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ben_smitty's reviews
396 reviews
Mortification of Sin by John Owen
3.0
Very useful and got me thinking about a lot of deep questions dealing with the destruction of sin by the Spirit and what that looked like practically in Christian believers. This was a very hard read due to the time gap (written in the 17th century). For those that are looking trudge through this book - I definitely recommend Fallen and Flawed's Monster Cheat Sheet of this book here - http://fallenflawed.com/mortification-sin-cheat-sheet/
The Pursuit of God: The Human Thirst for the Divine by A.W. Tozer
3.0
I would love to read this book again. I listened to some of this on audiobook and didn't really thought I learned anything new or profound. Tozer definitely has a way with words that can make simple concepts more mysterious. I think the error I made was that I rushed through this rather than savoring every sentence in and meditating on them like I was supposed to. Will probably re-read this again slowly when I have time.
Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins: How to Use Your Own Stories to Communicate with Power and Impact by Annette Simmons
2.0
Read this in 2014. Was too practical that it became dull. The whole book was just fill-in-the-blank exercises.
The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff
5.0
Short, light read. Who knew you could learn so much from Winnie the Pooh? Principles of Taoism are presented in a clear, digestible and attractive way.
My personal take on it from a Christian perspective is that the book teaches those who tend to worry too much or are running around for nothing to just be. Christians can learn from this book, but with the ability to discern what contradicts Scripture and what doesn't. I find this useful as a personal guide to throw your worries to God, trust Him, and just enjoy the present moment He has given. Stop trying to save time and run after meaningless things just to be busy and just savor the time to focus on what really matters; today. In the end, Taoism is not a religion, it's a philosophy of life. Take what is useful and leave what isn't.
My personal take on it from a Christian perspective is that the book teaches those who tend to worry too much or are running around for nothing to just be. Christians can learn from this book, but with the ability to discern what contradicts Scripture and what doesn't. I find this useful as a personal guide to throw your worries to God, trust Him, and just enjoy the present moment He has given. Stop trying to save time and run after meaningless things just to be busy and just savor the time to focus on what really matters; today. In the end, Taoism is not a religion, it's a philosophy of life. Take what is useful and leave what isn't.
The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
5.0
Lewis has a way with words that can package truth beautifully in a way that is both entertaining and insightful. A fantastic book that I will definitely read again. "The Screwtape Letters" has made me realized how blind I could be at times in my walk with Christ and how the nature of temptation works deeper than what meets the eye.