Nov 5

Written by: Julie Arduini
11/5/2009 11:00 PM 

Do you ever think your thoughts or life are too insignificant for God to use?  Last month I was strolling a bookstore in Berlin, Ohio when I spotted this attractive set of Bible studies.  They caught my eye because of their convenient size and catchy titles.  Each book wasn't just a Bible study, but a coffee name.  Hey...gotta like that!

I didn't buy any because I felt I needed to buy Christmas presents for the kids with the money I had.

Wasn't a week later and invites to review Kona with Jonah came through.  I'm so glad I said yes to this book.

Sandra Glahn's latest in the Coffee Cup Bible Study is Kona with Jonah by AMG Publishers.  This is a 4 week Bible study where according to the back cover, "Readers encounter the character of God and their own need to embrace radical forgiveness. In seeing God's love for the murderous people of Ninevah, they come face to face with one whose mercy extends even to the most despicable."

This book was heaven sent.  I wanted to learn more about Jonah because lately I felt like I could relate to it.  This book took me through Jonah's journey from a call to go to Ninevah, his refusal, and what he prayed in the belly of a fish.  I don't want to give the study away because it deserves your attention, not my summary.  However as a kid I thought Jonah ran from fear.  That wasn't it.  He ran because he didn't think the people of Ninevah were deserving.  He knew they'd repent if he gave the Lord's message.  He didn't think they deserved it, so he didn't plan on getting that message to them.

What sets this series apart is that every Bible verse you need is in this book.  It's in the New English Translation which I found helpful to assist me in understanding the truth in contemporary terms.  I was able to take this book with me everywhere and use it without the usual frustration of needing to bring a Bible, keep looking up verses, etc...It gives great questions to help you get even more from God on this book.

My cross to bear moment this season is similar to Jonah's.  I stood in the gap for a situation to break and it's in the works.  Lucious fruit of the Lord is about to harvest.  Am I praising?  No, I'm pouting.  Like Jonah, I'm whining to God how it isn't fair.  There were some personal punches thrown my way during the battle and now it's time to embrace grace.  Instead, I've wanted to run the other way.  This study showed me what God can do with an obedient heart, even when it will never be a perfect heart.

I'd like to give one copy of this book away.  It's the provided AMG publishers copy I had for review.  I did not write in it and took great care to preserve it.  There is a crinkle in the cover, but the cover is sturdy and I don't think it takes away a bit from how awesome this book is.  If you live in the United States or Canada, I'd love you to have this study.

Leave a comment letting me know you are interested in this book and a way to contact you in case of a win.  If the comment function isn't working (which is on and off) please use the contact me page on this site or e mail me at jarduini@faithwriters.net.  I'll choose one winner and announce on Saturday, November 14, 2009.

So grab some Kona and get comfy with Jonah.  It is so worth the fishy trip.