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.

 

 

 

If You Needed Friends, It's Now by Leslie Parrott

After having a baby, have you ever wondered where some of your friends have gone? True, as a new mom, your life revolves around your child's schedule - their naps, feeding and playing time. And with all the mommying work, chores and exhaustion, who has time for friends anyway? Leslie shares her own experiences on how her friends helped her through a difficult time in her life. She also recommends ways to keep good friends and how to become one.

She reiterates why friends are important and can be of great help for mom's emotional, physical and even spiritual well-being especially for moms with small children.

The author affirms new moms' feelings and need for friends especially during difficult times of motherhood.

What is also interesting in this little book of 94 pages is that Parrott defines "friends" to be not only peers but also those who are mentors, in-laws and even husbands. 

This is a good, easy read for busy moms.

Always True: God's 5 Promises When Life is Hard

In his latest book, “Always True,” James MacDonald presents God’s five promises that Christians can hold on to during life’s most trying times. These are five basic biblical truths that helped MacDonald through his own personal battle. As MacDonald puts it, “…when life was hardest, I needed more than just lessons – I needed life support. I needed God’s promises.”

This book is divided into five chapters discussing the five promises. Before each chapter is a section called “Theology of a Promise” which explains more about the biblical perspective of a promise, particularly God’s promise, in this case. At the end of each chapter is a prayer; “Take to Heart” section which can be used as a personal devotional material or a group study guide; and a memory scripture verse.

What I really like about this book is that it is easy to read, practical and down to earth. It is written in simple layman’s term and does not contain heavy doctrinal jargon that is hard to understand, except maybe for the word “theology.” This word as used in this book, according to Merriam Webster simply means “the study of religious faith, practice, and experience; especially: the study of God and of God's relation to the world.”1

The five promises as presented here are based on sound biblical doctrine pointing the reader towards faith in Jesus Christ. It also talks about assurance of God’s love and His offer of solution to problems common to man such as fear, hopelessness, despair, etc.

Always True is highly recommended to all whose hope is faltering, who like most of us needs a solid ground where he can stand. This book will lead us to trust in God – the ultimate Promiser and keeper of His promise.

     1Theology - - http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theology