Review ~ The Truth About Forgiveness by John MacArthur

"The greatest measuring rod of love in the life of a Christian may be forgiveness, because God showed His love to us in terms of forgiveness." ―John MacArthur

Does anyone really want to forgive? Or admit that we need forgiveness? Whether we're giving or receiving, forgiveness is hard. It seems unfair. It feels unnatural. And as best-selling author and pastor John MacArthur demonstrates, forgiveness apart from Christ is unnatural. It is only as we understand our need, Christ's power and example, and what it reallly means to love that we can embrace two of the most liberating acts of love: forgiving and being forgiven.

The Truth About Series

For decades MacArthur has encouraged countless Christians to develop a deeper understanding of the Bible and a greater respect for God's truth. In The Truth About series, he now gathers his landmark teachings about core aspects of the Christian faith in one place. These powerful books are designed to give readers a focused experience that centers on God's character and how it applies to their daily walk of faith. 

My Review

Pastor John MacArthur is renowned for his clear and precise teaching of God’s Word. Although this tiny, truth filled book is a tough one to swallow in the opening pages, I believe it is full of sound and true doctrinal statements about forgiveness.

Reiterating that we must first recognize sin as sin, and not gloss it over as a sickness, disease or disorder, The Truth About Forgiveness is hard hitting and convicting. The truth is…we must confess our sin and repent, turning away from that which has ensnared us, by the strength and victory that we receive through Christ Jesus.

The book gives solid evidence that God requires we forgive others. That’s not always easy to do, but it is necessary.  As Pastor MacArthur states, “The blood of Christ cries for forgiveness.” (Pg. 113) Contained within these seven short and decisive chapters are a raw and intimate look at God, Christ and the Holy Spirit, and how each plays a part in forgiveness.

The thing I love the most about John MacArthur’s books, especially this one, is his straight forward approach to the Gospel. There’s no glossing over, no making the Christian walk into a life of rainbows and lollipops, but showing me the way to have a deeper and more committed relationship with my Savior.

I received a copy of this book from Booksneeze in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation has been received.

If you use the product widget below to purchase a copy, I make a small commission form the sale of the of the book.

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{Sunday} Morning ~ Worship & Praise

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, 

for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;

    great is your faithfulness.

~ Lamentations 3:22-23 ~

But I will sing of your strength, in the morning 

I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, 

my refuge in times of trouble.

~ Psalm 59:16 ~

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, 

that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. 

~ Psalm 90:14 ~

The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; 

where morning dawns, where evening fades, 

you call forth songs of joy. 

~ Psalm 65:8 ~

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 

~ Psalm 91:1 ~

Even though morning isn't mentioned, I chose the last verse because as soon as I saw the heart shaped leaf 'sheltering' the flower blossom, I thought of that verse. 

Blessed be the name of the Lord!

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Fun Summer Read!

Picture Perfect, (Weddings by Design Book One)  

Feisty wedding photographer Hannah McDermott has dealt with her share of difficult brides. But none can compare to the ultimate Bridezilla she's dealing with now. Still, she's trying desperately to impress Bella Neeley, Galveston Island's most sought-after wedding planner, so she can take the top spot in Bella's list of recommended photographers--a spot currently occupied by her arch-rival, Drew Kincaid. What she doesn't count on, however, is falling head over heels for the competition. 

With her contagious humor and cast of quirky characters, Janice Thompson gives readers more of the bridal business drama they want in a brand-new series all about those long-suffering people who make beautiful weddings happen. Readers are desperately waiting for more of Bella and this new series brings her back in a big way, while introducing new characters fans will love. Fans will laugh out loud as they experience this breezy and entertaining novel from a great storyteller.

My Thoughts (short but sweet)

I love weddings! This spectacular cover caught my eye and I couldn't resist purchasing the book. That, and I know that Janice Thompson always delivers a great story. It was fun and humorously engaging from beginning to end. I smiled and chuckled all the way through. It's a quick and light read, perfect for a few hours of wholesome diversion from the everyday stresses of life.

Random 5 Friday

Welcome to Random 5 Friday -- where you share 5 random facts about you, your day, your pets, your kids, whatever!

my photo submission for the CameraShy Take52 Photography Challenge - week 36/ theme: Old fashioned

1. I adore old fashioned looking jewelry. These gorgeous crystal-studded Victorian Inspired Blue Cameo earrings were made by my friend, Christy at Belle on a Budget. She owns her own Etsy shop....obviously J

2. This blog is turning into more of a photography blog than book blog. I really don't want to start another blog again. It was too much to keep up with. I guess I'd better get with it and get some reviews written and posted. I'll have plenty of time after next week.

3. Tonight the a/c will be turned off for the final time this summer season. We are looking forward to the cooler night temps and sleeping with the windows open. There are lots of night sounds out here in the country that lull us into a deep sleep.

4. The only thing right now keeping me from sleeping better is Snow. She decides to wake up after 9pm and play. And by play, I mean tearing through the house like something is chasing her, leaping onto the bed and springing up and around and then diving for cover...in my hair! 

5. Oh, one day this week we got a total of nine, yep NINE eggs! Each day or two we seem to get a new layer. It's so exciting but two of them still lay in the coop despite my son making an extra nest box and sitting it in there. L

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An assortment of photos...

Sunday afternoon provided a plethora of photo opportunities, starting with this one. My first hummingbird at the feeder and also the first time I have taken a photo of one. Let me just say...it's not easy! But she perched right up there and drank her fill, allowing me to get several shots. I was/am ecstatic!

Then this lovely Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly landed right on a flower in front of me. I held my breath because they're tough to get clear photos of, too!

After these two exciting captures, I decided to take advantage of the changing shades of light and try to get a couple of shots of the few flowers left in my yard. 

My old fashioned roses are still blooming. Pretty, huh?

As the sun was dipping further down toward the horizon, I couldn't resist capturing the golden light on these sunflowers.

I finally managed to get the natural sun flare! No need for Picmonkey in this one...

...or this one J

And in case you're wondering why there is an ugly pinwheel in the corner, it's there for my 2 yr old grandson. Every time he gets ready to leave he pulls it out of the ground, hides it behind his back, and tries to sneak it home with him. His parents make him put it back so it changes places frequently. I would let him have it but it's become a game now. J

The view from my front porch never gets old!

What do you see from your front porch?

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