a special gift when it comes to these meditations.

The book is written in clear and concise English. This is particularly important as the teachings are very elaborate and at times hard to understand. The simple language used clarifies tremendously. The authentic descriptions of Dzog Chen give the serious student ample material to practice Dzog Chen.

This book doesn't include stories; it explains the quintessential aspects of Dzog Chen. In other words, it gets right to the point. Especially the chapters such as the ones on Contemplation and Integration. I highly recommend this book to any serious student of these high teachings.

Chanting is an art - and for those of us from a Western background, it can feel a bit otherworldy or "foreign". I have always been interested in chanting and mantras but too intimidated to try it.

Russill Paul has put together a book and CD set that helps to demystify chanting and make it more accessible for all audiences - no matter what your spiritual or ethnic background. This well written book clearly explains the basics and theories behind chanting - and it provides exercises to get you started immediately.

These exercises help anyone to begin chanting in a confident manner. I am tone deaf and have no musical talent whatsoever - yet I am able now to practice mantras with a keener ear. I am already feeling the effects! (Hindu mantras are believed to help with many issues from removing obstacles, spiritual advancement and even mundane problems.)

The Yoga of Sound is a practical book which can get you on your way to a daily mantra practice. I would also recommend the books by Thomas Ashley Farrand as a supplement to this book. That being said, Paul's book seems to be more complete and I felt more inspired by it.

I had the privilege of taking a workshop with Russill in the summer of 2004, which is how I was introduced to his work. His excellent book "The Yoga of Sound" has proved highly complementary to that experience, but it is also a powerful work with no trouble standing on its own.

Yoga has become extremely popular in the Western world, but the aspect of yoga that focuses on the power of sound - the power of mantra and chant - has not transfered as well from the realms of Hindu mysticism. The book explores the reasons for this and sets the practice of mantra in a wider context, adaptable not only to those from any religious and spiritual background but to the hectic pace of modern life. Mantra is brought further into a 21st-century setting through the accessible and fascinating discussions of quantum physics as they apply to sound. The book is also a practical manual, teaching the reader how to use yogic mantra with the help of an included CD.

Russill Paul is a truly gifted teacher, and his spirit of devotion and eagerness to share the joy of the power of mantra shine through in this beautifully written book.

I was required to buy this book for a class I was taking at the university entitled "Religion and Music". My professor was Dr. Don Beck who is an expert on this topic and has produced both a published book and a cd of Hindu devotional music. The book came highly recommended from him, and now that I have read it I would wholeheartedly agree! This is a wonderful book regardless of what spiritual path you are on, and in particular if you are looking for a way to re-entergize your own practice. The book explains how one can use the power of mantra as a spiritual practice, and it is written by an author who has both a Christian and Hindu background. He thoughtfully incorporates aspects of many religious traditions to accomodate all readers, and he is thoroughly knowledgable on this subject. He writes clearly and simply, and at the same time he gets you excited about the subject matter.
Honestly, I thought this book was going to be filled with New Age fluff, but it offers genuine advice on how to practically get started with this wonderful practice of reciting mantras. I was pleasantly surprised, and I think anyone with an interest in deep religion or music will greatly enjoy this book.

While looking for another book on chanting mantras, I came across this one. This is a wonderful book - well researched and well written. Paul grew up in India and spent 5 years in an ashram so he not only knows the facts and the culture and beliefs but has a real feel for presenting his subject in an easy to understand manner. You don't have to know Hatha Yoga to do yoga chanting but you might want to after reading this book. And you don't have to understand every single thing he writes about before you start your own chanting. Included with the book is an instructional CD which is helpful if you're unfamiliar with the pronunciations of the hindu/sanskrit words.

I am particular, discriminating, and well read. If you really are interested in total spiritual development, especially with asanas, you'll read it and recommend it to others. I am waiting for paper back to come out so I can buy copies for all my teachers.

The most revealing thing I can say about this book is that as soon as I finished the last page and corresponding Bible reading, I went back to the beginning and began the study again. As much as I enjoyed my "walk" the first time around, I have to say that this book is even more meaningful as I go through it a second time. Without its guidance, I'm sure I would have been tempted to skip some sections and would never have had the patience or persistence to thoughtfully read the entire Bible. My biggest dissatisfaction with its format was that some sections (such as the Psalms) had too much material to digest and think about in a day. There were times when it felt more like a daily race than a daily walk, but there really isn't a good way the editor could have corrected this. Particularly helpful were the occasional "Step Back" sections, which gave the reader a day off and time to reflect on previous lessons.

I don't know why other reviewers are not ranting and raving about this book. It is marvelous. And my spaceship is taking off on January first (although I could start now). Just one point that I hope Amazon.com will let through. The public gave my review of "The Power of Positive Thinking" 0 out of 12 votes. Amazon.com is asking if a review is "helpful" or not. I vote for reviews I don't like. They can be helpful. Well, as a Christian, I am supposed to forgive you. Not easy. This book is incredible! It will teach you how to be a REAL Christian like Jesus taught. But you WILL have to buy "The Daily Walk Bible". This is WTB's bible (Walking Through The Bible - WTB). WTB, an organization to help all of us to be better Christians, has designed a Bible to accomapany this book. Purists want the King James Version. But I read in WTB's Bible that there have been many translations of the Bible through time! So don't expect any "Thy, Thee, and so forth". The syntax, though, is pretty strict. Now let's get to the book. You have two choices after buying BOTH books. Start your daily Bible reading NOW. On this day or tommorow. Or, start on January first. You will be in Genesis if you wait. Take your choice. Now this book gives you an outline of the Bible's history. The historical comments and suggestions of the Bible are said to be the heart of the Bible. How God deals with His children through time. The translators state this. Now this book is real Christianity. Suggestions of praying on your knees! Keeping your room clean! Cooking! I am sure that I will be a good Christian in one year. The book states that the Bible, in it's application, depends on Order. And Order depends on Action. This book really let's you have it! And they tie it in with the Bible. No. Premarital sex is out! As is adultery. And I am very sorry for this, but homosexuality is out. About premarital sex and homosexuality, the book states that the Bible does have something to say about these subjects. This book leads you into a Christian Life. They ask "Do you hang around people because they are well known?" I mean, really tough. Like being in the Army. And you will pray your brains out. I want to practice the Kagyu Buddhism as outlined by Pema Chodren. But both the Dalai Lama and the Buddhist master, Thich Nhat Hanh are hammering away to people that they have to go back to their roots first. I was an Episcopalian when I was a child. This

incredible book helps one to retrace their steps. Then you can do what you want. But your roots will always be your first religion. Forsake that and you forsake everything. This book will turn you upside down. You will be asked to read a portion of the Bible daily. In Hosea 4 to 6, you will be reminded that the ten commandents are the central core of your religion. Do you follow them? They even provide a checklist! Then you read your portion of the Bible for the day. Which is Hosea 4 to 6 I believe. Very tough work. Buy this book and the companion volume if you want to be a good Christian. This set lets you get away with NOTHING. No New Age. No watering Down. Just God's Word and how to apply it through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Good Luck.

I agree with the previous reviewer that this is an excellent book and study tool. It has tons of good information that is very useful in a practical, today sort of way. You'll no longer wonder how something happening in the daily life of some Middle-Eastener, 4,000 years ago, has any bearing on your daily life in these modern times. This is an excellent way to work in your daily scripture readings and to work your way through the whole Bible in one year too.

As much as I enjoyed the last review, I have to disagree with the statement that you have to buy the Daily Walk Bible. Any good version of the Bible, pick your translation, will do. That being said, I would like to thank that reviewer for mentioning this in his review. I'd never heard of this edition. After checking it out here at Amazon[.com], I do plan to pickup a copy soon. While not a must, I could see how it could be useful. This edition of the Bible looks like it tries to combine the NIV of the Bible with Your Daily Walk. There may be other versions for those who don't care for NIV and there is just enough difference between the included Your Daily Walk text and the actual Your Daily Walk that both Your Daily Walk and a Daily Walk Bible could be useful.

The most revealing thing I can say about this book is that as soon as I finished the last page and corresponding Bible reading, I went back to the beginning and began the study again. As much as I enjoyed my "walk" the first time around, I have to say that this book is even more meaningful as I go through it a second time. Without its guidance, I'm sure I would have been tempted to skip some sections and would never have had the patience or persistence to thoughtfully read the entire Bible. My biggest dissatisfaction with its format was that some sections (such as the Psalms) had too much material to digest and think about in a day. There were times when it felt more like a daily race than a daily walk, but there really isn't a good way the editor could have corrected this. Particularly helpful were the occasional "Step Back" sections, which gave the reader a day off and time to reflect on previous lessons.

I had long wanted a book like this, something that would take me through the Bible from start to finish in a year, and challenge me every day to apply it to my life. Before, I was reading the periodical "Bible Pathways", which gave me some historical background or clarification of word meanings, but it wasn't personal. So I looked until I finally found this book almost 2 years ago. I would highly recommend it, even if you are not starting at Genesis on January 1st. It's very simple, and the reading assignments are well-planned. It has definitely expanded my familiarity with the Bible, and how it all fits together. It also challenges me to live it.

This book is wonderful. You are able to just goto wantever kind of retreat you need. So it is something you can do as you need not from beginning to end.

Rachel Harris offers meditations on many different topics that are easy to find and simple to do. With the hustle and bustle of our lives today, it is hard to find time to fit 10 minutes in for peace, quiet and connecting to our spirit. Rachel Harris helps us finds that time.

This precious book is not just another pretty face offering penny candy for a life gone awry. I was dealing with a serious health situation with my son, had disappointments with my birth family....many things building up and nowhere to hide. Well....What can I say...I did hope for some light, some help from this book as the cover alone is promising in this regard with the beautiful water lily inviting one to just turn the cover and get started. And getting started is so easy with the clear and gentle leading by Rachel Harris which is in complete opposition to what actually happens when one does turn past the cover. HEALING begins...soothingly and gently and lovingly. Thank you Rachel Harris for caring enough to share the best with those of us struggling with inner issues. I have just ordered two more copies for my two best friends...It IS that good!

This book offers a lot of very SIMPLE things you can do to recognize areas of need in your personal life and easy things you can do to improve them. The retreats last in length from one minute to twenty minutes. Very easy ways to relieve stress and improve your quality of life.

This book is Magical!!! I love how I feel after coloring the Celtic Mandalas. It is easy, fun and the best way to start or end your day. A much needed tool to bring peace into your life. Thank you Ms. Normand!

This 30-Minute Celtic Mandala Coloring Book has the coolest Celtic designs. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to meditate in a creative way. I LOVED the author's other 30-Minute Mandala Coloring Book, but this one is my absolute favorite! Keep them coming!!!!

In this book, 30-Minute Celtic Mandalas Coloring Book, Ms. Normand has done a great job of combining the traditional Mandala with Celtic spirals and knots. Not only am I enjoying coloring the designs, but I have found a new interest in researching the symbols contained in the drawings30-Minute Celtic Mandalas Coloring Book: Easy Meditation through Coloring30-Minute Mandalas Coloring Book: Active Meditation for the Mind and Body OR Easy Meditation through Coloring

I have to admit that I initially got this book for my inner child. It sounded like a lot of fun. I was really looking forward to the experience.

When I received the book, I started to get a little nervous. Secretly, I was really eager to let my inner child free. However, I didn't really didn't want anyone to see me coloring. I keep hearing my mother's voice in my head, "cows are purple, color within the lines."

For once, the child won out. For the first five minutes, I was in "reviewer" mode, basically dictating in my head what I'd write in this review. Then, my thinking mind stopped and I just fully immersed myself in the process. I even stopped planning which color would be next.

This is a pretty simple but amazing idea. There's no pressure or forcing the mediation, it just happens. I even tried this method while I was in the midst of a meltdown and I found myself calming down within about ten minutes.

I like this book so much it's my favorite gift to give graduates - and they always come back to me and tell me how useful it is. There are so many different ways it can be used. I've used it as a reference for teaching Sunday School on certain subjects or on certain passages. For my personal study, the short devotional sections are perfect for morning, then I do the longer study on the same passage as my evening or weekend study when I have more time. The many different "reading" plans included in the front provide different ways of reading through the Bible each year. Plus, the Personal Application and Quotable sections for each day are great summations of the text and short enough to stick with you for the day. Richards' definitely has a God-given knack for getting right to the meaning without wasting a lot of words doing it. This is just the perfect tool for both study and devotions - and heavy on the most important part - application!

Have used this nearly every morning for about a year. I like Lawrence's style and it makes a good change from formal study books with a lot of questions (which I have been doing for 10 years!). The emphasis is on devotional rather than intellectual bible knowledge. Warning: Some mornings, it's a lot to read in a short time.

As a teacher, I have always encouraged that everyone should experience a study-trip through the WHOLE Bible at least once in their lifetime. Of course, the excuses were usually a 'flat tire' in II Chronicles, a 'brain-fuse blown' in Leviticus, or the dreaded 'TID (terminal interest deficiency) syndrome' somewhere down in Numbers! Now Larry Richards has made every excuse against WHOLE Bible study obsolete!

In fifteen minutes or less a day, one can learn (not read) the entire Bible in a year...and actually enjoy it! Richards is not only evangelical and solid in his theology (yes, there IS theology in this 'devotional'!) but includes helpful maps, drawings, overviews, key words, practical application....WOW, this is just a great book for the hungry Christian, who, with just a little discipline will reap a plethora of learning!

There are also alternative reading plans, theme studies, insightful wisdom from Proverbs, archaeological notes, timelines, as well as nutshell summary-blocks.

Although not every text of scripture is (or could be) included, no chapter is omitted. This book is not to be confused with merely READING the Bible in a year. Here, you STUDY the Bible in a year!! The difficult part is stopping each day!

Having studied the Bible for decades, and earning a seminary doctorate, I can say that I have never come across a 'devotional commentary' this thorough or well organized. Truly, if your goal is to LEARN the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, you will find a seminary education here, made as user-friendly as a devotional. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

This combination devotional and commentary is excellently written. Richards' scholarship is reliable, and his insights are very often profound. I strongly recommend this book to all Christians, whether you are brand new in your relationship with God or have been walking with Him for many years.

No matter what religion you follow you can create a better, more conscious connection with the Divine. "365 Days to Enlightenment: Daily Reflections for Spiritual Growth & Progress". Author and self-proclaimed multi-denominational Shaman Ayamanatara lays out a day by day year long guide for all levels of seeker to help them along their path and to feel more comfortable in life. Attacking topics such as Abundance and Listening to one's intuition, "365 Days to Enlightenment: Daily Reflections for Spiritual Growth & Progress" is highly recommended to community library self-help shelves and for anyone seeking a more clear conscious.

At first glance the book seems almost to simple. As I have read the daily meditations I have fallen in love with the way the book feels, the simple and unencumbered way it reads and the probing questions posed.
There are few typo's but otherwise it's a well written, simple book and I consider it money VERY well spent.

365 days might not transform you into Mother Teresa, but you'll certainly be closer to enlightenment, after reading and using Ayamanatara's latest book of daily meditations. Each day's entry consists of a quote from people known for their spirituality (and some surprising inclusions, like Warren Ellis), followed by a riff on the quote's applicability to daily life. One of the book's main themes is recognizing that enlightenment isn't something attainable only by those who drop out of daily mainstream life -- it's a path available to any and all.

What sets this book apart from the glut of daily meditation books on the market, is both Ayamanatara's down-to-earth and sensible writing style, and the exercises she includes in the entries. The exercises range from "Help a friend catch up on chores after they've been ill," to helpful steps you can take to catch yourself when you're getting upset and angry. Cognitive therapy, shamanic healing techniques, and common sense blend nicely into a book that's much more than the usual collection of spiritual-sounding platitudes.

For anyone who considers spiritual enlightenment something to get around to right after they've ended world hunger and perfected cold fusion, this book offers concrete, tangible things you can do right now in your life to bring yourself to a more enlightened state.

Ayamanatara is a popular Shaman and spiritual teacher in the Los Angeles area. I have been a big fan over her work and teachings for over 5 years. Her newest book, 365 Days to Enlightenment, provides sane, grounded, and practical advice in a world that is often chaotic and hurried.

There are several things I liked about this book. First, the different topics cover such a wide range of experience that I always felt I was working on a new aspect of myself every day. Second, the thoughts and teachings were fresh and original, not the stale cliches like "Live each day like it's your last." Finally, this book has such a richness to it that I can start again at the beginning each year and get something new from it each time.

I highly recommend Ayamanatara's book to anyone interested in personal growth or spirituality.

In our quest for a deeper and more personal relationship with God, others' writings can often trigger just the connection that helps us grow in understanding and devotion. Rebecca Jordan has gleaned gems of wisdom from profound writers of the faith in this sensitive, beautifully written devotional. Like her other books, it's a lovely gift--perfect for a friend. I highly recommend it!

In 40 DAYS IN GOD'S BLESSING, a stand-alone follow-up to Rebecca Barlow Jordan's 40 DAYS IN GOD'S PRESENCE, readers will find accessible devotions suitable for weekly or daily quiet times.

Barlow Jordan mines the work of bestselling evangelical writers such as Max Lucado, Rick Warren, John Eldredge, Oswald Chambers and A.W. Tozer (with some surprise quotes by writers such as Eugenia Price) as she creates her devotions. Most readings include several personal and in-the-news type anecdotes, a retelling of a biblical story, and a take-away for the reader. Barlow Jordan's warm, personal style gives her devotions the feel of a short motivational pep talk.

Those familiar with Barlow Jordan's previous book, 40 DAYS IN GOD'S PRESENCE, will find the format comfortably familiar. At the end of each four- to five-page devotion is a "Personal Truth" that wraps up the point of the devotion, usually summed up in a single sentence ("Prayer changes the pray-er"). This is followed by a "Personal Prayer" that the reader is invited to pray to apply the devotional truth. ("Lord, I want to get to know you better. May I never stop depending on you. Change my prayer --- and my heart --- that it might reflect yours." ) Jordan follows this with a "Personal Question" for reflection, which lends itself to a time of self-examination or journaling a response. ("What has God taught you about himself through prayer?")

One of the best devotional essays explores what it means to give unselfishly. "This principle applies not just to financial blessings but to any way that God has blessed us. Blessings are to be shared, not hoarded." Barlow Jordan ends the devotion with a deeply moving story about Mother Teresa. The nun takes rice to a needy mother and her eight children, and the destitute mother promptly divides the rice into two portions to share with her hungry neighbors. "Those who are truly generous see the needs of others," writes Barlow Jordan. In another devotional essay, a motivational story about a couple's love for a severely disabled boy and his subsequent musical talent will leave readers reaching for the Kleenex.

Barlow Jordan makes many good points. One devotion titled "Intentional Kindness" reminds us that good works come about from our faith --- we shouldn't do them as a condition of earning God's favor. Another, "It's All About Him," is seemingly intentionally Lucado-esque in its emphasis on the leadership of God, and a reminder of who we should look to as we strive to do our best. Another devotion, "Breathing Lessons," offers a terrific quote from author Madeleine L'Engle in which she says that creativity requires "being time," or listening to the voice of God for inspiration.

The author laudably tackles some lesser-known biblical characters in her essays, such as Nehemiah, Jehosaphat, Uzziah, Barak and Jael. But, as in the previous book, Barlow Jordan still can't resist the occasional cutesy rhyming phrase ("His inspiration often brings us perspiration;" "Simplicity is not a fad-i-tude, but an attitude") that will appeal to some readers and turn off others. It is also unclear whether some of the anecdotes are fictional or true-to-life (Reverend Smith, the missionary who lost his son).

This is a nice devotional for Christians who enjoy short, scripture-based devotions with personal applications, presented in an invitational format.

--- Reviewed by Cindy Crosby

By unlocking a treasure chest of Scriptural truths, gifted author Rebecca Barlow Jordan proves that life overflows with blessings too numerous to count. But you'll want to count them, savor them, and thank God for His lavish gifts. Though 40 Days in God's Blessings is an exciting start, Jordan equips you to discover blessings for a lifetime, even in unexpected places!
--Lynn D. Morrissey, CLASS/AWSA speaker and author of Love Letters to God: Deeper Intimacy through Written Prayer

Rebecca has a knack for leading us into scripture and discovering its everyday lessons. By structuring her book around a forty-day spiritual emphasis, she honors the Biblical number of a significant journey as she helps nudge readers closer to the heart of God. I found several chapters worth re-reading, including that for Day 11 on my favorite topic, encouragement, as demonstrated by the life of Barnabas and the loving persistence of a foster mother to a disabled child. The book abounds with encouraging, challenging examples of people who drew nearer to God. Each chapter takes about five minutes to read, but provides thought to reflect on through the whole day. This is not a "quickie" devotional book, but one for those who truly want to be changed "from glory to glory" (2 Cor. 3:18).

This beautiful devotional book is perfect as a study during the Lenten period, when those who love God seek to know and love Him better. I highly recommend it--for any time of year!

Need to jumpstart your New Year's resolution to spend more devotional time with God? Although it's designed to be picked up anytime (not just the New Year), Rebecca Barlow Jordan's 40 DAYS IN GOD'S PRESENCE: A Devotional Encounter might be a good place to begin.

If you're a reader who likes structure, these devotions will be your cup of tea. Each devotional reading follows the same format. First, Jordan chooses a biblical character or event to center the devotion on. In "The God of Visual Lessons," the reader learns about God's control and design for the world and his ability to speak through object lessons as she tells the story of the prophet Jeremiah watching a potter and his wheel. Sometimes, she weaves in a contemporary story, as when she writes of Caleb urging the Israelites to face the giants, and then tells of a young woman overcoming the "giants" of multiple physical handicaps. Jordan sometimes adds personal anecdotes, although they can be a little vague (she alludes to a rocky time in her marriage, but doesn't get more specific than this). Her tone is consistently conversational, warm and friendly.

One of the most heartfelt devotions centers on the term of endearment "Abba," with which we are invited to address our heavenly father. Jordan deftly weaves both biblical context for the usage and contemporary story together to give the reader a new appreciation of the love God has for his children.

Another, centered on Job, may inspire some discussion over her final conclusion that "Sometimes in the presence of God, silence may well be the best policy," which is a little confusing and perhaps debatable. It might be argued that there's nothing wrong with asking God hard questions (as David did in the Psalms) as long as we recognize we may never have answers in this life that we understand. (God knows our questions anyway!) Perhaps the key point she makes is that we can always approach God and find grace for our circumstances. A good reminder.

At the end of each four to five page devotion is a "Personal Truth" that neatly summarizes the point of the devotion, followed by a "Personal Prayer" that the reader is invited to pray to apply the devotional truth. Then Jordan asks a "Personal Question" designed for reflection. "When was the last time you had a true God encounter? Is there someone God wants you to speak to, or something for which you need to take a stand? When do you most enjoy God?"

New Christians or those unfamiliar with the Bible will find that Jordan usually does a good job giving background on her characters or events, although sometimes the reader will need to do some additional reading for context (in one devotion, for example, the Sermon on the Mount is referenced but not explained).

Unfortunately, the temptation to use cute sayings crops up, which may put off more serious readers ("When it rains, it pours. But when he reigns, the Son shines" or about Bathsheba: "her pregnancy test turned up pink. But David suddenly didn't feel in the pink.") She also cites some examples that need endnotes (such as the woman who left her toddler in the car, or the twin volleyball players). However, many of the writers quoted and referenced by Jordan are well-chosen (Brother Lawrence, Richard Foster, Oswald Chambers) and many readers will appreciate her cheerful, upbeat tone.

Christians looking for short, scripture-based devotions with personal applications will enjoy this volume. Those who find it helpful will be able to follow it in July 2006 with Jordan's 40 DAYS IN GOD'S BLESSING.

--- Reviewed by Cindy Crosby.

Sometimes in reading the Bible, we forget that its real stories of real people stretch across the centuries to our daily lives. The stresses and growing-places of Bible-time people are also ours and show how we should live before God today. As Rebecca Barlow Jordan re-creates each Bible story, she invites us to seek more of God's presence in our own lives. Don't be misled by the brevity (four pages) of each devotional guide. Taken a day at a time, thought-through and prayed-over, this book can be a life-changer.

I had to stop on the second day of my 40 journey with Rebecca Barlow Jordan to praise this beautiful book. I must confess I've become so entrenched that I've continued reading well past day two. She has an easy style that draws you with a desire to know more. With this insightful perspective of God's presence in my life, I have been reminded that He is as close as the air I breathe.
Thank you for a fresh encounter with our living Lord.