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"...I realized that I had made the Spirit-filled life much more complicated that it really is. Like every other aspect of the Christian life, the Spirit-filled life is a life of faith. I had been approaching it as if it were a formula. But the Spirit-filled life is not a formula; it is a relationship, a relationship with a person- the Holy Spirit." Charles Stanley, The Spirit-Filled Life.

I grew up in church and heard folks talked about the Holy Spirit but honestly I never quite knew what they were talking about. I mean really the whole 3 in 1 thing really threw me off. I understood God and Jesus but the Holy Spirit confused me. I didn't know what that was suppose to be like. I couldn't seem to find anyone that had a concrete answer to my dilemma.

As I have began to dig deeper into my walk with the Lord I felt I was missing a vital part of it. I was fortunate to be sent the book above by BookLook to review for my honest opinion. It could not have came at a better time.

Book Description

A wise, measured, and deeply passionate invitation to a Spirit-filled life

Are you trying your best to be a good Christian but still feel something’s missing? Do the peace and joy you long for seem to elude you? Does following Christ sometimes feel like a lot of work—or like it’s just not working very well?

Much has been written and spoken—and argued!—about the Holy Spirit and what it means to be filled with the Spirit. Charles Stanley cuts through the confusion and introduces you to a living Person as real and active as God the Father and Christ the Son. Through personal stories, biblical exploration, and insightful explanation, he will help you discover:

who the Spirit is—and how to develop a relationship with Him
who the Spirit isn’t—and how to avoid damaging misconceptions
how being “filled” with the Spirit actually works
what the Bible really teaches about spiritual “signs” such as speaking in tongues
how the Spirit can increase your capacity for faith, hope, love, and personal transformation
what it means to “hear” the Spirit’s voice
how to make the most of your unique spiritual gifting to build up Christ’s body
what happens when the Spirit’s power is unleashed in your workplace, your family life, your friendships, and every other area of your life

In The Spirit-Filled Life Charles Stanley reveals how to recognize and begin to live with the guiding presence of the Holy Spirit.

My Take

I truly enjoyed this book and will reread it several times as there is so much to take in. Dr. Stanley has used strong scripture references to help you dig deeper yourself into understanding the Holy Spirit in your life. He has helped me to learn as a believer I am already filled with the Holy Spirit...he has permanent resident in my heart...but how much am I willing to let him control is the question. Thankfully he doesn't just leave you with one answer and expect you to figure out the rest. Dr. Stanley continues to take this journey with you, so that you too can recognized and live with the guiding of the Holy Spirit. I highly recommend this book for Christians no matter where in your walk you may be. This would also make a great gift!!

Until we meet again may God bless you and keep you!

Caci

What She Read Wednesday is a weekly feature here on The Farm Wife, sharing what the farm family has been reading. Our bookshelves contains everything from animal husbandry, spiritual guides, to cookbooks. I hope you enjoy our take on these books.

This week's book is an awesome kids book, that both boys have enjoyed reading. It's a great deal because you truly get 3 books in one. We love The Berenstain Bears in general but this one is a great addition to our collection. The Farmbaby loved the color illustrations. Farmboy did really well reading most of the words but as a beginning reader he definitely needed some assistance throughout. As a mom I love the message that this book sent.

We have used the first 2 of the 3 books multiple times since starting school to help calm fears and remind our oldest that God is always near. I love that the Bible is referenced multiple times throughout each story. The only thing is I would like to see maybe a notation for actual scripture references as some of the references don't jump out at you.

The third book tells the story of earning and spending money. I love that the cubs had to work for the money they got and the items they requested were just handed over. This is a great way to introduce the idea of earning and saving money to elementary age and younger children. As a parent, I would have loved for the book to include tithing as well.

Overall the three books teach great values and tie everyday life back to serving and trusting in the Lord. I hope you and your family enjoy these stories as much as we have :)

Until we meet again....God bless you & keep you

Caci

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I love to read! Always have...there is a story that as a child I would read the encyclopedia for fun.

OK it's not a story...it's the truth.

About a month ago I ran across a blog post from Rachel Wojo that sparked my interest.

It was targeted at bloggers and helping to grow your blog. One of the things she mentioned was doing book reviews. Well I love to read so I thought I would give it a try. I signed up, was approved and began scrolling through the selections. I picked on of my favorite genres...cookbooks. I found this gem in there.

My favorite quote from the book is simple and true. It's an overwhelming statement that evokes a flood of emotions and memories in me. "Good food has always been a way not only to nourish but to thank, encourage, console, serve, celebrate, and ultimately love," LeAnn Rice. I am so excited to use her Hummingbird Cupcake recipe for an upcoming church function, a new twist on a classic dessert.

This is a wonderfully complied cookbook with tasty recipes and a dose of Southern hospitality. This book had me highlighting from the introduction and bookmarking throughout. Rice has done a great job of ensuring no fancy equipment or grocers needed. Everything can be made with what you are already using and found at your local store. In addition to wonderfully written recipes Rice has included practical tips and encouragement throughout the book.

Each chapter begins with a short introduction that tugs on your heart, helping you to remember how much we can share God's love through simply delightful meals. The recipes are straightforward and easy to follow allowing even the most inexperienced cooks to create magnificently delicious morsels to share with family and friends alike.

So friends I encourage to you grab your copy of "The Loving Kitchen" to grow your cookbook collection or share with a newlywed in need of simple, practical and encouraging guide to cooking with love.

Until we meet again,

Caci