Grace for the Moment by Max Lucado

Grace for the Moment (Large Deluxe): Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year by Max Lucado offers inspiring devotions to grow in your faith as you embrace the hope of the Lord every day. Featuring Scripture, along with devotional writings from Max's best sellers, each day's writing is a short but powerful message to remind the reader of God's love. Although there are variances, the majority of the Scripture is from the New Century Version (NCV). The devotion for each day also indicates which Lucado book used. 



This is the deluxe, large print edition of the classic devotional with a leather-flex cover, beautifully designed pages, and a ribbon marker. It is fairly lightweight and fits comfortably in one hand if you hold it to read. The pages do not flip and are thick enough that you can highlight or make notes that won't bleed through to several pages. (I recommend using colored pencils when highlighting, though. I have used them for years.) The strong binding will ensure this book can endure daily handling and will be a treasury you can visit in years ahead. I also love the look and feel of the cover. The book is published by Thomas Nelson, a registered trademark of Harper Collins Christian Publishing. 

I love the book and will definitely recommend it to anyone searching for a new devotional for themselves or as a gift. These are small nuggets of truth, with an insight to give the reader something to mull over and to build upon their faith.

I received a copy of this book from Booklook Bloggers for review purposes. A positive review was not required, and all thoughts regarding this book are my own.         

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe by Max Lucado, with Candace Lee and Eric Newman is a Christian fiction book published by ThomasNelson that is delightfully reminiscent of films like It's A Wonderful Life or The Bishop's Wife.

Chelsea Chambers has recently had a very public split from her NFL superstar husband. She and their children return to their hometown in Texas to reopen the coffee shop left to her by her mother. Even with her incredible cupcakes, hard work, and determination, Higher Grounds Café is having too many set backs. In despair, she prays for a miracle.

An endearingly likeable, albeit clumsy, strangers shows up at her door, eager to help. Not long after, she gets a free trial for a most unusual internet deal. Users can only connect to one website...God.com. Higher Grounds is soon buzzing with new business eager to ask the one question they are allowed, but this creates as many problems as it solves. When Ryan returns, begging for another chance, Chelsea is certain that her world has been turned upside down once again. No matter how hard she tries, disasters keep arriving.

My Review: At first, I wasn't sure. I absolutely love Lucado's nonfiction books and find all of his children's books and DVDs absolutely delightful. This brand of fiction/fantasy was a bit different, but I found myself enjoying it more and more until I finally just relaxed and had fun with the adventure. It was a bit fluffy, so I would prefer a bit more indepth look at the characters in future books of this type, yet I really liked it enough to want to read more. This is a lighthearted book, in spite of touching on some harsh realities, that warms the heart and leaves a smile that grew more as I read. Great book for a couple of free hours or to take with you on vacation.

Read the first 3 chapters!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and all  opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Grace by Max Lucado

Grace.

We talk as though we understand the term. The bank gives us a "grace" period. The seedy politician falls from "grace." Musicians speak of a "grace" note. We describe an actress as "gracious," a dancer as "graceful." We use the word for hospitals, baby girls, kings, and pre-meal prayers. We talk as though we know what "grace" means.

Grace is also the title of Max Lucado's latest best-seller. I have been a fan of his writing for many years, so I knew to expect a book that would touch my heart and deepen my understanding of a topic that some find difficult to understand. This isn't my favorite of his many books, but I was by no means disappointed. In fact, once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. Max has a way of simplifying a topic in a way that makes it easier to understand, and punctuates his illustrations with anecdotal material that further illuminates.  





Grace is defined as the love and mercy given to us by God because God wants us to have it, not because of anything we have done to earn it. But that is still hard for some of us to understand, especially if you were raised that good behavior is rewarded. So, I really love the subtitle of the book: "More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine". Max stresses the point that we are adopted into God's family and accepted...despite our faults. One story in particular stood out to me about a child who was separated from her family, yet reunited with them years later. We may wander, but God's grace calls us back Home to Him. His love and mercy give us a strength we wouldn't have on our own.

In summary, this isn't my favorite, but it is a good solid book that I would recommend to anyone. His style is very appealing to one who wants a basic grasp and a down-to-earth look at grace (or any of his other topics). Also, I love that he includes a Reader's Guide in this book (as usual) for those who want to do a more indepth study.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

It's Not About Me by Max Lucado

In the simple, straight-forward style I have come to expect from him, Max Lucado has once again written a book that gets right to the heart of a major issue in the lives of many today. Even our American constitution tells us that we have the right to "the pursuit of happiness". 'Looking out for #1' is a common phrase, yet am I supposed to be my own priority? As a follower of Christ, that answer should be a firm, "NO!".

Max points out that the me-centered life is much less satisfying than the  God-centered life. We are looking for short-term pleasures for our time on Earth, while God has the overview of knowing what is best for eternity. Think of it as having an extreme close-up of a masterpiece: the tiny portion you are viewing may determine your opinion of the painting, but you are incapable of seeing the full picture. God sees it all...and we must trust His judgement.

Max also reminds us that we are to be reflections of God. I know that I am guilty of wanting to bask in my own glory, but I want to make my goal to always seek the glory of God. I am writing this the day before Father's Day, and thinking about how I tried so hard to please my father and emulate Daddy when I was little. Now my focus should be on being the reflection of my Heavenly Father. Max ends this book with a story told to him by a rabbi. I won't disclose the details, but I admit that it is making a difference in my attitude and actions after reading it. I certainly recommend this book to all of those who want to be Son-seekers rather than limiting life to being self-centered. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Max On Life

In his many years as a pastor and author, Max Lucado has been on the receiving end of many questions. In his latest book, MAX ON LIFE, he tackles 171 of those in a wide variety of topics. With a compassionate, straight-forward, and knowledgeable approach, Max uses Scripture, examples, and common sense to answer in an honest and simple manner. The questions are divided into the categories of Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Haves/Have-Nots, and Hereafter, but there is a convenient Topic Index in the back to help find a more specific area you wish to explore. This is a very "user-friendly" guide to those who want a straight answer to a simple question.

To be perfectly honest, this is not my favorite of his books. That being said, Max Lucado remains one of my favorite authors. His way of sharing a story is one that allows me to more fully comprehend the life of Christ and His teachings. The Study Guides that are incorporated are truly a blessing! However, this is not that style of book. This is a straight-forward Questions & Answers book that I would recommend for those who like to have a reference book to help with their own, or the questions of others. I have read some that left me even more puzzled, but Max has the knack of explaining things in a manner that nearly anyone can understand. I would recommend it to others, especially new Christians and seekers who want to know more of Christian beliefs in everyday living.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Hermie & Friends: A Bug Collection (Volume 3)

Volume 3 of the Max Lucado's Hermie & Friends: A Bug Collection is absolutely delightful. A common theme among the 3 dvds is interaction with others. There are great lessons to be learned in each video, but presented in a fun and colorful manner.

Disc 1 is "Milo, The Mantis Who Wouldn't Pray" (it's about prayer) and features a praying mantis who does not know how to talk to God. Since he is unsure of the language and posture he should use, Milo just assumes that God is not listening to him. In the aftermath of a storm, he learns that God is always listening to him. This a a great lesson that even many adults need to learn, so I was thrilled to see it spelled out for very young viewers.

Disc 2 is "Buzby And The Grumble Bees" (it's about bee-having) which deals with the visiting niece and nephew of Buzby. Their rude behavior to all of the residents of the garden causes Buzby to come up with a plan! Everyone comes together to demonstrate how it feels to be treated poorly. This a the perfect video to illustrate The Golden Rule: treat others as you want to be treated.

Disc 3 is "Hailey & Bailey's Silly Fight" (it's about getting along) and reinforces the idea of compromise. While these twin ladybugs are usually the best of friends, their differences cause much fighting in this episode. Not only are they arguing with each other, but their disagreements have caused their friends to be at odds at one another.


I am a huge fan of Max Lucado, so I jumped at the chance to review these dvds. Of course I love the books he writes for adults, but I am just as easily moved and taught by his products for children. Featuring the voice talent of Tim Conway, [the late] Don Knotts, Melissa Disney, Richard Kind, Victoria Jackson, & Sam Mercurio...along with a short segment with Hermie and Max Lucado, these dvds are sure to be a huge hit with young children. There are bonus features that are always enjoyable, and the dvds have the all important feature of being self-starting (and even automatic replay). I highly and enthusiastically endorse this box set!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this dvd free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Outlive Your Life

OUTLIVE YOUR LIFE, the latest of the books by Max Lucado I have read, and one I  have been most challenged by. The challenge is to take a look at my own life and ask myself if I am doing all I can to make a difference. Much of the book is based on the lives of the apostles as recorded in the book of Acts. They went from tired, discouraged men to being totally brave and filled with a passion to tell others about Jesus. Are you willing to take the extra step to let others know that Jesus loves them?

Max tells story after story of common, ordinary people who dared to make a difference. Even those who feel they have nothing material to offer, have more than they realize. There are things that each of us are capable of doing though. First of all, you may have to step out of your comfort zone. Not that you have to change your lifestyle or give away all you have, but are there people you tend to avoid? What does it cost for you to look at them, offer a genuine smile, ask how they are....and wait for an answer instead of rushing past? Learn about people who did small acts of kindness and others who made a huge impact on thousands.

As an added bonus, there are discussion questions and an action guide prepared by David Drury. This would be perfect for your small group at church or Bible study group. Not only can you talk about what you have learned, but there are plenty of suggestions for both individual and group projects. This is your opportunity to make a difference in the name of Jesus Christ. Any age group can accept the challenge to step out and step up to do more than you have ever done before. Max does live by what he teaches. 100% of his royalties of this book go to World Vision and other ministries of faith-based compassion. To learn more about this, go to www.MaxLucado.com/.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."