Is College Worth it? By William Bennett with David Wilezol

This book’s main point is “college is not for everybody.” There are those who are cut out for college and higher education and who are successful in their field because of their education. But, based on statistics, there are a significant number of students who either could not make it to graduation or they graduated with a degree and employed but are underpaid or couldn’t find a job related to their degree. So what went wrong? The book answers that question lengthily.

If college is not for everybody, what would those who ought not to go to college do? Bennett and Wilezol suggest that staying out of college for some will save them a great deal of time, heartache and money. They offer practical views on who should go to college and which college they should try getting in. Likewise, they describe the profiles of those who would do better by staying out of college (and possibly out of debt) and trying other alternatives.

I appreciate the fact that this book is not based on hunches and unproven theories. The authors’ claims and recommendations are based on statistics, years of research and real life experiences.

Highly recommended and a very invaluable resource for students who are contemplating on going to college and/or post graduate studies; as well as parents who want to make an informed decision in giving guidance to their kids who are preparing themselves for a career or vocation.

The Bondage Breaker by Neil Anderson

This book was intended for Christians who might suspect that what they or their loved ones might be experiencing is a “spiritual battle”. Neil Anderson made reference to the bible on how to “resolve personal and spiritual conflicts through genuine repentance and faith in God,” hence this book is heavy on Scriptures and church jargon.

The author directs the readers again to the Scriptures on how we should see ourselves in the light of who we are in Christ, who is God, and who is the devil. Those who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior would find this book very helpful in understanding and dealing with their spiritual and emotional struggles. The book might not be helpful to those who believe otherwise.

I suggest reading this book alongside Neil Anderson’s “Victory over the Darkness”.  

In Constant Prayer by Robert Benson

I was misled by the title “In Constant Prayer”. I expected this book to be give more tips and ideas on how we can be “in constant” prayer. Instead, it presented a narrative on the importance of saying liturgical prayers. I have nothing against liturgy. What I’m simply saying is, it is not what I expected. In fact, although I grew up in a church where prayers are free-flowing and from the heart and scriptures, I’ve learned more about why people do liturgical prayers and I respect them. They are into doing their daily or divine office (simply means prayer), and they use prayer books.

I am still not convinced that I need to learn liturgical prayers to be “in constant prayer” but I learned something new.

 

I want to pray unceasingly. And to me, that means not only 3-4 times a day but every moment. As often as we breathe in and breathe out, we say our thanksgiving, prayers and petition – whether in words or in thoughts.