Debbie's Reviews

Disciplines of Grace: from Spiritual Routines to Spiritual Renewal. By T. M. Moore (InterVarsity Press, 2001).

Have your ways of meeting God and experiencing His presence become so routine that they lack the vitality and dynamism they once had, leaving you in the doldrums about your spiritual life? T. M. Moore offers help in this resource, giving practical ways to revitalize and reinvigorate our love for God and others through the use of the spiritual disciplines of old - prayer, meditation, solitude and silence, fasting, worship, the study of God's Word, and more. His aim is not to give a theology of the spiritual practices, but to provide "a handbook for personal spiritual renewal." Moore consistently reminds the reader that the spiritual disciplines are not ends in themselves, but are means to the end, i.e., progressively growing in the Lord, resulting in a life that actively reflects our love for God and our neighbors.

With discussion questions for self-reflection and examination following each chapter, the design of this book can work well for both small groups and individuals. An especially helpful and encouraging chapter was "Finding a Soul Friend," reminding us of the importance of community and healthy relationships, and the responsibility that we all bear in helping each other in this walk of faith

Spiritual Journaling: Recording Your Journey Toward God. By Richard Peace (NavPress, 1995).

As part of the Spiritual Disciplines Series published by NavPress, Dr. Peace skillfully maps out a design for a small group to focus on the spiritual practice of journaling. This small group discussion guide is not simply a how-to on journaling, but provides a holistic approach to discerning our unfolding stories together in community, and placing them in the context of God's story.

Each chapter is structured into two parts: Learning to journal and Bible study. The concept being explored is introduced in part one (information), followed by an exercise to put into practice what has been learned (formation). Part one is enhanced with excerpts from a variety of journals to provide examples of different styles of journaling. Part two provides opportunity to connect our stories with biblical text as the group explores the lives of biblical characters.

The author offers additional bonus material through an introductory chapter on the Art of Journaling, a chapter on the Art of Leadership, and an appendix of notes for small group leaders..

Reviews by: Debbie Blue | Marti Burger | Steve Burger | Doreen Olson | Wilson Herrera