General Practice Books

This is a delightful version of the Haggadah, perfect for wee ones as well as the bigger ones!

This Haggadah ebook is a must have. It has clear instructions and an excellent translation. My family is switching to this Haggadah.

I am a "haggadah hoarder"! I have bought them ALL and personally use many of them for pre-seder preparation from year to year. And yet, THIS version is the one I set my table with -- it is attractive and easy to read, the gorgeous, colorful photos and illustrations thru-out make each page a delight. The questions and BRIEF commentary generate discussion. Every section one needs for a "proper" seder is included, with transliteration of all key seder moments, but it is abridged for a contemporary, non-Orthodox group. Our seder includes folks of all Jewish backgrounds at our table, as well as non-Jewish friends, and the Gindi receives universal praise each year. The price is right, too! Use other haggadot for the occasional supplementary reading or insight during your seder, but bring Gindi to the table as your essential haggadah. (Even the price is affordable to purchase one for every guest, too!)Happy Passover!

We were very happy with this Haggadah. Everything is there (hebrew, songs, stories, the afikomen, the wine,etc.) yet it is not excessively long. We had observant Jews, non-practicing Jews and a few non-Jews at our Sedar and they all throughly enjoyed the service. The ages ranged from 9 years old to 53 years old and included 3 teenagers. Truly several generations represented.

The "Family Haggadah" appears to be illustrated and annotated for parents who want to keep their 7 - 12 year olds engaged during the seder. For that purpose, the Family Haggadah seems to be an excellent choice. Beautifully illustrated with lots of fun "side" facts. If you have teenagers or are a group of all adults, the Family Haggadah will likely come off as too childish. The content is good for various degrees of religious seders. If you are looking for a more cultural/humanistic/secular approach to celebrating Passover, this Haggadah will leave you wanting more. I take my hat (but not my kippa) off to the author for creating a kid friendly haggadah that parents could tolerate.

Mr. Niemeyer is a bonafied writer of the first order! His take on God's plan for all of us is stirring but I find that his descriptive passages tend to steal the thunder. His next undertaking should be "fiction".

I don't know what book Mr. Nyman was reading, or what kind of mood he was in when reading it, but he seems, for a Christian, eager to cast the first stone. Mr. Niemeyer's short book IS emotional, IS patriotic, and IS timely. 9/11 changed the lens through which we perceive the world. This book was published just 6 months after 9/11 and its message still rings true. No literary work is interesting without an emotional connection. Mr. Niemeyer's discussion of his father shapes his words, and gives color to his message of love and hope.

With regard to patriotism and Christianity, Mr. Niemeyer rightly recognizes that this nation was founded on Christian principles. Mr. Nyman posits that to found a nation on Christian principles is to found a fascist state. At this point in reading Nyman's review I began to question his sanity, or at least his motives. Regardless, I believe the U.S. is far from a fascist state. I dare say 99% of Americans and even most of the world would agree.

The bottom line is that this is a fabulous short read for "baby Christians" and long time Christians. This isn't C.S. Lewis, of course, but the scripture is sound, the examples timely and interesting, and the author apparently sincere. Kudos to Niemeyer for wearing his heart on his sleeve for Christ. Shame on Mr. Nyman for seemingly having a vendetta that is very un-Christlike vs. this wonderful and hopeful book.

Todays society often emphasizes excess, materialism, anger and hatred. It can all too often lead us down a path away from God's word and leave a void in our lives. In 'Harvesting Spiritual Fruit', Jon Niemeyer provides the fruit to fill that void. This book captures the spirit of true happiness. A great 'read' for anyone seeking to focus on true happiness and what truly is important in one's life!

I was so pleased to read a book that emphasizes practical, holy living as God intended us to live. So many Christian books written today put great emphasis upon the gifts of the Spirit, but very little upon the fruits of the Spirit. Jonathan Niemeyer has done a superb job in correlating and integrating the truths of God's Word into practical settings for family living, as well as for other relationships. The book is concise and easily read. The message is one we all need to hear and to heed. Everyone needs to read this book. The message it contains has long been overdue for the times in which we live in today.

Harvesting Spiritual Fruit is a direct path to God's true Love and Happiness. Mr. Niemeyer uses the fruit of the spirit from Galatians 5:22,23 to guide us to deeper relationships with God, family, and freinds. This book is an easy read that helps us to emmulate Christ's love(for us) in all of are interactions with each other. The end result can only be God's true Love, Joy and Peace in our lives.
This is a truley wonderful book that I will use as continuous reinforcement for how I should live my life. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in obtaining true happiness in their life.

This is a must-have resource. Gorgeous illustrations, detailed descriptions and referenced by the leaders in the field.

it is amazing that such an authoritative text can actually be written. but there it is!. a masterpiece, which is so encompasing that words fail. braunwald has a tradition and every new edition is a towering giant over the previous.seeing is beleiving, thus i strongly recommend this text to any one wishing to perfect himself in any aspect of cardiology.

Anyone familiar with Dr. Braunwald's superb cardiovascular exploits in the "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" would not be surprised by the richness of this book.
The diligently crafted chapters are comprehensive, authoritative, well-illustrated, and include all the 'ins' and 'outs' of contemporary cardiology. It is one of the most consistent and coherent multi-authored texts in the field.
This single-volume CD-ROM package is a rich blend of evidence based medicine, best practice, and all the user-flexibility an e-book enthusiast would expect.

Dr. James Thogtam: A classic book for those in the field

WITH THE SEVENTH EDITION OF BRAUNwald's Heart Disease, the editors have accomplished an impressive feat: improving on an already classic text. With 36 new chapters and full-color figures and photographs, the new edition is substantially altered in both content and appearance. Compared with the rather limited color-plate photographs in the sixth edition, the color photographs, figures, and tables in each chapter significantly enhance the new text.

Informative chapters on the foundations of cardiovascular medicine remain, including detailed discussions of history taking, physical examination, and electrocardiography, topics often overshadowed in an era of rapidly progressive medical technology.....

The seventh edition of Braunwald's Heart Disease would be a worthy addition to the medical library of any practicing cardiologist, cardiology fellow, or health care practitioner with a special interest in heart disease.

THIS MASTERPIECE IN CARDIOLOGY BRINGS TO SPECIALISTS AND HEALTH PROVIDERS IN GENERAL THE APPROACH TO KNOWLEDGE FOR SUCCEDING IN THEIR TASKS.SINCE THE BASIC AND SIMPLE TO THE MOST COMPLEX UPDATED AWARENESS, THIS ENCYCLOPEDIA CONVEYS THE READER THROUGH THE RIGHT PATH, AS A DIDACTIC AND AMUSING STORY OF CARDIOLOGY.
RAUL M. MARCH MD

Heart of a Victim is one of those stories that you start and can't put it down. The author's bravery, bewilderment and utter disbelief of all that she is subjected to comes through with each turn of the page. You root for her, you scream for her to 'get out' and yet, you're pulled into her conflict and understand how she begins to question her own sanity. It is a relief to get to the end and have the resolution, and thank God she had the strength of will to pursue the truth.

As the truth unravels in horrible, disgusting, documented detail in court, you are as relieved as the writer must have been to find that she really did see what she saw, really did hear what she heard, and wasn't the least mentally unbalanced, but that the situation was as bad and even worse than her most feared imaginings.

Guts, honesty and faith in Christ pulls her through three years of unmitigated hell. A must read for anyone that has ever dealt with or may ever have to deal with a deranged, narcissitic personality, male or female.

L.A. Johnson
Nebraska USA (11/26/2002) We read about deranged people in the newspapers, or watch such horror stories on TV, but most of us are lucky enough not to live such nightmares first hand. The author of this true story reveals in straightforward, conversational style her front row seat on a man's madness and perversions. Rosy Latur was a lonely widow, unworldly and open hearted. She enjoyed laughing and having fun, loved her family and friends, and did her best to walk a Christian walk. She lived well, in a lovely home, and had enough money set aside to live comfortably. Sympathy for a down and out Konn Rodent soon turned to love, on Rosy's part at least. Konn is aptly named. A more deranged con artist has seldom been described in my recollection. The reader wonders very early on why on God's green earth a woman with as much going for her as Rosy would stay with such a maniac. The answer she provides is simple. Rosy loved him with all her heart, and was totally devoted to the man. As her nightmare life unfolds, and her heart and spirit sicken, the reader hopes for a happy ending to her story. Alas, that doesn't happen. Konn drains her dry of everything. Physically, emotionally, spiritually and financially, Konn leaves her in his wake like a wild tornado run amuck. He strips her pride, her hope, and leaves her nothing. The only thing that means anything to Konn is pornography and self-indulgent sexual fantasies. As his horrid world reveals itself, Rosy is at first in denial, and then shock. The husband who has no romantic interest in her lavishes himself on prostitutes and strippers. Untold thousands of dollars are spent on his perversions, while Rosy stands by hopeless to prevent it. Heart of a Victim in Harm's Way is a daunting first hand account of how pornography can kill the addict's personality and spirit. It's a sad story, made even sadder because Konn Rodent doesn't have to pay the piper in the end. Rosy pays, as do the friends and family who love her, but Konn goes on his merry way to brutalize and ruin other unsuspecting women. Personally, I don't know where Ms. Latur found the courage to survive and tell her story. I wish she would have included pictures of Konn Rodent in her book. Or maybe even posted him on the front cover for all the world to see, along with a sign saying "WARNING! If you see this man, beware.".

deb
SOUTH DAKOTA (4/10/2003) THIS WAS AND EXCELLENT BOOK, I READ IT TWICE IN THREE DAYS. I WAS RIVERTED BY THE STORY.I THINK ALL WOMEN SHOULD READ THIS BOOK,YOU WILL LEARN A HUGE LESSON IN IT. AND IT IS TRUE LOVE IS BLINDING.

DEBB
Illinois (4/10/2003) This is an excellent book.Having dealt with a somewhat, though not quite extreme, situation, it really hits the heart! I know there are thousands of women out there that would understand everything Rosy endured, and thousands more who wish they had the courage to get out too. If they read this book, it might give them the little piece of encouragement they need!

DEBB
Illinois (4/10/2003) This is an excellent book.Having dealt with a somewhat, though not quite extreme, situation, it really hits the heart! I know there are thousands of women out there that would understand everything Rosy endured, and thousands more who wish they had the courage to get out too. If they read this book, it might give them the little piece of encouragement they need!

Excellnt book for new comers. It really informs you of the proper procedures for starting a consulting business.

The first time I've read Tom Lambert's book, I did it because I was reading a book called "How to Read a Book", and needed a good piece of writing which would also justify my time spent reading it.

The initial objective was simply to see what the book was about, identify the main ideas and finally decide whether to buy the book or leave it where it was. I am glad that my choice was to take the book home and read it, and then apply what I'd learned from it to my personal business of being an employee, who's an internal consultant to my clients, in the various divisions of the business.

There is no doubt that Tom's work is making my life easier, the more I learn and apply the knowledge acquired from it. His work is easy to read, detailed and informative. It has been written by a Master in the art of consulting. If there were black belts awarded for this craft, Tom would be the one handing them out, so much has he know about the business of consulting.

The way I see the book is like a detailed map you would take, prior to going exploring a new and exciting land, a type of adventure that would be very rewarding, but would present a certain degree of risk if approached without appropriate preparation and with the right attitude. It has significant details in each of the 16 chapters, and caters to all consultants, from beginners to advanced.

The book opens your eyes for the perils and tribulations that are likely to lurk around the corners, and it helps you decide what to do. Personally, I liked the parts where Mr. Lambert helps one to decide whether becoming a consultant is a good idea or not; having decided to take on the profession, should you be a specialist or generalist and the pros and cons of each, and what to do to avoid trouble.

I wish I was more fluent in writing reviews. Since I am not, the best thing from my point of view is keeping it simple: If you are interested in consulting - either as someone about to begin in the profession or a seasoned professional, buy the book. Regardless of where you may be in the profession, it will be of benefit to you. Chances are that you will be entertained and educated at the same time. It is a book that is very likely to save you money in many ways, by teaching you how to market your services the right way, and what works and what doesn't when marketing your practice.

For the price you would pay for the book, there probably is not a more cost effective piece of reading, if your objective is to start well, or keep yourself on track or improve if already an old pro in the game of consulting. I believe that Tom Lambert's book is a present, a gift to be taken and used. I for one am grateful to have come across this book and refer to it often, to my great benefit.

This book is not only a valuable tool for a consultant but also it is a useful book for everyone that involves in business. Tom Lambert is a wellknown consultant with great experience in business. Thus, his book is an excellent resource about everything related to consulting. It is absolutely comprehensive and practicable book, with many useful examples from his experience and inside its pages you can find the solution for everything that you meet as a consultant. Great book!

High Income Consulting offers a comprehensive practical guidance on how to become a successful consultant. Consulting is multibillion-dollar business that is growing at a good rate. There is however a great different between good consultants and successful ones. This book put emphasize on becoming a successful consultant by teaching on how to build your practice from writing winning proposals, setting up your fees professionally and working to a contract. It further narrates low-cost yet effective techniques of marketing your practice.
It is a book for both beginners and experienced consultants as it offers advanced skills on consulting roles, strategies for each stage of consultancy assignment and how to avoid problems while maintaining good relation with the client. Thanks to the Consultant's Toolkit part, which is the action-based summary of the skills taught in the book and it can be used as a quick reference guide to both beginners and gurus.

The author of High Income Consulting, Tom Lambert, is a renowned international consultant and writer with several years experience in consulting. His book provides a practical guide to newcomers and experienced professionals on how to build and sustain very profitable, high quality professional practices that consistently provide high and secure income, irrespective of the state of the economy. The book is based on exhaustive research on what is actually done by top earners in Europe and America.

The author explains about how to develop and sustain a high income consultancy practice. He explains the tools and techniques of the profession as well as its ethics. The book teaches about being a good and successful consultant. It is an important reference book that will help the reader to develop an effective business strategy to attract and retain clients.

I have done some part-time consultancy services in the past. I was a good consultant but not a successful one as I tended to charge low fees. I had no guidance on how to price my services properly.

Having read the book, I learnt how successful consultants build their reputation, status, practice and income. I now know how to maximise my income and avoid giving my valuable services away with little or no payment.

My organisation sometimes hires consultants when the knowledge pool in the organisation has run dry. By understanding how good consultants work, I now maximise the chances of a successful relationship.

A great book by a great attorney and even better human being. He tells it like it is but doesn't forget to make you laugh. You've got to read this book!

Mickey Sherman, a renowned defense attorney, defends his profession against the rash of stereotypes held by the general public, usually using a heavy does of his good -- and wacky -- sense of humor in the process.

And, it's not just defending his profession. He looks at the practice of criminal law in general. This isn't a nuts-and-bolts, or a tell-all, just a description of how defense lawyers, judges, prosecutors and cops are all people -- and how those who are best people are usually the best in their line of work.

Filled with great anecdotes from an attorney who truly doesn't take himself too seriously, Mickey Sherman explains not only how he can defend "those guys," but, how you should be glad people like him defend "those guys."

This book should be mandatory reading for criminal defense attorneys. It gets your head, your heart, and your ego in the right place. A light, quick and engaging read, it will crack you up again and again at the same time as imparting much insight. And then there's the chapter on the Roger Ligon case, the prep and trial of which is a model of unstinting hard work, commitment and brilliance by attorney Sherman. And it's cheap, you should buy a bunch of copies so you can hand them out the next time someone asks, "How can you defend those people?!"

I've often asked myself "how can that lawyer defend that person". I guess sometimes I still wonder, but in our wonderful country every person has the right to be represented/defended in court. Sort of reminds me of hate the sin but love the sinner . . Can't love the sinner, but can accept the fact that he has the right to good legal counsel.

Hysterically Entertaining

Enchanted by the quagmires, challenges, and events that surround the lives of attorneys, media commentators, and entertainers?

Interested in the inside scoop on high profile cases, courtroom dramas, actors, players, and the personal boundaries that attorney's often face?

Want to read something that will make you laugh out loud, get teary eyed, stir your nerves, rock your views, and motivate you to live each day as you see fit?

If your answers are yes - then "How Can You Defend Those People" is a MUST READ! It's rare to find a book where readers are so moved by one man's life experiences! Mickey Sherman's accounts are so vividly cast and frankly depicted that they leave you yearning for more and wondering how all these interesting events could possibly have happened to one person! From Michael Skakel, OJ Simpson, Scott Peterson, Martha Stewart, the Menedez brothers ... to the quite unknown yet poignant story of Roger Ligon ... this book is well-written, exciting, and hysterically entertaining!

Timothy George is founding dean and professor at Beeson Divinity School. He has also been a pastor and editor of numerous Christian magazines. Currently he is executive editor of Christianity Today.

This thinish 159 page volume provides useful information for the Christian about Islam. As the back cover blurb states "The days when Western Christians could ignore the influence of Islam are over."

Not only does Dr George help make Islam more understandable, but he also explains the importance of various differences between Christianity and Islam. Perhaps most importantly, the doctrine of the Trinity is explained, defended and celebrated. Dr George says (p55) "Ironically, the doctrine of the Trinity may be at one and the same time the most important and the most neglected dotrine we hold."

The deity of Christ is another important point for any Christian wishing to examine Islam at close range. Page 62: To call Jesus Lord, not just with the lips but from the heart, is to become a Christian..."

It is at the beginning of the chapter "Why the Trinity matters" (p69) that Dr George answers the question of whether the Father of Jesus is the God of Muhammad "The answer to this question is surely both yes and no. Yes, in the sense that the Father of Jesus is the only God there is...also no for Muslim theology rejects the fatherhood of God, the deity of Jesus Christ, and the personhood of the Holy Spirit-each of which is an essential component of the Christian understanding of God."

I found the testimony of Lamin Sanneh (p102-103) quite moving. It is very reassuring to hear of converts from Islam to Christianity based on sound reasoning. This is especially the case when the convert concerned was a "leading theologian and scholar of Islam".

In chapter six, "Grace for the straight path", we are told "We need grace, not simply guidance" (p115). This points back to page 29, in which we are shown the first seven verses of the first surah of the Qu'ran that includes the words "Guide us in the straight path". I had to pause for a minute to understand this connection - but maybe that's just me.

Dr George counsels the use of both patience and perseverance (p128) in sharing the Gospel with Muslims. This means we need to employ neither "...the vilification of Islam and the denigration of Muhammad..." nor a pluralistic "...cavalier attitude toward truth..."

I didn't find one typographical error in the whole book!

This wonderful book helps the Christian and non-Christian reader understand where the two theologies differ and why the doctrin of the trinity is not what Muslims say it is. THis book concentrates on theology and the different affirmations fo God according to the two faiths, for one it is submission, for the other love. The author does a wonderful job and introducing the reader to these tough subjects and making sense of questions of sin and forgiveness.

Probably the only issue here is that the central theme of the book is not answered fully. A textual comparison has never been done of the New Testament verus the Koran and this is lacking. How is it possible the 'Father of Jesus' who said 'turn the other cheek' be the same god who ordered Mohammed to kill all the pagans in the world? In essence, becuase the history and the context is in the way and because religion by its nature is based on faith/not logic, we are not dealing here with an answer but an anecdote.

Seth J. frantzman

I was privileged to hear the author speak at a recent AMIA (Anglican Mission in America) conference. Bought the book to refresh my memory of his talk. His knowledge of the Muslim faith and culture were "eye opening". Learned lots!!! Things all Christians should know to built relationship in order to advance the Kingdom of the one true God! Highly recommend it... this book will take your head out of the sand and into knowledge; tools that Christians need...

I found this book to be a very good explanation of many questions that are raised in our world today about differences between Islam and Christianity. Timothy George gives a strong answer for the question given in the title, "Is the Father of Jesus the God of Muhammad?" His answer is "yes" and "no." I will leave it to you to read and find out what he means, but I must admit that I agree with his answer completely.

George also brings to light the incredible importance of acknowledging the Trinity as truth. This is a major hangup to the Muslim, but it is a must to the Christian. For all Muslims who use this as a reason to ignore the claims of Christianity, you should read George's answer. Christians do not believe in three Gods! They believe in One God. For all Christians, beware of the temptation to compromise on this issue and lessen the importance of the Trinity. There is no true Christian faith without all parts of the Godhead.

I guess you could say I liked this book and encourage you to read it as well. It will help your understanding on some vitally important issues between Christianity and Islam.

I thought this was a great book. One of the most interesting aspects of it was how much it teaches about Christianity. I've heard the Trinity talked about my whole life, but this book made me really think about what that means. I like the image of God's love spilling over into different persons, that God is a god of relationship and love as first demonstrated by the Trinity.

This book also made me interested to read the Quran.

It's a book that will make you think. It's also very easily readable. I read it as part of a book club, and I think we all liked the book. On a side note, I had a few people notice the book I was reading/carrying and inquire about it, so it's definitely a topic of interest to many folks right now. I think it's a good launching point for learning something about Islam.

Bo Lozoff is a true man of God, Life and a profit for out times. I love all his books from the very beginning and this one is no different. He is a great spiritual teacher and I respect his writing and him.

"Everybody complains about the weather, but nobody does anything about it." Bo Lozoff does something about another of our major complaints, the isolation, individualism and crass materialism promoted in modern American culture.
He has done this by providing an exemplar - his own life - and setting out twenty-six specific practices that can still our rancour and increase community and happiness.
Doing is NOT as easy as reading -- but the book lingered with me, and working with just one or two of the practices has, I believe, helped me to be more resilient and more dependable in stressful time, and has helped me make better choices about where to put my energy and resources.

This book provides the nuts and bolts for a more meaningful life. It has useable ideas for being a better and happier person. I wake up every morning and say, "May I be a simple, humble, kind presence on the earth today." I eat only one portion and it's helping me lose weight. I especially like his ecumenical use of all religions. This book makes sense. I've given copies to friends and family, I read it over and over. It's a wonderful book!

Invoking Radical Christianity, Buddhist tenets, and a wide and wise approach including many wisdom traditions, Bo Lozoff has written a jewel. Bo interweaves his own story, told with searing honesty, with the promise (to the reader) of learning the habit of radical transformative action. I have begun simple meditation because of this book. It is making all the difference. With this book, you can throw yourself a life-line, benefiting yourself and others. It just takes practice.

Bo's latest is even clearer and more poignant than his earlier books. In this latest spiritual guide Bo provides insight and valuable complementary exercises to make the reading all that more powerful and effective.

What truly amazes me is how Bo can keep writing with such relevance and power and yet never repeat his earlier books (which I also felt excelled in relevance and power...).

Rather than read as a novel, I've treated this as a workbook, savoring each point and companion exercise and then moving to the next one.

Frye gives great direction for ministry. As a student who is still studying to be a pastor I recommend this book to anyone who interacts with people and wants to do in a Christlike way. John writes this book in such a way tham we aren't just leaning his neat tricks, we are learning from Jesus and his example. Great book, very helpful for anyone who sees Jesus as someone worth following.

JESUS THE PASTOR was a book assigned to me for a Christian Ministry class at John Brown University. From the moment I read the cover, I knew that I was going to love reading it. Few books have excited me this much about the role of being a pastor and about the person of Jesus Christ. In my personal journey to becoming a pastor myself, John Frye has put the road in front of me into perspective.

God has used JESUS THE PASTOR in conjunction with other events in my life to teach me that even while I am training to assume the OFFICE of pastor that I can and am called to assume the ROLE of pastor in my everyday life. Being available to others and leading a life ordered around Christ as the focus of ministry is an exciting, blessing, and yet humbling road. Through this book, God has taught me so many things and revolutionized my view point of what it means to be a pastor.

Far be it from me to try to teach my elders, but I would recommend this book to ANY person who occupies the office of pastor in the local church. The Church needs committed servant-leaders and under-shepherds to guide the body of Christ. This book is one of the tools God is using to make that happen.

This is a book which necessarily contemplates the question for those pastors or those contemplating the office, where does one turn when in need?

Frye answers: to multiple sources to find Jesus the Pastor: The Word, spiritual gifts and brother pastors and saints.

His compassion and heart for the sheep and those who will be brought into the fold is touching and commendable.

This reviewer's concern is directing one away from the only source of power and salvation: The Word Incarnate. Is Jesus not located where He wishes and mandates that He is? For sure? For 100% sure?

Jesus locates Himself in the gospel purely preached and in the Sacraments administered according to His mandates! This is where every pastor and individual will find Him! We find Jesus there to forgive our sins as pastors, strengthen our faith and keep us in this faith, and deliver us finally to the church triumphant.

What Frye suggests that I cannot agree with is seek spiritual gifts for empowerment. Consider Luke 16:19ff. Does Jesus suggest that we find salvation in any other place than in the Word? Further, Matthew 7:21-23, "(Did we not) do many might works in your name?" and 1 John 4:1-2 demand that any spirit which would detract from Jesus Incarnate in Word and Sacrament is not from the Holy Spirit.

In last days that we are in, when every church growth program and latest is not delivering the numerical growth they have been proclaiming is Biblical, where do they turn?

These moments of desparation show us where faith is. Only in what God has spoken and mandated that He be found: in the Gospel purely preached and Sacraments administered according to His mandates.

For all the compassion and desire to be God-pleasing that Frye so humbly speaks of in this book, to lead pastors to anything other than God's Word is not what God has said. Let us consider what His Servants of the Word should be!

Thus, I cannot recommend this to pastors or those contemplating the office due to these serious misleadings. Wish he would have more directly and in detail, expounded the Biblical admonitions for pastors, such as 1 Cor. 11, 2 Cor. 4:12; 2 Cor. 11:2; 1 Tim. 3-4, etc. For a good treatment of these, see Jonathon F. Grothe, "Reclaiming Patterns of Pastoral Ministry: Jesus and Paul." It likely is out of print, but nonetheless, you will be blessed by obtaining and reading.

This book comes from a man with formal theological training, who then went through personal growth in Christ. First learning About God, to personally learning From God. Wonderful insight to the real meaning of Christianity, a Spirit empowered, personal and intimate relationship with Christ. Frye, personally has found the invisible realm of God, with the daily practice of disciplines to make room for God's Spirit to touch his life and bring him the compassion of Christ towards other men, with the only way possible, through God's Spirit and the faith and intimacy with God, that it requires. This is a book that remains within in evangelical thought in the and the framework of literal Biblical thought, yet goes the step further in seeing the spiritual principles behind the letter. Being one step closer towards seeing God outside of written words.

This book was a cup of cool water for me during a dry period of my life.

It is so easy as a pastor to simply pick up the next kit or program that will somehow escalate your church to the "next level". John Frye has brought us back to the fact that Jesus must be our mentor and guide throughout our ministry. He is to be our primary guide in all of pastoral ministry. It is about aligning ourselves as an apprentice of His.

Through this book I learned how I could better lead others in the character and power of Christ.

Thanks to John Frye for this encouraging work!

This is an absolutely wonderful tool for discerning your spiritual gifts in Christ and a very clear presentation as how to use them!!

As a personal and professional coach, I often use this workbook, in addition to the original Discover Who You Are, when working with people who are making major life transitions, especially career change. I find the material thorough but not overwhelming for people with varying levels of education. Also, the workbook format allows my clients to scribble all they want and keep a record of their thoughts without writing in the margins of the text book (some people dislike writing in their books). The workbook can be pulled out weeks, months or years later to refresh memory and track progress - a real jewel.

The LifeKeys program is designed to help people discover their path in life. Whether you are just starting out, in a job you don't really like, newly retired, or just curious about the possibilities, LifeKeys is a great resource for finding out more about yourself and your mission in life.

The authors provide a series of simple tests on interests, spiritual gifts, personality type, values and passions to help the reader discern what God is calling them to. Each activity is simple, although they can be time consuming if done properly.

Many people use this series in a church class: The one I led at our congregation of about 500 members attracted over 30 people to participate. There is a hunger out there for the kind of guidance LifeKeys provides. It is certainly a great program to use in a church context, and the workbook version makes it easy.

LifeKeys certainly is pitched to the Christian community. However, an individual reading the entire text would find it just as easy and rewarding to do on their own.

Develop your own personal mission statement, and use LifeKeys as a guide!

With a resemblance to What Color is Your Parachute, but with a Christ-based perspective, Discover Who You Are takes a multi-pronged approach to discerning how you can be a better steward of the gifts, talents and passions the God has given you. The book, which is part of the Lifekeys series, is designed to help you discover your calling. The book is practical, easy to read and full of exercises and self-assessment tools. Discover Who You Are is useful by itself, but it also makes a good resource for a church small group study. A workbook and a leadership resource are also available.
Discover Who You Are's multi-pronged approach begins with assessing your life gifts - what comes naturally to you. These are classified into six areas such as artistic, investigative and social. Next the authors look at spiritual gifts, helping the reader through a series of questions to identify which of 20 God-given gifts they might have, such as mercy, teaching and evangelism. This is followed by a chapter on Meyers-Briggs personality types, with acronyms such as INFJ and ESTP. An exercise on identifying one's values is next, followed by a discussion of finding one's passions. The remainder of the book focuses on service, with applying your self discovery to volunteer opportunities and career choices. These applications include specific sections dealing with different life stages, including first career, midlife transitions and retirement planning.
Some readers may find the book tells them what they already know about themselves and others may still be left with questions when trying to figure out specifically what they were meant to do with their lives. But most will find the journey through this book to be a useful way to sharpen their insights into themselves and better understand how God made them. The book may indeed help one live more purposefully for Him and find deeper meaning in life. jsteenhagen at ActiveStewardship

This book is a life-changing and life-enhancing source of how to use your God-given gifts...a lesson in God's love for us.

God believes each of us is special and this book shows the reader how to uncover (or re-discover) the gifts God has given that make each of us unique. And useful to God!

It is a blessing and a gift!