Jentezen Franklin’s book, Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship with God, explores fasting and its transformative effects on a believer’s life. Grounded in Biblical principles, Franklin emphasizes that fasting goes beyond mere food abstinence; it is a deliberate act of devotion intended to deepen one’s relationship with God.

My insights from “Fasting”

The book’s central theme is the Biblical basis for fasting. It discusses the different types of fasts found in Scripture—absolute, normal, and partial—and offers guidance on choosing the right fast according to personal circumstances and spiritual objectives.

The link between fasting and prayer is thoroughly explored. The book highlights that fasting alongside prayer enhances our spiritual sensitivity and aligns our hearts with God’s intentions.

Franklin emphasizes the importance of managing our Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Expectations.

Fasting has both challenges and rewards, including physical hunger, mental clarity, and spiritual breakthroughs.

Finally, advice on implementing fasting in daily life is explored for Practical Application. Readers are encouraged to approach fasting with a spirit of humility and dedication.

Fasting by Jentezen Franklin

What I took away from “Fasting”

1. Fasting is a personal discipline that fosters a partnership with God.
2. There are various types of fasts. I need to discern what God is calling me to.
3. Fasting serves to control the flesh. Jesus fasted, so I should too.
4. I need to blend faith and patience into my experience when I fast. Results aren’t always immediate.
5. The question I must ask myself during the fast is, what is God’s goal for the fast? Not what my goal is for the fast.
6. A lack of repentance and unforgiveness will invalidate any fast. I need to approach a time of fasting with self-awareness.

Who should read “Fasting”?

I highly recommend Fasting by Jentezen Franklin to all believers, regardless of their current stage on the spiritual journey. Whether you’re new to fasting or have fasted before but wish to deepen your understanding, this book offers Biblical insight and practical guidance that can transform your spiritual life.

Many Christians today overlook fasting, treating it as optional or outdated—but Franklin reawakens its significance as a powerful, God-ordained discipline. Through this book, readers will better appreciate how fasting can unlock a more intimate, focused relationship with God. Franklin explains the “how” and the “why” of fasting, helping believers grasp its spiritual impact—from breakthroughs in prayer to increased spiritual clarity to a renewed hunger for God’s presence.

This book holds significant value for individuals seeking guidance, longing for renewal, or experiencing spiritual dryness. It’s also perfectly suited for church leaders and small group discussions, offering clear instruction and motivation to reinstate this frequently overlooked practice in our spiritual journeys.

Ultimately, Fasting empowers and motivates believers to seek God with greater intensity, sacrificing physical desires to attain everlasting rewards.

Lea Peters

Lea Peters has been a pastor’s wife and missionary since 1987. She has served alongside her husband, Jamie, planting churches and establishing faith-based community outreaches in Africa. She has four children and two grandchildren.

aculturalshift.com

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Are you wondering if God sees your struggles or cares about your circumstances? Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, filled with uncertainty, fear, and challenges that make us question whether God is truly present. In God Will Help You, bestselling author, pastor, and storyteller Max Lucado offers a heartfelt reminder that God is always near, ready to provide strength, guidance, and peace in every situation.

Lucado is known for his warm, encouraging writing style, and this book is no exception. With his signature blend of storytelling, biblical teaching, and practical wisdom, he makes complex spiritual truths feel personal and accessible. Whether you’re struggling with worry, grief, loneliness, or doubt, Lucado’s words offer comfort and reassurance, pointing back to the unshakable hope found in God’s promises.

Overview of the Book

God Will Help You is divided into 10 chapters, each addressing different life struggles – anxiety, fear, loneliness, grief, sickness, and more. Throughout the book, Lucado masterfully intertwines Scripture, real-life anecdotes, and uplifting messages to remind readers that they are never alone in their struggles. His ability to take timeless biblical truths and apply them to modern-day challenges makes this book both inspiring and deeply relatable.

One of the most impactful aspects of the book is the reflection section at the end of each chapter. These sections provide space for readers to pause, meditate on what they’ve learned, and engage in prayer. Lucado doesn’t just offer encouragement – he invites readers into an active, faith-filled response. The structured reflections help reinforce key takeaways and encourage readers to lean into God’s presence in a tangible way.

Each chapter is filled with wisdom, making it hard to pick just one standout moment. However, the overall theme remains clear: No matter what you are facing, God is there to help you. His love is unwavering, His power is limitless, and His guidance is available to all who seek Him.

Writing Style & Impact

God Will Help You by Max Lucado

Lucado’s writing is as inviting as a heartfelt conversation with a close friend over a cup of coffee. His tone is warm, engaging, and easy to understand, as if he’s sitting across from you, making deep theological insights feel practical and personal. He has the ability to weave together biblical narratives with everyday struggles, illustrating how God’s faithfulness remains constant throughout history and in our lives today.

One of Lucado’s greatest strengths as a writer is his use of storytelling. Whether he’s sharing personal experiences, historical examples, or modern testimonies, his stories resonate on a deep emotional level. They serve as reminders that faith isn’t just an abstract concept – it’s something we live out daily, even in our struggles.

This book isn’t just about offering hope – it provides practical ways to strengthen your trust in God. Lucado gently challenges readers to shift their focus from their problems to God’s promises, encouraging them to take steps toward faith even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Key Takeaways

One of the most memorable lessons in the book is the acronym C.A.L.M., based on Philippians 4:4-8. This simple yet powerful method provides a practical way to deal with anxiety:
• Celebrate God’s goodness;
• Ask God for help;
• Leave your concerns with God;
• Meditate on good things.

This framework is an excellent reminder of how faith can actively shape our response to life’s difficulties. Instead of being consumed by worry, we can intentionally shift our focus to God’s faithfulness, trusting Him to guide us through every challenge.

Who Should Read This Book?

If you’re struggling with anxiety, grief, loneliness, or simply need reassurance that God is near, God Will Help You is a must-read. Whether you’re a new believer seeking encouragement or a seasoned Christian looking for a faith boost, Lucado’s words will remind you of God’s unwavering presence in your life.

This book is especially impactful for those going through a difficult season. It serves as a lifeline of hope, a reminder that God’s help is always available, no matter how heavy life’s burdens may feel. It’s also a great book to gift to a friend or loved one who needs encouragement.

Final Thoughts

The overarching message of God Will Help You is simple yet profound: No matter what you’re facing, you are not alone. God sees you, cares for you, and is ready to help in ways beyond what you can imagine. Lucado’s writing is a beautiful invitation to rest in that truth, to release fears and doubts, and to embrace the peace that comes from trusting God fully.

Personally, I found this book to be an uplifting and transformative read. There were so many powerful takeaways that it’s hard to highlight just one, but the C.A.L.M. method has been particularly impactful in my own life. It’s a reminder to shift my perspective from worry to worship, from fear to faith.

I highly recommend God Will Help You to anyone in need of encouragement. It’s more than just a book – it’s a companion for the soul, guiding readers back to the heart of God and the reassurance that He is always ready to help. This book doesn’t just leave you feeling encouraged; it equips you with the faith and practical steps to navigate life’s toughest moments.

If you’re looking for a faith-filled perspective on overcoming life’s difficulties, this book will inspire and uplift you. Take the time to read it, reflect on its messages, and allow its wisdom to strengthen your trust in God’s ever-present help.

Marthe Badibanga

A volunteer blogger whose passion is to see the people of God become all that the LORD intended them to be in their personal relationships with Him that overflow into their daily lives.

The post Book Review: God Will Help You by Max Lucado appeared first on Cup of Faith.

As we explore Psalm 23 in this month’s mental health awareness, Louis Giglio’s look at the battle of the mind could not be more relevant. While there are many factors contributing to mental health including chemical imbalances and trauma, it is often in our thought-life that everyday downturns can halt the momentum in our relationship with God and consequently, our spiritual and mental wellbeing.

Louis Giglio’s book expands on Psalm 23: 5, “You prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies,” and he does this through simple and effective demonstrations, drawing on general examples as well as personal anecdotes from his own life to land this analogy and give us practical applications of Psalm 23. This includes giving modern-day examples to fill in applications of, “Even though….I will….” (Psalm 23:4).
One of the key themes is the sacred – figurative – table. It has been specifically laid out for us by our Father and Savior for the purpose of communing with Him in the midst of the chaos the enemy creates in the world and in our loves. But too often we diminish the power of this table when we entertain thoughts that are not true to His word or heart for us; thoughts that the enemy plants. “In whatever way the Devil gains access to your table, his goals are the same. He wants to gain access to your mind so he can destroy you.” (pg. 47).

There are numerous types of thoughts that the enemy can “scatter like seeds”, as Giglio describes. He deep dives into thoughts of temptation, making a poignant observation that when Jesus was tempted, it was temptation to be in opposition to God’s instruction, self-glory as opposed to humble surrender to the Father’s will. The enemy will tempt us in everyday sins, seeking worldly comforts in times of trouble as opposed to God, but even in seemingly innocent fantasies, we may be led astray through self-glorifying thoughts that twist God’s purpose for us and dethrone Him as the one to be glorified. Then there are of course the thoughts that can lead to depression and anxiety, the self-deprecating thoughts, thoughts of comparison and lies the enemy says about us that are in stark contrast to our identity in Jesus.

Giglio describes the long-term impact of thoughts by drawing on 2 Corinthians 10:5 and reminding us the importance of allowing Jesus to reign over every thought, “See, if a thought is not taken captive by you in Jesus’ name, that thought will take you captive. You will bind the thought, or the thought will, in time, bind you.” (pg. 130). If we allow lies from the enemy to stay, they will become entrenched and begin to define our life, which can often lead to many interruptions to our spiritual journey, and even lead to mental health problems.

However, we do not need to fear the influence of the enemy. Even when he has been sitting at our table. Giglio wraps his narrative in the encouraging and empowering truth of our identity in Christ, that we already share in Christ’s victory. Repentance is our antidote to guilt and shame, and we can protect our thought life by not only defending against the power of lies, but by being offensive, starting our days with positive thoughts. The greatest encouragement that the book captures is that the war is won. While there are many battles that need to be fought, we can hold on to the truth of our identity in Jesus and focus on him on the other side of the table that he has laid out for us. We don’t need to allow the Devil to intrude in this union. We can win the battle of our minds.

Angela Chiaberta

I am a volunteer blogger with a passion for God and writing. My hope is to help others choose faith – or to walk deeper in their faith – through my own introspections and observations.

The post Book Review: Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at your Table appeared first on Cup of Faith.

There’s no getting through this Christian journey without addressing the question, what does God want me to do with my life? Trevor Hudson tackles this topic with the book written under the bold title, Discovering God’s Will For Your Life: A User’s Guide to Discernment.

This short but impactful book has three main outcomes: latching into God’s vision for your life, defining discernment, and taking action on what we learn. Hudson encourages individual application of his points with short exercises found in the book. 

Discovering God’s Will for Your Life (Trevor Hudson): Published by Struik Christian Media. Available wherever books are sold.

Discernment involves recognising God’s active presence and voice so that we can respond to what God is doing and saying, and bring our lives into more harmony with God’s dream for our world. Quote p. 51

Hudson deftly explores discernment of God’s personal will through our lives through scripture, circumstances, the Holy Spirit, our giftings and conversations with those who know us well. He draws from personal experience and decades of pastoral experience. The pages of this book almost radiate with the sage and gentleness you would expect from a seventy-year-plus old pastor who is still pouring out his life for the Father and his children. Expect less ‘name it and claim it’ type ra-ra moments and more slower, head-nodding ‘a-ha!’ moments.

Our personal calling is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet. – Trevor Hudson

One of Hudson’s key principles to discerning God’s personal will for your life is to reflect on what you have learnt in your life experiences. The wisdom of experience is only unlocked, he explains, when one takes the time to reflect on the success and failure of circumstances. This is probably why the book is laden with ‘discernment exercises’ to put the knowledge found in these pages into immediate action.

What I loved most about this book was its simple practicality. It is straightforward and easy to understand but acts a teaser to go deeper with God for oneself. I personally loved Hudson’s reflection on spiritual consolation and spiritual desolation, a principle I have used since in trying to discern next steps in decisions.

This book is not for anyone who is looking for an easy way to hear God’s voice for themselves. It is rather a book for those looking to forge spiritual ‘tools’ for their lifelong ‘discernment toolbox’. 

I hope you will pick up a copy of this book and be encouraged to seek out God’s personal will for your life!

This book was kindly sent to me by Struik Christian Media for review. All views expressed are my own.

Kate Walsh

Kate is the current owner and editor of Cup of Faith. She is a blogger who loves Jesus, loves to read, and currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband.

The post Book Review: Discovering God’s Will For Your Life: A User’s Guide To Discernment By Trevor Hudson appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Many readers will recognise the name Louie Giglio as the founder of the Passion conferences and the famous ‘Indescribable’ preacher. In his book, Seeing God as a Perfect Father (an updated and retitled edition of Not Forsaken), Giglio shares truth about God’s fatherhood, our worldly and Western understanding of fatherhood and invites us to untangle the two for a freer, more powerful Christian walk.

Published by Thomas Nelson and distributed in South Africa by Struik Christian Media. Available wherever books are sold.

Giglio grapples with many challenging aspects surrounding the concept of fatherhood and ways in which our vision of God’s fatherhood may be clouded. He shares six possible stereotypical fathers we may have had, which have in turn impacted our view of God’s fatherhood. He writes with Christ-centred passion about the way in which God positions himself as a father to us. Did you know that Jesus refers to God as ‘Father’ more than any other term? Readers familiar with Louie Giglio will recognise his reverence, love for story-telling and astronomy drops. He flavours his writing with testimonies and vulnerable details about his relationship with his own father.

I appreciated the book’s willingness to provide a fresh and honest perspective of the difficulty of relating to God as a father without losing an awe-inspiring perspective of God’s perfect love for us, his children. I wrote previously about my journey to find approval from my father in heaven and wasn’t surprised to come across the topic of approval early on in this book. It’s a biggie.

I was convicted by the last few chapters which painted a picture of what a life impacted by a personal relationship to a Father God might look like practically.

I don’t know what kind of earthly father you had, but I know that God has spanned heaven and earth to reach you. And I know if you want one, the reality of a perfect Father can be yours. I pray your eyes are open to see Him as He truly is, and your heart is beating fast knowing His eyes are on you and His heart is for you. His blessing is full and free. The waterfall is pouring down goodness today. His spiritual genes have re-created you and His hand is there to lead you. You can take your next step as a loved daughter –a loved son – of the perfect Father. Quote from p. 209

If we are born-again children grafted into a new family with a new father, we will no longer be trapped by old, unhelpful habits passed down from generation to generation. We can be imitators of our spiritual Dad.

This book is great for newer Christians and readers who don’t enjoy too much jargon. It is written in a comfortable and light style which makes the challenging subject matter easier to digest. Readers who were not brought up in a predominantly Western home may not relate entirely to some descriptions of difficulties Giglio describes. If you have ever wondered about God’s ‘father heart’ towards you or have had difficulties relating to your own earthly father, this book is a great introduction to these subjects without being too heavy.

This book was kindly sent to me by Struik Christian Media for review. All views expressed are my own.

Kate Walsh

Kate is the current owner and editor of Cup of Faith. She is a blogger who loves Jesus, loves to read, and currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband.

The post Seeing God as a Perfect Father by Louie Giglio appeared first on Cup of Faith.

I have several Max Lucado books as I find his conversational writing style to be simple to follow, and mostly because he has the gift of the Holy Spirit and his writing manages to break through my walls. When I am down – and in the wilderness – I find that I need books and encouragement that is approachable, honest and raw which are all elements that Pastor Lucado brings to each and every one of his books. I recently received two of his books from our partners Struik Christian Media that I feel are great additions to any book shelf.

Jesus: The God Who Knows Your Name

I have recently been thinking a lot about the idea that we glorify the people in the bible far too much – bear with me on this thought – but sometimes I wonder how little impact I have had on this world, and can’t help but fear that I will leave this earth having accomplished very little. Yes, I realise that not everyone shares these thoughts, and I understand that sometimes, these thoughts are a result of my own depression and anxiety, but the one, true way, that I have overcome these feelings of doubts is by humanising the people we read about in the Bible. If we look at each person – hero and non-heroes – we quickly begin to see that they are so much like you and me, that they were living their lives, facing debt, infertility, depression. They were going through the motions of life just as we do – and now, hundreds of years later, we still speak of them and hold their stories as slithers of hope – what if we are the next person to be written about? What if we were the generation that believed so boldly, that they wrote stories about us?

That being said, the idea that Jesus walked among us still feels too far for me to fully comprehend. Perhaps this is not the discussion we typically hear from Christians, but I can’t help but feel that while I believe in Jesus Christ, there’s still this barrier in my understanding of how can someone so amazing, so selfless, love a person like me? And I think that’s what Pastor Lucado has been able to achieve in his writing. His book is so insightful and encouraging – it gives an in-depth understanding of grace, and what it means to be known and loved by Jesus, the Redeemer while explaining what it must have been like to walk among Jesus.

The God of the universe knows your name. He has walked your streets. Jesus. Perhaps you’ve heard about him, studied him, or prayed to him. But do you know him? This is the question Max poses to the reader.

Divided into six sections (Immanuel, Friend, Teacher, Miracle Worker, Lamb of God, Returning King) each containing multiple chapters, this book not only describes the person of Jesus but also eloquently dives into the heart of Jesus towards the reader.

By exploring Jesus’ life death and resurrection as well as specific details like how he interacted with his friends and his enemies, what he did with time alone, how he acted at a party, this compilation from Max Lucado, now with original never-before-read content from Max, gives readers the chance to become more familiar with the man at the center of the greatest story ever told.

By learning more about the person Jesus was and is, the reader will understand more clearly the person they were created to be. Max writes “Don’t settle for a cursory glance or a superficial understanding. Look long into the heart of Christ and you’ll see it. Grace and life. Forgiveness of sin. The defeat of death. This is the hope he gives. This is the hope we need.”

Get your copy of this book from all leading book stores including CUM Books.

You Are Never Alone: Trust in the Miracle of God’s Presence and Power 

Just like his other books, this one is written with sincerity and understanding, making it impactful with the relatability that it offers. I loved reading through this book, especially when I was looking for hope and encouragement. I love the ease in which Pastor Lucado shares stories; some that are his own, and then, of course, others that he has gathered over the years. I think that’s what makes his books that much better – we find a little bit of ourselves reflected in those pages. This read makes another great gift for a special friend or family member and shows us how to apply scripture to our daily lives. As I said before, he breaks down all barriers and makes scripture easy to relate to, providing a much deeper understanding and illustrating how we can apply God’s promises to our lives, by finding hope in our trials, darkness, and despair.

You Are Never Alone is available in a six-part study that ties in with videos, making it great for group studies.

In You Are Never Alone, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Max Lucado will show you that you’re stronger than you think because God is nearer than you know. You’ll be comforted by the living, loving, miracle-working God who doesn’t think twice about stepping into the thorny thickets of your world to lift you out.

When life feels depleted, does God care?
When I hear him say “No”, does he have a response?
I’m facing an onslaught of challenges, will he help?
When life grows dark and stormy, does he notice?
I’m facing the fear of death, will he help me?

The answer in the life-giving miracles in the Gospel of John is a resounding yes. Do you know them? Do you believe in a Jesus who has, not only power, but a passionate love for the weak and wounded of the world? Do you think he cares enough about you to find you in the lonely waiting rooms, rehab centers and convalescent homes of life?

Get your copy of this book from all leading book stores including CUM Books.

Megan Kelly Botha

I’m a coffee-wielding mood reader and romance book collector who may or may not have a slight addiction to buying books. I read a variety of sub-genres within romance, including rom-coms, dark romance, and fantasy. I love sharing my thoughts on books, whether it’s through book reviews, quotes, or recommendations inspired by my current reads. Through my romance book blog, Literary Inspired, I aim to provide in-depth book reviews, curated reading recommendations, and exclusive author promotions. I’m passionate about supporting indie authors and sharing my latest book discoveries with others. When I’m not reading, you can find me cheering on my favorite football team and F1 drivers, crafting, baking with my kids or playing with my pets.

literaryinspired.com/

The post Max Lucado Book Reviews appeared first on Cup of Faith.

The bible speaks of Abraham as being a friend of God. I’ve always wondered how it looked like to have the All-Mighty God as a friend, the Creator of heaven and earth calling me His friend? I must be honest, there were moments when I thought that this was not attainable. It just seemed like it was not for everyone but later in my life, I came to understand that God desires to have a friendship with all of us, with you. It is the sole purpose of our existence, fellowship with God. In his book, Trevor Hudson delves deeper on the subject ‘Friendship with God’ and shares some important truths that will make us understand why we have deep yearnings to be in a friendship and how a better friendship with God can be life-changing.

In ‘Friendship with God’, Trevor highlights two themes that run through consistently in the book; friendship with God and personal transformation. As we learn to trust God and grow as His Friend our lives are transformed. Friendship with God births personal transformation into our lives. We will suddenly see a change in the way we think, feel, what we desire, and the way we treat others. We are wired for friendship, both human and divine. This explains why we feel a deep sense of heartache when we are alone or lonely.

One of the first few pictures we find in the bible on friendship is from the book of Genesis, the story of Adam and Eve. God walks in the garden, He calls out for Adam and Eve, “Where are you?”. He knew exactly what they had done yet He does not reprimand them. He only asks, “Where are you?” Because now they were separated from God. The friendship that they once had, had fallen to the ground and this was the very thing that God created them for, divine friendship. None the less God continued to pursue a friendship with them, as he continues today to have a friendship with you and me. The lesson we learn here is that nothing can put off the flame of God’s longing to be friends with us.

For me this message is very powerful, it puts into perspective the reason why God wants and loves us. But how do you start building a friendship? You will know from personal experience that even your natural friendships are built on a foundation. Now, what is the recipe for your friendship with God? What is in the foundation? Where do you even begin to develop your friendship with God? Here are some key points that Trevor highlights for us:

Meditating On The Gospel Stories – Keep company with Jesus by meditatively reading the Gospels. Receive personal knowledge that comes from living with Him each day and entering His heart and mind as we do with our other friends.

Doing What Jesus Said – Once we have begun our friendship with Jesus we will want to please Him in everything we do. This is why Jesus told His disciples, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching”. A good place to begin our journey of practical obedience is to make a conscious decision to become a loving person.

Prayer (Intentionality) – Good friendships take time, effort and planning. So the first thing I encourage you to do if you want to deepen your life of prayer is creating a space to be with God on a regular basis.

Conversation – Our friendship with Jesus grows as we talk to Him. On the other hand, like any good friendship, we also need to listen to God. During my one-on-one times with Jesus, there are moments when I am simply silent.

Transparency – When we do not express what we are thinking and feeling to the Lord, a sense of distance grows between us. Whenever we keep our more “negative” feelings and attitudes away from God in prayer, we hinder the movement towards intimacy. Honest prayer involves sharing our doubts and disappointments, our anger and resentment, our loneliness and grief.

In this book, Trevor continues to share some insights into developing our friendship with God. What makes it more interesting for me is that he uses his life-long experiences and stories to make us understand, this brings it home. You can even sense his pastoral heart coming through, he earnestly wants us to taste what he has also tasted, the sweet friendship the God. I must say that the book stirred up in me a new passion to know the Lord even deeper, to give attention to my friendship with God, to know that there is always more.

Imagine living each moment conscious that you are a friend of God. Jesus says that you are no longer servants but friends meaning that He will share the deepest truths with us because we are in partnership with Him. When we hear his voice and follow, we make room for our friendship to transform the person that we are for His glory.

Delaree

 I love God and His word. I have a great passion to help women mature in their relationship with Christ…it’s possible because God’s grace has removed the boundaries. We have unlimited access to our Father. 

scripturelounge.wordpress.com/

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For the month of February we have been covering the different phases of relationships and chatting about nurturing, respecting and embracing your relationship, whether you’re navigating singledom, dating or marriage. Before we wrap up the end of relationship month, I thought I’d share some of the relationship-focused books that we recommend from our partner, Struik Christian Media.

Swipe Right by Levi Lusko

In Swipe Right, Pastor Levi Lusko offers compelling reasons to make wise choices in matters of the heart—relationships, sex, dating, and marriage. He encourages readers to live each day knowing their present choices will immediately become part of their pasts, and that their pasts will inevitably come back to visit them in the future.

With equal parts prevention and cure, the book is not just a list of rules to live by but something to live for: God’s powerful plan for our lives. To get there we must learn how to swipe right—to live up in a left, right world—because what we do with sex and romance is truly an issue of life and death importance.

Why we love it:

Levi’s writing is raw, relatable and very honest. I love how he balances serious topics with light humour. (Read my full review here – by far my favourite book, this month!)

Get your copy here!

Lovestruck by Sharon Jaynes

Have you ever felt that the man you thought was your soulmate has turned into more of a roommate? If so, then Lovestruck will help you see your marriage from a fresh perspective and reignite the passion that was there in the beginning. While the extent of the church’s message has traditionally been, “If you’re not married, don’t do it,” and “If you are married, don’t talk about it, ” it’s time to see what God has to say sexual intimacy.

Why we love it:

Sharon reminds and challenges us to be more intentional, with our relationships from beginning attractions and dating through marriages. She breaks down the Book of Solomon, in the most interesting way, by highlighting imagery and significant points and messaging to explain the scripture and what Solomon and His Bride’s courting and marriage looked like.

Get your copy here!

Hope For Your Marriage by Clayton & Ashlee Hurst

Are you willing to do whatever it takes to have the marriage you dreamed of? Interestingly, this is the question Clayton and Ashlee ask young couples before they get married and married couples in crisis. If they answer yes, then there is hope for the couple. If they are willing to commit to the hard work ahead, they have a very good shot.

Hope for Your Marriage is a book designed for couples who desire to have the best marriage possible. Every marriage has the potential to be incredible when God is at the center.

In Hope for Your Marriage, Clayton and Ashlee share personal stories on overcoming fairy-tale pitfalls; keeping Jesus at the center of your marriage; practicing healthy communication on sex, conflict, and forgiveness; declaring life over your marriage; and leaving a God-honoring legacy.

Why we love it:

This is the perfect read for newlyweds and in fact, any married couple. The book is refreshingly candid and shares stories that you can relate to, with practical advice that speaks straight to the heart.

Get your copy here!

Story Of Marriage by John & Lisa Bevere

Once upon a time… Marriage was forever. It was a covenant that knit one man and one woman together. This weaving made both stronger, nobler, and more vibrant expressions of who they were created to be. They were better together than either had been on their own. The wedding ceremony was but a beginning. It was the gateway to build their happily ever after. Each choice and action was designed to construct the life their union-represented. Husband and wife walked into the great unknown with hearts, hands, and voices intertwined to express the love of their Creator. How did we lose touch with this profound love story? In The Story of Marriage, John and Lisa Bevere invite you to rediscover God’s original plan. Whether you’re married, single, or engaged, your story is a part of His.

Why we love it:

This book reminds us that marriages aren’t perfect and it takes a lot of work. The study-style makes it great for couples to work through together, or on their own to discuss later. I love that both John and Lisa were very frank about the struggles they have endured, and found that openness encouraging.

Get your copy here!

Our Best Life Together by Joel & Victoria Osteen

In Our Best Life Together, Joel and Victoria Osteen want to encourage you in your marriage and remind you that God brought you together to help each other succeed and to become all He created you to be. There’s no better way to experience the fulfilling marriage God intends for you than to set aside a devotional time together each day and set your minds in the right direction for a positive, happy, faith-filled marriage. When you live together in unity, you honor God and open the door for His blessings to flow into every area of your life. If you will do your part, God will do His part, and you can live in love!

Why we love it:

What’s not to love about Joel and Victoria? This devotional is a superb addition to any bedside table and reminds us to put God at the centre of our relationship. You can read our full review here, but trust me, this makes a fantastic gift for upcoming weddings and anniversaries as it’s such a great book for all couples of faith.

Get your copy here!

Don’t forget, we’ll be reviewing and featuring a handful of these books right here on our platform so be sure to keep an eye out for those posts too!

Megan Kelly Botha

I’m a coffee-wielding mood reader and romance book collector who may or may not have a slight addiction to buying books. I read a variety of sub-genres within romance, including rom-coms, dark romance, and fantasy. I love sharing my thoughts on books, whether it’s through book reviews, quotes, or recommendations inspired by my current reads. Through my romance book blog, Literary Inspired, I aim to provide in-depth book reviews, curated reading recommendations, and exclusive author promotions. I’m passionate about supporting indie authors and sharing my latest book discoveries with others. When I’m not reading, you can find me cheering on my favorite football team and F1 drivers, crafting, baking with my kids or playing with my pets.

literaryinspired.com/

The post Relationship Books we LOVE! appeared first on Cup of Faith.

When I was a teenager and living with my grandparents, who are Christian missionaries and pastors, I remember being bored and having my gran point out her book shelf that was filled with theology, bible studies, and self-help books. My response was somewhat dramatic when I thought gaah, all those books are so boring and outdated. Thinking back to that time, I get it – I didn’t feel seen or heard in those books. I didn’t see our own lives represented; instead, those books detailed all these rules and guidelines to become a “good Christian,” and besides it being unattainable, those books rarely outlined the messiness of Christianity or the challenges that we face as modern Christians.

That’s where Levi Lusko gets it right.

A unique and compelling understanding of the power and the pleasure attached to God’s plans for relationships.

For better or for worse, interactions with screens are now irreversibly entangled into the fabric of our lives. We swipe right to answer calls, unlock our iPhones, respond to snaps, browse through photos, and respond to emails. With our fingertips dancing across devices, we navigate our way through life. It is now estimated that the average American pull their phone out to check it 150 times each day. That’s once every six minutes. 

For the now more than 100 Million Americans on dating apps like Tinder, swiping right is increasingly the first step towards initiating no-strings-attached sexual encounters. Sex is being stripped of any emotional or spiritual significance by successive generations and it simply viewed as a physical source of pleasure and enjoyment. All of this is a reality, the real question is at what cost?

In Swipe Right, Pastor Levi Lusko offers compelling reasons to make wise choices in matters of the heart—relationships, sex, dating, and marriage. He encourages readers to live each day knowing their present choices will immediately become part of their pasts, and that their pasts will inevitably come back to visit them in the future.

With equal parts prevention and cure, the book is not just a list of rules to live by but something to live for: God’s powerful plan for our lives. To get there we must learn how to swipe right—to live up in a left, right world—because what we do with sex and romance is truly an issue of life and death importance. 

For twelve years Levi, his wife Jennie, and their team, have put on an evangelistic purity conference called the O2 Experience. Traveling across the United States, he has appeared in three to five cities each year, bringing a fresh perspective on sex and romance, challenging thousands of teens and unmarried young adults to rise up in strength and honor. Swipe Right will broaden the discussions to include married people, those dating, and those who have racked up consequences but need to know it’s never too late to do the right thing and experience God’s best.

Levis is a Christian millennial and just like me, he is trying to figure out how to navigate this new world, because without realizing it, we are pioneers of our time. I see myself in his writing – I can relate to his thoughts, and the stories that he shares. In fact, I had a giggle that in one of his stories, he describes having a pretty bad accident which results in breaking his leg, and while he doesn’t recall much from his time in hospital, he remembered being mad because they had to cut him out of his favourite pair of jeans. It was amusing because my own husband was knocked over by a car, as a teenager, and had the exact same experience where he was absolutely livid that they cut through his favourite pair of jeans. For many years after that, he clung to those blood-stained jeans until one day, they just disappeared 😉.

I first discovered Lusko’s writing when I saw Struik Christian Media advertising his latest book called Take Back Your Life, which I immediately ordered because the description felt like it had been written for me. There was no messing around – his 40-day interactive book helped me dig deep and find what was holding me back, and encouraged me to stand in my light and follow my God-given purpose. As soon as I claimed that, life started changing and I no longer felt weighed down by my anxiety and worries.

Swipe Right was equally groundbreaking and speaks to our generation; the generation of smartphones, constant swiping, liking, and engaging. Earlier this week, I watched a documentary about OnlyFans which explores the stories of several creatives on the platform and what they’re willing to do for money, and while I don’t feel like I necessarily live with my head in the sand, my mind was utterly blown. I kept wondering whether there is any dignity left? If we’re so willing to engage in casual sex just for views, have we grown completely numb to understanding and recognizing the power in having sex?

SEX. There, I said it.

I could bet my bottom dollar that I would never have found a book on my gran’s bookshelf that even hinted at the act of sex. I mean, still to this day – 2 children later – I can’t imagine saying those 3 little letters in front of them and why? I was raised by a mom who was all too comfortable to have those awkward conversations but my grandparents are “old-school” where it’s wrong and un-Christian-like to speak of such private matters, but then it got me thinking – if we’re not talking about it, are we to blame for our youth not seeing or recognizing the importance of protecting that part of ourselves?

I tend to be the person who says no to everything; I was the good girl at school, the head girl, an A+ student, and despite having a rough upbringing, I lived my life without drugs, smoking, alcohol, and sex. I would see those things around me, but I stayed clear because I was scared of the consequences. I was SO aware of them – I knew I had a long-term plan, I knew I wanted to get married, have children, and have a badass career, and after seeing the impact that revenge porn had on one of my peers in high school, I was all too aware that you never know what the future holds and how something so private, shared between two people can turn and be used against you if you aren’t careful about who you share that with. I also remember that when I realized that my teenage boyfriend had lost his virginity at 13-years old, I was shocked, heartbroken and pretty much ready to cut all ties. I couldn’t wrap my head around it. Here we were, 15 or 16-years old, and he had already shared the most intimate parts of himself with someone else when I was very much not ready for that AT ALL.

But the problem was – NO ONE WAS TALKING ABOUT! No one was there guiding teenagers and young adults on this part of life because it made everyone else uncomfortable. And that’s why Swipe Right is crucial for our current culture and generation. It’s not that God doesn’t want you to enjoy yourself – this might come as a shock, but He wants you to have AMAZING sex! That’s right – you don’t have to feel bad about yourself because you enjoy sex! But sex is intimate, and shouldn’t be stripped of any emotional or spiritual significance.

Besides the most incredible book cover (seriously, I am in love with the artwork), what this book holds is thought-provoking conversations that need to be heard and shared. It’s an amazing read and definitely, one that I feel will continue to open this discussion further.

You can purchase your copy of Swipe Right from leading book stores including CUM Books. 

Megan Kelly Botha

I’m a coffee-wielding mood reader and romance book collector who may or may not have a slight addiction to buying books. I read a variety of sub-genres within romance, including rom-coms, dark romance, and fantasy. I love sharing my thoughts on books, whether it’s through book reviews, quotes, or recommendations inspired by my current reads. Through my romance book blog, Literary Inspired, I aim to provide in-depth book reviews, curated reading recommendations, and exclusive author promotions. I’m passionate about supporting indie authors and sharing my latest book discoveries with others. When I’m not reading, you can find me cheering on my favorite football team and F1 drivers, crafting, baking with my kids or playing with my pets.

literaryinspired.com/

The post Swipe Right: Life, Death, Sex, and Romance appeared first on Cup of Faith.

In a world that’s constantly telling you that you’ve always got to be moving, working, creating, and producing, all while being a mom, manager, sister, daughter, wife, and, and, and… it’s unsurprising that most of us are on the brink of burnout. I have shared briefly about my own burnouts. In fact, I feel burnout is becoming super common and has become the latest buzzword. Perhaps it’s that we’re all just trying to go through the motions of this pandemic and are crippled by the fatigue that it brings, or perhaps it started even before then, and we’re all just trying so hard to keep up with the people on our timelines, not making time to properly rest.

God has a funny sense of humor and an amazing way of making sure you are exactly where you need to be, or in my case, you read exactly what you need to read, so I just had to share this story before I get into the review of DR. Saundra Dalton-Smith’s book. So, in the midst of the pandemic, I was contacted by DR. Saundra, herself, to be featured on the podcast. However, life took a bit of a tumble and between navigating the pandemic, homeschooling, work, and grief, the podcast took a backseat. In fact, we’ve just rebooted it, but for a long, LONG time, it’s just been gathering dust. Fast forward a few months, I was contacted by our local Publishing House, Struik Christian Media, who have since become partners to this platform and very kindly send us regular books to review and feature. Part of their last stack of books, they happened to include DR. Saundra’s book called Sacred Rest. So even though, I missed my opportunity to interview DR. Saundra, her book still managed to find its way to me and I am glad that it did.

Staying busy is easy. Staying well rested-now there’s a challenge.

How can you keep your energy, happiness, creativity, and relationships fresh and thriving in the midst of never-ending family demands, career pressures, and the stress of everyday life? In SACRED REST, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a board-certified internal medicine doctor, reveals why rest can no longer remain optional.

Dr. Dalton-Smith shares seven types of rest she has found lacking in the lives of those she encounters in her clinical practice and research-physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, sensory, social, creative-and why a deficiency in any one of these types of rest can have unfavorable effects on your health, happiness, relationships, creativity, and productivity. SACRED REST combines the science of rest, the spirituality of rest, the gifts of rest, and the resulting fruit of rest. It shows rest as something sacred, valuable, and worthy of our respect.

By combining scientific research with personal stories, spiritual insight, and practical next steps, SACRED REST gives the weary permission to embrace rest, set boundaries, and seek sanctuary without any guilt, shame, or fear.

I always feel like rest is sort of tricky. Sometimes, your body is physically screaming that it needs rest (she types while barely keeping her eyes open, trying to write this review after a full day of running around) but you still feel like you have to be doing something, and often, I feel like it is because we are so scared of being perceived as lazy. The next challenge I realise we have, which I hadn’t considered before is what sort of rest we require. In her book, Dalton-Smith goes on to detail the seven types of rest that she found is lacking in many of us and how each of these types of rest impacts every part of our lives:

• Physical: The chance to use the body in restorative ways to decrease muscle tension, reduce headaches, and promote higher quality sleep.
• Mental: The ability to quiet cerebral chatter and focus on things that matter.
• Spiritual: The capacity to experience God in all things and recline in the knowledge of the Holy.
• Emotional: The freedom to authentically express feelings and eliminate people-pleasing behaviors.
• Social: The wisdom to recognize relationships which revive from ones that exhaust and how to limit exposure to toxic people.
• Sensory: The opportunity to downgrade the endless onslaught of sensory input received from electronics, fragrances, and background noise.
• Creative: The experience of allowing beauty to inspire awe and liberate wonder.

Her book goes on to explain that a deficiency in any one of these types of rest can impact your health, happiness, relationships, creativity, and productivity. In her free resource at www.RestQuiz.com , Dalton-Smith works to identify your rest deficits with the help of a comprehensive quiz, that helps score you on all seven types of rest and identifies the rest deficits affecting your wellbeing.

So, through her book and the online quiz, I have identified that I require sensory, creative, and emotional rest, which makes a lot of sense. At the beginning of the year, when I discussed my intentions and prayers for the year, I said how I want to create more – I feel like I am the best version of myself when I am creating more often, but I am physically so burnt out at the end of the day, that I am not getting that chance to be creative. Of course, I require sensory rest because I am always in front of this computer or my phone, which does impact several areas of my life from how I connect with my partner and loved ones, to my mental health and even self-worth. The last one was emotional rest, which hit home hard – I am known for being a people pleaser, and realizing how much work I have to do in this specific area of my life was eye-opening because I am aware of the deeper impact it has on my life as a whole.

With that in mind, Saundra has helped me take the first steps in acknowledging the parts of my life that need more rest and with her book, I felt supported and ready to understand the impact of ignoring those warning signs and of course, the changes I can start making to live a more restful life.

You can purchase your copy of Sacred Rest from leading book stores including CUM Books. 

Megan Kelly Botha

I’m a coffee-wielding mood reader and romance book collector who may or may not have a slight addiction to buying books. I read a variety of sub-genres within romance, including rom-coms, dark romance, and fantasy. I love sharing my thoughts on books, whether it’s through book reviews, quotes, or recommendations inspired by my current reads. Through my romance book blog, Literary Inspired, I aim to provide in-depth book reviews, curated reading recommendations, and exclusive author promotions. I’m passionate about supporting indie authors and sharing my latest book discoveries with others. When I’m not reading, you can find me cheering on my favorite football team and F1 drivers, crafting, baking with my kids or playing with my pets.

literaryinspired.com/

The post Sacred Rest appeared first on Cup of Faith.