What I'm Reading

I admit it.

I'm a bookworm.

It's okay if that makes you smile.

I only hope that doesn't make me a wimp!

Actually, I've found that books from Christ-centered, biblically-based authors have helped me grow in my Christian faith. The Bible always comes first, no doubt. But God has greatly used the writings of men and women down through the ages to encourage and cheer on other believers.

I've had the privilege of interviewing so many of the authors God has used to help me in my Christian walk.

One of those is Jim Cymbala, pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York.

He's got a new book out and man.. is it awesome. It's called "You Were Made for More".

When we open up to the "more" that God has planned just for us we find that sweet spot that gives us joy and most importantly, glorifies God.

I read this book in a couple of days. Maybe we'll have Jim back on Total Impact soon!

Speaking of which, I've already posted a quote here on the blog from another book I've been reading in recent days: "Wild Goose Chase" by Mark Batterson.

I'll be interviewing him next week for a future Total Impact.

We'll be taking about this book. It's all about what life is like for the Christian who truly follows the Holy Spirit.

What is it that holds us back?

Can our lives as Christians be an adventure?

What are we losing by playing it safe when God says.... " I want you to do this..."?

Check out the book and be listening for Mark's segments in a few weeks on SOS.

Finally, it's back to school week around the Goff house.

Both of our boys are in public school. And yep.. there are challenges!

But I found a quote from a book that has helped many Christian parents in recent months.

It's called "Going Public" by David & Kelli Pritchard.

I haven't read the book but I like the quote:

"If you send your kids to public school the most important thing to teach them is what Jesus said is the most important commandment:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength" (Mark 12:30).

Nothing is more important. Nothing is more foundational. Nothing will steer your child more effectively through the complexities, distractions, and temptations of a day at public school."

Wow... good stuff!!

This first week of school I've been praying for my boys.

Maybe my prayer tomorrow will be that I can communicate to them the importance of loving

God in an authentic and winsome way.

To really believe what we say we believe.

In fact, maybe I'll pray that prayer for myself first.