Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God

by Francis Chan,
David C. Cook, 2008

In this perspective-changing life-changing book, Chan argues that Christians have a wrong view of God, and consequently, of ourselves. In the first three chapters, the reader comes to truly understand and appreciate that God is holy, eternal, all-knowing, all-powerful, fair and just. We are reminded that He wants us and that our time on earth is short. The final seven chapters warn against being spiritually lukewarm and serving God leftovers. Chan advises us of our high calling and purpose and urges the reader to surrender completely to the God who loves us. He gives powerful examples of those who have lived a radical, love-motivated life and exhorts us to follow suit.

Read this book once, then read it again with your highlighter in hand (make sure it's not a library copy!). Let its truths guide your life and make your time on earth time well spent, so that when you face your Heavenly Father, you will hear those longed-for words - "well done, good and faithful servant."

They Boy Who Came Back from Heaven: a True Story

by Kevin and Alex Malarkey
Tyndale House Publishers, 2010

On a November morning in 2004 Kevin Malarkey was travelling home from church with his son,  Alex, when they were involved in a horrific accident. Alex, who defied all medical and human expectations for his survival, was airlifted to Children's Hospital for emergency surgery. While he remains a paraplegic in a wheelchair to this day, his recovery has exceeded the predictions of his surgical team, and he and his family remain firm in their faith that with God's help, Alex will walk again someday.

This book tells the story of the accident, Alex's hospitalization, and what happened during his time of unconsciousness, including a period in which he was comatose. Alex went to Heaven where he spent time with God, Jesus and angels, and he is able to tell us many things about his experiences with them, both in Heaven itself and on earth. It is an amazing story and is shared, not to draw attention to Alex, but to glorify God and give hope to people.

Although the family has an unfortunate last name, I completely believe the truth that is shared with us here, and look forward to the day when I, too, might see my real home with my own eyes.

This is exciting stuff, folks! Let's keep this boy and his family in our prayers and join with them in believing Alex will walk again during his earthly lifetime. They have an amazing attitude that is inspiring to others.

God Has Never Failed Me, But He's Sure Scared Me to Death a Few Times

by Stan Toler

David C. Cook, 1995

In God Has Never Failed Me, But He’s Sure Scared Me to Death a Few Times, Toler gives a humorous twist to challenges of faith. Though we know that God’s provision is always on time, we’ve all had experiences where we wondered what He was up to. For anyone who's ever felt stressed, confused, hurt, angry, or any other emotional response to the difficulties and uncertainties of life, Toler provides delightful reminders that God is still at work in the world.

Filled with heartwarming stories and hilarious anecdotes, this collection offers hope and peace for the weary, waiting heart. Toler combines a rich blend of spiritual truths with humorous insights as he reminds God’s children of His unfailing love. Through it all, readers will discover a God who is always faithful, worthy of our trust, and never late with His help.

Make Love, Make War: NOW is the Time to Worship

by Brian Doerksen

David C. Cook, 2009

In Make Love, Make War, award-winning Canadian songwriter, musician, and worship leader, Brian Doerksen, sounds a clarion call for believers to engage in authentic worship. He defines what true worship is, describes what it looks like, and tells us why it's important. The writer of many beloved worship songs [perhaps most notably Come, Now is the Time to Worship; Refiner's Fire; and Today (As for Me and My House)], Doerksen encourages songwriters and worship leaders to rethink their values and motivations and to draw close to the heart of God. Each chapter tells the story behind one of his songs, and concludes with tips for songwriters.

Despite its uninspiring cover, this book demands to be read by all believers who are serious about worship. While the title may startle some Christians who have bought into the notion that believers should always be 'nice,' Doerksen reminds us that we are in a spiritual battle and that worship is one of our most significant weapons as we seek to recognize the character of God and to love others.

While I am not giving my copy of the book away, but passing it along to my daughter, who is an aspiring singer/songwriter, I encourage you to visit HearItFirst.com to enter the “Hear It First, Read It First” contest and promotion sponsored by David C Cook, Integrity Music, HearItFirst.com, and Gibson/Epiphone Guitars. There, you will be able to enter to win prizes, as well as download free music video performances of Brian Doerksen (i.e., “It’s Time” and “Holy God”) and free sample chapters from Make Love, Make War. Prizes include a set of worship CDs from Integrity, a signed Epiphone guitar and an Epiphone amplifier! Visit hearitfirst.com/BrianDoerksen!

You can also watch Brian Doerksen's music video, "It's Time," here.