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The Joshua Code: 52 Scripture Verses Every Believer Should Know
The Joshua Code: 52 Scripture Verses Every Believer Should Know
by O. S. Hawkins
Have you ever felt like you should have more Bible verses committed to memory than you already have? That thought was the impetus for me to purchase and read this book. The goal is to memorize one verse each week. At first that seemed doable, but as life brought some ups and downs, I found myself unable to remember, over the long haul, all the Scripture references that went with each verse. So, about half way through the book, I switched to using it solely as a devotional and that worked well for me in that season.
My first reaction to The Joshua Code was to question the author’s choice of Scriptures. Many of my “favorites” were not included, and I wasn’t sure I saw the importance of those that were selected. As I stayed with it for a few weeks, I began to understand the process. With each verse there is a devotional, a short homily. As I read each chapter I could see why the verse was important. Since then, I have been surprised at how these verses come up in various contexts and provide an “Ah, ha” moment or a “God wink,” a term used by some for seeming “coincidences.”
According to the author, the title Joshua Code refers to Joshua 1:8 and is a “challenge to keep God’s Word in our mouths through memorization and keep it in our hearts through meditation ‘day and night.’ ” In the Introduction, Hawkins gives his practical method for committing verses to memory. He also explains what meditation is for Christians and how valuable meditation can be when applied to these verses.
I recommend this book for Christians and also for those seeking a relationship with Jesus. This book will show readers how to find Jesus in the Scriptures despite the chaos of daily life and digital content that constantly bombards us.
Rating: 5/5
Category: Christian, Nonfiction
Notes: 1. 52 Scriptures and devotionals to encourage memorization
2. A note at the end of the book states that all of the author’s royalties and any other proceeds from the book go to Mission Dignity which “enables thousands of retired ministers (and, in most cases, their widows) who are living below the poverty level, to live out their days with dignity and security.” Small churches are often unable to contribute to a pastor’s retirement, and Hawkins is using his book to financially fill that need.
Publication: 2012—Thomas Nelson
Grace for the Moment for Moms–great gift for moms
Grace for the Moment for Moms
by Max Lucado
Whooops! I let the publication date of this book slip by me, and I could no longer access it as an ARC (Advance Reader Copy). I do so love the encouragement and insights that Lucado offers in his books. Therefore, I obtained an audio copy from my library. Audio is not my favorite way of enjoying books, but this one was clear and easy to follow. I listened to it without pauses on my daily dog walks and even while I was staining my deck. In fact, I listened to it two times before I returned it. I was surprised that it is not read by Max Lucado, but about 15 minutes in, I found that Ben Holland has a great voice for this book. Grace for the Moment for Moms is intended for moms. Even though I have had an empty nest for a long time, I still enjoyed and was inspired by the contents of each of the 50 devotionals. They are brief, but powerful, and continually reaffirm God’s love. A busy mom could find the time to slip one of these devotionals into her day.
I pictured in my mind how the book might be designed (white space, organization, etc.). I looked at a sample online and it was put together as I had imagined except lovelier. It contains a little message which is clearly written by Lucado, a sentence of inspiration and affirmation, and Scriptures that perfectly match with the teaching.
I recommend either the audio book or the hardback version. The latter would make a great gift for a special mom you know. Or buy a copy for yourself—you’ll be glad you did.
Rating: 5/5
Category: Christian, Inspirational, Nonfiction
Notes: Beautiful, thoughtful gift
Publication: March 12, 2024—Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Gift
Memorable Lines:
The next time a sunrise steals your breath or a meadow of flowers leaves you speechless, remain that way. Say nothing and listen as heaven whispers, “Do you like it? I did it just for you.”
“My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you.” II Corinthians 12:9
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