Displaying items by tag: reading

Review by Debra Neybert, Training Specialist

One of the first quotes written in The Bait of Satan is this: Our response to an offense determines our future.

The author covers a lot of territory, encouraging us to grow stronger—not bitter—in the face of offense! Some of the areas covered in the book address how you can stop rehearsing past hurts and gain trust after someone has wounded you.

John deals with the fact that Jesus offended many during his ministry on earth, and so we also will likely be offended during the course of our lives as we struggle to recognize that His ways are higher than ours.

The book includes a 30-day devotional to help you obtain freedom from the snare of offense and a “victim mentality.”

Book review by Debbie Schirtzinger, Heartbeat International Affiliation Coordinator

“What does true encouragement look like – the kind that changes lives forever? To encourage people is to help them gain courage they might not otherwise possess – courage to face the day, to do what’s right, to take risks, and/or to make a difference. And the heart of encouragement is to communicate a person’s value.  When we help people feel valuable, capable, and motivated we sometimes see their lives change forever – and then see them go on to change the world.

“God’s love for us gives us the reason to encourage others.
God’s love in us gives us the ability to encourage others.
God’s love through us gives us the way to encourage others.”

Encouragement is an essential part of growing a positive attitude and improving life; and providing that encouragement benefits both the giver and the receiver(s). This book is packed with timeless quotes, scriptures, and short but meaningful stories that illustrate the value of offering and receiving encouragement. Author John Maxwell shares ways to effectively provide the kind of encouragement that transforms individuals, families, churches, and work teams into happier, healthier, more affirming networks.