When I was asked about reviewing this book, I was hesitant. For some reason these days, I can't seem to really get into any nonfiction books other than the Bible. I prayed about it, I fished about the website.
Then, I read the endorsements- Josh D. McDowell, Franklin Graham... and David Guzik- the director of the Calvary Chapel Bible College in Siegen, Germany... (cool small, small world story: I met David a few years ago when I was speaking at a conference in Siegen! I had the honor of hearing him teach, seeing his heart for ministry, and seeing some of the sights in Germany through his eyes. I totally trust his opinion.)
That was recommendation enough, so I agreed to participate in the blog tour and eagerly awaited my complimentary preview copy of One Million Arrows.
What I didn't realize is how perfectly inline this book would fall with what God has been nudging me about lately. I've really been finding lately that parents just don't know how to go about, or don't realize the importance of, equipping their children to be useful to God. I've been praying about how to help improve this.
As a mother, (who also teaches parents and teachers), I've been feeling this increasing urgency to really turn my ear to what my responsibilities are. My kids are growing, and though they've been raised nearly literally in the church, I fear there's something I've missed. I believe that God is faithful to fill the gaps, yet I don't want to be the reason there is a gap, you know?
Anyway, back to this book. The premise is based on this verse:
Children are a gift from the Lord;
they are a reward from him.
Children born to a young man
are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.
How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!
He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.
Psalm 127:3-5
The idea is that if children are arrows, they are meant for a purpose! Arrows are not for decoration, for collecting, to wear as accessories, or for entertainment purposes. They are to be sent out! They are to be used by the Warrior! God doesn't grant us arrows so we can take photos of them and show them off to friends, he doesn't give us kids solely so we can be happy and enjoy their company, He gives us kids because He has a purpose for them... and we have a job to do to get them ready for that purpose.
In this book, the Author, Julie Ferwerda addresses many areas- including what we can do to contribute to turning the statistics around that say that in all likelihood your kids... my kids... a grand percentage of them anyway... will leave the church as soon as we aren't making them go. There are also many tips for other ways to help ensure that our generation is not the last to know Christ. Topics include Orphans, charities, projects, heart changes, no stone is left unturned.
I could go on and on about how much I enjoyed the book (very much) and if you should read the book (you should) but instead I'm just going to link you up so you can find out more and get the book yourself....
As for me, I've got to get off this computer and go tend to some little arrows of my own....
Blessings,
4 comments:
Loved your review. And love the perspective of being born with a purpose. I'll have to put this one on my list.
Unless you want to bring me a copy in person.
On my list!
Love the review, Amber. It's now on my "to read" list!
Hmmmm, sounds like some good reading...
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