The film classic, "It's a Wonderful Life," named the most inspirational American film ever produced, has entertained and inspired millions of viewers since its release in 1946. In fact, many families make watching this story of George Bailey an annual, Christmas tradition. Now pastor and author Greg Asimakoupoulos has taken the movie's message a step further with a new book Finding God in "It's a Wonderful Life." The film was not made as a religious piece at all, but, as Greg asserts and proves, we can see God at work in every scene. And he shows us how, in chapters such as "Broken Banister Knobs," "Learning to Dance with Adversity," "Reclaiming 320 Sycamore Street," "When God Sends an Angel instead of Money," "Saving Harry Bailey," "Suffering When It's Not Your Fault," and so much more. Each chapter highlights an important movie scene, relationship, or theme and makes a spiritual point. Even those who haven't seen the film will understand the plot as Greg describes it, and people who know the movie so well they can recite the dialogue will find themselves nodding in agreement, appreciating Greg's thoughtful insights. The chapters are concise and written in an engaging style--an easy read. And each one concludes with "Questions for Reflection." These questions can be helpful for individuals, of course, but will also be ideal for group discussions.

In this National Bestseller, Mary Katherine Backstrom shares heartbreaking and hilarious stories of how God uses each "mess" in our lives to bring us closer to Him. She shows us that it's okay to celebrate exactly where we are right now—holy, hot mess and all. A lot of people struggle with the concept of being holy. But the fact is, even the hottest of messes are being shaped—right now—into Jesus' likeness. In this book, Mary Katherine shares the sometimes-hidden evidence of God's work in her life and shows you that it's okay to embrace the hot messes. Mary Katherine will share both hilarious and vulnerable stories about faith, friendships, motherhood, marriage, and depression. She will cover the topics that plague our hearts every day with raw, honest truth and a side of laughter. Mary Katherine invites you into her story as a friend, encouraging you to embrace the hot messes in your life. Because we are all a work in progress, and as long as we are alive, we are under construction—and construction sites tend to be messy.

Anker examines 19 popular films, showing how they convey a range of striking perspectives on the human encounter with God. Organized by genre, these selected films present different, surprising ways in which God shows up amid the messy circumstances of life.

Why do 9 out of 10 children raised in Christian homes leave the Church? Why do many professing Christians show little or no evidence for their faith? Why do 80-90% of those making decisions for Christ fall away from the faith? For decades, the world's most popular gospel message has been drawing the lost by promising God's wonderful plan for their life. But behind the facade of the "wonderful plan" message is the reality of the trials, temptation, and persecution that Jesus promised. How can we reconcile the two? In this life-changing book, best-selling author Ray Comfort explores whether this common gospel approach aligns with real life--and with Scripture. The vital biblical principles he reveals will force you to reexamine your ideas about the gospel--and will teach you how to reach unbelievers the way God intended. A must-read for all who care about the lost. Over a quarter million copies in print!

Get Lost. . . and Find What Really Matters We are made for freedom and adventure, friendship and romance. Yet too much of life is spent unfulfilled at work, restless at home, and bored at church. All the while knowing there is something more. You’ll find some of life’s best moments waiting for you over a campfire, on a river—even in that coffee shop or brewery you didn’t know you’d discover along the way. It’s time to begin the search. In the literary spirit of well-worn tales about America’s open road, this poetic, honest, often hilarious collection of essays shows how to embark on adventures that kindle spiritual reflection, personal growth, and deeper family connections. From surfing California’s coastlines, stargazing southwestern deserts, and fly-fishing in remote mountains of Montana, you’ll be inspired to follow the author’s footsteps and use the hand-drawn maps from each chapter to plan your own trips. There you will hear God’s voice – and it may help you find what you’re searching for. “We search mountaintops and valleys, deserts and oceans, hoping sunrises and long views through the canyons will help us discover who we are, or who we still want to be. The language of our hearts reflects that of creation because in both are fingerprints of God.” —Roger W. Thompson

Young or old, single or married, male or female—at some point in life, we're all confronted with loneliness. We try to fill the void or change our circumstances so we no longer feel the pain. But what if our pangs of loneliness are meant to point us to something greater? Looking at various aspects of loneliness, Lydia Brownback reminds us of God's power to redeem our loneliness and use it in our lives to draw us to himself. Ultimately, she helps us see that even when we feel misunderstood, forsaken, or abandoned, we're never really alone. God is always with us, and only he can meet all of our needs in Christ Jesus.

The pages of this book are a breath of fresh air for ladies who are tired of trying to love their husbands and serve God in their own strength. From the very first page, your heart will be uplifted by Terrie’s candid, humorous, and down-to-earth approach to loving God, supporting your husband, and serving God’s people both biblically and joyfully. You’ll find new joy and fresh strength as you delve into these pages. Discover that it really is a “wonderful life” when your life is dedicated to Jesus Christ! In these pages you will discover… How to deal with ministry challenges How to nurture your soul with the Lord How to pray for your husband How to uplift the heart of your husband How to bring your children up for God How to be a blessing to your church family How to conquer life’s greatest tests How to find strength in the Lord How to be faithful to God and others