July and August were fun-filled months in which I spent many happy moments with my family. While on holiday, I was also able to squeeze in a little bit of extra reading time. Here’s my thoughts on the books I read…
The Pastor’s Wife by Gloria Furman
I had just read a review that slated this book when I received it. But, for me, it was refreshing to read a book by a woman who understands the unique situation us pastor’s wives are in. If anything I was impatient with the first chapters, thinking, yes, yes, great truth but it’s for everyone. I wanted to get to the parts that were specific to pastor’s wives. And what she said I mostly agreed with. I say mostly as there were a few bits I wasn’t sure I would wholeheartedly go along with. But, overall, it was an encouraging book.
Naturally Supernatural by Wendy Mann
I love the fact that Wendy Mann is so honest and down-to-earth. She’s a ‘normal’ person who has been on a journey with God, discovering how to live supernaturally everyday. She is happy to share it all – the times when she’s seen breakthrough and the times when fear has stopped her from stepping out. I had a real longing to experience more of what Wendy was sharing and, after reading this book; I was left with the feeling that I too can learn how to live naturally supernatural.
Time to Shine by Mel Menzies
I don’t often get a chance to read fiction so I made sure that I saved this particular book for my holiday so I that I could take my time and really savour it. I have to say I’m glad I did, as I found this book gripping – really well written and the characters very well constructed.
The only thing I wasn’t sure of was the title – it seemed a little twee. That is, until I read the quote it comes from – I won’t give anything away but it is brilliant. I heartily recommend this book.
Jesus right where you want him by Phil Moore
Phil Moore’s latest book explores some of the age-old arguments people give against believing in Jesus – and what Jesus himself said about them. I found this to be a confidence-building book, as it equips us to handle those difficult questions people might throw at us (as well as issues we may be wrestling faith ourselves). He covers subjects such as suffering, judgment and religious violence. This is definitely a book to delve into.
Gagging Jesus by Phil Moore
In this, a previous book, Phil Moore unpacks 15 things that Jesus said that we seem to wish he hadn’t. We certainly don’t hear them preached about often. They are the type of subjects that can get us hot under the collar – and arguing amongst ourselves. From pornography and masturbation through to anger, hell and divorce, Phil pulls no punches as he explores what Jesus really has to say on these life issues. Provocative and challenging, this book will certainly get you thinking.
Digging for Diamonds by Cathy Madavan
Cathy Madavan has such a wonderful personality and her wit and wisdom really shine through her book. As women we so often need reminding of the beautiful facets to our beings, including our identity, strength, character and purpose. Cathy does this so well, generously opening up her own life to us in the process. She also provides great biblical insight and poses deep questions to get the reader pondering. This is a gem of a book 🙂
Enjoyed this and felt drawn towards the books! I smiled at The Pastor’s Wife, since my sister in law has just has a book published in which she has written about being ‘the ambassador’s wife’ – being the wife of a prominent professional so brings with it the demands of support and of caring about the people your partner works with, and its own quirky situations. It can be stressful, and it can, looking back, be funny. Such books are really helpful I think in encouraging those of us women who are ‘wives’ to whom others look for encouragement, leadership, and generally to be an extra bit of our husbands. And forget the wives are actually individuals as well, with a personality, and usually with children to raise as well!
Thanks for commenting 🙂 Yes it is true that in many circles wives are expected to fulfil some kind of unpaid role – juggling that expectation with the natural desire to support your husband is a difficult one. I can understand why people are unhappy about pastor’s wives having unfair expectations placed on them (believe me I’ve done my fair share of complaining about that) but I do think there needs to be a balance. Just like the balance I’m trying to find between helping my husband in the areas of the church I feel I can contribute and also pursuing my own career as well as being there for our kids straight after school. 😉
Thank you for being so positive about my book, Time to Shine, Claire. I originally titled it The Marriage Mender (for reasons that will be obvious to anyone who’s read it) but it was quotation I came across – allegedly but erroneously from Nelson Mandela – that made me realise that I had two themes to the book, and that the time to shine one was what I wanted to highlight.
My pleasure – it really was a fantastic read. Yes once I read that quote it all made perfect – beautiful – sense 🙂