Is Your View of God "Distorted?"

            Our childhood, adolescence, and young adult years are the foundation for how we will view everything in life.  Even into middle age, youth perspective still influences.  This seems like a no-brainer statement, until we begin to analyze the implications.  One area that is impacted by our growing up is how we view the person-hood and identity of God, or how we view him incorrectly.  John Bishop addresses this notion in his new book God Distorted.  Through solid biblical foundation and illustrations, as well as plenty of support and perspective from other authors makes this an ideal read for anyone struggling to understand how a God referred to as "father," could even possibly be considered good.
            This book is okay.  I would have been more eager to read it if I had chosen this book because I was looking to address an internal conflict instead of choosing it because it seemed the most interesting out of a list of books to read and review.  Nonetheless, the points raised in this book will challenge a reader of any relational level to at least reflect on his or her own thoughts and opinions of God.
            God Distorted by John Bishop is a prime read for a small group; the discussion guide in the back of the book provides plenty of opportunity for delving deeper in the material.  If you struggle with what you think God's identity is, or need a way to break out of what it isn't, read this book.

I received my copy of the book for free in exchange for writing a review on it.  I was not required to write a positive review; the opinions contained within are my own.

gods at war

            Everyone knows or knows of the Ten Commandments.  The first two commandments in particular, you know...the ones about not having any other gods ahead of God or making any graven images, seem to be the ones that most people believe are two of the easiest to follow.  It turns out that not only are they two of the hardest ones to follow now, but they were also two of the hardest to follow back in the times of the Old Testament as well.  gods at war by Kyle Idleman breaks down common idols into simple categories and helps the reader realize how idle they truly are.
            I work in a profession where a college education and additional licensing are required; I take pride in what I do.  This book challenged me in how I view what I do for a living to ensure that it is not an idol or false god in my life.  I may be in a profession that brings status, but it is only because of God's favor that I'm there in the first place.
            Kyle Idleman's gods at war is a powerful expository book that brings a whole new perspective on the concept of the false god and how easily it can make a subtle part in a person's life.  I recommend this book to anyone looking for a challenge to personal growth in his or her Walk.

I received my copy of the book for free from the publisher in exchange for reviewing it.  I was not obligated to post a positive review; my opinions are my own.