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Beauty in Sufism: The Teachings of Rῡzbihān Baqlī
by Kazuyo MurataAccording to Muhammad, "God is beautiful and He loves beauty." Yet, Islam is rarely associated with beauty, and today, a politicized Islam dominates many perceptions. This work tells a forgotten story of beauty in Islam through the writings of celebrated but little-studied Sufi scholar and saint Rūzbihān Baqlī (1128–1209). Rūzbihān argued that the pursuit of beauty in the world and in oneself was the goal of Muslim life. One should become beautiful in imitation of God and reclaim the innate human nature created in God's beautiful image. Rūzbihān's theory of beauty is little known, largely because of his convoluted style and eccentric terminology in both Persian and Arabic. In this book, Kazuyo Murata revives Rūzbihān's ideas for modern readers. She provides an overview of Muslim discourse on beauty before Rūzbihān's time; an analysis of key terms related to beauty in the Qur'ān, Ḥadīth, and in Rūzbihān's writings; a reconstruction of Rūzbihān's understanding of divine, cosmic, and human beauty; and a discussion of what he regards as the pinnacle of beauty in creation, the prophets, especially Adam, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and Muhammad.
Beauty in the Breakdown: Choosing to Overcome
by Ken Abraham Julie RobertsCountry music singer Julie Roberts is no stranger to overcoming hard times through determination, hard work, and strength. Having escaped the emotional residue of her alcoholic father&’s actions and insults, Julie moved from South Carolina to Nashville, Tennessee, to attend Belmont University and work as a receptionist at Mercury Records—all while secretly pursuing her dream of becoming a singer. Filling her nights with music and booking shows at obscure venues, the one requirement when Julie was hired at Universal Music Group was that she not be an aspiring singer. Yet, despite her best efforts to keep quiet, Julie knew God had placed music within her as a child and that it was bound to come out sooner or later. Raw, honest, and sometimes painful, Julie&’s lyrics resonated quickly with country music fans, and her emotion-soaked debut album—a reflection of her own painful past—was an instant success.Just as Julie&’s dreams were coming true, her life began to unravel. Soon, she was battling debilitating physical illness, the rising waters of Nashville&’s hundred-year flood, and a stalled career. Instead of succumbing to despair, Julie proved miraculously resilient—taking the steps she needed to face adversity head on and rebuild her life through her characteristic optimism, hard work, and faith.Journey with Julie as she walks through the highs and lows of her career, the personal struggles she&’s endured, the lessons she&’s learned, and her sense of purpose as she rebuilds her singing career and contributes her voice to the work of supporting others with multiple sclerosis. Julie&’s courage combined with her joyful personality and love for God will encourage readers in a uniquely powerful way.
Beauty, Order, and Mystery: A Christian Vision of Human Sexuality (Center for Pastor Theologians Series)
by Gerald L. HiestandHumans are sexual creatures.Beauty, Order, and Mystery
Beauty, Power and Grace: The Book of Hindu Goddesses
by Krishna DharmaReplete with inspired illustrations by award-winning artists B.G. Sharma and Mahaveer Swami, Beauty, Power & Grace features Krishna Dharma&’s dramatic retellings of pivotal ancient Indian stories of the many Hindu Goddesses.Adapted from ancient Sanskrit texts, the stories in Beauty, Power & Grace represent one of the most fundamental aspects of Hinduism—the innumerable manifestations of divinity. Among these, the portrayal of the Goddess is perhaps the most alluring. She appears as a devoted wife, a master of the arts, a terrifying demon slayer, a scornful critic, and a doting mother, to name just a few of her forms. In Vedic tradition, these depictions of the Goddess reflect the belief that male and female are simply different expressions of one supreme, absolute truth. These profound stories are brought together here in an exquisitely illustrated collection that reveals the various manifestations of the Goddess, ranging from the iconic to the obscure: Mother Yashoda peers into her infant&’s mouth and is astonished to catch a glimpse of the entire universe; Ganga Devi, now synonymous with the sacred river, rides upon a great crocodile and purifies those whom she encounters; and Kali, adorned with a garland of skulls, drinks the blood of her victims on the battlefield. A definitive and timeless celebration of Goddess imagery, symbolism, and lore, Beauty, Power & Grace stunningly displays the fascinating intersection between color, form, and meaning at the heart of Hindu tradition.
Because Crack Is Illegal: A 30-Day Devotional for Moms
by Raema MaurielloFrom the author of The Struggle Is Real: &“One of the best devotionals for moms . . . a very real look at motherhood and what the Bible says about it all&” (Fishbowl Family). Because Crack Is Illegal takes a unique and witty approach to daily devotionals for mothers in every stage of life. For thirty days mothers are encouraged through personal, transparent, and comical stories of trials, as well as some bargaining and victory. Each day the reader is challenged to learn, grow, and laugh through reflection and daily application of scripture. &“It&’s hilarious, full of rich truth, and it&’s a 30 day devo. I don&’t even typically like devotion books, but this one is so great. What more could you need? . . . For both new moms and seasoned moms . . . it&’s for you.&” —Happily Rooted &“As a mom, and as a Jesus girl, I just can&’t tell you how much I enjoyed Raema&’s fresh and transparent writing. Both of her short devotionals were such a breath of fresh, reassuring air in my life. They encouraged me to draw closer to Christ while assuring me that I am not alone in this crazy journey of motherhood.&” —A Momma&’s Joy &“It&’s always refreshing when a writer (and especially a fellow mom) can be honest about the struggles of life. And with short (about two pages) entries and Bible references for each of the thirty days, Mauriello makes it easy to get your daily quiet time in. Winning all around.&” —Christina Fowler Blog
Because I Said Forever: Embracing Hope in a Not-So-Perfect Marriage
by Heather Kopp Deb KalmbachA recent study indicates that Christian marriages don't fail as often as secular marriages -- they fail more! Debbie Kalmbach, the wife of a recovering alcoholic, understands the longing to leave but offers Christian wives solid reasons to stay in a difficult marriage. This is not a "how to save your marriage" but more a guidebook for wives on how to save their ability to love, to honor their commitment to their husbands, and to maintain their faith in God while in marriages that may never live up to their dreams. Debbie tackles tough questions such as "Why won't he go to counseling?" "Can I change him?" and "What do I do when I don't feel in love anymore?" with a warm, compassionate approach sure to encourage and inspire every struggling wife.
Because It's Christmas: Thomas Kinkade's Cape Light
by Katherine SpencerFrom the New York Times bestselling author of the Angel Island series comes the seventeenth Christmas novel set in Thomas Kinkade’s beloved town of Cape Light... The holiday season brings changes and challenges to many in Cape Light. But on one silent night, peace and harmony will prevail. Sophie Potter is grateful for so many happy years among her beloved apple trees. But her family insists that she can no longer live alone. So Sophie makes a deal to spend one last Christmas on Potter Orchard. Luckily, her grandson James arrives in time to help her make plans for the best holiday gathering Cape Light has ever seen. James isn’t planning on staying in Cape Light. An aspiring writer, he’s eager for adventure and plans to take off on a trip around the world. But once James meets Zoey Bates, he starts to understand that leaving Cape Light might cost him the greatest adventure of all—falling in love. Meanwhile, after more than fifteen years as Cape Light’s mayor, Emily Warwick has lost the election to her lifelong rival, Charlie Bates. Emily is delighted to have more time for her family, but when a group of citizens begin fighting to preserve the town’s character, Emily can’t shake her desire to protect her town. Soon she finds herself back on a familiar battleground with Charlie and her family. It’s not the place anyone wants to be. Especially on Christmas. From the Hardcover edition.
Because We Love Him: Embracing a Life of Holiness
by Clyde CranfordWhat does it mean to be holy? A holy life is the only true way to show our love for God, according to Clyde Cranford, who spent his life perfecting this way of being. Now in heaven himself, Cranford passes on his discoveries about pursuing holiness, revealing two practical steps for the reader to follow in his deep yet simple book: First, strive to know God, then, to please Him. This accessible and life-changing guide offers unique "how-to" sections on daily quiet times, why and how to memorize Scripture, witnessing, worship, forgetting self, dealing with temptation, and knowing God's will. Readers will find inspiration and empowerment to live their love for God out loud.
Because You're Mine
by Colleen CobleAlanna has been plagued by tragedy. So it should come as no surprise that in the beauty that surrounds Charleston, all is not as it seems. When her husband is killed by a car bomb while their band is on tour in Charleston, Alanna doesn’t know where to turn. Her father-in-law is threatening to take custody of the baby she carries, but the one thing she knows for sure is that she can’t lose the last piece of Liam she has left. Their manager offers her a marriage of convenience to gain her U.S. citizenship and allow her to escape her father-in-law’s control. It seems like the perfect solution . . . but her doubts begin almost as soon as she arrives at Barry’s family home, a decaying mansion surrounded by swamp. To make matters worse, Liam’s best friend survived the car bomb. She’s never really liked Jesse and now she can’t seem to get away from him. When he takes Liam’s place in their band, it’s almost more than she can bear. But then things start happening. Things that could easily cost Alanna her life—or the life of her unborn child. Are they merely coincidences? Or is there something much more sinister at work?
Because of Bethlehem (with Bonus Content): Love Is Born, Hope Is Here
by Max LucadoThis eBook includes the full text of the book plus the Max Lucado novella, An Angel's Story. Max Lucado loves Christmas. Let the sleigh bells ring. Let the carolers sing. The more Santas the merrier. The more trees the better. He loves it because somewhere someone will ask the Christmas questions: What's the big deal about the baby in the manger? Who was he? What does his birth have to do with me? And the answers he's found give us all hope. God knows what it's like to be a human. When we talk to him about deadlines or long lines or tough times, he understands. He's been there. He's been here. Because of Bethlehem, we have a friend in heaven. And Christmas begins what Easter celebrates. The child in the cradle became the King on the cross. Because of Bethlehem, we have a Savior in heaven. These are the heart shaping promises of Christmas. Long after the guests have left and the carolers have gone home and the lights have come down, these promises endure. Let's turn on the lamp, curl up in a comfortable spot, and look into the odd, wonderful story of Bethlehem. Max has found a lifetime of hope. You will too.
Because of Bethlehem Study Guide: Love Is Born Hope is Here
by Max LucadoA remarkable gift can arrive in an unremarkable package. One did in Bethlehem more than 2,000 years ago. No one expected God to come the way he did. Yet the way he came was every bit as important as the coming itself. The manger is the message. In this four-session video Bible study, Max Lucado explores how the One who made everything chose to make himself nothing for us. He experienced hunger and thirst. He went through the stages of human development. He was taught to walk, stand, and wash his face. He was completely and genuinely human. Because of Bethlehem, we no longer have marks on our record . . . just grace. We have the promise that God is always near us, always for us, always within us--and that we have a friend and Savior in heaven. Long after the guests have left, the carolers have gone home, and the lights have come down, these promises endure. The Because of Bethlehem Study Guide includes video discussion questions, Bible exploration, and personal study and reflection materials for in-between sessions. Session Titles: 1. God Has a Face 2. Worship Works Wonders 3. God Guides the Wise 4. Every Heart a Manger Designed for use with Because of Bethlehem: A DVD Study (9780310687849).
Because of Eve: Historical and Theological Survey of the Subjugation of Women in the Christian Tradition
by Joe EarlyBecause of Eve is a thorough examination of how the Church and Christian men sought to define women and the roles women must play within the church, home, and society for more than two thousand years. The book examines the works of theologians, dec
Because of Stephen
by Grace Livingston HillUnbidden, much as an unexpected blossom graces a des landscape, Margaret Halstead entered her brother’s life with only one mission: to care for him and share with him her faith in Christ. But shortly after her arrival in the rugged western country that was her estranged brother’s home, it became plain to Margaret that her mission would have to include some unexpectedly wild companions—including the disturbingly dictatorial Philip Earle. With awe-inspiring speed, Margaret brought grace and elegance into her brother’s crude one-room wilderness cabin and she earned his immediate approval. However, it was a different story when it came to his carousing lifestyle. Margaret was met with forceful, stubborn resistance—< heartache soon became her constant companion. Surely God hadn’t led her so far only to have her fail in her mission': Check the Bookshare library for the growing number of inspirational romances by Grace Livingston Hill. You'll find, Exit Betty, Lo Michael, Not Under the Law, Cloudy Jewel, The City of Fire, Spice Box, The Finding of Jasper Holt and The Girl From Montana.
Because of You, I Am
by Mary Ann BumberaBecause of You, I Am is an exploration into the nature of the spiritual world. With courage, insight and humor, Mary Ann Bumbera reveals a deeper unseen reality that we are all part of but rarely consider. Faced with the illness of her dog, Charlie, Mary Ann races to understand the nature of death. Is death really the end? Is this all there is? Do we have a spirit? Over time while Charlie's illness worsens, Mary Ann discovers that there is far more to our existence than just the physical body, whether animal or human. She shares and celebrates her discoveries with readers; affirming that death is not the end for any being. Stepping into unfamiliar territory, Mary Ann ventures into the ancient practice of Shamanism, energy healing and animal communication, which deepens her relationship with Charlie. She swims with humpback whales and dolphins, and experiences a profound connection. Through her search she utterly transforms her understanding of Charlie, herself, and the nature of reality, including both death and life. She concludes nature in all its forms has a spirit or consciousness that is intelligent, benevolent and loving, and that is not extinguished following the death of the physical body. The ideas in Because of You, I Am will linger long after you finish it. You will come away with a deeper connection to your spiritual self, to others in your life, and to animals, whether they are beloved pets or those found in nature. And you will have a better understanding of the mysterious power of love that transcends death
Because the Time is Near: John MacArthur Explains the Book of Revelation
by John MacArthurThe end of the world is coming.From roadside signs to science fiction films, this slogan underscores our society&’s nervous fascination with the future. Whether it&’s a giant asteroid, a worldwide plague, or some other global catastrophe, the end of the world is a terrifying prospect—at least for those who have no idea what it will be like. For Christians, however, the end of the world should be anything but dreadful. In fact, it should be something we actually look forward to. Why? Because God has told us how the world will end. And He has assured us that the end of this age will mark the beginning of a new, glorious one in which we will serve and worship Him in sinless perfection. Our eternal hope, as believers, is intimately tied to the end of this world. All of this is laid out in the book of Revelation. Not only is Revelation the inspired Word of God, it is also the only New Testament book that includes a promised spiritual blessing for those who study and apply its message. As such, it is an essential part of every Christian&’s devotional life. Those who ignore Revelation deprive themselves of a rich treasure of divine truth, and the promised blessings that come from understanding that truth. Join John MacArthur as he explains the book of Revelation in a way that is both doctrinally precise and intensely practical.
Because the Time is Near: John MacArthur Explains the Book of Revelation
by John MacArthurThe end of the world is coming.From roadside signs to science fiction films, this slogan underscores our society&’s nervous fascination with the future. Whether it&’s a giant asteroid, a worldwide plague, or some other global catastrophe, the end of the world is a terrifying prospect—at least for those who have no idea what it will be like. For Christians, however, the end of the world should be anything but dreadful. In fact, it should be something we actually look forward to. Why? Because God has told us how the world will end. And He has assured us that the end of this age will mark the beginning of a new, glorious one in which we will serve and worship Him in sinless perfection. Our eternal hope, as believers, is intimately tied to the end of this world. All of this is laid out in the book of Revelation. Not only is Revelation the inspired Word of God, it is also the only New Testament book that includes a promised spiritual blessing for those who study and apply its message. As such, it is an essential part of every Christian&’s devotional life. Those who ignore Revelation deprive themselves of a rich treasure of divine truth, and the promised blessings that come from understanding that truth. Join John MacArthur as he explains the book of Revelation in a way that is both doctrinally precise and intensely practical.
Because...
by Greg LaurieWhy? Because God Will Fill You to Overflowing Why explore God's overflowing heart for you?Becausehellip;it will deepen your faith and heighten your joy. Why let God's Word respond when you're empty and tired?Becausehellip;spending time with Him will nourish your spirit and prove His promises true. Why pick this devotional over any other?Becausehellip;in just ten minutes a day, for six days a week, you will build the foundation of a lifetimehellip;fora lifetime. Fresh insights and practical guidance from veteran pastor and evangelist Greg Laurie motivate you to connect with God's loving plans for your life. Warm, clear, Scripture-based encouragement and exhortation that confirm His will and ways really are good, pleasing, and perfectly right. When we become children of God, our hearts journey down a new road of questions: "Why do I need to spend time with God daily?" and "Why does God discipline his children?" and "Why is the Bible relevant to me today?" Greg Laurie offers astounding reasons inBecausehellip; "Because He wants to be with youhellip;" "Because He's your loving Fatherhellip;" "Because He wants to guide youhellip;" "Because His Word is your lifehellip;" This book is packed with fresh daily reflections to guide your pursuit of God. Simple. Practical. Personal. Biblical inspiration for everyday living. So dive inhellip;and discover the truth: God's heart has its reasonshellip; for every moment of your life. Story Behind the Book "Over the years, I have done a lot of funerals and memorial service. I have visited people who were literally at death's door, and I can tell you that when life comes to an end, there are three things that will really matter to you: faith, family, and friends. Of number-one importance will be your faith, your relationship with God. I have heard more people say with regret, 'I wish I had spent more time walking closely with God. I wish I had made more time for spiritual things. ' They recognize the fact that they will stand before God Almighty. How sad it is when people realize they have squandered their lives. This book is about helping you avoid that regret. " -Greg Laurie
Becca by the Book (Getaway Girls)
by Laura Jensen WalkerAdventurous and fun-loving Becca Daniels loves the rush of new experiences and is constantly pushing the envelope—trying everything from extreme sports, to wild hair colors, to skydiving. So when a broken leg grounds her temporarily, Becca doesn’t take the interruption well. Grumpy, restless, and at loose ends, Becca bristles one day when some of her Getaway Girls Book Club friends tease her about being commitment-phobic. To prove them wrong, Becca impulsively promises to accept a date with the next guy who asks her out; and to date him for three months or twenty-five dates—whichever comes first. Unfortunately, the first invitation comes from Ben—too “churchy” and definitely not Becca’s type. Determined to win the bet, however, the two embark on a hilarious series of dates that plunge the outspoken, purple-haired Becca into a sea of church potlucks and prayer meetings. Ultimately, the dating experiment opens Becca’s eyes to a new perspective on her life’s purpose and a new understanding of who’s directing her path—an epiphany that could lead to her biggest adventure yet.
Becky's Secret Surprise (The Twelve Candles Club #12)
by Elaine L. SchulteA Mischievous Stepbrother + A Crazy Armadillo = One Wacko Slumber Party! Becky Hamilton is having a hard time getting used to her new blended family now that her mom has remarried. Especially difficult is her stepbrother Quinn, who seems determined to make her life miserable. So Becky invites the rest of the TCCers for a slumber party, hoping they can cheer her up. And armed with water balloons, the girls are ready for any prank Quinn may pull! But Becky's more worried about telling the TCCers she has to give up being president of the Twelve Candles Club. Now that she no longer lives in Santa Rosita Estates, it's too far for her to go to club meetings every day. Becky plans to break the news at her slumber party, but with the possibility of an armadillo on the loose, she may not have the chance! Between Her Family and Her Friends, Becky's Got a Handful!
Become What You Are: Expanded Edition
by Alan W. Watts"Life exists only at this very moment, and in this moment it is infinite and eternal. For the present moment is infinitely small; before we can measure it, it has gone, and yet it exists forever. . . . You may believe yourself out of harmony with life and its eternal Now; but you cannot be, for you are life and exist Now."--from Become What You Are In this collection of writings, including nine new chapters never before available in book form, Watts displays the intelligence, playfulness of thought, and simplicity of language that has made him so perennially popular as an interpreter of Eastern thought for Westerners. He draws on a variety of religious traditions, and covers topics such as the challenge of seeing one's life "just as it is," the Taoist approach to harmonious living, the limits of language in the face of ineffable spiritual truth, and the psychological symbolism of Christian thought.
Become a Better You
by Joel OsteenJoel Osteen's previous bestselling title, Your Best Life Now, offered readers guidance for living a good life. In this eagerly awaited new book he'll guide readers to look within themselves to find their authentic soul and conduct a spiritual examination so they can uncover the core of who they really are. Osteen's message is that God didn't create us to be average - He wants us to stretch ourselves, keep pressing forward for greatness, and to embark on mission of self-discovery. God has given us everything we need to live a victorious life, but it's up to us to draw it out and become the tremendous person He wants us to be. Osteen will be revealing 7 key principles that will enable us to achieve this goal, to expand our horizons and fill our lives with love, joy and peace.
Become a Better You
by Joel OsteenIs this as good as it gets? Or can you enjoy more of what life has to offer? Not only can you live happily every day, bestselling author Joel Osteen suggests you must discover the potential within yourself and learn how to use it to live better, and to help others better themselves as well. God didn't create you to be average. You were created to excel! You have everything you need to fulfill your God-given destiny, and there is no limit to what you can accomplish if you discover how to be a better you! In Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day, Joel Osteen, America's best-known pastor, will inspire and motivate you to live with more joy, hope, and peace -- truly a life of victory! Joel will help you look deep inside yourself to become a better spouse and parent, a better boss or employee, a better community leader, a better friend -- in short, a better person! Joel Osteen reveals seven simple yet profound principles that when taken to heart will help you become all that God has created you to be. In a straightforward, easy-to-understand style, Osteen explains key biblical values; the text is laced with personal testimonies that will enlighten and uplift you. Each of the seven keys has its own section, complete with a set of practical action points. Thus Become a Better You will guide you in the process of uncovering your hidden resources. Within these pages, Joel Osteen addresses topics such as building your confidence, developing better relationships, finding peace within, and staying passionate about life. Become a Better You will encourage you to reach your unique God-given potential, and will help you to enjoy every day of your life, despite your circumstances. As you incorporate Joel's easy-to-grasp principles into your life, you will be pleasantly surprised at how much more God has in store for you, and how quickly you become a better you!
Become an Earth Angel
by Sonja GraceIn Earth Angel: A Guide to Finding Your Wings, Sonja Grace brings an entirely new perspective to the angel genre. She has been traveling and working in the angelic realm for over 30 years is dedicated to Divine love and is an Earth Angel. Our planet has moved into the fifth dimension and we are about to witness a new order of earth angels. Hundreds of thousands of people are beginning to feel a calling to their spiritual light. Yet, some feel misunderstood, different and in many cases extremely sensitive and intuitive about people and events. Sonja Grace was destined to write Earth Angel: A Guide to Finding Your Wings to assist those emerging souls who are searching for answers and hoping to discover their path of service and their spiritual connection to the divine. Through her own extraordinary case studies, Sonja Grace reveals what it is like to do the work of an earth angel and how she has used her gifts to locate missing people, conduct long distance healing and council a myriad of international clients. Readers are taken on a journey into the angelic realms.
Become the Force: 9 Lessons on How to Live as a Jediist Master
by Daniel M. JonesFor anyone who has watched and fallen in love with the Star Wars films and wanted to become a Jedi (just as Daniel M Jones did as a young boy). This is the first and only Jedi Bible. Daniel M Jones founded the Church of Jediism in 2007 following the Jedi Census phenomenon of 2001; it now has over 500,000 members around the world. This is the book his fans have been waiting for. In it, Daniel outlines the Jedi perspective and provides practical tools for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of how to use the Force in everyday life. A metaphor for the universal life energy that connects us all, the Force can be both light and dark, good and bad. Now, more than ever, it is our responsibility to overcome the Dark Side. This book does not aim to convert, but to inspire its readers to live a life of meaning and purpose according to the universal spiritual teachings of “the way of the Jedi”.It will include: Daniel’s own fascinating spiritual journey and how overcoming personal struggles has awakened him to his purpose. A complete toolkit that will allow anyone to genuinely embrace “the way of the Jedi” and use Jedi teachings to empower mind, body, heart and spirit. A comprehensive explanation of Jediism as a spiritual movement (a universal desire for self-awareness, spiritual awakening, peace, love and harmony) rather than a religion. Become the Force shows that the Jedi-minded among us might usher in a new spirituality and shift in global consciousness towards peace and harmony that is more powerful than any we can possibly imagine.