Book review: Unashamed to Bear His Name and Unstuck

Unashamed to Bear His Name: Embracing the Stigma of Being a Christian by R.T. Kendall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was an un-apologizing book on the basics of faith in Christ.  I was worried when I started it that I wouldn't agree with a lot, but found that there were few things I didn't agree with.  Which worries me some about what churches are teaching new believers now-days.  The book is an excellent presentation of what our belief in Christ biblically entails, including (and focusing on) those uncomfortable parts (that are apparently left out of much teaching now) including those topics like hell and being looked down on for our faith.  I think this is a good next step for a believer who is fairly new and ready to take the next steps to a deeper understanding of their decision.  It doesn't sugar coat at all what it means to be a Christian, so probably is not for the brand-spanking new.  And for those who've been Christians for a while and are taught by a Bible Teaching church, it may not be a lot of new information, but it is a good reminder of our beliefs and definitely are worth reading. The author uses examples from his own life to discuss the idea that we should be privileged and honored to suffer for Christ. People may (and will) look down on us, but Christ will use those times to develop our faith and bring us to a new level with Him.

I recieved a copy of this book for the publisher in exchange for my honest review.


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Unstuck: Your Life. God’s Design. Real Change. by Arnie Cole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a great book on a theme that I struggle with myself.  It is about getting ourselves out of that spot in our Christian faith where we feel stuck; far from God, distant from our faith, and unable to move forward with Christ. The book is full of research and is well-written for those who need more than inspirational words. The authors discuss their research that supports their main premise for becoming "unstuck": "engaging" in scripture, not only by reading, but taking the time to hear from God as well.  They discuss the importance of two-way communication with God, not just whipping through obligatory Bible reading time or church time, but really taking the time to talk with God and hear from Him.  The book includes prompts at the end of each chapter for daily engagement, and if you go to the site they recommend at the end of each chapter, more in-depth daily guides are available for download as pdfs.  They also offer a forty-five free trial (for those who purchase the book) to their service in which a counselor gives you a customized plan for your personal spiritual growth and also get phone calls, emails or texts to encourage your growth.  I did not try this service yet, but enjoyed the book and am looking forward to downloading the prompts and working through them. I recommend this book for any Christian who feels like they are stagnant in their faith.

I recieved a copy of this book from the Publisher for my honest review.

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