The Joy of the In-Between by Ashley Hetherington

 

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
You've said, ""Ok, God, I'll obey you." You're ready for the next thing! 

And then you sit. And sit. And wait and wait.

What happens in that waiting season shapes who you are and what God will do through you in the present and the future. This books tackles subjects like the understanding and foreknowledge of God, difficulties in times of uncertainty, and loneliness and other emotions.

Hetherington encourages Christians to consider their life with Jesus as a journey rather than a destination shaped by our own hopes and dreams. 

I recommend this if you're entering a pause, not sure how long you have to stay in place, or don't yet know what the next steps are. You'll have 100 days to reflect on God's goodness and his absolute ability to get you through to where he's taking you.

The Joy of Missing Out by Tanya Dalton

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
The alarm goes off and you're tired. In the morning, you look at your list and wonder - is this doable?You spend the day in a scramble to get everything done. And at night you fall into bed exhausted. If you've got a bullet journal you transfer all the undone tasks to tomorrow or next week. Are we created to live like this? Where does this end?

Dalton encourages the reader to step back and step off the treadmill of expectations - yours and others. She gives step by step direction for cultivating a true self, unique to how you're shaped and wired by your family, education, skills, and experiences.  

I recommend this for entrepreneurs and managers, marrieds and singles,  moms and dads. Find the joy of saying no because you know who you are and what your purpose is in this world.

The Joy of Early Christianity by Steve Simms

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Simms shares a thought-provoking study of the contrast between the living organism of Christ-followers that emerged from time with Jesus and the effects of Pentecost - with today's structured Christian religion.

He explains and warns readers of the constricting process of adding our own agenda and historical expectations of churches to transform ekklesia (communities of committed followers of Jesus) into local churches. 

"Unfortunately ... although religion has taught the resurrection of Christ as a doctrine and put it on the church calendar, it hasn't allowed the living, risen Jesus to be Lord, to take charge, to rule and reign, to lead and direct like he did in pre church Christianity."

He examines the flow of community life, the Living Word and prayers that shaped the thinking and lifestyle of early Christians and explores the significance of the baptism of the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts in the church. He celebrates the freedom from demonic oppressions and religious perfectionism.

I highly recommend this book for pastors, youth leaders, and anyone else seeing to obey the teachings of Jesus in community with a vibrant living faith - beyond religion and rituals. 

The language is simple and easy to read. But each page offers thought-provoking insights, whether you agree with specifics of Simms' doctrinal conclusions or belong to another "tribe" of believers.

Magic Pill: the Extraordinary Benefits and Disturbing Risks of the New Weight-Loss Drugs by Johann Hari

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review.

Oh boy! If your weight is affecting your health, this is a must-read. If you're sick of yo-yo dieting, grab this book. If you're considering using some of the new diet drugs, read this first.

Whether you are overweight because of genetics, addiction to food, health issues, or personal choice, get this careful study. Hari examines obesity, the consequences and liabilities of being perceived as "fat" in Western culture, and the weight-loss drugs that make "the new skinny" a first-time reality for many.

I was introduced to Johann Hari through Stolen Focus, his exposé of digital addiction. It blew me away and changed my habits. (Read that review here.)

Now here comes a startling review of another current crucial issue. But Hari's writing style is compelling and readable. He highlights the advantages, risks, and unknowns of what's being unleashed in the world.

Let me say this: I am not the target market for Ozempic or the other diet drugs. Yet be forewarned. I stayed up late into the night to finish this one. And I included the subtitle above for clarity (which I rarely do).

The book contains information and implications you need to know, either for yourself or to share with others.

Read it if you or someone you care about is struggling with excess weight.

The Digital Coaching Revolution by Anna Tavis and Woody Woodward

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review.

This practical manual shows why and how digital coaching has become a vital part of growing toward business and personal goal. Coaching has the core principle of "You already know what you need for the next step," and a coach can catapult a client from where they are to the phase just ahead. 

I'm a coach so this book interested me from a professional POV. The many examples of real-life value and transformation were inspiring as well as instructive. A coaching instructor should have this textbook in their toolbox as they train for aspiring coaches or experienced coaches wanting to reach the next level.

I highly recommend this book for those considering 1) hiring a coach for personal or professional reasons; 2) becoming a coach; or 3) improving your skills as a professional or amateur coach (for example as a minister, NGO leader, or advisor.)

Coach Builder: How to Turn Your Expertise Into a Profitable Coaching Career by Donald Miller

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review.

 If you wanted to sit across the table with an experienced coach to get you started, you'd want this book. Once you got moving, when you needed a master coach to look over your shoulder as you built your business? you'd reach for this book. 

I've rarely seen a detailed step-by-step approach to building social media presence, connecting with people, and growing your business. In fact, I'm going to recommend it to any entrepreneur who is working on a startup. Adapt the counsel to your own vision and enterprise. 

"Here's your 1. 2. 3. on how to become a success."

Nonna Maria and the Case of the Lost Treasure by Lorenzo Carcaterra

 

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

Once the story grabs you, you'll be hooked. Don't let the modern cover fool you. In its pages are descriptions of food and wine, friendships and alliances, enemies and action.

This exciting story of protection and loyalty grips you with its behind-the-scenes calling in of favors and history. I thoroughly enjoyed every surprise and every twist. 

Read it at night and prepare for vivid dreams of old places, good meals, and intrigue.