Simplify: Ten Practices to Unclutter Your Soul By: Bill Hybels

Simplify by Bill Hybels is such an important book for today’s society. More and more of us are running around like chickens with our heads cut off, too busy ‘running to and fro’ but missing out on all the important things in life that really matter. Bill Hybels takes a step back and reminds us unclutter our lives in areas such as finances, work, relationships, family, and spend our time meaningfully.

Everyone I know is busy working hard or studying hard. I am a dental student and so hardly have any free time, but whatever time I do have I am reminded by this book to use it wisely. Most importantly I am reminded to spend more time with God. It’s funny how we are never to busy to watch a show, or listen to a music video, but we are waaaaaay to busy to read a chapter or spend 15 minutes in the bible. I am guilty of this fact and frankly everyone I know is too.

Simplify is a simple book to read, there isn’t any deep theology, nowhere to get lost in, but it does bring out a lot of good points and practical advice that can change how you live you life. Only changes for the good await those who read this book and decided to take it to heart.

I want to say thank you to Tyndale for blessing me with this book!

Whatever the Cost: Facing Your Fears, Dying to Your Dreams, and Living Powerfully By: David & Jason Benham

Without knowing a single thing about the Benham brothers I picked up this book based on the cover caption said: “Facing your fears, dying to your dreams, and living powerfully.” What I found between the covers I never expected; I mean the book sounded interesting and all but I had doubts it would WOW me.

Let me tell you I read the first hundred pages non-stop. The stories and testimonies of David and Jason contained between the covers are fascinating, incredibly motivating and extremely inspiring! We all face hard times and most of us have had our dreams die or fade away but the way Jason and David let the Lord guide their lives through the good times and the bad is such a valuable lesson for all Christians today. The lessons they provide in their brief point boxes throughout the chapters are incredibly wise! Each one of them can be framed as a motivational poster.

I’ll be honest, my dreams have shifted within the last few years and I have been really banking on God’s leading to point me in the right direction in life and although I believe God has led me on the right path, and continues to lead me, I really would have loved to read this book earlier, be inspired, and encouraged especially during the transitional periods where life was full of uncertainty. The Benham brothers show that no matter what stage in life we are in we can (and should) serve God to our fullest potential and glorify God knowing that He is in control and works for our good.

What an incredible testimony, definitely a MUST READ. Incredible story, makes me want to be a better/ harder worker and overall a better Christ follower.

Thank you Thomas Nelson for blessing me with this book!