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Over the past ten years, thousands of church leaders have successfully transformed congregations with the principles from the original Five…
Practices: Radical Hospitality, Passionate Worship, Intentional Faith Development, Risk-Taking Mission and Service, and Extravagant Generosity. However, much has changed in the world and the Church. Leaders have discovered new ways to implement the Five Practices in settings that were not imagined when the original book was released. This revised and updated edition of the ministry leadership classic includes a significant amount of new material. How are the Practices being used now, in new types of congregations? How has each Practice changed in the last decade? What new issues or concerns do leaders need to consider in relation to each Practice? This revision provides leaders with a 'next step' look at the original practices. Schnase gathered ideas and other content from ministry leaders who have been using the Five Practices, and explains how those ideas work, how leaders adapted the principles to their own settings, and how they expanded them. A new preface redefines 'Congregations' given their evolving nature. When the original book was written, the new forms of Christian community either did not exist or were barely known. The Five Practices are, however, just as essential to the new types of congregations as they were to the traditional church. Since the original book, there is more variety, diversity, and experimentation in worship. The revised Five Practices includes material based on these new forms. Small group study has always been important for intentional faith development. But since the original book, the nature of those groups has transformed to include secular settings and a wide variety of affinities profoundly affecting how faith leaders approach issues of faith development, and in many cases radically changes what they offer in their communities. Imagine the topic of Risk-Taking Mission and Service before Black Lives Matter, the Syrian refugee crisis, and the Trump administration. This new version gives instruction and specific ideas for how we might best serve today’s world.
Earthy Mysticism: Spirituality for Unspiritual People
By Tex Sample. 2008
This book, says the author, is “a testimony of narratives where [a] strange God appears. Such appearances supply the mystical…
states that have come to shape my life. I am not helped much by conventional approaches to spirituality. I find it almost impossible to do ‘devotions.’ Daily Bible study in the sense of devoting twenty to thirty minutes a day never worked for me. I cannot get around to scheduled times for prayer on my knees with head bowed. I find labyrinths and prayer beads boring. I am ever and again distracted in silent meditation. I simply cannot sustain a spirituality based in such things. “I do not regard myself as unusual or special. My hunch, and it is more than that, is that a host of people will recognize themselves in what I describe here. What is here is, clearly, my story, but it is not about me. It is about a God of surprises, of One who comes in the ordinary and the seamy. It is about a God who will goose you. It is about mystical moments when clearly the only thing that finally matters is this God who will never leave us alone, especially in the ordinary and angular places of life. It is, I hope, a spirituality for unspiritual people.”From the Circuit Rider review: "Tex Sample’s new book, Earthy Mysticism: Spirituality for Unspiritual People, simultaneously says a whole lot and very little about the subject of mysticism. The word “mysticism” itself only shows up in the introduction and the last chapter, bracketing the book with a concept that Sample doesn’t fully define or even directly reflect on the meaning of. That being said, Sample never claims to be writing a scholarly view of what mysticism might be, but instead attempts to show how one can recognize the presence of the holy in everyday life. In this he succeeds powerfully." (Click here to read the entire review.)
Longing for Enough in a Culture of More
By Paul L. Escamilla. 2007
These 25 brief, thoughtful meditations by Paul Escamilla are organized in five topics: The Good Book, The Good Life, the…
Good Work, The Good Society, and The Good Earth. Whether read privately or with a group, these probing essays invite rather than indict the reader - making the "life of enough" seem not only possible but a natural next step in our lives as Christians. A gifted writer, Escamilla leads the reader to anticipate both physical and spiritual relief from saturation and excess. Together the author and the reader search for the secret of escaping the lifestyle and attitudes of "a weighed-down world." A study guide includes questions for reflection or discussion.An excerpt from the Circuit Rider review: "This is a helpful little book. Clergy and laity will find in it much to consider. In a highly consumerist culture, there is a great deal to examine as persons ask questions about what constitutes having 'enough': How much is enough? How do we find rest and peace for anxious hearts? How do we discover a depth of being in a society always bent on 'doing' and 'having' more? For persons who are searching and exploring what the next step in the journey of faith is, this book will provide an instructive pathway to growth by someone who has also "been there and done that." And what they will receive is not an indicting finger but a gentle and persuasive hand."
Proof of Heaven ...in 30 Minutes is your guide to quickly understanding the spiritual lessons in Dr. Eben Alexander's life-changing…
book, Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife. In Proof of Heaven, neurosurgeon Dr. Eben Alexander recollects his near-death experience and how it convinced him that there was proof of heaven. As told in Proof of Heaven, Alexander had a brush with death while in a seven-day coma, during which he experienced a transformative spiritual journey. Though his neocortex, the part of the brain that's responsible for higher-level functions, was inactive the whole time, his conscious mind experienced rich spiritual realms, giving him proof of heaven existing. Formerly an atheist, Alexander recounts his spiritual transformation in Proof of Heaven and shares the truths he learned as a result of his journey. An essential read for believers and skeptics alike, Proof of Heaven provides readers insight into a neurosurgeon's experience with the afterlife. Use this helpful guide to understand Proof of Heaven in a fraction of the time, with tools such as: · A concise synopsis examining the remarkable near-death experience recounted in Proof of Heaven · In-depth analyses of Dr. Eben Alexander's spiritual transformation detailed in Proof of Heaven · Explanations of the three fundamental truths from Proof of Heaven, revealed to Alexander during his venture, and how to apply these lessons to your life · An insightful background on Alexander, a former associate professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School · An extensive recommended reading list and bibliography related to Proof of Heaven As with all books in the 30 Minute Expert Series, this book is intended to be purchased alongside the reviewed title, Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife.
5-Minute Family Devotional: Kid-Friendly Devotions for Growing with God
By Brittany Rust. 2022
Connect with God and each other through 5-minute devotions for families Exploring God's Word as a family can help you…
grow in faith and spend meaningful time together—even if it's just for a few minutes! This book is filled with 5-minute devotions for the whole family, with themes and ideas that both young kids and adults can understand and relate to. Together, you'll discover the Lord's wisdom and see the many ways His love manifests in your lives.Get the kids involved!—Designed for families with kids under the age of 10, this devotional makes it easy for everyone to understand God's Word.150 simple devotions—Each devotion includes a passage from Scripture paired with reflections and a prompt to pray, talk, or do an activity together as a family.Thoughtful themes—Explore devotions on family-friendly topics like listening to God, coping with anger, being a good friend, and living with compassion.Strengthen your faith together with this kid-friendly choice in family devotionals.
Prayers for Your Future Wife: Daily Reflections for a God-Centered Marriage
By Dale Chamberlain. 2021
Devotions to prepare you for marriage to your future wifeNo one is more invested in the success of your future…
marriage than God. This uplifting, thought-provoking devotional is full of wisdom and prayers to help you lay the foundation of a strong union with your wife. Ninety days of devotions and practical insights guide you as you begin your journey to marriage.Plan in any phase—Find wisdom whether you are with someone and looking to keep God at the center of your relationship or single and seeking guidance in His plan.Prepare your heart—Pray and reflect on Biblical lessons to ready your own heart and soul for a God-centered union.Look to the future—Understand the woman who will become your future wife and set expectations for your modern marriage.Build a strong marriage—Gain insight into everyday ways you can strengthen your relationship to stand the test of time.Center Jesus in your future marriage with the support of this men's devotional.
Vedic Astrology for Beginners: An Introduction to the Origins and Core Concepts of Jyotish
By Pamela McDonough. 2020
Unlock the mysteries and insights of Indian astrologyVedic astrology—known as Jyotish in its home of India—can be a powerful channel…
of insights and revelations in your daily life. But how to unlock this complex tool? Vedic Astrology for Beginners breaks down the core concepts of Vedic astrology, showing you how to analyze your birth chart to better understand your personality, relationships, and life path.Discover the ancient origins of Vedic astrology and its differences from Western astrology. Explore detailed profiles of each planet, zodiac sign, and the other essential elements of a Jyotish natal horoscope. With these foundational steps, you'll gain a better understanding of your physical, emotional, and spiritual experiences—and even begin to anticipate your future.In Vedic Astrology for Beginners, you'll find:Key components—Learn the basic elements of Vedic astrology, including the planets, signs, houses, and lunar mansions—each representing or influencing areas of your life.Chart your birth—Get started on analyzing your birth chart with a primer on the processes of assembly and evaluation, plus an example chart analysis.Astrological resources—Explore a glossary of helpful Sanskrit terms and determine your exact planetary placements with handy calculation charts.Relieve stress and start bringing balance to your life with Vedic Astrology for Beginners.
The Meaning of Marriage . . . in 30 Minutes: A 30 Minute Spiritual Summary
By Timothy Keller. 2013
The Meaning of Marriage ...in 30 Minutes is your guide to quickly understanding the lessons in Timothy Keller's best-selling book,…
The Meaning of Marriage:Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God. In The Meaning of Marriage, Timothy Keller uses the wisdom from his marriage of over thirty-seven years to explain how to increase the success of a Christian marriage. He posits that modern society creates expectations about marriage that are distorted and unrealistic, preventing married couples from finding true happiness. Using studies and statistics about marriage as well as the wealth of knowledge between him and his wife, Kathy Keller, the author challenges commonly held views on marriage, and proves that with hard work and realistic expectations, a marriage can be the most unique and glorious way to experience God's love on Earth. Use this helpful guide to understand The Meaning of Marriage in a fraction of the time, with tools such as: Practical applications for how to overcome everyday obstacles and create realistic expectations within a marriage Insights into the different roles men and women have in a Christian marriage Personal stories about marriage and the importance of faith in everything from sex to raising children to everyday chores A synopsis of The Meaning of Marriage, definitions of key terms, and both positive and negative critical reception of the book An overview of why modern culture's idea of a soul mate is wrong As with all books in the 30 Minute Expert Series, this book is intended to be purchased alongside the reviewed title, The Meaning of Marriage:Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God.
Daily Meditations for Christians: A Year of Quotes, Reflections, and Scriptures
By Rebecca Hastings. 2020
Get inspired and deepen your connection with God every dayIn the midst of your busy day, take a private moment…
to connect with God and refresh your spirit. Daily Meditations for Christians offers short meditations that pair powerful excerpts of fiction with words of faith, inspiring you to find meaning—and grow closer to God daily.Each memorable line from a piece of Christian fiction is followed by a brief reflection, prayer, or affirmation. Scripture passages for these daily meditations are referred to by chapter and verse, encouraging you to pick up your favorite Bible and finish your personal practice in contemplation.Daily Meditations for Christians includes:A year in Christ—365 short daily meditations give you thought starters for every day of the year—or as often as you want to spend a few minutes reflecting.Notable authors—Deepen your spiritual insights with inspirational quotes from Terri Blackstock, J.R.R. Tolkien, Beth Moore, Karen Kingsbury, C.S. Lewis, and Willam Paul Young.Specific guidance—Daily meditations are indexed by both subject and Scripture passage—so you can rediscover the topics that speak to you most.Connect with God's word every day through Daily Meditations for Christians.
This book of affirmations pairs powerful excerpts from Scripture with 365 daily messages of inspiration and positivity for teen boys. Being…
a teen isn't easy, but teens can always take comfort in God's Word. With His support, teen boys can take on the day's challenges with confidence. This book contains daily affirmations and positivity to support teen boys with whatever they might be going through.Brief and easy—Each affirmation takes just a minute or two to read, and they aren't dated, so teen boys can open the book to any page they like.Making a consistent habit—By spending a moment with God every day, teen boys can refocus their energy on the things that matter—and grow stronger through His love.A year of prompts—Find a prompt for each day of the year that includes a quote from the Bible and a simple explanation that helps teens understand it.The opportunity to build their sense of strength and self in just a few minutes each day can happen with Daily Christian Affirmations for Teen Boys!
Weave the Bible's wisdom into your parenting and instill faith in your son As a parent, you will always be…
your son's first and most powerful influence—which is why it's so important to raise him with God by your side. This guide is full of practical parenting advice and spiritual insights that show you how to root your parenting in God's Word and raise your son with intention and care.What sets this guide apart from other Christian parenting books:The basics of raising boys—Discover how your son's emotional and physical development impact your parenting style, and define the values and goals that keep him close to Christ.Parenting principles—Explore Bible-based principles that help you model your faith, set and respect boundaries, and create the foundation for a relationship based on love, trust, and understanding.Targeted techniques—Learn specific strategies for affirming your son's self-worth, dealing with bullies, navigating social media, and more.Be the wise and Christ-honoring parent your son deserves with help from this modern, Scripture-based guide.
60 Days of Prayer: An Inspirational Guide for Praying with Purpose
By Elaine Goddard. 2021
Pray with intention and grow closer to God With all the distractions of our busy lives, sometimes prayer becomes an…
automatic habit instead of a truly meaningful and intentional experience—or we stop praying altogether. This guide helps you revitalize your spiritual life with advice, prompts, and specific prayers that help you converse with God every day.What sets this book apart:A prayer refresher—Find an encouraging introduction that offers a straightforward lesson on every aspect of prayer, whether you're beginning a new practice or returning to an old one.60 days to pray—Discover how daily practice is key to building a foundation of purposeful prayer with a full two months of devotions.Words become faith—Turn prayer into more than just words with insightful reflection questions that help you truly understand the power of each verse.Create a powerful prayer routine and strengthen your connection with the Lord through this guided prayer journal.
The inner work of age: shifting from role to soul
By Connie Zweig. 2021

The missing element: inspiring compassion for the human condition
By Debra Silverman. 2016
"In The Missing Element, author Debra Silverman describes human nature in a compassionate and succinct way. Everyone longs to be…
understood and the author offers ways for us to get to know ourselves in depth with the wisdom of archetypes." -- WorldCat
Addiction and grace: love and spirituality in the healing of addictions
By Gerald G May. 2006
"Drawing on his experience as a psychiatrist working with the chemically dependent, May emphasizes how addiction represents a doomed attempt…
to assert complete control over our lives. 'Addiction & Grace' is a compassionate and wise treatment of this important topic, offering a critical yet hopeful guide to a place of freedom based on contemplative spirituality. This 'Plus' edition includes two additional essays by Gerald May not included in the hardcover version"-- Cover
World Religions: Questions and Answers for Humanity's 7 Oldest and Largest Faiths
By Jill Carroll. 2021
Your guide to understanding seven of the world's most prominent religionsIf you're interested in learning about world religions, this book…
is the place to start. Packed with informative fact sheets and answers to common questions, this beginner's guide fills you in on the most important aspects of each religion. You'll learn about fascinating histories, rituals, and festivals as you grow to better understand the belief systems that offer meaning and purpose to billions of people around the globe.This beginner's guide to major world religions features:Seven world religions—Discover the basic tenets and practices of Hinduism, Judaism, Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Shikhism.Digestible snapshots—Learn key dates, major sects, primary texts, the most recognizable symbols, and everyday practices at a glance.A Q&A format—By presenting facts through questions and answers, this book uses a conversational tone that makes information easier to understand and remember.Build your knowledge of world religions with this beginner's guide.
The Essential Jewish Cookbook: 100 Easy Recipes for the Modern Jewish Kitchen
By Marcia A. Friedman. 2021
100 Easy, must-have Jewish recipes for any occasionJewish food is steeped in diverse cultural traditions, featuring a wide array of…
ingredients, flavors, and textures from all over the world. Capture the essence of this one-of-a-kind cuisine with The Essential Jewish Cookbook, filled with easy recipes for classic Jewish dishes made simple and modern.From Challah French Toast and Classic Potato Latkes to Adafina and Doro Wot, these recipes highlight the breadth and depth of Jewish cuisine from different regions. You'll find tips and tricks for getting the most out of each recipe, from preparing certain steps in advance to swapping ingredients for making dishes kosher.The Essential Jewish Cookbook includes:A culinary history—Learn more about where these recipes come from with a historical journey through Jewish cuisine, from the Middle East, to Europe, North Africa, the Americas, and beyond.Holiday menus—Discover simple holiday menus that offer a starting place for planning memorable meals and forming your own delicious traditions.Dietary labels—Explore vegetarian, kosher, and gluten-free recipes with labels that make it easy to find dishes that will work for everyone.From weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, create delectable meals the whole family will love with this traditional Jewish cookbook.
Christian Dating Adventures: A Couple's Guide
By Selina Almodovar. 2021
Discover fulfilling date ideas for building a strong, faith-based connection Deepen your relationship, strengthen your faith, and have fun! No…
matter how long you've been together, Christian Dating Adventures is packed full of memorable date ideas perfect for any Christian couple. Nurture your connection with your partner and with God as you watch a sunrise, go on an impromptu road trip, or volunteer together within your church or community.Go beyond other dating books with:Dates for every occasion—Find ideas that are ideal for quiet nights at home, exciting outdoor adventures, group dates, holidays, and more.Faith-based guidance—Keep God in the center of your relationship through Scripture, discussion, and spiritual insights.Tips for couples—Make sure every date—whether it's your first or fiftieth—is memorable and meaningful with thoughtful advice for getting the most out of each experience.Grow closer together through the power of your faith with this dating book for Christian couples.
5-Minute Devotions for Mom: 150 Days of Peace, Prayer, and the Power of God
By Teresa Ann Criswell. 2020
Find a moment of peace in the parenting chaos with 150 brief, uplifting devotions for moms Even during the most…
hectic days of being a mom, God is with you every step of the way. Take a few minutes to find peace in Him with 5-Minute Devotions for Mom, a mom devotional packed with 150 devotions to lighten your load and deepen your faith. The convenient 5-minute format makes it easy to pause and reconnect with God—over morning coffee, at bedtime, or anytime in between.Discover Scripture passages, spiritual anecdotes, and insights to remind you of God's grace. Ponder bite-size lessons on motherhood, relationships, and living for the Lord. Reflections, prayers, and action items all feature in this mom devotional—so you can put His wisdom into practice as you move forward with your busy day.This inspiring mom devotional includes:150 Devotions, 5 minutes—Explore the brief lessons from this mom devotional your way—one per day, several at a time, on your own, or with a group.Thoughtful message—Conclude each devotion with a prayer, thoughtful question, or suggestion for applying its wisdom to your life.Faith and cheer—An elegant, easy-to-read format makes this the perfect mom devotional to give as a gift or enjoy in your own worship.A mom's life is busy—take five to connect with God and find peace with a special mom devotional.
Moon Spells for Beginners: A Guide to Moon Magic, Lunar Phases, and Essential Spells and Rituals
By Michael Herkes. 2021
Discover the magic of the moon with spells for beginners The moon holds an abundance of energy that witches have…
harnessed for centuries to manifest their hearts' deepest desires. Now, modern spellcasters of all skill levels can access the moon's power, with Moon Spells for Beginners. You'll find guidance, rituals, and spells to tap into the moon's cycles, cultivate prosperity, and transform your life.This moon spells book can help you:Understand the moon—Explore the history, folklore, and science behind the moon and how it has been used throughout the ages as a source of magic.Learn spellcasting basics—Discover the fundamentals of casting spells, including what they are, their benefits, and how to perform them ethically.Make moon magic—Dive into spells, rituals, and meditations organized by each lunar phase to help you focus your energy and create change in your life, from letting go of the past to setting intentions for the future.Unlock the combined power of lunar energy and witchcraft with this complete book of spells for beginners.