The Tomb by Stephanie Landsem

I loved this story of Martha by Stephanie Landsem. Martha tries so hard to please everyone, working hard to keep the laws, putting everyone ahead of herself. Her sister Mary sits at Jesus' feet while Martha works to fix the food and serve it. She doesn't have time to follow her heart.

Martha's story starts when she does follow her heart and suffers the consequences of her actions. When she gives her heart to Isa, will she see him again? Her brother Lazarus wants her to marry Simon. Due to her reputation as a perfect woman who follows the law, Simon agrees to marry her. Will Martha be able to trust in the Lord when it really counts, or will she become the woman she has always despised?

The Tomb draws you into the man Jesus is and how he was viewed. Martha's struggles are real life struggles. Facing peer pressure can you stand up for what Jesus would have you do? Why is it so hard to believe Jesus is who he said he is? These stories give you a closer look at Jesus and his life, journey, family, and followers. She makes you feel like you are really there, living in Jesus' time. The secondary characters come to life and bring an added dimension to the story.

Pick up this story today for a fascinating look at Martha, Mary, Lazarus, and Jesus. I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.

Teach me Your Word, O Lord by Terry McCraw

This insightful book is filled with messages by Terry McCraw, who has a depth of knowledge in understanding spiritual things. Teach me Your Word, O Lord has 16 messages ranging from Mary, Martha, and Lazarus to worship to the message of the cross. The simplicity of these messages will help even the novice reader understand God's word and it's application to their own lives. The experienced Christian can also benefit from this book's encouraging and uplifting messages.

In the message, "Who is the Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?" Terry McCraw states, "Jesus wants us to have child-like faith. Little children believe what they are told." This spoke to my heart. Children believe what you say. If we would take that faith and apply it to God's word and what He's told us, there would be no doubt as to who God is and wants to be in our lives.

In this same chapter, McCraw states, "If we expect to achieve greatness in the Kingdom, we must love one another, not allow hard feelings to exist between us and others, and do everything possible to maintain peace and unity in the body of Christ." A simple command, but one that is so hard to fulfill. Why do Christians tend to tear down their fellow church members? We should lift up and encourage those around us. Love one another.

This book would make a great devotional. Each day spend time on each message. If you are ready to dig deeper into God's word, pick up this great book!