Jesus > Religion: Why He Is So Much Better Than Trying Harder, Doing More, and Being Good Enough


Jefferson Bethke - 2013
    The message blew up on social-media, triggering an avalanche of responses running the gamut from encouraged to enraged.In Jesus > Religion, Bethke unpacks similar contrasts that he drew in the poem—highlighting the difference between teeth gritting and grace, law and love, performance and peace, despair and hope. With refreshing candor he delves into the motivation behind his message, beginning with the unvarnished tale of his own plunge from the pinnacle of a works-based, fake-smile existence that sapped his strength and led him down a path of destructive behavior.Bethke is quick to acknowledge that he’s not a pastor or theologian, but simply a regular, twenty-something who cried out for a life greater than the one for which he had settled. Along his journey, Bethke discovered the real Jesus, who beckoned him beyond the props of false religion.

Pray, Hope, and Don't Worry: True Stories of Padre Pio


Diane Allen - 2009
    It provides a glimpse into the life and spirituality of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, who has often been called "The greatest mystic of the 20th Century." More than thirty individuals, all who had met Padre Pio, were interviewed for this first edition book. The author and her husband, Deacon Ron Allen, have traveled to many parts of the United States in order to record the personal testimonies of Padre Pio's friends from near and far.

Grieving the Loss of Someone You Love: Daily Meditations to Help You Through the Grieving Process


Raymond Mitsch - 1993
    No valley is as vast as grief, no journey as personal and life changing. Compassionate and wise guides Raymond Mitsch and Lynn Brookside shine a light on the road through grief. They can help you endure the anguish and uncertainty; understand the cycles of grief; sort through the emotions of anger, guilt, fear, and depression; and face the God who allowed you to lose the one you love. A series of thoughtful daily devotions, Grieving the Loss of Someone You Love shares wisdom, insight, and comfort that will help you through and beyond your grief.

Saved by Angels: To Share How God Talks to Everyday People


Bruce Van Natta - 2008
    You will see through spiritual eyes and a softened heart what your heavenly Father has done in your life to try to talk to you, touch you, and build a relationship with you.Using a testimonial-style approach filled with numerous personal stories and answers to prayer, this expanded edition addresses seven ways God communicates with His beloved children: Prayer Scripture Dreams and visions Other people The Holy Spirit Life circumstances AngelsThis knowledge inspires all people to deepen their relationship with the living God as theyarealize that God's grace andamercy are not reserved only for those who have made all the right choices, can recite 100 Bible verses, or stand behind a pulpit----God's love is for everyday people, everyday! (Includes Study Guide and DVD)a